CanoeClaire wrote:

Anyone have any experience with traffic during peak colours? I like to trip on Thanksgiving wknd and find this a good time to use Access points that I typically avoid in the summer due to crowds (Canoe, Smoke). We did Canoe lake access a few thanksgivings ago and saw barely anyone after the first portage. 

But last year I heard there were 2 hr+ wait times on HWY 60 because of the traffic that weekend and now I'm second guessing this choice. 

I know it won't be busy past a portage or two but I don't want to sit in stressful traffic before or after the trip. Any insight?

I have been up twice this year both on long weekends. However I drive up on the Monday and leave on the Friday.  I laugh at the traffic on Hwy 11.  I was going to do my Highland Park trip (3 days, 2 nights) over Thanksgiving but decided to go early and am doing it Sept 29-Oct 2 instead, just because of the traffic issues.
 

I have booked my first backpacking trip through Algonquin's Highland Park Trail for the end of this month.  I am 49 and will be doing it solo.  I am fit and have been doing strength training with a PT for preparation so I feel confident in my ability.  I have read there is some good elevation and challenge to take into consideration.  I recently did the Mizzy Lake and Centennial Ridge trails as 'training runs'.  Has anyone completed this trail recently that can give advice.  Night one is Provoking East and night two is Head Lake.  Also, any suggestions, recommendations would be appreciated.  Any gear that anyone feels is overlooked sometimes that you feel is a must have?  Any gear that most newbs take along that you feel is not really necessary?  Thanks in advance.