King Mountain is a rather obscure peak in the Algoma Highlands north of Sault Ste. Marie. I'm not sure where I first heard of it but it was rumored that there were some truly spectacular views from the top. After no small amount of searching, and a little outside help, I found that the peak was located adjacent to a local cross-country ski club known as Stokely Lodge. I set out on this 6-mile hike with high hopes of visiting yet another of Algoma's remarkable, open peaks.
Alas, this was not to be. You can't win 'em all I guess. The trails most of the way to the top were wide and fairly well-marked. The summit trail was another story. Listed as a 'backcountry trail' it was not really a trail at all. The final mile to the top turned into a bushwhack between vaguely marked trees. Finally, upon reaching the top I discovered that the 'sweeping views' amounted to a narrow overlook through the trees. Not quite the payoff I expected. Nevertheless, any chance to get out in the woods is great with me and I tried to make the most of my visit...
Mileage Hiked: 6.0 miles
Trailhead Temp: 75'F
Min. Elevation: 850'
Max Elevation: 1,840'
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The Stokely parking area. The signs request that you walk the 1/3 km to the lodge and trailhead...
Getting my bearings...This was the first decent map I had seen of the trail system so this photo was my guide for much of the trip...
The route I ended up taking...in all I estimate it was about a 6-7 mile loop...
Coming up on one of the ski chalets at Stokely Lodge...
Signs of fall in the treetops, even though it didn't feel like autumn with temps nearing 80...
Stokely Lodge...in the winter this looks like it is a rather bustling cross-country ski lodge. Today I found that I was the only one here...
King Mountain here I come!!
Crossing Stokely Creek not far from the trailhead...
The trails near the lodge were VERY well groomed...
Making my first turn onto the Suomi Trail...
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