Paddling Level: Novice
Portages:  Multiple

Lake Eustache is known to be the deepest lake in Algonquin Park, surrounded by 25m cliffs that drop down another 90m under water. These unusual rock formations were shaped during the last Ice Age. The crystal clear waters are a joy to swim in, and home to abundant Lake Trout and Brook Trout ranging in size upwards from 3 lbs.  It’s a quiet lake with three scenic campsites.

One route to Lake Eustache starts at the Lake Travers parking lot.  Pick up the trailhead located just south of the Petawawa River bridge, and follow the 600m Poplar Rapids portage. Then paddle a short distance to the next portage of 1050m, which brings you to an abandoned CN railroad bed.  Follow this until you see the portage over to Lake Eustache approximately 2650m of mostly flat terrain.

An alternative hiking/portage route to Lake Eustache starts by parking at the site of the abandoned Lake Travers Railway Station. Since there is no signage pointing to Lake Eustache along Barron Canyon Road, watch for the 70km marker. From here turn south and follow the railway line north until you reach the 2650m portage to Lake Eustache. It’s about a two-hour hike one way.

Onsite amenities include:

• Parking at Lake Travers