Silent Lake Provincial Park is just one of Ontario’s many provincial parks, with 1,450 hectares (3,600 acres) of property to explore. This lovely park is located in the scenic Kawartha Highlands, roughly halfway between Apsley and Bancroft off Highway 28. The park is open year-round, allowing for enjoyment during the winter too! It’s a great day trip from many of our Haliburton area waterfront rental cottages, offering a variety of activities in a serene, natural setting.
The park surrounds Silent Lake, 284 acres or 1.1 square kilometers in size, motor-free lake, and there are also two smaller lakes within the park. The motor-free status of the lake makes it a tranquil, peaceful spot to enjoy nature in, making it a haven for day visitors enjoying time spent in nature. Silent Lake Provincial Park is open most of the year, from May to March, allowing activities in the winter months as well, making this a great destination while you’re staying in the area!
Activities at Silent Lake Provincial Park | Hiking | Canoeing and Kayaking | Fishing | Swimming | Mountain Biking | Camping | Winter Activities
Hiking at Silent Lake Provincial Park
Silent Lake Provincial Park has over 19 km of well-maintained trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty, ranging from the Lakehead Loop Trail, a short, leisurely walk along Silent Lake’s lakeshore, to the Lakeshore Hiking Trail, a 15 km wilderness trail designed for the experienced hiker. It’s estimated to take about 6 hours, so be sure to bring a supply of water and snacks or a lunch. The Lakeshore Trail roughly follows the undeveloped shoreline of Silent Lake. The spectacular lookout points make this hike well worth the effort!
Bonnie’s Pond Trail is worth a special mention, a 3 km moderate trail that leads to a scenic lookout passing a beaver pond along the way
Canoeing & Kayaking at Silent Lake Provincial Park
Start your relaxing paddle across motor-free Silent Lake, which is approximately 2.5 km. Depending on the water levels, you might be able to access Quiet Lake and Soft Lake by completing a short portage (note this is not maintained by park staff). Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park. A canoe launch is located at the Pincer Bay Canoe Hut and Dock.
Fishing
While the main fish found in the lake are Lake Trout, Largemouth Bass, and Smallmouth Bass, you may also find Yellow Perch, and Sunfish. Please note that Silent Lake does not permit motorboats. A valid Ontario fishing license is required, but be sure to also check Recreational Fishing Regulations for exemptions related to Silent Lake.
Swimming
There are two designated swimming areas in the park, both having sandy beaches and gradual water entry, making them ideal for families with children. The clear waters of Silent Lake are great for swimming, and the lake is very calm without motorboats. The largest beach is located at the day use area and includes a large grassy picnic area. The other beach is located in Pincer Bay campground.
Mountain Biking at Silent Lake Provincial Park
Mountain bikers will enjoy the park’s challenging mountain bike trail, accessed from the day use parking area. There are two loops; 11 and 17 km in length, with the shorter loop being considered moderately difficult, and the longer difficult. The trail does cross the park road, and some portions are shared, so caution is needed.
Camping
Silent Lake’s two campgrounds, Pincer Bay and Granite Ridge, are both located in forested settings. There are a small number of electrical campsites, and a number of double campsites occupying a group up to 12 people, sharing a driveway and firepit between them. These campsites must be reserved together.
For those wanting a more wilderness experience, there are also some walk-in campsites, each located within half a kilometre of parking, so you won’t have to cart your gear too far! Other camping options include rustic cabins and soft-sided shelters, and winter camping is also available.
Winter Activities | Cross-Country Skiing | Snowshoeing | Ice Fishing | Yurts
During winter, Silent Lake is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, and a number of activities are possible.
Cross-Country Skiing
There are more than 34 km of groomed cross-country ski trails over rugged terrain, with trails ranging from easy to difficult. The trails are colour-coded for ease of navigation. All four connecting loops start and finish at the day-use parking area. People new to skiing might be best with the Green Loop (2.5 km) or Red Loop (5 km), both of which are considered novice-moderate in skill level.
Experienced skiers wanting a more challenging outing should try the Yellow Loop (10 km – moderate) or the Blue Loop (16.5 – difficult).
Snowshoeing
Although the ski trails cannot be used for snowshoeing in order to preserve the grooming, Bonnie’s Pond Trail, a 3 km loop past mature beech trees and a beaver pond, is converted into a snowshoe trail during the winter season. In addition, a 5 km loop of the Yellow Ski Trail also permits snowshoeing. If you don’t have your own snowshoes rentals are available at the park.
Ice Fishing
During the winter, fishing enthusiasts can still enjoy the sport! Ice fishing for Lake Trout is permitted on Silent Lake during the winter. Please note that gas–powered ice augers are not permitted. Before heading out, be sure to check the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations, as Silent Lake has special exceptions.
Conclusion
Silent Lake Provincial Park is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers. With its motor-free lakes, scenic trails, and year-round activities, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a fishing enthusiast, a paddler, or just looking for a quiet escape to nature, this park provides the perfect setting for relaxation and adventure. If you’re staying in a nearby rental cottage, consider adding Silent Lake Provincial Park to your itinerary for a truly memorable experience.
