Algonquin Park’s New Bus Permit System for 2024 Fall Season

As the fall colors begin to emerge, Algonquin Provincial Park is implementing a new bus permit system for the 2024 season to enhance visitor experience and manage traffic flow. From September 1 to October 31, 2024, bus permits must be purchased in advance by contacting Ontario Parks at 1-866-906-4070 between 7 AM and 9 PM ET. Each permit costs $125 and must be paid by credit card, with license plate information required at the time of booking.

Weekend Restrictions and Parking

To alleviate congestion, buses will no longer be allowed to stop at the West Gate on weekends. This restriction includes disembarking passengers and accessing washrooms at the West Gate. If you arrive without a permit on a weekend, you must purchase it by phone, as no permits will be sold at the gate.

Buses are permitted to park at the following locations within the park:

• Algonquin Art Centre (km 20)
• Outdoor Theatre parking pods near East Beach (km 35.4)
• Algonquin Visitor Centre (km 43)
• Algonquin Logging Museum (km 54.5)

Designated drop-off points for passengers include popular trailheads like Track and Tower, Hemlock Bluff, Bat Lake, and Two Rivers Trail. However, buses cannot park at these trailheads and must quickly drop off and pick up passengers to avoid blocking traffic.

Restricted Areas

Certain areas within the park are off-limits to buses due to size and safety constraints. These include Whiskey Rapids, Hardwood Lookout, Peck Lake, Centennial Ridges, Booth’s Rock, Lookout Trail, Beaver Pond Trail, and Spruce Bog Boardwalk. Additionally, buses are not permitted in campgrounds, and parking along Highway 60 is prohibited.

Visitor Amenities

The park provides several amenities for visitors, including washrooms at the East Beach, Algonquin Visitor Centre, and Algonquin Logging Museum. Educational exhibits at the Visitor Centre and Logging Museum offer added value for tour groups.

For updates on park conditions and capacity, visitors are encouraged to follow the park’s Twitter account @Algonquin_PP or visit the official Ontario Parks website. This new permit system is designed to ensure a safe, enjoyable visit to Algonquin Park during the peak fall season.