La Cloche Silhouette Trail Overview
- Trail Name: La Cloche Silhouette
- Distance: 78 km (loop)
- Trail Difficulty: Difficult
The La Cloche Silhouette Trail in Killarney Provincial Park offers breathtaking landscapes and a challenging backpacking experience for seasoned hikers. Over five days, we tackled this rugged terrain and emerged with unforgettable memories.
Day 1: Setting Off La Cloche Silhouette Trail (14 km to Campsite H8)
Preparing for the Journey
Our 5 day hike began after a busy week, transitioning straight from the Rock and Roll Marathon in Montreal. We barely had time to repack before heading to Newmarket to meet our group at the Hwy 400 carpool point. From there, we drove to Killarney Provincial Park, arriving late at George Lake for a night of car camping before hitting the trail the next morning.
At the park office on Friday, we finalized the paperwork. Remember to have your participant list, tent colors, and backpack descriptions ready for registration.
Hitting La Cloche Silhouette Trail
At around 11 a.m., we officially began the hike. The trailhead featured a photo-worthy signpost, with Campsites H7 to H10 conveniently located nearby.
The hike to H8 was manageable, with terrain reminiscent of the Bruce Trail. Along the way, we stopped at H7’s scenic overlook and crossed a dry dam at Three Narrows Lake, saving 3 km. At H8, we swam in the lake, set up camp, and relaxed by the fire while Jade enjoyed basking in the sun.
Day 2: Pushing Through (18 km to Campsite H22)
Challenging Terrain
The second day tested our endurance with rocky paths and moderate ascents. We set out from H8 at 10 a.m., making steady progress despite Jade injuring her paw slightly. After a quick patch-up, she continued unfazed.
Water and Scenery
Water sources were plentiful, and we used portable filters to refill our bottles. The narrow, rocky trails and picturesque waterfalls added to the day’s beauty.
Arriving at H22
By evening, we reached H22, a scenic lakeside campsite perfect for swimming. Despite a forecast of 15 mm of rain, we enjoyed a dry evening before the drizzle arrived the next day.
Day 3: Battling Rain and Challenges (12 km to Camp H35)
Rainy Weather and Slippery Trails
Rain dominated the third day, making steep climbs treacherous and obscuring ridge views with dense fog. However, the misty forests, covered in moss and pine needles, created an ethereal atmosphere.
Arriving at H35
The trail to H35 was challenging, with wet rocks and slippery paths requiring trekking poles. We arrived at the scenic but remote campsite, drenched and tired, and spent the evening drying our clothes and gear in between rain showers.
Day 4: No Silver Peak (10 km to Campsite H46)
Clear Skies Return
The fourth morning greeted us with sunny skies. We had the option to summit Silver Peak, highest point on La Cloche Silhouette Trail.
After a night of rain, the trail was muddy. While we were debating whether to climb Silver Peak, a hiker coming down the mountain told us it was very slippery and that the fog made it impossible to see anything at the top. We decided to skip Silver Peak and continue on La Cloche Silhouette Trail.
Campsite H46: A Hidden Gem
Campsite H46, located over a kilometer off the main trail, was a pleasant surprise. It featured spacious grounds, beautiful lake views, and even partial cellphone reception. The sunny weather allowed us to dry our gear and swim, leaving us refreshed for the final push.
Day 5: The Final Stretch (22 km to Finish Line)
Tackling The Crack
We started early at 9 a.m. to tackle The Crack, one of La Cloche Silhouette Trail most challenging sections. Steep rocky descents tested our endurance, but the iconic views made it worthwhile. Jade handled the terrain admirably, with occasional help from Tom.
Pushing to the Trailhead
After a quick meal at H52, we decided to push through to the finish line rather than camp for another night. The final 4.2 km were tough but rewarding, and we exited the trail at sunset, marking the end of our unforgettable adventure of La Cloche Silhouette Trail.
Reflections on La Cloche Silhouette Trail
This was my first backpacking experience, marking a transition from car and canoe camping to carrying all essentials for five days. Despite its rugged terrain, La Cloche Silhouette Trail was immensely rewarding, offering stunning landscapes and a true sense of adventure. Here are some key takeaways from the journey
- Preparation: Avenza or Alltrails offline maps were invaluable for navigation.
- Gear: Lightweight backpacks and trekking poles made a significant difference.
- Teamwork: Having a supportive group made even the toughest moments enjoyable.
Total cost: Approximately CAD 80 per person for one car camping night and four backcountry campsites in Killarney Provincial Park.
Tips for Future Hikers
- Book Early: Campsites fill up months in advance.
- Bring Poles: Essential for steep and slippery sections.
- Prepare for Weather: Rain gear and quick-drying clothing are must-haves.
- Filter Water: Streams and lakes are plentiful but require treatment.
Killarney Provincial Park offers a truly unforgettable experience for adventurers ready to embrace the challenges of the La Cloche Silhouette Trail. Plan ahead, pack wisely, and enjoy the journey!
