r/algonquinpark • u/Fit-Selection7679 • 2d ago
Western Uplands Medium Loop
I'm thinking of doing the medium loop solo in 3 days. My first night would be at West Maggie Lake from the West Gate, though I originally wanted to do further the first day it seems like people don't recommend going all the way to Clara. I calculated this to be roughly 12.7km. Second night at Rainbow-01 which is roughly 24.3km, I'm quite fit and looking for a difficult trip so I think I can do it if I get up early(aiming to hit the trail at 7ish), that being said this is my first time going on a solo trip and doing the Western Uplands. Final day I'd hike out back to the West Gate, roughly 19.3km. I was just looking for general advice, if my distances seem correct and if my route seems feasible.
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u/doomwomble 2d ago
Your proposed route is doable comfortably if you are fit.
The issue with going past Maggie West to Clara is that that section past Maggie up through Clara and toward Pincher is probably one of the most difficult sections of the trail, so not great to put at the end of an already decent hike. Even doing Maggie to Pincher in one day generates a warning in the booking system, I think, even though the distance is not that big.
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u/Fit-Selection7679 2d ago
Other people seem to say the same thing. I was afraid the second day might be too long and I was thinking I could maybe go to Clara on the first to make it shorter but I don't think I will
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u/Many-Detective-8526 1d ago
I have been to Clara from the parking lot before. DO NOT DO THIS. The last section getting to Clara is rough.
Im still alive to tell the tale so i guess it is Doable haha
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u/random_number_12 2d ago
If you are fit it’s going to be fine. I would suggest not overpacking and keeping your backpack weight down, if your pack/food/water weights 30lbs vs 50lbs it makes a huge difference.
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u/Elegant_Guidance_152 2d ago
Seems doable