Family Outdoor Adventure Story in Ontario

We've had a cottage just north of Southampton, Ontario  for 9 years now.  I've always considered myself a bit of an adventurer, although it did take us 4 years to finally drive north past the lights in Sauble, but since then we have done a lot of exploring, or so I thought ;)

Early in July, the kids and I were at Sauble Falls, one of our regular hang outs, and I started talking to a young couple who told me about the Explore the Bruce: Adventure Passport contest. "Yeh yeh yeh .. I know the area pretty well and explore on my own", I was thinking, but then as they explained the program I started to get very intrigued.

The next day while shopping I saw one of the adventure passports and it caught my eye. I picked up a few and decided to investigate a bit further.  I Googled the passport, looked at some of the pictures and videos online, and immediately I was hooked.

The following day, my Daughter was off to camp for a week, and my husband was back to the big city to work for a week, so it was a mommy/son week with just my 10 year old and I.  He was quite excited about the passport so we decided to make this our little adventure.

We started close to home and headed for the Port Elgin North Beach .... Interestingly we go to Port Elgin all the time, frequent the beach and the ice cream shops and all the wonderful things Port has to offer, but we had never been to the North Beach!   This close to home and I've already discovered a little gem that I wouldn't have known about!  We followed the clues along the bike path and got our first punch .. Yay !!!  Heading south now to the Bruce Power Visitor Centre, again a place I've talked about going for years but never have.  It was a gorgeous sunny day, we had the roof down in the jeep and the tunes cranked and my son and I had a wonderful day just enjoying the drive !! Got our second punch.  The visitor centre was my son's favourite stop !! He loved the exhibits, learning about energy and the view from the balcony. We had added a little fun to our adventure by creating our own little photo scavenger hunt. I'm a photographer and my son is a budding young apprentice. We had a list of things that we needed to shoot along the way (Something green that makes you smile, someone wearing a red hat, bizzare mail box, beautiful landscape, 5 flags etc, etc.)  I tell you this because at the visitor centre my son pulled out his tripod and got all set up on the balcony to shoot a picture of what was truly a beautiful landscape.

From there we headed to Kincardine, got our clue at Lazy J's Ranch (Got some yummy honey while there) and then following the clue headed to the lighthouse. We got side tracked exploring the beach, shooting pictures, and walking along the main street. But I think the best part of these adventures is not just the final destination but the journey and the side adventures along the way.

Since our first day out adventuring we have recruited many friends to participate with us.  We've completed 10 of the 12 adventure stops and have made many wonderful memories along the way.  Greig's caves was such a wonderful spot and a hidden gem that we will return to every year. The drive to Sydney Bay lookout took us through Wiarton where we discovered The Green Door Cafe - fantastic food, great service, reasonable prices ... this will be one of our new regular stops!  We drive through Mildmay and Paisley every weekend in the spring and fall and never stop, and now finally I've been into the Cheese Haus and Back Eddies!  Walkerton was another gem, WHAT A VIEW! And on the drive to Tobermory we got side tracked at the Grotto and never did make it to the punch stop, just a wonderful excuse to head back up there next week.

Although I think the craziest stop was at Bannister Park in Sauble Beach. My kids and our dog ran ahead of us down the pathway.  We had no idea what to expect around the corner of the pathway.  Then suddenly I hear screams from my daughter coming from up around the bend. Turns out the boardwalk takes you over a bog, it's a beautiful view but not when your dog decides to run full tilt and jump off the end of the dock into thick, black muck!! He started sinking as if in quick sand and my daughter had to reach in and pull him out by his collar!  We were all covered!  Thank goodness there was a hose on the side of the community centre !!  Just another crazy dog memory to add to our list ;)

I thought I was an adventurer before I started the passport adventure, but what I've learned is you can only explore and adventure when you know where to go, and we were going to all the same places year after year because we didn't know of other new and exciting places to explore.The Adventure Passport program is such a wonderful excuse to start new adventures, visit new places, explore and create new memories with family and friends.  This has been a very special summer with so many new and wonderful stories to tell ... Thanks Adventure Passport !!

The Smith's !!

Sunrise Paddle ~ Lion's Head to Barrow Bay

Launching at Lion's Head Beach. Notice the seagull landing and the light from the lighthouse.

The first section of my Georgian Bay coastal paddle tour was from Lion’s Head beach to Barrow Bay. I had planned on heading out first thing when I awoke in the morning. That just so happened to be at 4:30 am. I figured to have a quick bite to eat and head out, why not? I thought I might be able to catch the sunrise past Lion’s Head Point.

Lion's Head Point

I didn’t encounter any cars on the way to the beach, or people there as I launched. The visitors to the Lion’s Head Beach Park Campground were still fast asleep. It was so quiet that it felt otherworldly. I launched at a quarter after 5 am and even though the conditions were prime, (little wave action and the wind at my back) I didn’t make it to the point in time. The sun rose at 5:38 am that morning. Thanks to some cloud cover right on the horizon I still got a couple of amazing shots as the sun rose through the clouds when I rounded the point. It was gorgeous!

Sunrise over rocks in McKay's Harbour

When I reached McKay’s Harbour the wind started to stir. The waves weren’t high but my speed slowed as my boat and paddle fought against the wind. Rounding Gun Point was exciting! In my limited experience, I’ve found that wind does funny things as it comes down over bluffs and at points. It seems to swirl, become unpredictable and almost makes the water churn. This was the most technical paddle I have encountered thus far. I kept my momentum up and my paddle in the water. It was so exhilarating!

My last shot, McKay's Harbour as I head to Gun Pt.
The camera went back in the dry sack.

 Once around Gun Point, the wind was stronger again, it was coming from the SW. The water calmed and turned to gentle rolling swells. My arms were getting tired at this point! I’m fairly certain that it took me the same amount of time to get from Lion’s Head to Gun Point as it did from Gun Point to my landing spot on Barrow Bay.

Approximately two hours after I set out, I landed on the rocky shore in front of a friend’s cottage in Barrow Bay. I was welcomed with delicious coffee and a morning chat. It was lovely. I doubt that I’m going to paddle many early mornings, but this kayaking trip from Lion's Head sure was worth the early start!

SUP - Water Up the Nose

  

I recently lead Hendrik Breuer and his wife Monica on a media tour of Sauble Beach. Hendrik is a Toronto-based travel writer for many German publications and was on assignment in our area. While developing our itinerary for the day I had a brain wave to take Hendrik and Monica Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding. Neither of them (nor myself) have ever attempted this activity before and I thought this would a really unique experience for them. So, I called Jack n Jill’s Surf Shop in Sauble Beach and got the board rentals set up.  

The day of the tour was not incredibly hot (about 23 degrees Celsius)  therefore not a  typical beach day but these two were keen so we went to pick up the boards. Jason, the owner of Jack n Jill’s was there to give us some tips on how to get started on the boards. 

  

•  Make sure you have sunscreen on your face, back of the neck and on top of your feet before you go at least, but I would recommend putting it everywhere if you’re going to be out any length of time.

•   Because the SUP is considered a vessel, you must wear a lifejacket and have a whistle with you . 
• Make sure you have the paddle the right way.. if it’s backwards you are wasting a lot of energy paddling as most of the water is just slipping right off the blade.

•  Walk out far enough in the water so that the fins of the board don’t hit the sand.

•   Start by kneeling on the board.  Make sure you are in the centre where you will have your weight distributed most evenly. Choke up on the paddle (hold it in the middle, not the end) and paddle like this until you are comfortable.

•   Paddle into the wind, again to maintain balance.

• When you are ready to stand up, make sure you have forward momentum, this is what gives you balance. Stand up, again in the centre, in one fluid motion.

As close as a camera was getting to the water.

Armed with this information Hendrik and Monica walked the boards down to the beach. I’m not going to lie, the waves here high, but again, this couple was game to give SUP a shot. They set out; very brave indeed. Once out there they didn’t waste much time on their knees. Within minutes, they were standing up, even if it was for just a few seconds, they were standing up! There were some epic splashes, and I’m sorry I didn’t catch them on camera, but they waves were so high I didn’t want to take any camera equipment into the water. 

Monica and I drying off.

After a while and some successful stand ups Monica offered her board to me, she said there was only so much water up the nose she could handle. I on the other hand, seem to have a very high tolerance for water up the nose. I spent some time paddling on my knees and went to stand up. I’m not sure I was even up for two seconds until I came splashing down hard into the water. This happened several times until finally, I was up again and stayed up for about a minute! It was amazing, I encountered a couple waves (just two footers or so) in that amount of time and still remained on the board. It was only when I turned to give Monica the thumbs up that another spectacular wipe out occurred. No matter, after that ride, I considered my first SUP experience a success.

All in all, we had a great day at the beach! We got some awesome exercise and enjoyed the water; it was just gorgeous that day! It almost made falling in the water so many times enjoyable.  I simply can’t wait for my next SUP experience. 

When we returned the boards Jason said that the conditions were quite challenging for first time paddlers, so the three of us felt pretty good about ourselves. 

In closing, here is a tip from Hendrik and I: Do not wear your sunglasses, you will most likely lose them as we did. 

Monica and I rewarding ourselves with Funnel Cake!

Kayaking Adventure on Georgian Bay

I moved back to the Bruce in January. In April I bought my first kayak. I’d been thinking about it for a long time, so I just went ahead and did it. I chose a Current Designs Vision 130. She is a 33lb Kevlar beauty! I chose this particular boat because I wanted something that I can, with moderate effort, load onto my car and go for a tour, whenever I want, without anyone’s help.

I soon discovered that I love paddling! It’s not really something I can describe, its serenity and exhilaration at once with a dash of I don’t know what thrown in. Whether it be with a few of the girls, just putting along shooting the breeze or a solo leisurely cruise along the shore of Georgian Bay, I’m in awe of this amazing place I grew up in and was smart enough to return to.

My paddling goal for this summer is to kayak the Georgian Bay Coastline of the Peninsula in its entirety. I have planned a mix of short haul two hour trips to longer half day paddles and a couple overnighters.

I’m clearly a novice paddler, and normally paddle longer trips by myself, so I don’t go out when the winds and waves are too high. My boat also doesn’t have a rudder at this point. I may get one before the end of the summer is out, but I might just see how I make out too.


I’ve yet to find my boat’s tipping point so I’m not sure what all she is capable of. I will do some practice with tips and rescues later on in the summer, I’m just waiting for the water to warm up a bit! Another paddling investment to be made before fall is a wetsuit...

Anyway, stay tuned for stories about my adventures on the Georgian Bay Coastline of the Beautiful Bruce Peninsula. Hopefully I’ll see some of you out there!

Your Adventure Starts Now

Busy time in Grey and Bruce Counties

Summer may be winding down but the activities in Grey-Bruce are gearing up. One of the biggest events of the summer - Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival - will be held this weekend in Owen Sound.

The three-day event (Aug. 19-21) will be held at Kelso Beach Park on the shores of Georgian Bay and will include artists ranging from emerging young talent to some of the biggest names in folk music. For more details, visit http://www.summerfolk.org

Taking over the same venue from Aug. 27 to Sept. 5 is the Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular - a fishing derby with more than $150,000 worth of merchandise up for grabs, free nightly entertainment, two fish fries and a kids’ day. It’s great fun for the whole family and you don’t even have to be an angler to have a good time! For more on the derby, visit http://www.owensoundtourism.ca

Take in some of these events after your round of golf and we can pretty much guarantee you won’t be bored during your time in beautiful Grey-Bruce.



For those of you who have yet to take advantage of the free golf vouchers handed out at the Toronto and London golf shows, it would be a great time to plan a trip to the area.

The golf courses are in fantastic shape, with evening rains helping to keep everything green. And the temperatures in recent days have been ideal for golf. The 14-day forecast calls for lots of sunshine and daytime highs of 21 to 26 C.

To give you further incentive to make the trip, I've listed some Stay and Play Grey Bruce golf offers below.

Hope to see you soon.

Steve Harron / Marketing Coordinator
Grey-Bruce Golf / steveharron@sympatico.ca

-------------------- GREY-BRUCE GOLF OFFERS

COBBLE BEACH GOLF LINKS

This award-winning course near Owen Sound is offering an All you Can Golf Special on Mondays to Wednesdays for only $99 plus tax. This includes the golf with cart, driving range usage, a bottle of water and a bag tag. Cobble Beach also has Stay and Play Packages starting at $139 plus tax after October 2nd. For more information please call 1-888-278-8112.

THE GOLF CLUB AT LORA BAY near Thornbury

The Golf Club at Lora Bay has partnered with Blue Mountain Resort, Monterra Golf and Cobble Beach Golf Links to introduce The Georgian Bay Golf Trail. Visit www.georgianbaygolftrail.com to build your custom golf getaway today.

MONTERRA GOLF at Blue Mountain. 
Fall Golf Package 
Stay and play this fall at Blue Mountain Resort. Take in the sights and sounds of autumn on the Niagara Escarpment in beautiful Southern Georgian Bay. Relax in luxurious accommodations and tee-off at the renowned Monterra Golf Course. Available 7 days a week from September 6 to October 31. Starting from $149 per person per night including accommodations and one round of golf (cart included). Details and conditions at bluemountain.ca

STONE TREE GOLF AND FITNESS CLUB near Owen Sound
Stay & Play Packages starting at $119 per person, see website for details. All You Can Play Tuesdays w/Cart $59.00.


OWEN SOUND GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

After 2 p.m. 18 holes with a power cart $47.95/person plus applicable taxes, $34.95 after 4 p.m.
519-376-1961


PIKE LAKE GOLF CENTRE near Mount Forest
. Monday to Thursday after 11:00 am – Links Course - 2 for 1 Green Fees (month of September) - 27 Holes of Golf with Cart $60.00
For more details, please call the pro shop at 519-338-2812.


THE LINKS AT PIPER’S GLEN near Port Elgin. 
Summer Special - 18 holes with a power cart Mond.-Thurs. $30, Fri.-Sunday and Holidays $45.
519-832-4653


AINSDALE GOLF COURSE near Kincardine
. Great rates coming this fall.
519-395-5555


SAUBLE GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB

Free power carts Monday to Friday 12 noon -2 p.m.
519-422-1052


SOMERHILL GOLF CLUB near Tiverton 
519-396-8450


The Difference between Geocaching and Geocache

Geocaching in Bruce County, Ontario is a fun sport for anyone seeking an adventure. As a family, we had completed the Explore The Bruce "Adventure Passport contest" which you can play all summer yet found ourselves wanting more to explore in Bruce County. The 12 destinations on the passport adventure were unique and exciting and we were craving the adventure that we had just completed. It was then that my neighbor mentioned geocaching. I had to ask, what is geocaching? I was told that it was treasure hunting using a GPS to find hidden Tupperware containers. I had to laugh because I wasn’t really sure about this game at all. It wouldn’t hurt to at least check out the website, so I logged into geocaching.com and signed up for a free account. I didn’t own a GPS, and hoped that we might have luck finding one of these hidden treasures without a GPS. I didn’t want to purchase a GPS just in case we didn’t actually like this game, but I knew that we could borrow one from the various library branches in Bruce County.



After starting our account, I started to look around the map to see where exactly in Southern Ontario's Bruce County that these caches were hidden. I was blown away when I saw that there were over 12 right in our hometown of Wiarton. I didn’t want to draw a lot of attention to ourselves without a GPS, so we traveled to a small beach area and started our first geocaching adventure without a GPS in hand. We printed off the co-ordinates and I decided to use all of the clues posted by other geocachers to find the treasure. I followed the basic clues and searched for almost an hour when I happened to find a spot that I thought might be a good hide. After moving a log I was shocked to see a medium sized Tupperware container hidden inside of a rock crevice. I screamed out to my son, “I found the treasure”. He hurried over towards me and we opened our first cache. Hidden inside were a few items for trade; a keychain, a pen, a few child items and the log book for us to sign. I signed our name and my son was delighted to pick anything from the cache that he wanted for himself.

I knew that there were a few rules to play this game and they are:

1. If you take something from the cache, be sure to leave something of equal or greater value.
2. Sign the log and hide the cache exactly as you found it, so that future geocachers have as much fun as you did finding it and the final rule.
3. Log your visit and find on Geocaching.com

I didn’t really have anything on me, but pulled out my keys and removed the keychain and put it into the container to replace the child item that my son took. I signed the log and re-hid it exactly as we had found it. We crawled back out of the forest area and looked back at the beach area and I knew that we had just found an amazing new sport for my son and I too participate in. I think I was more excited hunting for the cache than he was, but his eyes and squeal of delight when the actual treasure was found told me that we has just found a great new hobby for us to partake in. When we got home, we logged our visit on the website an I knew that we were both hooked. Geocaching is awesome. We were very lucky for our first few searches because we found our first 5 finds without a GPS; however, the hides became far trickier and we had to use a GPS to continue playing. We bought a GPS because we knew that we were hooked on this game and we wanted to be able to play at anytime.

We did learn a few things from geocaching very quickly and that is to bring a GPS and extra batteries, water, food and always dress appropriately for the areas you are hiking too. Also, make sure you also remember a map of the area and a compass. It is also important to note that all geocaches look different and come in a variety of sizes. A cache often contains hidden treasures that are perfect for children or a variety of items that can be random for adults. You will always find a logbook for you too sign. Most caches are hidden in ammo cans or Tupperware containers, but they may also be as small as film containers or even extremely tiny containers called micros or nanos. Some caches even have ‘travel bugs’ which are trackable items that are designed to found by geocachers and placed into new caches for others to find.

We have now hidden 10 of our own geocaches across Bruce county in areas that we knew that are unique and not commonly seen by others. The best part is that this is free to play and something you can do during and season or various weather conditions. As a family we are able to continue exploring around Bruce County by finding these caches and with new ones always being made; we always have something to do. The cache count in Bruce County is now over 450, so this game will take us awhile. Geocaching is an international game and with 1,335,310 active geocaches around the world, this game will keep you busy!

VIDEO ON WHAT IS GEOCACHING

The Bruce Peninsula 100km Multisport Ontario Race

The inaugural Bruce Peninsula Race was announced on Monday, February 28th 2011, exactly 365 days after the closing ceremonies of the Olympics. What do the two events have in common? Both will propel sport tourism.


The Bruce Peninsula Race is a unique 100km endurance challenge from North to South on the Bruce, designed by long-time Wiarton resident Jack Van Dorp. After finishing 9th in the World Multisport Championship in New Zealand, he and event consultant Leigh Grigg have put together the logistically-intense event scheduled it for Saturday August 13, 2011. But it won’t be without it’s rewards. The race is positioned to shine a spotlight on the rugged outdoor landscape of the Bruce Peninsula as Challenger course racers trace follow the edge of the Niagara Escarpment while running, biking and paddling.

Plans for the event include a live social media integrated web page to which spectators, media crews, and volunteers can post photos, video clips and tweets as the race progresses, not only to keep those waiting eagerly at the finish line up to date with progress on the course, but also to open the event to those around the world who couldn’t justify making the trip in the event’s first year. It’s a chance to show off the sights and sounds of the race and an important one for the long-term growth and success of the race.

Along with the 100km Challenger course which will see athletes bike-run-kayak-bike-run the Bruce, there will also be a much more achievable 25km paddle-bike-run Explorer course which follows in a loop from Wiarton to Colpoy’s Bay, Purple Valley and back. There will also be a kids race in Wiarton’s Bluewater Park.

Right from the initial discussions with regional authorities, such as the municipalities of Northern Bruce Peninsula and South Bruce Peninsula, organizers have emphasized that this event aims to draw major sport tourism to the area. The aim is to draw not only participants from out of the region, but to encourage traditional tourism in the way of campers, hikers, paddlers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts in general from the spotlight that will be shone, not to mention any incidental business investment to the event from outside Grey-Bruce. This is what sport tourism is about.

This is the first official GriggSport event in the area, which has been advocating these principles since it’s South Bruce Peninsula launch in November 2010. The Olympics have generated excellent sports ‘buzz’ in Canada. After the closing ceremonies of the games when VANOC CEO John Furlong pointed out just how much work volunteers had done to make sure the events went ahead, saying “Blue Jackets 1 – Cypress Mountain Weather 0,” the onus has been on people like Van Dorp and Grigg to build sports capacity at home, create sports opportunities, and represent Canada on the international stage.

The Peninsula Race will focus on being low-impact, another crucial priority considering the race will quite prominently feature the sensitive ecosystem of the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere site. Race entries are limited for the event to ensure that it is environmentally sustainable. All proceeds from the event will be used to support sport initiatives on the Bruce Peninsula.

More information about the event can be found at www.griggsport.com/bruce.

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----------BIKE--------

Birding in Southern Ontario's Bruce County

I am not your traditional idea of someone who enjoys birding. This is a new interest for me and my photos are pictures of opportunity. This means that I have spotted these amazing creatures and have been able too capture them. Across Bruce County hundreds of various species of Ontario birds can be seen sitting on telephone poles, farm fence lines, swampy areas, farmland on side road concessions, national parks, waterfalls, wooded area and occasionally they may be spotted near the ruins of an old abandoned home. Another great spot is always near the water, like inland lakes, dams and common fishing spots.

The smaller species of birds are fairly easy to capture. These birds will allow people to get a bit closer than the larger birds of prey. I make a point to not intrude on the birds’ habitat and always maintain a safe distance. I move very slowly to take my shots and then I leave the area as soon as I am done. Please remember that making sudden or fast movements will spook a bird, so if you want to capture their image, just remember to be patient.

Bird photos around The Bruce Peninsula National Park


Some of my favourite spots to capture birds, are near swampy areas. I have noted a variety of species in these areas and am always left wondering, ‘What type of bird is that?’ I have developed a natural curiosity about taking photos of birds; some birds have incredible beauty and size while others are scavengers and sometimes a menace.

My favourite birds to capture, are birds of prey like Hawks, Falcons, Vultures and Owls. They are a beautiful sight to capture and some of the best spots to see various birds of prey are up and down the Grey Bruce Line. There are various hawks like the red tailed hawk, white tailed hawk and the peregrine falcon that can be spotted daily throughout the swampy areas along this road. These birds prefer open areas, like fields with high perching places nearby from where they can watch for prey. Hawks are commonly seen on large tree tops along the roadside to spot and seize mice, ground squirrels, rabbits, reptiles, or other prey. They do not allow humans to get too close, so you will need to be patient and have a good zoom in order to capture them.

Another favourite bird that I love capturing is the Osprey. This is a powerful raptor, bird of prey and is commonly known as the “sea hawk or a fish eagle”. They can be spotted near Oliphant and Wiarton as there are various perches built in these areas. Ospreys are often mistaken for bald eagles, but they can be identified by their white under parts. Their white head has a distinctive black eye stripe that goes down the side of their face. Ospreys are also very territorial and where there is one, their mate is always close.

The grey and blue herons are a common site in Allenford, Stokes Bay, Sauble Falls, Lockerby (Paisley) and Tobermory. Also the great Egret, also a member of the heron family can be seen in Sauble Falls and Allenford. These members of the heron family frequent marshes, lakes, humid forests, and other wetland environments to catch small fishes, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and crustaceans in shallow waters.

If you would like to see swans, I always recommend visiting Southampton at Fairy Lake near the Bruce County Museum or Harrison Park in Owen Sound. You will see ducks and other water birds that frequent the area, but the swans are the birds to see here. Swans are easily spotted, noting their long curved necks and webbed feet. These majestic birds can be seen floating serenely around ponds with their mate. There are seven different species of swans that exist and they are the: Whooper, Trumpeter, Tundra, Mute, Black-necked, Black and Coscoroba.

Throughout Bruce County, there are hundreds of small species of birds. We all commonly recognize the Bluejay, Cardinal, Chickadee, Robin and wild Finch. These smaller birds are much easier to capture, as they have become domesticated by being fed wild bird seed. Recently, I had an amazing experience at the Bruce Peninsula National Park, where baby chickadees would eat wild bird seed directly from my hands. This was unique and powerful experience for myself and my son and one that has sparked the desire to continue capturing various bird species in Bruce County, Ontario.

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Winner of Canada’s Best Hidden Travel Gem by the Canadian Tourism Commission

Bruce County is now Winner two years in a row for both 2009 & 2010 of the top vacation spots across Canada!

Who knew you were so close to two of Canada’s Best Hidden Travel Gems? Just a few short hours away from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are both winners. Excellent day trip idea if I may suggest plans for your summer.

The 2009 winner was Georgian Bay which is home to The Grotto at the Bruce Peninsula National Park. The Grotto is a sea cave with spectacularly clear turquoise water and stunning photography opportunities!

THE GROTTO ON GEORGIAN BAY PHOTOS


The second year in a row our area became the 2010 winner, for Chantry Island just off the coast of the town of Southampton, Ontario. Chantry Island is home to one of three imperial tower lighthouses on the Bruce Coast and is a bird sanctuary. It is a magical journey through marine heritage with Lake Huron stories you will remember forever.

CHANTRY ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE PHOTOS






View Larger Map

If you would like to visit the area and see these two very special places, click here to get a FREE Bruce County Travel kit for the area. Trust me, you will be back again.

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District 9 Snowmobile Website Reveals Best Trails

Ride Grey Bruce has paired up with District 9 to create a new, more intuitive and interactive snowmobile website for the region. Even though their old site wasn’t lacking for user-friendly facts, they’ve really upped the bar this time. Created as a Grey and Bruce regional product, District 9 is represented in a flashy, attractive design courtesy of Canvas Studios out of Port Elgin. The design is easy to follow, and entices you to find out more about the region.

If you’re just visiting the region for the first time or don’t yet have a tour route to follow, snowmobilegreybruce.com has put together multiple rides for you. Ranging from a few hours of sledding to an overnight route, they have presented an excellent resource for both beginners and experienced sledders. Their signature tour, “Ride the Willie”, plays on the quirky ‘Small town-world famous’ Groundhog Day in Wiarton, held every February 2nd. Beginning the morning of the prediction day (it’s a Wednesday in 2011), the festival runs through to the weekend and is filled with snowmobile-friendly events.

In addition to providing routes, the website is an excellent tool for additional snowmobile friendly spots in the area, including where to eat, where to sleep, and where to shop. These three tabs help you navigate through the site to find important info about what’s available in District 9.

Not only does the snowmobilegreybruce.com website provide all-things snowmobile, it also suggests some great must-try family fun. A winter activities page outlines all of the opportunities that Grey Bruce has to offer, including some top-notch downhill ski resorts, unique winter yurt camping opportunities, dog sledding, and a multitude of trails to use for skiing and snowshoeing.

The new snowmobilegreybruce.com website has thought of everything, and then some. There are on-site local weather conditions, webcams, and a link to trail conditions that are kept updated regularly. The site’s fresh design is easy to navigate and user-friendly. Best of all, its designers are local and love spending the winter in District 9.

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Christmas Gift Ideas - Paisley Local Artisan Sale

By Our Hands is a one-of-a-kind sale by 40 local artisans who specifically have created items that will appeal to all ages and are unique. The show, which is now on in Paisley until December 24th, includes works in wood, glass, metal, knitting, weaving, hooking, jewelery, candles, quilting, cards and much more. Great gift ideas at great prices for Christmas or any time of the year. And when you are finished shopping, take a look at Paisely.

Paisley, the town at the confluence of the Saugeen River and the Teeswater, was named for a town near Glasgow, Scotland. During the winter of 1850, 160 years ago, Simon Orchard, wishing to relocate, moved his family and household effects to Walkerton. The following spring as the river rose, he built a substantial raft of cedar logs, placed his family and goods on it and floated down the Saugeen River in search of a new homestead.

The Orchards stopped the first night at the junction of two rivers. The next morning, after having taken a look around, they decided that it was there they wished to settle. Three weeks later, Samuel Rowe, Simon’s brother-in-law, followed his route using two large rafts. Samuel and his family settled on the south bank of the Teeswater River, opposite Simon.

By 1852, John Valentine’s sawmill, Paisley’s first industry, was supplying settlers with building material. Samuel Rowe’s log house served both as a tavern for travelers and as a meeting house for various denominations. And then in 1872, a railway arrived in Paisleyand the town began to grow.

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Pumpkinfest 2010 - Port Elgin top Ontario event!

Looking for world record excitement? Wondering how big a GIANT pumpkin can really get? Then head over to Port Elgin for Pumpkinfest 2010 on October 2nd and 3rd and experience one of Ontario’s truly unique events.

Pumpkinfest has been around now for over two decades. The winner of numerous awards for Ontario’s best festival, it features two giant vegetable weigh offs, one of Ontario’s largest two day outdoor car shows and over 100 craft and marketplace vendors.

There is much to see and do at Pumpkinfest including a seed spitting contest, master carvers working on giant pumpkins, a Patches’ Pumpkin Zone, and a pumpkin baking competition. New for 2010 are a gladiator joust, a Velcro climbing wall, a bungie run and a sumo battle.

But the star of the show takes place at the Bruce Power Weigh-Off Tent on both Saturday and Sunday. Port Elgin’s Pumpkinfest is one of more than 30 sites around the world that compete in the International Weigh Off. The top grower at Port Elgin walk away with $5,000 and the chance to be named “Top Grower in the World.”

Weigh off competitions for giant pumpkins have been a popular fall festival activity for decades. But it wasn’t until Howard Dill of Nova Scotia broke the record for the largest pumpkin in 1981 with one near 500 pounds (226.80 kilograms) that pumpkins really began to grow larger and larger.

Today, Dill is credited for most of the giant pumpkins being grown today, most of which result from crossing and re-crossing his patented seed with other varieties. The current world record holder is Christy Harp’s 1,725 pound (782 kilograms) Atlantic giant pumpkin that won last year’s Ohio Valley Giant Pumpkin Grower’s annual weigh off. But maybe, just maybe an entry at Pumpkinfest 2010 may win it all.

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Bruce Wild with Wildflowers

With the very warm weather of March and April many plants this year had been deceived into sprouting ahead of schedule but it was bone dry and tough. The soaking rain of early May came just in time to save the day, kick starting the wildflowers on the Bruce for 2010. The rare Lake Side Daisies and deep blue Dwarf Lake Iris found in Bruce Peninsula National Park came two weeks ahead of schedule. And everything else seems to be early.

The Bruce Peninsula is renowned for its wildflowers especially the orchids. Each of the 44 orchid species found here have a favourite time for blooming … earliest being one of the prizes, the Calypso Orchid and, yes, it’s up. But the month to catch the biggest diversity of wildflowers is June. Ram’s Head Lady’s Slippers (the flower looks like a goat head, ears and all) are easiest to find at Singing Sands in the national park as June begins. Then comes the gold rush of the Yellow Lady’s Slippers which thrive on a bit of disturbance … so do very well on road sides. Two years ago there were 600 flowers along the Cyprus Lake road alone! Then as June wears on come the fen-loving orchids like Rose Pagonia, Grass Pink, Tall White Bog Orchid, and Showy Lady’s Slipper which are best seen along the dyke-like road from Highway #6 to Singing Sands in the national park. The “showies” have a slipper that is a gorgeous pink with white and almost the size of an egg. Its known as the queen of the lady’s slippers.

Road sides are one of the best places to see our wildflowers and waves of different species dress up the ditches from June through September. At one point its the Indian Paint Brushes, then the Ox-eye Daisies and Wood Lilies, then Queen Anne’s Lace and Hawkweed, then Chicory … and finally the Asters and Golden Rods to end the season.

Drop into the National Park Visitor Centre in Tobermory to get current information on local wildflowers. Expect some wildflowers to be earlier than usual and bring your camera. Every year at the end of May and beginning of June (May 29th this year) is the Tobermory Orchid Festival and it’s something worth catching. It is a great time to learn about orchids and to enjoy the blossoms of “the Bruce”.

Sea Monsters - Predators of the Ancient Seas

Spring has arrived and that means New and exciting exhibits at the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre in Southampton.

The first one opened on May 7th and run through until September 6th. Check out their site for all the details and for all other great exhibits coming to the museum this year. Don't forget about their many permanent exhibits to explore while you are there.

You will want to save sometime while you visit to take in their cool movie, which plays daily in the theatre right inside the museum, it really gives you a birds eye view of what life is like living in Bruce County, past, present and future!

For a full list of museums across the Bruce and links to their websites visit Explore the Bruce

6th Annual Explore the Bruce Adventure Passport Contest

Breaking News:

Hello Fellow Adventurer's, and welcome all you new Adventurer's!

It is that time of year again. The 6th Annual Explore the Bruce Adventure Passport Contest start Saturday May 1st and runs through till Friday December 3rd, 2010. This year we asked you the FAN to choose your favourite location across the Bruce to make as a passport stop and we listened. The Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park won hands down.

The passports are at the printer right now and will be in a black box in 12 secret locations thorughout the Bruce, ready for your next adventure to begin May 1st.

It is simple visit the Adventure Passport Official Website for all the details, tips, clues, maps, and to order your adeventure passport. Don't forget to send in your photos from your adventurer and you could get a chance to be a "Featured Adventurer" on our website!

If you are a facebooker, check out our Facebook Fan Page and share your stories from your adventure with others, shhhhhhhh... don't give away all the secrets, because you don't want to take all the fun out of the adventure now do you...

P.S. If you are in Owen Sound this weekend, check out the Home & Cottage Expo taking place at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre at 1900 3rd Ave E. Bruce County has a booth and our Explore the Bruce Adventure Team will be on hand, we are having a contest. Plus we are going to have Adventure Passports on hand Hot of the Press, and will be giving them out to early bird adventurer's. You know you can't start the contest till May 1st, but think of all the fun you could have getting ready for your next Adventure!!!

Maple Syrup Festivals around the Bruce

Well Spring has officially arrived and that means the snow is melting the days are getting longer and the sap is running. The spring offers an abundance of maple trees being tapped, sap running and being boiled in sugar shacks to make that dark brown liquid we know so well! Is there anything better then local Maple Syrup.

Here are a few taking place in our region:

Purple Valley Maple Syrup Festival
April 3rd - Community Centre 9 km N.E. of Wiarton on Purple Valley Rd

Old Thyme Maple Syrup Festival at the Saugeen Bluffs Conversation Area
March 26-27th– 519.364.1255

Maple Syrup Festival – Chesley – Cedar Rail Camp
Apr 3rd – 519.363.2702

43rd Annual Belmore Maple Syrup Festival
April 8th & 10th – Community Centre – 519.335.3748

Kemble Maple Syrup Festival
April 10th – United Church - 519.370.2087

So over the next few weekends you have the opportunity to take in 1 or all of the festivals in the region! Why not plan to attend them all.

Learn about maple syrup from start to finish, make taffy, see how many pancakes you can eat, and spend time with family and friends enjoying the great outdoors.

Bruce County Celebrates March Break

Spring is just around the corner, the snow is melting the birds are singing and kids across the region are getting excited for March Break. They are gearing up and looking forward to enjoying a week off school, and we know they can’t wait to spending time with their family and friends.

Here are a few things to check out around the Bruce next week:

Parks Canada Visotr Centre - Monday March 15 - Saturday March 19th
March Break Kids Program daily 12:30 - 4:00 pm
519.596.2233
Grey Cup Coming to Saugeen Shores - Tuesday March 16 & 17th
Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre – 33 Victoria St -519.797.2080
Sea Creature Cookie Decorating Workshop – Thursday March 18th
Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre – 33 Victoria St
Saugeen Youth Pow Wow – Saturday March 20th
James Mason Memorial Centre – 519.797.5000
Formosa Farm Toy Show & Sale - Sunday March 21st
Hwy 9 between Mildmay & Walkerton - 519.392.6207

For more info on great things to see and do over the holiday, contact your local information centre.

Poker Run

Hurray! Wiarton Willie says 6 more weeks of winter!!! So if you like to snowmobile, Grey Bruce in the heart of District 9 has some of the best riding in Ontario. This weekend Feb 13th is the Wiarton Trail Blazers Annual Poker Run is starts at the Wiartview Resort 501205 Island View Dr and registration is at 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Cost per hand is $15.00. This year's run is in conjunction with the Stoney Keppel Riders Chili Day at the Stoney Keppel Clubhouse. There will be cash prizes, door prizes, a BBQ and a silent auction. So come on out and enjoy the day!

Don't forget that Monday February 15th is "Family Day". Make the most of it, bundle up and head outdoors for one of the many winter activities you can experience in the Bruce, from snowmobiling, cross country skiing, snowshoeing to making snow people, snow angels, or spend sometime at MacGregor Point Provincial Park at their 400 metre outdoor ice loop, which winds it's way through a section of the park, it a great place to take in a night skate!

Sauble Beach Winterfest Jan 22-23rd, 2010

If you are looking for some outdoor fun this weekend on the Bruce, why not head out to Sauble Beach for their 31st Annual Sauble Beach Winterfest!

It all starts on Friday night at the beach, there is a night parade up Main Street to the Community Centre, where everyone has dropped off their christmas tree in the parking lot. After the parade they light the massive bon fire and everyone warms up from the very cool HUGE fire, and free hot chocolate. There will also be a youth dance featuring a Battle of the Bands competition.

Saturday morning start your day out off with a pancake breakfast at the Community Centre and then take in the Diesel Dan Hockey Tournemant, Outdoor/Indoor Games, Outdoor BBQ, a Euchre Tournament and then end the day off at the Geoff Stevens Dance.

Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Annual Wiarton Willie Festival from February 2nd - 7th, in Wiarton. This year the prediction morning will be taking place down on the waterfront, at Bluewater Park You won't want to miss all the great things planned for this year's festival! Check out Willie's site for more details!

Some other cool events you won't want to miss in the next weeks:
February 13th - Wiarton Trail Blazers - Poker Run - Waterview Resort - 501205 Island View Dr February 13th - Stoney Keppel Riders Chili Day - B Trail north of Georgian Bluffs Rail Line February 13th - Winterama - The Plex in Port Elgin, Ontario.