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EXPLORE ONTARIO
A SEASON FOR ADVENTUREThe diverse landscape of Ontario creates aperfect backdrop foroutdoor summer thrills
A waterway that is actually dotted with 1,864 islands, 1000 Islands is made for fun on the water. 1000 ISLANDS TOURISM
THERE’S NO NEED TO TREK THEHIMALAYAS OR PADDLE THE AMA-ZON – Ontario’s diverse naturallandscapes create a backdrop for arange of outdoor thrills. From skydiv-ing and ziplining to scuba diving,whitewater canoeing and trail shred-ding, there’s plenty of outdoor adven-ture to get one’s adrenalin pumping.
BIG ROCKS
Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldestsettlements in North America, but it’salso the jumping-off point for world-class outdoor adventure. Situatedbetween Lake Superior and LakeHuron, it’s where the Canadian Shieldbegins, with some of the oldest rockformations on the planet.
“It creates a really good back-ground for all things adventure,” saysIan McMillan, executive director ofTourism Sault Ste. Marie.
The unique landscapes of theCanadian Shield are ideal for multi-daytreks, such as the Coastal Trail in Lake
Superior Provincial Park, which takeshikers along high cliffs and rockybeaches over a stretch of 65 kilo-metres. These ancient metamorphicrocks are also ideal for rock climbingand bouldering, with sites along thenorth shore of Lake Superior; lessonsor guided excursions are availablefrom North of Superior ClimbingCompany in Batchawana Bay.
This area is also home to theAgawa Canyon, in the remote, ruggedwilderness that inspired the Group ofSeven landscape artists. While there’san Agawa Canyon Train Tour with a90-minute stopover to explore hikingtrails and waterfalls, the more adven-turous can bring their own canoe onthe Algoma Central Railway or book aguided canoe excursion.
The Agawa River flows through theCanadian Shield, with easy to interme-diate whitewater rapids that can benavigated by canoe; there’s also epicice climbing here in winter.
BIG WATER
Further south is the 1000 Islands, ageological bridge that connects theCanadian Shield to the Adirondacks.This scenic waterway is dotted with1,864 islands, granite outcroppingsand windswept trees.
“This is big honking water,” saysKathrine Christensen, executivedirector of Tourism 1000 Islands.
It’s also picturesque: “Pink graniteis reflected into this blue water.”
With so much water, there’s noshortage of watersports, such ascanoeing, kayaking and sailing. Butit’s possible to get under the water,with some of the world’s top fresh-water diving and visibility up to 70feet. Divers can explore more than200 shipwrecks dating back to theWar of 1812 – not to mention theunderwater seascapes surroundingpink-granite walls.
It’s also possible to explore thisunique geology from above – farabove – the water. 1000 IslandsHelicopter Tours and Kouri’s Koptersoffer year-round tours and customcharters, ev en in winter (try heli-icefishing). Jumping out of a plane withSkydive Gan offers views from 9,000feet. And on the St. Lawrence River,kite surfing (often described as acombination of wakeboarding andparagliding) provides another heart-pumping way to discover the region’snatural beauty.
BIG RIDES
Collingwood might be known as a ski
destination, but in summer skis areexchanged for bikes, and extrememountain bikers fly down singletrackthat drops 1,000 feet. “That’s a hugesport that has just blossomed here inpast 15 years,” says Glenn Spriggs,manager of member field serviceswith Resorts of Ontario.
They’re also bringing fat bikes –with fat tires used for biking in thesnow – onto the beach. “They’re ascool on sand as they are on snow,”says Mr. Spriggs. Serious bikers canbring their own bike, but it’s alsopossible to rent. There’s a mecca ofcycling trails in the area north ofBarrie, with flat cycling along theNiagara River Recreation Trail and inPrince Edward County.
From pedal power to horse power,Ontario has plenty of opportunitiesfor horseback riding. “One of thecoolest things you can do is ridehorses through water, on sand barsfrom one shore to another,” says Mr.Spriggs. “In Port Colborne, you can domiles and miles of shore trail riding,and that’s just one example.” For theadventurous, it’s possible to ridehorses through the backcountry ofAlgonquin Park with AdventureStables – and possibly even spot amoose.
ONTARIO
CELEBRATES
125 YEARS OF
PROVINCIAL
PARKS AND
THE BENEFIT
THEY BRING
Summer is the perfecttime to explore thesplendours of nature
EVERY YEAR, AFTER THE LONGMONTHS OF WINTER, MANY CANA-DIANS look forward to venturingoutdoors and enjoying the beautythat nature has to offer, and Ontarioabounds with many places to ex-plore.
This year, Ontario is celebratingthe 125th anniversary of the creationof Ontario’s first provincial park –Algonquin (still one of the province’sbusiest parks when it comes to trafficnumbers).
Ontarians are blessed with a rich,natural landscape, and Ontario Parkswants to remind all of us of that fact.Today, Ontario Parks protects 340provincial parks, encompassing justless than 8 per cent of Ontario (that’slarger than Nova Scotia and PrinceEdward Island combined).
“It is so important to have aco-ordination of activities across theprovince, and to have an organizationthat provides a unified effort toeducate the public on the experi-ences available in parks right in ourbackyard,” says Ian McMillan, exec-utive director of Tourism Sault Ste.Marie.
Ontario has 250,000 lakesto explore. E3
Resorts offer something foreveryone in the family. E5
Treasures abound in antiqueshops and galleries. E12
INSIDE
PARKS, E10
ADVENTURE, E4
Ontario has much to offer adrenalin junkies, from traversing rapids to ziplining, helicopter rides and more. TOURISM NORTHERN ONTARIO
A DEPARTURE FROM
THE ORDINARY.Start your Sault Ste. Marie journey aboard the fabled Agawa Canyon Tour Train.
Then experience all the best the region has to offer by choosing from an amazing
variety of packages including the Canadian Heritage Bushplane Centre,
the Ermatinger•Clergue National Historic Site, the Art Gallery of Algoma and the
Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site.
2 AND 3 NIGHT ACCOMMODATIONPACKAGES NOW AVAILABLEBook yours online at www.agawatrain.com
or by calling 1-800-461-6020
FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018 | THE GLOBE AND MAIL . G E3
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OPEN
ALL
YEAR
1000 Islands Gananoque
CANADA’S
DOCKSIDE THEATRE
On the banks of the beautiful St. Lawrence river, lies the most charming theatre in Canada.
The broad repertoire of plays will entertain, engage and inspire you.
PLAN YOUR VISIT!
1000ISLANDSTOURISM.COM
613.381.8427
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WITH MORE THAN 250,000 LAKES
AND AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK OF
RIVERS AND WATERWAYS, Ontariohas plenty to offer on the water,from sightseeing cruises to white-water rafting, sea kayaking and SUPyoga.
One of Ontario’s most iconicsights is Niagara Falls, but the bestway to experience it is up closeand personal. Hornblower NiagaraCruises takes passengers on astate-of-the-art catamaran past theAmerican Falls into the heart of theCanadian Horseshoe Falls.
“It’s the classic experience ofsailing right to the Falls and gettingsprayed,” says David Adames, chiefoperating officer of the NiagaraParks Commission.
Nighttime cruises showcase theFalls illuminated with multicolouredlights; there are also nightly fire-works displays during the summer.And Namaste Niagara offers publicyoga at Journey Behind the Falls, atthe base of the Horseshoe Falls.There’s also stand-up paddleboard-ing and SUP yoga in Niagara andthe 1000 Islands.
Boat cruises are popular in the1000 Islands for viewing the iconicgranite outcroppings in ancientwaterways dotted with islands.Gananoque Boat Line, for example,offers cruises on its fleet of fivetriple-decker vessels, includingsunset dinner cruises.
“You can also rent a kayak inGananoque or [you can go] on aguided tour – you’re going topaddle over shipwrecks and intobays,” says Kathrine Christensen,executive director of Tourism 1000Islands.
Some of these islands are Crownland; it’s possible to camp over-night, or go on a guided kayakexcursion complete with a gourmetpicnic.
For a hit of adrenalin, the OttawaRiver offers plenty of whitewater,with stretches of Class IV rapids (theLower Ottawa River is more suitablefor novices or kids).
Farther north, it’s possible topaddle Lake Superior – the world’slargest freshwater inland sea –without the worry of tides or
currents. Rentals and guided ex-cursions are available for sea kay-aking on Lake Superior and canoe-ing on rivers through the CanadianShield.
There are dozens of remotefishing lodges scattered alongOntario’s lakes and waterways, butfor those who just want to kickback and enjoy the view, TheLodge at Pine Cove (frenchriver.com)offers boutique luxury in pristinewilderness.
It’s located along the FrenchRiver, which isn’t technically a river,but a web of lakes, bays, islands,rapids, cliffs and beaches, windingthrough the Canadian Shield.
Past the main lodge is a foot-bridge leading to private cottages,with luxurious touches such ashandmade copper bathtubs andcarpets from Mexico, as well aswood-burning stoves (and notelevisions).
“They’ve all got glorious waterviews,” says owner Alex Strachan,who helped build the property’s 19cottages on 3,000 feet of windingshoreline.
“This land is white pines andwater. It’s really raw beauty,” saysMr. Strachan, who takes guests onguided boat tours that reveal earlyCanadian history.
Guests can also paddle to one ofthe many uninhabited islands onthe French River, or the lodge willdrop you off for an afternoon,along with hammocks and a gour-met picnic hamper.
Whether seeking whitewater funor a chance to relax in nature andcapture the perfect sunset on film,Ontario’s waterways have some-thing for every type of vacationer. Northeastern Ontario is known for its ‘big’ fishing and is popular with anglers year-round. TOURISM SAULT STE. MARIE
CRUISING ONTARIO’S WATERWAYS
This land is white
pines and water.
It’s really raw
beauty.
Alex Strachan
Owner
The Lodge at Pine Cove
E4 G THE GLOBE AND MAIL . | FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018
BIG THRILLS
The Niagara region is home tomuch more than Niagara Falls, witha parkway that stretches 58 kilo-metres. “It’s better to think of us asa large outdoor museum than apark,” said David Adames, chiefoperating officer of the NiagaraParks Commission. With everythingfrom historical sites, a butterflyconservatory and two golf courses,it’s also a hotspot for cycling,bouldering and adventure parks.
The MistRider Zipline at WildplayNiagara, for example, is an entirelynew way to experience the Falls,with a zipline that whizzes 670metres into the Niagara Gorgetoward the base of Horseshoe Falls.There’s also the Whirlpool Adven-ture Course, with self-paced coursesthat include ziplining, climbing andjumping – all while suspended highabove the swirling waters of theNiagara Whirlpool.
For more aerial adventures,Treetop Trekking Ganaraska – be-tween Port Hope and Peterborough– offers ziplining and aerial gamesin the forest canopy, with suspend-
ed bridges, Tarzan swings, swinginglogs and cable traverses. New thisyear is a wakeboard cable park atLake Horseshoe (part of HorseshoeResort), which uses a cable systemsuspended above the water to helpbeginners develop their wakeboard-ing skills.
And for adventurous kids, there’sa giant floating water park openingat Cobourg’s Victoria Park beachthis summer, with swings, slidesand trampolines.
“The highlight of Cobourg isclearly the beach, and the water-front area is unbelievable,” saysBryan Mercer, marketing manager ofCobourg Tourism.
Along with opportunities forcanoeing, kayaking and SUP yoga,the beach has 40 volleyball nets,while the nearby Northumberlandand Ganaraska forests offer upbiking, ATVing and horsebackriding.
Getting out in the great outdoorscan be as easy as getting off thehighway. The first time Mr. Mercervisited Cobourg, it was a revelation.“I was honest to God astounded bywhat was beyond the 401,” he says.Whether just off the highway ordeep in the hinterland, adventureawaits.
FROM E1
SPONSOR CONTENT
For those who aren’t afraid of heights or getting their hearts pumping, Ontario offers plenty of activities, such as rugged hikes and aerial games in the forest canopy. ONTARIO PARKS (LEFT)/RESORTS OF ONTARIO
Helicopter tours are offered year-round that allow passengers to view the unique geology of the 1000 Islands, which connects the Canadian Shield to the Adirondacks. 1000 ISLANDS TOURISM
ADVENTURE: FUN FOR ALL
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ADVENTUREBEGINS HERE
FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018 | THE GLOBE AND MAIL . G E5
SPONSOR CONTENT
WHEN ONE CONSIDERS THEVIRTUALLY LIMITLESS OPPOR-TUNITIES, resources, sights, andactivities available year-round fortourists travelling within Ontario,the number of options can beoverwhelming. If this predica-ment sounds familiar, why not
narrow the frame into four basicpursuits, and let those determinethe path you’ll take this summer?
“When you frame it as food,family, fun and fishing,” saysGrace Sammut, executive direc-tor at Resorts of Ontario (resort-sofontario.com), an organizationthat has been representing coun-try inns, lodges and assorted ac-commodations since 1942,“you’ve hit a lot of the key ele-ments in resorting.”
So, let’s look at some suggesti-ons.
FISHING AND FUN
Sault Ste. Marie region
For those who love to fish in semi-remote locations, Ian McMillan,executive director at TourismSault Ste. Marie, has some ideasthat are well off the beaten path.Lodge Eighty Eight (lodgeeight-yeight.com), for example, locatedon Esnagi Lake in Algoma Dis-trict, can’t be accessed by car –which means arriving by float-
plane or train, the latter of whichstops at the edge of lake, where-upon the guests are met and carried by boat around to thelodge.
“It’s really beautiful,” he says.“All cut-log main lodge and cabi-ns, right on the shore of the lake.”Mr. McMillan says it’s mainly wal-leye and pike that reel in thosewho love to fish. The TV showFish’n Canada named it one ofCanada’s top 10 fishing destina-tions.
Even more remote (accessible
by floatplane only) is Errington’sWilderness Island Lodge (wilder-nessisland.com) on Wabaton-gushi Lake, in the ChapleauCrown Game Preserve. While it,too, has fishing, its main focus iswildlife viewing.
“They’ll take you out in thesebeautiful, 20-foot cedar boats,”says Mr. McMillan, “and you cansee black bear or moose, andthere’s a number of bald-eaglenests on the lake.”
Seventy per cent of Resorts Ontario destinations are family-run inns, making the properties a perfect choice for families of all ages. RESORTS OF ONTARIO
RESORT ROUNDUP:
FOOD, FAMILY, FISHING AND FUN
Overwhelmed by optionsfor vacation getaway ideas? Narrow it down to four basic choices
RESORTS, E6
E6 G THE GLOBE AND MAIL . | FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018
SUMMER FUN AWAITS IN DURHAMThis region promises to provide visitors memorable experiences this summer, with a perfect mix of urban adventures and country charms on offer just outside the GTA
SPONSOR CONTENT
There’s a bounty of golfing possibilities in Durham Region,from family-friendly fairways to championship-calibre courses.
“There is an abundance of world-class options here,” saysBrad Kozak with Foreward Business Consulting, which workswith local courses to develop golf stay-and-play packages viagolfinontario.com. “Every place is a bit different, and any typeof course layout is possible, from Scottish-style links to tree-lined fairways.
Wooden Sticks in Uxbridge, where holes are inspired byfamous holes at PGA courses around the world, is one of fewgolf resorts in and around the GTA. Stay-and-play packages hereinclude accommodations in a Wooden Sticks cabin, rounds ofgolf, carts and meals.
Mill Run Golf Club, a semi-private course just outside Ux-bridge, has 27 championship holes and three unique nine-holechallenges: "The Grist," "The Wheel" and "The Grind.”
Royal Ashburn, a championship course in Whitby, has a25,000-square-foot clubhouse anchored by Butler’s Pub & Grill.
Club Link has a number private and public golf optionsacross Durham Region, too.
Visit golfinontario.ca to explore options and book a stay-and-play package.
While most Durham golf courses don’t have on-site hotels orrental units, nearby Markham, Ont., has lots of hotel, dining andentertainment options. “It’s an ideal base for golfers,” says Mr.Kozak.
GOLF
The Boxcars & Beer
Cheese Train takes
passengers on a
90-minute journey while
offering cheese and craft
beer pairings.
CENTRAL COUNTIES
TOURISM
Durham has some of the
best fishing in Ontario.
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY
OF DURHAM
The holes at Wooden Sticks in Uxbridge, Ont., are inspired by famous holes at PGA courses. WOODEN STICKS GOLF COURSE
Craft beer and cider are all the rage in Durham Region, accord-ing to Eleanor Cook with Central Counties Tourism. Visitors cansample the goods on the Rural Routes & Dirty Boots trail, aself-guided tour with 18 stops including breweries, Feast ON-accredited restaurants, farmers’ markets, conservation areas andhiking and cycling trails. Savour craft beverages and gobble upgoodies such as beer butter tarts, beer brittle, cider donuts andcheesy ale soup.
In Uxbridge, Ont., the Trail Capital of Canada, The SecondWedge Brewing Co. introduced a new beer for summer, FatBike, that pays tribute to the three-season cyclists who tacklethose trails. It’s made from locally grown hops. If you’re inUxbridge, try to get a spot on the super popular Boxcars &Beer Cheese Train. Over a 90-minute journey, fromager CeciliaSmith and local brewery owner/certified beer judge JoanneRichter introduce pairings of Ontario cheeses with artisanal craftbeers. Limo more your speed? Book a Lux Limousine BreweryTour, which includes visits to three breweries and sample beerflights.
In downtown Whitby, Ont., Brock Street Brewing Co. isexpanding its operations into a 17,000-square-foot productionfacility and sampling bar that’s slated to open this summer.
Meanwhile in Port Perry, Ont., Old Flame Brewing Co. is allabout community collaborations. The brewer supplies spentbeer grain to a local sheep farmer for use as high-end feed. APort Perry bistro does a cheese and ale soup using Old Flame’sbrew, and a local bakery makes Old Flame beer-infused buttertarts — these alone are worth the trip. “Nothing else hascatapulted this region forward quite like beer,” says Ms. Cook.
MICROBREWERIES
Durham Region boasts some of the best fishing inOntario, a four-season destination with a multitude ofspecies and a variety of bodies of water includingLake Ontario, Lake Simcoe (aka “the other GreatLake”), and Lake Scugog (aka “the bass factory”).
“There is an abundance of great fishing opportuni-ties here,” says Brandon Pickard, tourism managerwith the Regional Municipality of Durham.
Pike and walleye seasons open this month (May)and bass season kicks off the third week in June,marking the official start of summer fishing. “Bass is areally popular sport fish here,” Mr. Pickard says.
On June 27, the Canadian Pro Bass Tour EliteSeries takes place on Lake Scugog. Several localcharter operators offer deep-water fishing excursions.And area hotel and motel properties go out of theirway to cater to the overnight fishing crowd. In winter,you can book a night in an ice hut on Lake Simcoe,Mr. Pickard points out. “That’s a really cool experi-ence.”
Summer visitors have no shortage of great spotsaprès fishing to enjoy a cold drink, delicious meal andlive music. Just a reminder, says Mr. Pickard: Checkthe provincial website for recreational fishing rulesand regulations, including licences, open seasons andcatch limits for Durham Region. And check localweather conditions; things can change in an instantout on the water.
FISHING
1000 Islands
“Bass fishing is a big thing here,” says KathrineChristensen, executive director with Tourism1000 Islands (1000islandstourism.com), “butalso pike, perch and pickerel.” Any one of thenine hotels she represents in the area that liesbetween Brockville and Kingston would providesuitable accommodation for fishing excursions.For competitive types, the area features majorbass tournaments at the beginning of August.
Ms. Christensen also notes Gananoque’sthriving arts community (no fewer than four artgalleries and two museums in a community of5,000), its numerous festivals, fairs and freeconcerts – and even hydroplane races in June.
“There’s something going on here everyweekend,” she says, “from the long weekendin May almost to Thanksgiving.”
FOOD AND FAMILY
“Families are what we are all about,” says Ms.Sammut, referring not only to Resorts of Onta-rio’s principal clientele, but also the businessesunder its organizational umbrella, some 70 percent of which are family-run inns. Here’s aquick rundown of some:
Blue Mountain (Collingwood) – A perennialfavourite, this resort is always in season with arobust list of activities on offer, includingsummer camps, spas, an adventure trail, plusshopping and nightlife for adults.
Lumina Resort (Huntsville/Lake of Baysarea) – A traditional family resort with a dy-namic choice of activities, including a children’sprogram, water sports and marina.
Fern Resort (Orillia area) – An all-inclusiveresort, with things for all ages, including kids’fishing derbies, fun tournaments, crafts, plusgolfing, water fun and more for adults.
Southview Cottages (Bailieboro) – Lovelycottages on Rice Lake, says Ms. Sammut, idealfor week long fishing trips or a great romanticweekend.
All of the destinations associated withResorts of Ontario use locally sourced fruits andvegetables, with fare that ranges from tradition-al home-style to fine dining.
So, this summer, follow your passion as ittakes you down a country lane, rolling downan isolated railway track, or flying into a clearblue sky towards your dream destination inOntario.
FROM E5
RESORTS: FIND YOUR DREAM DESTINATION
Above: Lodge Eighty Eight,
located on Esnagi Lake in
Algoma District, Sault Ste. Marie,
can’t be accessed by car – which
means arriving by floatplane
whereupon guests are met and
carried by boat around to the
lodge.
Right: All of the destinations
associated with Resorts of
Ontario use locally sourced fruits
and vegetables, with fare that
ranges from traditional
home-style to fine dining.
PHOTOS COURTESY
OF RESORTS OF ONTARIO
Plan your visityorkdurhamheadwaters.ca.
Hit thetrails!
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JUMP IN THE CAR
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Summer is justaround the corner a
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E8 G THE GLOBE AND MAIL . | FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018
SPONSOR CONTENT
ANYONE WHO’S HAD THE PLEA-
SURE OF CRUISING ALONG THE
TRENT-SEVERN WATERWAY usuallyhas their favourite stretch.
Whether it’s a perfectly peacefulplace to paddle or sail the dayaway, or a more bustling spot suchas Bobcaygeon, where boaters,cyclists and motorists can drop in toexplore the multitude of food, drinkand arts and culture options onoffer, “the common denominator isthat the Trent-Severn Waterwayprovides visitors with meaningfulexperiences,” says Karen Feeley,communications officer with ParksCanada, the operator of the Trent-Severn Waterway.
The world-famous waterway,which opens for navigation May 18,comprises an interconnected seriesof lakes, river channels and artificialcanals stretching 386 kilometres,linking Trenton on Lake Ontario inthe south to Severn on GeorgianBay in the north via the Kawarthas.
With 44 lock stations in all, theTrent-Severn Waterway includes twoNational Historic Sites of Canada.One is the canal itself. The other isthe Peterborough Lift Lock, a centu-ry-old engineering marvel and theworld’s highest hydraulic lock.
On June 24, the PeterboroughLift Lock hosts the annual Lock &Paddle. The event, organized byParks Canada in partnership withthe Canadian Canoe Museum andThe Land Canadian Adventures,sees how many paddlers can fitinto a lift lock. Last year, to markCanada 150, the goal was tosqueeze 150 paddlers into each ofthe lock’s two tubs.
“We smashed that, with 328,”says Ms. Feeley.
This year the Falkirk Wheel, arotating lift lock in Scotland, hasbeen invited to take part in thechallenge.
As a new promotion for paddlerson the Trent-Severn Waterway in2018, Parks Canada will provide 50per cent off seasonal lockage feesfor canoes and kayaks. Paddlingdocks will be expanded at the lockstations on the waterway and thereare diverse accommodation options,
including oTENTik tents, pre-con-structed units for up to six people.A cross between a tent and a rusticcabin, oTENTiks enable families,friends and couples to discover thejoys of camping without all thefuss. They also make ideal basecamps when exploring the water-
way by paddle craft or bike, Ms.Feeley says.
Speaking of bikes, cycling enthu-siasts can take advantage of theBobcaygeon BikeShare station,available beside Lock 32, the oldestlock in the waterway (reservationsand payment are made through anapp.)
The Trans-Canada Trail crossesthe Trent-Severn Waterway at sever-al points, including at the stunningRanney Gorge Suspension Bridge.Ontario's first 300-foot-long suspen-sion bridge, the span connectsCampbellford and Ferris ProvincialPark 30 feet above the gorge. “It’sa must-see attraction,” says Ms.Feeley.
Local guide and expert paddlerBretton Clark recommends the“staggeringly beautiful” journeybetween the Kirkfield and BalsamLake lock stations. “It makes a niceday trip,” says the co-owner of TheLand Canadian Adventures, notingthat the route, a “hidden gem”,encompasses the shifting bioregionbetween the Saint Lawrence Riverbasin and the Canadian Shield.
“Part of it is dominated bylimestone and cedar forest, thenyou start to see granite shield andrugged white pines pop up. So, it’sa taste of both areas within a500-metre stretch.”
Mr. Clark also recommendsBalsam Lake, in and around Cobo-conk. More adventurous paddlerscan make the trip from Balsam Lakeup the Gull River and be connectedwith world-class whitewater rapids.This is the training grounds forCanada’s national canoe and kayakteams, and the 2015 Pan Am Gamesevents were held here.
But Mr. Clark’s favourite paddlespot on the Trent-Severn Waterwayis around Burleigh Falls. He likes totake groups on excursions west ofthe falls to Wolf Island ProvincialPark. The unsupervised park is theideal spot for picnics, nature pho-tography and painting. “It’s a greatplace to stop on a day paddle,” hesays, “or for overnight campingtrips.”
MAKING MEMORIES
ON THE TRENT-SEVERN WATERWAY
World-famous landmarkopens for another season of unforgettableexperiences
As a new promotion for paddlers on the
Trent-Severn Waterway in 2018, Parks
Canada will provide 50 per cent off
seasonal lockage fees for canoes and
kayaks. Paddlers can also grab their oars
and head to the Peterborough Lift Lock –
the world’s highest hydraulic lock – on
June 24 for the annual Lock & Paddle
event. PARKS CANADA
ELVIS TRIBUTES. SPEED BOATS.
MIDWAYS. ART IN THE PARK. Theallure of summer festivals in Ontario isas varied as the tens of thousands ofpeople who attend them. This year,some annual performers are back todraw more crowds with new twists.
For people who want to cross wildand wacky off their bucket lists,consider attending The 24th annualCollingwood Elvis Festival July 27-29.It’s the world’s largest Elvis festivaland this year, it is expected to drawmore than 20,000 people, saysRosemarie O’Brien, festivals coor-dinator for the Town of Collingwood,which is located less than a two-hourdrive northwest of Toronto.
“We have international Elvis tributeartists from youths to the oldergeneration,” says Ms. O’Brien. “Ouryoungest has been three years oldand our oldest has been in his 70s.We even have a few women regis-tered. You don’t have to be a hugeElvis fan to have fun. Our theme thisyear is Elvis United, welcoming allfans regardless of age, gender andhealth.”
This year, sign language interpret-ers, who have learned to sign more
than 200 Elvis songs, will be on stageto help people who have difficultyhearing to enjoy the festival, says Ms.O’Brien.
Find more information at Colling-woodElvisFestival.com.
For those who feel a need forspeed at a summer festival, TheCanAm President’s Cup Poker Run(July 27-29) features high-octaneracing boats at Sault Ste. Marie thatwill take to the waters of the NorthChannel of Lake Huron.
“Thousands of people line the St.Mary’s River to get a look at theseincredible machines,” says Ian McMil-lan, executive director of TourismSault Ste. Marie. “Watching theseboats interact with Great Lake freight-
ers is an amazing sight.”An insider’s tip is to get near the
Bondar Pavilion in downtown SaultSte. Marie as the boats do a “paradeof power” before they get to the startline on Saturday, says Mr. McMillan.Spectators are invited to come to thewaterfront to see these performanceboats and drivers up close on Fridaynight. Find more information atSaultTourism.com.
The Cobourg Waterfront Festival(June 30-July 2) is a popular CanadaDay weekend draw that started morethan 50 years ago as a small art-and-craft show on Victoria Beach. Thefestival is put on by the town, theRotary Club of Cobourg and theCobourg Lions Club. This year, new
features on the waterfront include aninflatable outdoor waterpark.
“We’ll have a lumber jack showthis year, there will be two remoteescape rooms set up in the park, ateddy bear picnic for the kids andthere are the fireworks on CanadaDay, among other things for peopleto see and do,” says Jackie ChapmanDavis, community events coordinatorfor the Town of Cobourg. “There is amidway, artisans, craft beer and wine,and music in a band shell, so there isa lot to enjoy no matter what yourage.”
Find more information at Water-frontfestival.ca.
The Port Dover Summer Festival,otherwise known as Art in the Park
(Aug. 18-19), has been running formore than 40 years, attracting thou-sands of visitors annually to its artshow and its mix of beach andcottage culture, says Ted Willey,business development supervisor fortourism and economic development,Norfolk County.
“It’s a signature event near the endof summer with a fantastic showcaseof artists, great antiques and crafts,and a beautiful location in PowellPark,” says Mr. Willey. Port Dover, onthe shores of Lake Erie, is less than atwo-hour drive southwest of Toronto.
Find more information at Port-DoverSummerFestival.com.
You can find another great sum-mer music festival option in Burling-ton.
“The festival is about having goodtimes with great company whileenjoying even better music,” saysDave Miller, executive director of theSound of Music Festival in Burlington,which runs June 9-17. “I’m proud tosay this year’s lineup features avariety of sounds for audiences of allages and to suit everyone’s taste.”Discover more information at Sound-ofMusic.ca.
Cross wild and wacky off your summer bucket list with a trip to Collingwood, Ont., for the world’s largest annual Elvis festival in July. DAVE WEST PHOTOGRAPHY
THE FESTIVITIES
OF SUMMERTIME
From Elvis to park art, warm-weather festivals offer intriguing draws
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Discover more at KawarthasNorthumberland.ca
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NAT IONAL H ISTOR IC S I TE OF CANADA
WASAGA BEACH
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, aday-use only park, is open allyear – 14 kilometres of sandyshores, the longest freshwaterbeach in the world. Wasaga saw1.8 million visitors in 2016, andwas the first provincial park inCanada to be awarded “BlueFlag” designation for its banksmanagement efforts underinternational environmentalstandard.
ALGONQUIN PARK
Ontario’s oldest and most fa-mous park – Algonquin wasformed in 1893, and saw940,000 visitors in 2016. Theonly way to explore it is by footor water – there are 14 hikingtrails and 2,100 kilometres ofcanoe routes. Algonquin is oneof those places that offers asmuch to do in the summer as itdoes in the winter – includingthree trail networks for cross-country skiing.
SANDBANKS
Sandbanks has three expansivesandy beaches, led by OutletBeach, with its shallow watersand gentle drop off. That makesit great for families. Sandbankssaw 783,000 visitors in 2016, andfeatures the world’s largestbaymouth barrier dune forma-tion. Great base to also exploreeverything that Prince EdwardCounty has to offer – wineries,food, antiques, bicycling.
PINERY
Pinery is an extremely rare andfragile Oak Savanna and CoastalDune Ecosystem featuringextraordinary biodiversity –more than 800 vascular plantsand more than 300 bird species.Pinery saw 594,000 visitors in2016, and features 10 kilometresof sand beach, 10 walking trails, a14-kilometre bike trail and 38kilometres of groomed ski trails.
BRONTE CREEK
Bronte saw 309,000 visitors in2016, and is known for its excel-lent family camping experience– from tents to large RVs. Bronteis also a popular family picnicspot for visitors to the GTA, withfive hiking trails and a 1.8-acreoutdoor pool. The park’s year-round interpretive programmingincludes a Maple Syrup Festivalin March, Ghost Walks in August,Camper Halloween and a Home-stead Christmas in December.
ONTARIO’S BUSIEST PROVINCIAL PARKS
Andy Warhol (American, 1928-1987), Fiesta Pig (detail), 1979, screen print on Arches 88 paper, 54.6 × 77.5 cm; The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh; Founding Collection,Contribution The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. 1998.1.2432. © 2018 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by SODRAC
401 Riverside Drive West, Second FloorAdmission: $10 | FREE for AGW Members agw.ca | 519-977-0013
Andy Warhol is Here! #eatitup
The Sandwich Project features 5 exhibitions including iconicworks from American Pop artist Andy Warhol.
The Sandwich ProjectJune 1 – September 30
Sandcastle Festival
& Downtown
Sidewalk Sale
August 2-5, 2018
Rotary RibFest
August 17-19, 2018
Harvest Festival
September 29, 2018
Ontario’s Events Capital!
Busker & Art Festival
June 9, 2018
Cobourg Highland
Games
June 15 & 16, 2018
Waterfront Festival
& Canada Day
June 30-July 2, 2018
O
Busk
C
W
JuJuJu
W
JuJu
E10 G THE GLOBE AND MAIL . | FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018
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According to Ms. Waldbrook:“There is a significant and growingbody of research that shows thatparks and other green space canplay a real role in improving healthoutcomes and reducing the cost ofthe health-care system.”
Ontario Parks has embracedHealthy Parks Healthy People(HPHP), a program started by ParksVictoria (Australia) in 2000 thatpromotes the link between a healthyenvironment and human health. TheU.S. National Park Service, SouthAfrica National Parks, MetsähallitusNatural Heritage Services, Finland,and the Department of ConservationNew Zealand are a few of the worldparks organizations that have signed
on to HPHP. Ontario Parks is the firstprovincial parks organization inCanada to support it.
Ms. Waldbrook says Ontario Parkswill continue to develop relationshipswith like-minded organizations topromote HPHP, such as the LungAssociation, Canadian Mental HealthAssociation, and the Child andNature Alliance of Canada.
Organizations such as NiagaraParks are also pushing the humanhealth/parks connection, accordingto Janice Thomson, chair of TheNiagara Parks Commission. NiagaraParks recently invested more than$200,000 to improve the cyclinginfrastructure along the Niagara RiverRecreation Trail, for example.
Ontario Parks (part of the OntarioMinistry of Natural Resources andForestry, guided by the ProvincialParks and Conservation Reserves Act,2006) is marking the anniversarywith a series of celebrations acrossthe province – everything from a“Wakami Wailers” concert (long-timecamper faves, named after theNorthern Ontario provincial parkwhere the group of musicians met aspark staff in the late 1980s) in July inAlgonquin, “Lakeshore Lodge Day”at Sandbanks in August (a recreationof an old-fashioned picnic from the1890s), “Ghost Walk” in Bronte Creekin August (guided tour of a 100-year-
old Victorian house), “Wasaga UnderSiege” in August (90th anniversaryof the Nancy Island Historic Site, witha re-enactment of the War of 1812battle, including muskets and can-nons), a tour of 30 parks by singer/songwriter David Archibald, wherehe will be celebrating Ontario Parks’natural and cultural history throughsong, the Wheatley Park Halloweenevent in October, with decorationsby campers, and a winter birdingexperience at Pinery, in December.
On July 20, Ontario Parks isopening its doors to everyone inOntario, with free access for day-usevisitation (head over to the OntarioParks Anniversary webpage atOntarioParks.com/op125 for a full list
of activities and events).Ontario Parks’ primary role is to
protect significant elements ofOntario’s natural and cultural land-scape, and maintain biodiversity,while offering opportunities forinspiration, education, and recre-ation.
The future focus and growth,though, lies in that connection tohuman health (benefits are psycho-logical, cognitive, physiological andsocial/spirit), says Lori Waldbrook,manager of marketing for OntarioParks. It also lies in things such associal media, to better educate amillennial audience who may nothave thought about visiting a pro-vincial park.
FROM E1
Algonquin Park, Ontario’s oldest and most-famous park, offers 2,100 kilometres of canoe routes. TOURISM SAULT STE. MARIE
Trilliums herald early spring in
Bronte Creek Provincial Park.
ONTARIO PARKS
PARKS: CELEBRATE A MILESTONE WITH FREE ACCESS
Sandbanks has three large sandy beaches and features the world’s largest
baymouth dune formation. ONTARIO PARKS
Choose Your AdventureThrill to an adventure that will haveyour pulse pounding like a drum.
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Lake OntarioFish: Coho Salmon, Chinook Salmon, Rainbow TroutLake ScugogFish: Common Carp, Brown Bullhead, MuskellungeLake SimcoeFish: Perch, Lake Trout, Whitefish, Herring, Pike, WalleyeRouge River (Pickering)Fish: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Coho, Chinook SalmonFrenchman’s Bay (Pickering)Fish: Bass, Walleye, Carp, PikeDuffins Creek (Ajax/Pickering)Fish: Brown Bullhead, Channel Catfish, PumpkinseedOshawa HarbourFish: Brown Bullhead, Northern Pike, Rainbow TroutOshawa CreekFish: Rock Bass, Pumpkinseed, Smallmouth BassBowmanville Creek (Clarington)Fish: Common Carp, Northern Pike, PumpkinseedWilmot Creek (Clarington)Fish: Coho Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Chinook SalmonBeaver River (Brock)Fish: Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass
TOP SPOTS IN DURHAM REGION
1. PLAN IN ADVANCE
More than 50 per cent of reserva-tions for Ontario’s five busiestparks are made before summerbegins. Pick your site in advanceand reserve early. Also have a fewbackup sites on your list.
2. TRY A NEW PARK
Ontario has many busy parks, butthere are plenty of other parks tochoose from if your favourite isfull, such as Murphys Point, Sa-muel de Champlain or Arro-whead, Darlington or Ferris,Grundy,and Inverhuron.
3. BOOK LATE
Not all of us know our vacationplans in advance, so another op-tion is to book at the last minute.Parks get thousands of cancella-tions every year, so if you keep aneye out you can pick up availablesites as they crop up.
4. BOOK FOR OFF-PEAK
TIMES
Campsites are booked quickly onweekends, holidays and duringthe peak vacation times of Julyand August. There are usuallymore options to choose from dur-
ing the week, especially in springand fall.
5. GO FARTHER AFIELD
Booking a trip further north maymean a longer drive there andback, but also gives you more op-tions and is likely to be less se-cluded.
6. DID YOU KNOW?
You can reserve your campsiteup to five months in advance.
Source: ontarioparks.com
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SIX TIPS FOR RESERVING A CAMPSITE
Campers enjoy roasting food over a fire at Balsam Lake. ONTARIO PARKS
FISHING IN NORTHERN ONTARIO
You don’t need a float plane tocatch big fish in Ontario —though that’s always an option.In Sault Ste. Marie, “you can walkout of a four-star hotel and sixminutes later be standing in therapids fly fishing for some of thebest salmon you’ll ever find,”says Ian McMillan, executivedirector of Tourism Sault Ste.Marie.
Farther afield, there are plentyof fishing lodges, some acces-sible by car or train; others byboat or float plane. At some ofthe more remote fly-in locations,
you might be staying at the onlylodge on the lake, says Mr.McMillan.
Northeastern Ontario isknown for its ‘big’ fishing. LakeTemiskaming is popular withanglers year-round; as one of thedeepest lakes in Ontario, it’shome to lake trout, walleye,small-mouth bass, perch andnorthern pike.
Lake Nipissing is also a bigfavourite with anglers, with itsshallow depths packed withwalleye, bass, burbot, pike andwhitefish.
Ontario has dozens of freshwater fish to lure anglers. RESORTS OF ONTARIO
Holidaying in the great outdoors is a popular pastime, and sitting around acampfire at the perfect spot is one of summer’s pleasures, but campsites getbooked quickly in the peak summer months. Here is some advice:
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E12 G THE GLOBE AND MAIL . | FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2018
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SUMMERTIME IS NOT JUST FOR
NATURE LOVERS, it’s also a time fortreasure hunters.
Many people, when they hop inthe car for a drive to cottage country,for example, love to stop into themany local arts, crafts and antiqueshops that dot the cities and townsaround the province. The list ofoptions is endless, too numerous tocount.
Spurred on, in part, by countlessinterior-design shows on TV, Ontar-ians head out to seek hidden gemsfor the home. Others just like thevibe.
Some of the more popular antiqueand arts-and-crafts hubs in the prov-ince include Prudhommes Antiquesand Flea Market (three buildings ofantiques and collectibles, 12 vendorcabins), just off the highway betweenHamilton and Niagara, the WaterfordMarket in Norfolk County (60 vendorsoffering the most unique of finds),the Ottawa Antique Market (25dealers sharing 10,000 square feet ofspace, selling antiques from every eraand style) or Woodstock’s One-of-a-Kind Antique Mall (500 vendor andthree floors).
“The Waterford Antique Market,Nifty Gifty Norfolk, and the WaterfordFarmers’ Market gives locals andtourists a wonderful atmosphere tofind incredible handmade items,”says Anna Wilson of WaterfordAntique Market. “It really nurturesgrowth for artists in the area.”
Says Jane Thomson, manager ofFranni’s Attic in Port Rowan, NorfolkCounty, “We are in what was a centu-ry-old hardware store that was vacantfor about six years. It was like a lightthat went off in the town – it’s like atime capsule. We came in and put indifferent vendors – antiques andcollectibles. And after we started upfour other antique stores came in. Wehave seen a big increase in traffic,especially daytrippers. They just eatthis stuff up.”
For those who don’t mind head-ing outdoors – Aberfoyle AntiqueMarket in Guelph is one of the largestof its kind (more than 100 dealers),and, of course, Christie Antique andVintage Show at Christie Lake Conser-vation Area near Hamilton (10,000shoppers each spring and fall) rank
among the more popular.As well, the vast, natural beauty of
the province offers up endless in-spiration for artists and those wholove art. Ontario is home to manyfantastic art galleries, from Toronto’sArt Gallery of Ontario, east to theNational Gallery of Canada in Ottawa,
north to the Thunder Bay Art Gallery(TBAG as it’s called by the locals) orAhnisnabae Art Gallery (featuringIndigenous work, founded in 1997 bythe late Roy Thomas, an Ahnisnabaeartist recognized for his distinctivework), or southwest to the Art Galleryof Windsor.
A big feature of the AGW thissummer, according to Jaclyn Me-loche, curator of Contemporary Art, isthe Sandwich Project (June 2 - Sept.30) – five exhibitions, including AndyWarhol: Printed Food Matter; AndyWarhol: EAT; &WICHTIME; The Con-temporary Sandwich; and Still Life:‘Food’ for the Eye, Mind and Body.
“Each exhibition offers uniqueperspectives through which to experi-ence and understand the meaningand symbolism within the economiesof food,” according to the descriptionon the gallery’s site.
It explores the ways in which foodis a metaphor for social and econom-ic consciousness.
Ms. Meloche points to the accessi-bility of the content. “Everyone eats,”she says. “We all have differentrelationships with food, from childrento retirees.”
Some of the art will be familiar –Warhol prints of space fruit, grapes,beef, fish and soda labels from the1970s and ‘80s, for example.
“We want people to come andsay, ‘Okay, I am somewhat familiarwith this, but let me look at it from adifferent perspective,” Ms. Melochesays.
“People are excited. This is the firstsolo exhibit of Warhol that we havedone in our city.”
In July, Arts at the Dock is held atthe Hilton Beach Marina in Algoma,this year celebrating its 32nd anni-versary.
The event is a “multimedia artexhibit,” says Ian McMillan, executivedirector of Tourism Sault Ste. Marie,featuring more than 40 of the North’sfinest artists, attracting almost 1,000visitors each year.
“It has become one of the largestand unique art shows in NorthernOntario,” Mr. McMillan says. The factthat the event is set adjacent to LakeHuron’s spectacular shoreline is justan added bonus.
NOT ALL GEMS ARE SILVER AND GOLDFrom antiques to art,digging for hiddentreasure in Ontario is sureto yield valuable finds
Christie Antique and Vintage
Show at Christie Lake
Conservation Area near
Hamilton ranks as one of the
most popular vintage markets
attracting 10,000 shoppers
each spring and fall.
HAMILTON CONSERVATION
AUTHORITY
