Hiking Cup and Saucer Trail on Manitoulin Island

One of Ontario’s most popular hiking spots, Cup and Saucer Trail offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush forests, and lakes.

Cup and Saucer is one of my favourite things to do on Manitoulin Island and seeing it in the fall is especially beautiful.

With over 9 km (5.6 miles) of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, you can choose the path that matches your fitness level.

Let’s get right into what you will see on the Cup and Saucer Trail, how long the hike is, and everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

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Cup and Saucer Main Trail Overview

Distance: 5 km | 3.1 miles

Elevation Gain: 505 ft | 154 m

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Duration: 1.5 – 2 Hours

Colour: Red

About Cup and Saucer

Cup and Saucer Trail is a scenic hiking trail on Manitoulin Island that resembles a teacup and saucer. From the top of the 70 m (230 ft) cliffs, hikers can experience the highest point on the island.

Its jagged cliffs were formed over 450 million years ago by the limestone’s resistance to water and glaciers over time. Part of the Niagara Escarpment, they stretch from Niagara Falls to Manitoulin Island and beyond.

3 Trails To Choose From

There are 9 km of forested trails and 500 m of adventure trails at Cup and Saucer. The hiking trails are divided into three sections based on their difficulty: Red, Blue, and Yellow.

1. Red Main Trail: 5km (Easy – Moderate Difficulty)

The easy hike at Cup and Saucer is the Red Main Trail. It’s the shortest and most popular trail at 5km, perfect for great views when short on time.

Starting from the parking lot, this trail weaves through the forest, guiding you to the East Peak with the best viewpoints overlooking Manitoulin Island.

While it is rated as Easy-Moderate, the trail involves a fair amount of uphill climbing. Do expect some narrow paths and upturned roots at some points.

It’s well-marked and easy to follow. If you happen to lose the trail, listen for fellow hikers to guide you back on track.

I hiked this trail in the afternoon after spending the morning in Little Current. The views were worth the climb and the fall weather was perfect.

2. Red-Blue South Trail: 9km (Moderate – Difficult)

The Cup and Saucer Soth Trail follows along the escarpment and the Red Trail. It is a 5km addition to the Red Trail loop, for a total of 9km of hiking.

The terrain is mostly flat except when it slopes downwards on the way back. Lookouts offer beautiful views of the east side of the escarpment.

Fewer people hike this section of Cup and Saucer. So if you want a quieter hike then this is for you.

3. Yellow Adventure Trail: 500m (Difficult)

The Cup and Saucer Adventure Trail is not for beginners. It’s a 500 m (0.31 mile) side trail, although some people say it’s 2km.

The entrance is halfway through the Main Red Trail where the trail slopes down towards the cliff’s base, where you descend a set of stairs on your left. Those on the Red Trail would continue upwards to the cliff peak.

On Cup and Saucer Adventure Trail is an obstacle course including ladders, stairs, and climbing over large rocks. Erosion makes this trail ever-changing. Make sure you have grippy shoes for this one!

To ensure you don’t lose your way, keep the cliff to your right side. At the end, you reach a wooden staircase leading up the to eastern viewpoint.

If you are looking for a more challenging way to get to the top of Cup and Saucer, this trail is for you. Be safe and keep away from the edge.

I like taking the easier trail route so I skipped this part.

Best Time to Hike Cup and Saucer

The best time to hike the Cup and Saucer Trail is during summer and fall. But the fall months of September and October are my favourites as I love fall hikes.

During autumn, it’s a beautiful trail with many lookouts offering panoramic views of Manitoulin Island and its changing leaves. The majority of the trail is shaded by the forest for cooler-temperature hiking.

When hiking Cup and Saucer in the summer, hike in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day heat. I’m not usually awake early enough for morning hikes unless it’s a sunrise hike like I did in Panama. Plus, you will beat the rush and get a better parking spot.

How to Get to Cup and Saucer

To get to Cup and Saucer you need a car. There is no public transit to reach the trailhead.

Directions from Downtown Little Current:

• Head south on Worthington Street towards Campbell Street
• Continue onto Highway 540 W
• The destination will be on your left after 23.7 km

Cup and Saucer Parking

4097 ON-540, Sheguiandah, ON, P0P 1W0

Map of Cup and Saucer Trail

Tips for Hiking Cup and Saucer Trail

• The trail can be busy during peak season, so arrive early to avoid crowds
• Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots and dress for the weather
• Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized
• Respect the environment: stay on the trail, don’t litter, and don’t disturb wildlife

More Hiking Trails on Manitoulin Island

• Lewis Twin Peaks Trail – an easy 1.4-km loop trail near Sheguiandah
• McLean’s Park Trail – an easy 3.5-km loop trail near Tehkummah
• M’chigeeng Hiking Trail – a moderately challenging 4.7-km loop trail near M’Chigeeng 22
• Bebamikawe Memorial Trail Head – a moderately challenging 9.3-km loop trail near Wikwemikong

Where to Stay on Manitoulin Island

Red Lodge Resort – a beachfront lodge with a private beach, restaurant and coffee shop

My Friends Inn Manitoulin – a popular accommodation with in-room kitchenettes

Batman’s Cottages and Camping – waterfront campground with trailer sites, tent sites, and cottages

Final Thoughts on Manitoulin Island Cup and Saucer Trail Hike

Hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail on Manitoulin Island can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker looking for a challenge, you can choose one of three trails.

With several lookout points along the way, it’s a great hiking spot that’s not too far from other attractions on the island.

Grab your hiking gear and get ready for an adventure on Manitoulin Island. And if you are continuing to explore more of Northern Ontario, plan to visit Bathtub Island on Lake Superior.