The Magic of Mazinaw

From the towering face of Mazinaw Rock to sandy beaches and rugged Shield trails, here’s how to make the most of your visit at Bon Echo Provincial Park.

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A person in a bright green kayak paddling along the base of the Mazinaw Rock cliffs, with orange lichen visible on the rugged granite walls.

Bon Echo is a landscape defined by water and stone, offering a world-class outdoor experience for every type of adventurer. Whether you are here for a single day or a seasonal tradition, the park features a diverse array of activities that immerse you in the natural and cultural history of the Canadian Shield.

With campgrounds, beaches, hiking trails, lakes, and Mazinaw Rock spread across the park, having a clear sense of the layout enhances every visit. This park map helps you see how the shoreline, trail systems, and key landmarks connect, making it easier to plan your day and discover areas you may not have expected.

A scenic view across Mazinaw Lake toward the towering, tree-topped cliffs of Mazinaw Rock on a bright, cloud-filled sky.

History & Discovery

  • The Visitor Centre: Discover immersive exhibits exploring the geology of the Canadian Shield, the logging era that shaped the region, and the cultural history of Mazinaw Lake. View native wildlife displays featuring species found within the park, and step inside a full-scale replica of a historic logger’s cabin. Open seasonally during park operating hours.
  • Discovery Programs: Join expert-led naturalist talks, guided hikes, and outdoor theatre presentations that explore the park’s ecology, cultural history, and the significance of Mazinaw Rock.
A low-angle view of hikers' boots as they walk up a rugged forest trail with wooden steps, surrounded by fallen autumn leaves and mossy rocks.

Hiking Trails

Explore 11 distinct trails shaped by the Canadian Shield, from quiet forest loops to steep climbs that rise above Mazinaw Lake. Whether you’re looking for an easy family walk or a challenging ascent to panoramic lookouts, Bon Echo offers some of the most dramatic terrain in Southern Ontario.

View the Trails

Waterfront & Beaches

  • Main & North Beaches: Enjoy sun-soaked days at our family-friendly sandy beaches on Mazinaw Lake. These accessible waterfronts feature buoyed swimming areas perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Please note that no lifeguards are on duty.
  • The Dog Beach: We are proud to offer one of Ontario’s premier off-leash pet beaches, accompanied by a dedicated exercise trail so your four-legged companions can join the fun.
  • Little Shoppe of Shorers: Located right on Main Beach, this seasonal hub offers novelty ice cream, beach toys, and cold drinks to fuel your waterfront afternoon.
  • South Beach: A peaceful alternative to the park’s busier areas, featuring a buoyed swimming area and shaded picnic spots. It serves as a convenient hub for seasonal swim lessons with nearby parking and a wide field for lakeside recreation. This “hidden gem” is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy Mazinaw Lake at a slower, more spacious pace.
The Bon Echo boat rental area featuring rows of red, yellow, and green canoes and kayaks reflected in the still water.

Paddling & Rentals

  • Explore by Water: Experience the scale of Mazinaw Rock from lake level. Canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are available for rent at the Lagoon Paddle Centre.
  • Rentals operate seasonally and are offered by the hour and half-day, weather permitting. Lifejackets and basic safety equipment are included. During peak summer weekends, availability can fill quickly. Current rental rates are posted at the Lagoon Paddle Centre.
  • Kishkebus Canoe Route: For the experienced paddler, this 21-kilometre wilderness loop takes approximately 6 hours and traverses interior lakes and rugged portages behind the great rock.

The rental shop is operated by Ontario Parks.