Ontario Provincial Parks

Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park is a large, non-operating wilderness park located in Ontario’s Temagami region, northeast of North Bay and accessible from communities such as Temagami and Haileybury. Covering more than 2,400 square kilometres, the park protects an extensive area of lakes, rivers, forests, and rugged Canadian Shield terrain. It is recognized for its ecological significance and its role in preserving one of Ontario’s most intact backcountry landscapes.

The park contains a complex network of waterways, including Lady Evelyn Lake and Smoothwater Lake, which form part of well-known canoe routes in the Temagami area. These lakes and connecting rivers flow through mature forests and exposed bedrock, supporting boreal ecosystems and providing habitat for wildlife such as moose, black bears, beavers, and a wide variety of bird species. The waterways also serve as natural travel corridors, reflecting long-standing Indigenous use of the region.

Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park is home to several prominent natural landmarks, including Maple Mountain and Ishpatina Ridge, the highest point in Ontario. These features contribute to the park’s varied topography and are surrounded by ancient forests that include some of the largest remaining stands of old-growth red and white pine in the province.

As a non-operating park, there are no serviced campgrounds, maintained roads, or visitor facilities. Use of the park is limited to self-guided, low-impact activities such as backcountry canoeing, hiking, fishing, and wilderness camping at designated or established sites. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for remote travel.

Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park emphasizes conservation, natural processes, and traditional backcountry recreation. It appeals to experienced visitors seeking a remote setting where landscape, waterways, and forest ecosystems remain largely unchanged.

General Information

Location

Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park is located near the town of Haileybury, Ontario, Canada. The park’s address is:

Latitude: 49.6583346 Longitude: -89.40982199

Facilities & Recreation

Lady Evelyn–Smoothwater Provincial Park is a remote wilderness park characterized by vast lakes, interconnected rivers, and rugged interior landscapes. The park has minimal infrastructure and no designated accessible facilities, and access to the interior is primarily by canoe route or floatplane. Visitors should be fully self-reliant and prepared for extended travel in a backcountry environment with limited services and challenging conditions.

Water travel is the primary way to explore the park. Boating is permitted, with Lady Evelyn Lake being one of the most common entry points, although strong winds on open water can create hazardous conditions. Mowat Landing provides a free launch and parking area at the east end of the lake, while additional access points are available via Gamble Lake and the Montreal River, often requiring travel on rough gravel roads. Canoeing and kayaking are central to the park experience, with an extensive network of routes that connect to nearby parks and conservation reserves and range from beginner-friendly lake travel to demanding river systems.

Fishing opportunities are diverse and vary by waterbody. Cold-water lakes and streams support brook trout and lake trout, while warmer waters such as Sucker Gut Lake offer species including walleye and smallmouth bass. Certain lakes, including Whitepine and Whirligig, are designated fish sanctuaries where fishing is prohibited, and anglers must be aware of all area-specific regulations. A valid Ontario fishing licence is required, and all fishing activity must follow provincial rules.

Backcountry camping is permitted throughout the park, with numerous canoe-accessible campsites available for tent camping. These sites are rustic and equipped with basic pit toilets, and campers must follow Leave No Trace principles. There are no treated drinking water facilities, and all water taken from lakes or streams must be treated or boiled before use. Firewood is not provided, and campers are expected to collect dead and downed wood where permitted.

Hiking opportunities exist but are remote and typically accessed by canoe. Notable routes include the trail to Maple Mountain, which offers panoramic views over the surrounding wilderness, and the trail to Ishpatina Ridge, the highest point in Ontario. These hikes require careful planning, navigation skills, and an understanding of backcountry travel. Swimming is permitted in lakes and rivers throughout the park, though there are no designated swimming areas or lifeguard services.

Hunting is permitted in accordance with Ontario hunting regulations, and participants must ensure they are properly licensed and aware of seasonal restrictions. Pets are allowed but must be kept under control at all times to protect wildlife and minimize disturbance to other visitors. Whitewater paddling is available on the Lady Evelyn River and its branches, particularly during spring runoff, and is suitable only for experienced paddlers prepared for fast-moving water and technical conditions.

The park is not maintained for winter use, and access during colder months is limited and generally discouraged due to safety concerns. With its long canoe routes, iconic interior hikes, and true wilderness character, Lady Evelyn–Smoothwater Provincial Park is best suited to experienced backcountry travellers seeking extended, self-supported adventures.

Nearby Attractions

Maple Mountain: One of Ontario’s highest peaks, Maple Mountain offers a challenging hike rewarded by panoramic views and is considered sacred by the local Indigenous communities.

Ishpatina Ridge: As the highest point in Ontario, Ishpatina Ridge provides hikers with a strenuous trek culminating in breathtaking vistas of the surrounding wilderness.​

Cabin Falls Ecolodge: Nestled deep within the park, this remote ecolodge offers authentic wilderness experiences and is accessible only by canoe or floatplane.

Obabika River: Flowing through the Obabika River Provincial Park, this river is renowned for its serene canoe routes and the surrounding old-growth pine forests.

Temagami Fire Tower: Located in the nearby town of Temagami, this historic fire tower stands atop Caribou Mountain, offering visitors panoramic views of the area and insights into the region’s forestry history.

Nearby Parks

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