George Bonga: the life of a voyageur

Today’s post comes from our Discovery Specialist (and history buff), Dave Sproule. Header image source: Minnesota Historical Society

Over 200 years ago, George Bonga paddled fur trade routes throughout the Great Lakes region.

He also acted as a canoe guide, a translator, and eventually a trader with his own trading posts.

In honour of Black History Month, let’s take a look at the life of George Bonga.

Continue reading George Bonga: the life of a voyageur

Sudbury rocks for fall hiking!

September is one of the best times of the year to get out into nature and hike!

Most of the month of September is still technically summer. While usually cooler on average than August, it’s still warm and often without the humidity. Not to mention, bugs are just a distant memory!

The Sudbury region is rich with opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature as summer winds down.

Eight provincial parks within an hour’s drive of Sudbury, six of which are open after the September long weekend. Each one has its own character and set of recreational opportunities.

Here is a selection of parks and trails to consider if you live, are staying in town, or camping in the Sudbury area this September:

Continue reading Sudbury rocks for fall hiking!

Fall vistas of Ontario’s Northeast

Ah, fall…the weather cools down, the bugs disappear, and our parks turn into a kaleidoscope of stunning reds, oranges, and yellows.

If you’re a lover of fall hiking, northeastern Ontario is the place to be. The combination of rugged Canadian Shield and spectacular fall colours makes hiking in northeastern Ontario a bucket list item.

Our parks are home to some amazing must-see vistas that are illuminated each year by autumn’s changing leaves. Here are a few of our favourites.

Continue reading Fall vistas of Ontario’s Northeast

Dinosaurs in parks: the Lake Sturgeon

Today’s post comes from Christian Therrien, past Northwest Zone senior assistant ecologist.

Most agree all dinosaurs went extinct 66 million years ago.

However, looking into species found in parks reveals that some dinosaurs have indeed persisted and can be seen today!

From the Snapping Turtle to the Silver Lamprey, remnants from this forgotten time are prominent today in Ontario Parks.

However of all the dinosaurs in our parks, the most impressive is the Lake Sturgeon.

Continue reading Dinosaurs in parks: the Lake Sturgeon

Greetings, Boozhoo, Aaniin, Sekoh, Wachay, Ullakut!

National Indigenous Peoples Day invites us to learn more about Indigenous history, perspectives and culture, and helps us build stronger relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

We’re taking the opportunity to spotlight some of the wonderful initiatives and events shared with us by Indigenous leaders and communities across Ontario:

Continue reading Greetings, Boozhoo, Aaniin, Sekoh, Wachay, Ullakut!

5 reasons to visit Grundy Lake Provincial Park

Grundy Lake Provincial Park is one of those places you have to experience in person.

It sounds nice on paper — scenic lakes, sandy beaches, tall pine forests, and lots of great campsites.

But when you start to explore, those features come to life. This is a park that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Continue reading 5 reasons to visit Grundy Lake Provincial Park

5 life-changing paddling routes of Northeastern Ontario

Whether you’re planning a scenic day trip or a rugged backcountry adventure, Northeastern Ontario is a paddler’s playground.

Last year, Northeastern Ontario Tourism asked their readers to vote for their top paddling destinations…

…and the votes are in!

Join us in counting down the top 5 paddling destinations of Northeastern Ontario:

Continue reading 5 life-changing paddling routes of Northeastern Ontario

Voices of the river: exploring the French River Visitor Centre

Today’s post comes from Dave Sproule, a Natural Heritage Education Specialist in our Northeast Zone. 

Can you hear the water speak?  The waters of the French River have many voices.

These voices travelled the river and lived along its shores. The French River has been a conduit for people, goods, and culture for thousands of years. The voices of the river are celebrated at the spectacular French River Visitor Centre.

Continue reading Voices of the river: exploring the French River Visitor Centre

8 bucket list fishing trips in Northeastern Ontario

Fishing season’s not here yet, but that’s no reason not to plan your dream getaway now.

If you’re planning a northern adventure in 2019, we’ve got a few fishing trips to add to your bucket list:

Continue reading 8 bucket list fishing trips in Northeastern Ontario

Muskie memories on the French River

Today’s post comes from year-round multispecies angler and writer Ashley Rae of SheLovesToFish.com.

One of the most beautiful bodies of water I’ve visited throughout my fishing travels so far is the French River.

This river is unique. The French River is made up of a massive web of intertwined channels winding their way through the Canadian Shield rock face. To top it off, it’s surrounded by the breathtaking rugged scenery of the French River Provincial Park.

Beginning at Lake Nipissing, it flows 105 km southwest emptying into Georgian Bay on Lake Huron.

Continue reading Muskie memories on the French River