Sharb-Echo Scramble

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Central Frontenac, Ontario, CA

Route Overview

Decent Diversions

Creative Adventures

187 mi.

7,839 ft.

A 296 km loop around two provincial parks, through lots of Crown land (unceded Aboriginal territory) and partially along the Trans-Canada Trail.

More info:
https://www.bikepack.ca/routes/sharb-echo-scramble

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Route Details

This 296km bikepacking loop highlights the vast trail network that exists in the sparsely populated highlands north of the Trans-Canada Highway. Best suited to plus sized or fatbike tires, the route follows rugged terrain along historic railway trails, eroded ATV paths, rolling hydroline trails and winding logging roads around Sharbot Lake and Bon Echo Provincial Parks. A trailhead in Sharbot Lake is the easiest access point for those arriving from Ottawa or Toronto but other trailheads may make resupplies easier.

# Route

* Start from @poi[Sharbot Lake](13685276), @poi[Lavant Station](13685278), @poi[Mountain Chute Dam](13685298) or @poi[Cloyne](13685296). Resupplies along the route are rare so be mindful of the options as you decide where to start. 
* A number of free, Crown land campsites are available directly along the route and others may be found by venturing off the route (typically towards lakes). Be respectful of these sites and always Leave No Trace.
* A nice, @poi[remote beach](13685286) can be found on Merrill Lake though be prepared for a muddy detour to get there.
* The @poi[Mountain Chute Dam](13685297) and @poi[abandoned Irvine Lake Airstrip](13685283) offer glimpses into the mix of human activity that this secluded route has seen over the years.

# Notes

* To avoid flooding and bugs, this route is best done in late summer. 
* Attempting this route in the fall would require bright clothing to ward off hunters
* Plus sized or fat tires are ideal for much of this route, although it has been done using 43mm tires
* Water sources are abundant along the route but carrying 3 days of calorie-dense food is recommended as resupply options are sparse.
* The @poi[Northbrook Foodland](13685292) is a well-stocked grocery that's open 24 hours, making it an ideal half-way stop.
* Learn more about this route at [Bikepack.ca](https://www.bikepack.ca/sharb-echo-scramble).

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