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 Development at Pukaskwa National Park has centered at Hattie Cove where there is a campground and visitor centre with displays depicting the natural and human history of the area. Motorized vessels are not allowed in Hattie Cove, except by Aboriginal anglers who may access the cove, providing there is no risk to visitor safety, i.e. swimmers. From Hattie Cove, self-guided nature trails take you to rock ledges and beaches. The Coastal Hiking Trail also begins on the north side of Hattie Cove and follows the shore for 60 km (40 miles) south to the North Swallow River.
There are a number of anchorages within the park boundaries. Pulpwood Harbour, the most protected anchorage in the area, is just south of Hattie Cove. When logging was at its peak and booms were used to transport logs, pulpwood would be stored here in the spring until it could be moved to the mills. Blueberries can be found growing on some of the small ridges on the north side of the harbour.
For many boaters, a trip up the White River is a highlight while cruising along the eastern shore of Lake Superior. Here you'll find excellent fishing and warm water. From the pool below the rapids you can hike about 1 km (1 mile) up to a suspension bridge that spans the gorge.
As you travel further south you'll find a number of anchorages including Dampier Cove in Oiseau Bay, Simons Harbour, a deep, well protected anchorage, and Old Dave's Harbour at Otter Island which offers beautiful scenery of the Otter Island Lighthouse.
The Pukaskwa River marks the southern boundary of the park. A little north, in Imogene Cove, a stream leads to an abandoned lumbering village called the Pukaskwa Depot. Remains of cabins are still visible and interpretive signs tell some of the history of the site.
All boaters who intend to overnight in the park must register-in and out in person or by phone/fax/E-mail. This service provides an extra level of security in the event of a mishap or delay due to weather.
Presently, no fees are collected from boaters anchoring or mooring inside park waters. However, boaters who come ashore are required to pay the appropriate fees in advance using credit card, personal cheque or cash.
Scattered along the Lake Superior shore line are archaeological sites, commonly referred to as "Pukaskwa Pits". These structures are built with cobble stones and are very sensitive to damage. Visitors are requested to view structures from a distance. First Nations people treat these sites with respect, and request the same of visitors.
Woodland caribou use Otter Island year round. This very small population is near the southern limit of its range in Ontario. Visits to Otter Island should be limited, to avoid stressing these shy animals, particularly during the calving period (May-June) and fall rut (September-October). Instead of camping on Otter Island, visitors are encouraged to stay at the majestic Cascade Falls.
For more information about Pukaskwa National Park visit: www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pukaskwa
Phone: 807-229-0801
Fax: 807-229-2097
E-mail: ont-pukaskwa@pc.gc.ca
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Facility
Notes
Chart #2304, 2308, 2309
No services regularly available
807-229-0801
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