Another of the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority areas, Hazelwood Lake is a year round facility offering recreational trails, picnic area, non powered boating and indoor facilities for rent. The lodge is a popular spot for weddings and conferences. It is a great get-away spot for the whole family.
Hazelwood Lake Lodge
It was a beautiful November 1st, 2008 when I headed up Hazelwood Drive to the LRCA trails. There are two trails, each about two and half kilometers. The brochure I had said the trails were on the easy side, so I intended to do both of them this day.
From the parking lot, I headed up the orange trail, going north past the picnic area. This is a wonderful area for families, having numerous table, a large shelter, washrooms and a sandy beach. There is plenty of room for having fun.
Picnic area and beach
The trail leaves the picnic area and follows the lake shore. Unfortunately it only parallels the lake, too far inland for even the slightest view. There are plenty of small up and downs on this particular trail, so I would describe it as easy to moderate in difficulty. The trail is very well maintained and wide enough for two hikers to walk side by side.
Well kept trail
The trail loops around and returns to the picnic area on the east side by the washrooms. Once across the open field, follow the trail from the beach along the shore. You pass the lodge and pick up the forest community trail heading southwest. This is another two and half kilometer loop, but it is much easier walking than the orange loop. Again, the trail follows the shore, but there is virtually no view available.
These are lovely trails but I swear they were built by the government. They don’t really go anywhere and don’t offer a view of anything but trees. There is no “wow” factor at all, and frankly I felt disappointed once I was done. There was plenty of opportunity for views of the lake and surrounding area from the numerous high spots on the orange trail, yet the trail was so far from the lake that nothing could be seen. The forest community trail showed promise, but it was too far from the shore to offer any real scenery as well. But if all you want is outdoor exercise, these well maintained trails are for you.
Hazelwood Lake, looking east to the beach and picnic area
The LRCA works hard to maintain all of its trails, don’t leave garbage lying about.
