Coastal Traverse on The Coastal Trail
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Fall
LOCATION
Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada
DATE
Sep 13, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Lake Superior Coastal Traverse
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 4 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~56 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: coastal
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~2000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Gargantua Bay Trailhead, ON to Visitor Centre, ON
- GPS coordinates: Start: 47.4238, -84.8693; End: 47.6735, -84.9908
- Permits: Obtain permits through Ontario Parks reservation system
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DAY 1: Gargantua Bay to Baldhead River
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~14 miles, +600 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Coastal Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky coastline, forested sections
- Notable features or side quests: Gargantua Harbour remnants
- Key water sources: Streams along trail
- Campsite location: Near Baldhead River
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery rocks
- Trail tip: Use trekking poles for stability
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DAY 2: Baldhead River to Orphan Lake
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~14 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Coastal Trail
- Terrain description: Sandy beaches, rugged cliffs
- Notable features or side quests: Chalfant Cove
- Key water sources: Accessible creeks
- Campsite location: Orphan Lake area
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity, secure food
- Trail tip: Early start for best views
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DAY 3: Orphan Lake to Coldwater River
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~14 miles, +450 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Coastal Trail
- Terrain description: Steep inclines, mixed forests
- Notable features or side quests: Coldwater Lake
- Key water sources: River access
- Campsite location: Coldwater River
- Wildlife or safety notes: Steep trail sections
- Trail tip: Rest often, enjoy the vistas
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DAY 4: Coldwater River to Visitor Centre
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~14 miles, +450 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Coastal Trail
- Terrain description: Open rock faces, dense woods
- Notable features or side quests: Agawa Rock Pictographs
- Key water sources: Streams near trail
- Campsite location: N/A - end at Visitor Centre
- Wildlife or safety notes: Final push near cliffs
- Trail tip: Keep a steady pace
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Baldhead River, Orphan Lake, Coldwater River
- Fire restrictions: Check local guidelines
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear hangs or canisters
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Baldhead River, Orphan Lake
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate, popular trail
- Nearest water source: All campsites near water
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 50–70°F in September
- Sun exposure: Moderate, with tree cover
- Acclimatization tips: N/A, elevation low
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Opt for waterproof gear and quick-dry clothing
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Visit Agawa Rock Pictographs
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Orphan Lake
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Pancake Bay for local cuisine
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 7-10 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Sunrise start, early evening rest
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 25-35 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
