Gros Cap is a small hamlet to the west of Sault Ste. Mariel ON.  The Gros Cap loop is a loop off the Voyageur Trail, close to the end of Marshall Road.  We stuck to the left at the fork in the road and continued past a small parking lot for the Voyageur trail until we reached a parking lot on our left.

       The trail was wide enough for an ATV and was marked out with yellow markers.  The blue markers lead to lookouts.  We embarked upon the trail and immediately appreciated our bug repellent as the mosquits were quite thick.  There were tent caterpilllars a-plenty as well, so we both sought out sticks to swipe away the many webs.

       The first lookout offered the best view of Lake Superior and was abundant with wild blueberries, strawberries, and Saskatoon berries. It had the largest rock outcrops to explore around and we noticed a fire-pit area. 

       Onward we continued around the mosquito infested muck holes through a spectacular mix of rockiness and a vast assortment of foliage. We soon came to the second set of blue markers, that led us out to the second lookout.

       The second lookout was a little disappointing as there was no clear view of Lake Superior or the St. Mary's River.  There were, however, a series of rocky clearings ideal for a picnic lunch.  If you are confident with your navigational skills, it seemed fairly easy to work your way out to the coast for a view.  Just make sure you are able to find your way back to the trail.

       We kept going and crossed a couple creeks and washouts and soon came to the third set of blue markers which led us to a series of rocky clearings similar to the second lookout.  This lookout also didn't provide any views of Lake Superior. 

       Soon after leaving the third lookout, the yellow markers led us left off the larger path onto a single-file foot path.  This trail was overgrown with small maples and ferns.  The terrain became more interesting, as we zigzagged up and down around the rocky terrain.  The bushes got a little thick and could use some clearing.  On that note, volunteers are encouraged to join the Voyageur Trail Club for trail cleanups.

       As we walked, we noticed the changing dominance of certain trees.  One section of the last part of the trail was full of beautiful birch trees.  We encountered a couple more creeks and washouts to cross and eventually weaved our way back to the road.  We did get a few soakers along the way. 

       Walking down to the road, we passed the main parking lot to the Voyageur trail as well as the other access point for the walls lake loop that heads East.  A couple corners later and we were back at the car.  The rail directions we had followed stated the trail was 3km, but our GPS clocked it in as 3.5km. We completed it in about an hour, although we rushed through sections due to the heavy bugs. 

       Even though we didn't see as much of the water as we had hoped, this trail was absolutely beautiful. But I highly recommend doing this hike later in the year when the mosquitoes and tent caterpillars have subsided.