Guide to Killbear Provincial Park Trails: Plus 6 More Killer Things to do in Killbear
Wind swept pines, epic expanses of Canadian Shield, and the majestic shores of Georgian Bay. It’s the perfect recipe to create one of the best Ontario parks! That park is Killbear Provincial Park. Best known for the iconic pine tree that draws thousands of visitors every year, the park is also popular for camping. In addition, there are a variety of scenic Killbear Provincial Park trails.
So, pack up the car and plan a visit to one of the best provincial parks in Ontario!
About Killbear Provincial Park
Established in 1940, Killbear Park is located near the town of Nobel, in the Parry Sound District. The park covers 1760 hectares (roughly 4349 acres) and is essentially a giant peninsula reaching out into Georgian Bay.
Many ask about the origin behind the Killbear Provincial Park name. The truth is it’s a mistranslation. The Ojibway referred to the peninsula’s point as Mukwa naosh, which when translated means bear point.
The landscape of the park makes it a stand out, with rocky shorelines, towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and various forest ecosystems. One of the stand out features of the park is the Killbear Tree! Hit by the strong winds of Georgian Bay for 100 years, it’s windswept pose has caught the eye of millions, including the Group of Seven.
Killbear is a favourite camping spot in the province, with over 800 sites. However, it’s also home to beaches, as well as biking and hiking trails. Thanks to the ideal location in Georgian Bay, many visitors come to hit the water. You’ll find windsurfers, kayakers, and canoers.
Killbear Provincial Park Trails
A great way to explore this expansive park is by tackling its over 10 kilometres of hiking trails. The 4 Killbear Provincial Park trails take visitors through a range of environments. You’ll be hiking across large sections of granite as well as winding boardwalk. Plus, some segments also call for some rock scrambling. So, there’s a Killbear Provincial Park hiking trail to suit everyone’s adventurous spirit.
Twin Points Trail
The first in the series of Killbear Provincial Park trails is Twin Points Trail. It’s also the best trail to get a true feel and overview of the different landscapes found within the park.
Twin Points Trail is a 1.8-kilometre loop trail that is rated as easy. I’d say it is a mix of easy to moderate due to hiking over the large stretches of rock. The rock can easily get wet and even when dry its smoothness is cause for caution.
Named for the two rocky points, the trail is located on the southwest side of the peninsula and offers incredible views of Kilcoursie Bay. Plus, thanks to its location you’ll see the full length of the park from here!
Hiking Twin Points Trail will take you over rock outcrops, large expanses of the Canadian Shield. There are numerous benches placed along the rocky shore that are perfect to sit and soak in the views.
After hiking along the shore, the trail moves inland. Here you’ll traverse through different types of forest, over rock barrens and a couple of short boardwalks.
Out of all the hiking trails in Killbear, this one showcases it all, sandy beaches, granite rock, and forest. Plus, it has some of the best views! There’s a reason the trail is designated one of Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve’s Amazing Places!
Wildlife on the trail is bountiful! It’s a great hiking trail for seeing warblers, and other bird species. Other animals you can encounter include black bears, and massasauga rattlesnakes.
If you want to learn more about the area along the trail scan the trail guide code found at the trailhead. It discusses the geological history of the area as well as geological features found along the trail.
Twin Points Trail Specs
Length: 1.8 km
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Time: 30 – 45 mins.
Best time to visit: Spring, Summer & Fall! In the spring there are various flowers along the trail. While in the autumn, the forest of maples and oaks come alive with fall colours.
Lookout Point Trail
The second of the Killbear Provincial Park trails is the Lookout Point Trail. I absolutely loved this trail!
Lookout Point Trail is a 3.5-kilometre loop trail that is rated as moderate. However, don’t let that moderate title steer you away. Even as the second longest trail in Killbear, I’d rate is as easy with short sections as moderate.
This hiking trail is the only one located on the northern side of the peninsula. The winds its way through a lush forest. Plus, it’s home to one of the best boardwalk trails in Ontario! The boardwalk is quite extensive and traverses nearly all the way to the lookout, but stops short of the incline.
At the halfway point of the trail is the scenic viewpoint. Here, high atop the Blind Bay side of Killbear, you’ll have views looking eastward over the islands in Georgian Bay’s Big Sound. Plus, you can even see Parry Sound, which is 10 kilometres away.
The return section of the trail is very similar to the initial one. It takes you down rock and back through varying forests and over boardwalks.
With the dense forests on this side of the peninsula you’ve got a wonderful chance at seeing more wildlife. I saw a few white-tailed deer and a few different bird species.
If you’d like to learn more about the ecology of the area then be sure to scan the trail guide at the trailhead.
Lookout Point Trail Specs
Length: 3.5 km
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Time: 1.5 hours
Lighthouse Point Trail
At the extreme southern point of the park is Killbear’s shortest trail. The Lighthouse Point Trail features some of the most unbelievable rock landscape in the park.
Lighthouse Point Trail is an 800-metre loop trail that is rated as moderate. You’ll want to have hiking shoes or at least supportive running shoes for this one as it involves some rock scrambling.
At the midway point you’ll be met with incredible geological formations (the jankiest rock I’ve ever seen!) and the lighthouse. Don’t expect a cute charming lighthouse here. It’s actually a light beacon. From the point you’ll find sweeping views of the lake and many of the 30,000 islands that dot Georgian Bay.
The loop then takes you into the forest, past a lovely little beach, and back out again.
If you’re looking for a challenging hike then try hiking from Harold Point to Lighthouse Point. There isn’t a marked trail, however you can clamber along the rocky shoreline. The shoreline is accessible from Harold Point to Granite Saddle, and on to Lighthouse Point. Do not attempt in foul weather and be prepared to hike for over 3 hours.
Lighthouse Point Trail Specs
Length: 800 metres
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 20 mins.
Recreational Trail
The last of Killbear Provincial Park trails is the Recreational Trail. This trail runs along the main road running through the park.
The Recreational Trail is a linear trail and connects to many of the areas of the park. It starts at the entrance to the park and travels down to the Lighthouse Point trailhead. Along with hiking along the trail, its great for those who bring their bicycles.
Winding through various forests, from hardwood to hemlocks, it also takes visitors over rock outcrops. While created as a bike trail, you can use it for hiking, though be aware of cyclists and stick to one side.
This trail is set to extend between two iconic provincial parks! It will run from Killbear to Algonquin Provincial Park, and will also connect to the Trans Canada Trail!
Recreational Trail Specs
Length: 6 km
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Time: 3 hours
6 More Things to do in Killbear Provincial Park
There are many reasons why Killbear is one of the most popular parks in Ontario! Along with all of the awesome Killbear Provincial Park trails, visitors will find a variety of things to do within the park. So, whether you’re planning to spend one day or a few days, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Killbear to fill your time.
Killbear Tree
One of the top things to do to in Killbear is visit the Killbear Tree! Many say this stunning wind-swept pine is the most photographed tree in Ontario!
The iconic white pine tree is located on Killbear’s Sunset Rock, near campsite 320 in Beaver Dams campground. At over 100 years old, the tree is a symbol for the park and can be seen in most of the park’s merchandise.
After years of winds coming in from the west off Georgian Bay, the tree developed the perfect wind-swept look. It sits perched atop a large stretch of rock near one of the many beaches in the park. At the right angle, you’ll see it stands alone and has the picturesque backdrop of the water behind it.
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Group of Seven painting as you take in the tree and its magical location.
Sadly, due to a major limb dying and then a bad ice storm a couple of years ago, the tree is on its last leg. Park officials say it probably won’t last another winter. It is currently being held up by two support rods.
Visitors Centre
The Killbear Visitors Centre is one of the best among Ontario Parks. At 1,000 square metres, the Visitors Centre spans multiple floors. It’s home to a large exhibit space that has various exhibits including the park’s history, wildlife in the park and surrounding area, and more. Plus, you can see a Massassauga Rattlesnake and an Eastern Foxsnake up close.
The centre is located midway along the park’s southern shoreline. There are also two amazing lookouts from the second and third floors. The lookouts give visitors views of Georgian Bay and the 30,000 islands.
Along with the exhibit space, the Visitors Centre is also the hub for various events that take place in the park. There’s everything from children’s programs to concerts at the amphitheatre. Check their events page before you go to see if there is something happen when you visit.
On the second floor is a park store. The store sells a range of merchandise that includes clothing, treats, and other souvenirs.
Camping
Camping in Killbear very popular! It’s actually one of the most popular Ontario Parks to camp at! Killbear Provincial Park has 880 campsites across seven campgrounds.
Campers can choose from regular or electrical sites. Electrical sites are available in Harold Point, Beaver Dams, and Kilcoursie Campgrounds. The best part is that all campgrounds have beaches within a five-minute walk.
The top times to camp at Killbear is in July and August. So, be sure to reserve your campsite far in advance if you want camp during the summer. However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds try camping in the fall. There are far less people during this season.
You can reserve a campsite through Ontario Parks here.
Beaches
There are a variety of beaches in Killbear Provincial Park. Visitors will find over 4 kilometres of beaches throughout the park. The most popular beach in Killbear is at Kilcoursie Bay. At 2 kilometres long, this beach is also the longest beach in the park. The beach is set in a horseshoe around the bay. Plus, there’s Scott Island perched in the middle of the bay. You can access it via the day use parking lot at the Twin Point Trail trailhead or Beaver Dams.
Other beaches are smaller and usually flanked by rocky outcrops. If you’re looking for a beach with calmer waters then head to the Lighthouse Point campground beach.
For those visiting the park with their canine companions there are two dog beaches. One is on-leash and is located off of the Twin Point Trail. The other dog beach is off-leash and is located at the group camping site.
Cliff Jumping
Disclaimer: I do not recommend nor encourage visitors to do this. Nor does the park staff.
Thanks to the towering cliffs at the waters edge, cliff jumping in Killbear is a popular activity in the park. During the summer month when visitors want to enjoy a refreshing swim in the waters of Georgian Bay along with a little thrill, they head to Harold Point Viewing Rocks. Here, you’ll find cliffs that are 10 metres above the water and ideal for many to take the plunge. Families will even find rock ledges that are closer to the water.
There are a few things to note about this area as well as cliff jumping here. Parking is limited near the beach but there is more parking available at the amphitheatre. Also, you have to step far enough out on the ledge to clear the other ledges below.
Canoe & Kayaking
During my visit it coincided with a massive kayaking event in the park. At least a hundred kayakers descended on the park and its waters.
With its ideal location, a peninsula stretching out into the 30,000 islands of Georgian Bay, one of the top activities in Killbear is kayaking. The waters surrounding the park are great for paddling, whether you choose a kayak or canoe.
With 12 kilometres of shoreline, Killbear is wonderful to explore from the perspective of the water. Plus, paddlers will find plenty of islands nearby to cruise out to! However, keep in mind that the water and wind of Georgian Bay can be fierce and change quickly. Be sure to check the wind and weather conditions before heading out.
One thing to note is that Killbear does not offer kayak or canoe rentals. You’ll have to bring your own or you can rent them from The Detour Store, which is just north of the park entrance.
Fun Fact: The 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay are the World’s largest freshwater archipelago!
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Killbear Provincial Park
Whether you’re planning a Killbear camping trip or visiting for the day to hike, you’ll find all the information you’ll need to plan your visit.
What is Killbear Provincial Park known for? – Killbear is best known for its iconic Killbear Tree and incredible rocky shoreline. The park is also a popular spot for camping in Ontario.
Where is Killbear Provincial Park? – Killbear is located near the town of Nobel, approximately 20 minutes west of Highway 400. The park is 30 minutes north of Parry Sound and 2.5 hours north of Toronto.
How much is a day pass for Killbear? – The cost of a Killbear Provincial Park day use pass is approximately $15 CAD.
When is Killbear open? – Killbear is open from the May long weekend until the last weekend of October. Note: The park is not open in the winter.
Best time to visit – Killbear is busy for camping in the summer months. Summer in Killbear is great for camping, hiking and relaxing on the beaches. I recommend visiting Killbear in the fall. Colours usually peak around the Thanksgiving weekend and the park see far less crowds.
Are there bears in Killbear? – Yes, there are black bears found throughout Killbear and area. Please remember to bear proof your campsite and report sightings to the office.
How much time do I need for visiting? – If you are visiting for the day, you can easily hike the Killbear trails in a few hours. However, I recommend at least one full day in Killbear or spend 1 to 2 nights.
What is there to do nearby? – Visitors will find plenty of things to do near Killbear Provincial Park. Attractions near the park include Snug Harbour Lighthouse, West Parry Sound District Museum, Parry Sound Fire Tower, Trestle Brewing Company, and Norse Brewery.
More Great Ontario Provincial Parks to Visit
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
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