Canada – Steph Simply

Charlton Lake Camp in Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario: Your Canadian Adventure Destination

July 11, 2024 by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“You get a strange feeling when you are about to leave a place, like you’ll not only miss the people you love but you’ll miss the person you are now at this time and place, because you’ll never be this way ever again.”–Azar Nafisi

*_{Welcome to your Lake Charlton Camp cabin!}*

Looking for a Canadian Adventure? 🇨🇦

If you have ever considered traveling to Canada, and you enjoy scenic, out-of-doors vacations, then add Charlton Lake Camp (CLC) to your list of places to visit. Situated in Killarney Provincial Park in Willisville, Ontario, CLC is surrounded by clear, tea-stained waters, heavily wooded islands, and rocky outcrops with the craggy, quartzite rise of the La Cloche Mountains in the background. The camp sits along the Whitefish River connecting visitors to the sparkling waters of Charlton Lake, Frood Lake, and Cranberry Lake.

*_{Bring your own boat or rent a boat, the choice is yours at Charlton Lake Camp.}*

Clean, Well-Equipped Cabins 🏕️

Charlton Lake Camp offers a variety of cabin sizes designed to accommodate families, friends, couples, or even a solo retreat. From fishing to boating, from swimming to hiking, and from exploring to plain ol’ relaxing, there’s plenty to do when staying at CLC. Throughout the camp there are plenty of hammocks and Adirondack chairs for reading and lounging about. Each cabin has its own picnic table, barbeque, and a screened porch overlooking the Whitefish River. Additionally, there is a boat dock for every cabin, and visitors can either bring their own boat or rent one from CLC. The camp also has well-marked hiking trails on and near the property.

*_{Roped-off area for swimming, and in the background you will see the fish cleaning cabin as well as the camp’s official pontoon boat.}*

Kayaks, canoes, and peddle boats, oh my! 🛶

CLC has kayaks, pedal boats, and canoes available for every camper to use. For those who like to cool off in the heat of a summer day, there is a roped-off swim area with a platform and its own beach area. Plus, in the center of the camp is a large fire pit area for which the camp provides wood for those interested in roasting hot dogs, making smores, or simply swapping tales at the end of the day. And, yes, there is wifi!

*_{Dan and Lisa help you shift into vacation mode, so you have more time for enjoying scenes like this from your cabin’s front porch.}*

Welcome to Charlton Lake Camp 🏕️

The owners, Dan and Lisa McGuire, go out of their way to welcome guests and help new arrivals get situated on their first day. The McGuires meet and pick-up visitors in a pontoon boat at the camp’s parking lot. From there, visitors and their belongings are boated across the short distance of water to their camp. Once across the river, Dan typically has a four-wheeler with a trailer available for loading up campers’ belongings, and he will then drive those belongings straight to the assigned cabin. This makes it much easier to get everything unloaded and unpacked, so visitors can quickly get started on vacation mode.

*_{It’s a quick, easy trip back to the CLC’s parking lot to get you back to town for anything you forgot or any other adventures you wish to partake.}*

No worries if you forgot something 🤔

Once campers are settled, Dan will go over the boat basics for those renting one of CLC’s boats. From that point on, campers can travel with ease to the three different lakes for sight-seeing or fishing adventures. Additionally, anytime visitors want to travel back to town, they can either boat themselves across the river to the camp’s parking lot, or Dan and Lisa will take campers across the water on their pontoon. It’s a win-win situation, especially on those days when kids (or adults, for that matter) get a bit restless.

*_{Espanola is a friendly, welcoming town.}*

Hiking, shopping, dining, Exploring . . . 🥾

The closest town, Espanola, has several stores, grocers, and restaurants, including one of our favorite pizza places, Toppers. Additionally, in the opposite direction, a little bit further down the road, is Manitoulin Island, with its closest town, Little Current . This town offers unique shops, grocer, and restaurants. Additionally, Manitoulin Island possesses a wide-array of day-trip worthy activities, including numerous hiking trails, stunning lookout points, beautiful beaches, golf courses, and museums to name a few.

A fishing paradise 🎣

However, with all that Charlton Lake Camp has to offer, it can be difficult to tear yourself away from its picturesque surroundings. This is especially true for those who enjoy fishing. The waters at this camp are teeming with small and largemouth bass, walleye, pike, and a variety of panfish. John and I have had the pleasure of staying at CLC twice, and both times we were able to find excellent fishing spots. This is because the water is full of structure, baitfish, rocky points, channels, weed beds, and plenty of boat docks. It is truly a fisherman’s paradise.

Idyllic surroundings 🏞️

That said, for those who love canoeing and kayaking, this camp is situated in a wonderland of picturesque and tranquil surroundings. Whether you canoe or kayak for exercise, fishing, observing nature, or the simple pleasure of being on the water, the waters surrounding CLC are ideal for all types of boating adventures. Plus, the camp offers paddle boats for the kid in all of us.

Mother nature Likes to play 🌦️

While staying at CLC this past June (2024), there were drastic weather shifts. We arrived with a cold front that sent temperatures into the 40s at night. The subsequent highs during those first two days were in the 60s. During this time, rain moved in, followed by a heat wave. With the heat wave, lows never went below 70 degrees, and the high temperatures reached 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). However, by the very end of the week, temperatures moderated a bit.

Fat-Bellied, Chunks 🐟

The extreme weather shifts made for some interesting fishing conditions. Therefore, we weren’t able to catch as many fish as we did the year before, but we did catch fish daily. We caught some real beauties too! There were numerous fat-bellied smallmouth bass, which are always fun to catch and release. Plus, there were several chunky largemouth bass, a few random panfish, and John even caught a pike while fishing for a bass!

licensed for fun 🤩

In fact, we caught over 40 fish by the week’s end, which was great, given the weather. We released all that we caught; however, the camp does offer a nice fish-cleaning station for those who keep and eat their catch-of-the-day. That said, anglers need to ensure they purchase the right fishing license in order to do this (conservation license vs sport fishing license).

sensory experience

Personally speaking, while John and I do enjoy catching fish, it is the pristine beauty and serene surroundings that sent us back to CLC for a second visit. Honestly, there is nothing like gliding along in a boat on the still morning waters of a backwoods, upnorth lake, listening to the call of the loon, feeling a light breeze nuzzle your cheek, and inhaling the aromatic scents of pine and moss. Furthermore, spending time with nature for hours at a time stokes an appetite, making even the simplest of food taste like a feast. Plus, all that sun and fresh air lulls you into the most restful sleep at night.

Make Memories that last a lifetime 🍁

If you’ve ever considered experiencing a Canadian wilderness trip with friends or family, consider giving Charlton Lake Camp a look. The owners are fantastic, the cabins are clean, and they are fully stocked for your camping needs. With its panoramic scenery, tranquil waters, and plenty of choices for your out-of-doors activities, CLC is a spot where vacation memories are made to last a lifetime. This is one place John and I hope to visit again at some point in the coming years.

Finding Stillness at Charlton Lake Camp: A Reflection

July 5, 2024 by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“Only in quiet waters things mirror themselves undistorted. Only in a quiet mind is adequate perception of the world.”–Hans Marggolius

*_{The view through the screened in porch overlooking Whitefish River a throughway to Charlton Lake, Frood Lake, and Cranberry Lake.}*

Still Waters 🏞️

I sat observing the waters of the Whitefish River flowing toward stillness–moving from one lake to the next, but in a relaxed state of flow that most often seemed to occur in the early morning or late evening. Occasionally, something would break the surface, and rings would begin spreading outward from the epicenter. When this would happen, I often caught myself holding my breath in anticipation until the last ring dissipated, and the water was once more placid. Then, with the stillness restored, I resumed my own cadence of breathing slow and steady, matching the river’s pulse.

*_{The peaceful, craggy rise of quartzite rise of the ancient La Cloche Mountains surrounding the lakes.}*

Lake Charlton Camp 🏕️

My husband, John, and I were staying in Charlton Lake Camp (CLC) located in Killarney Provincial Park, Willisville, Ontario. This was our second trip to CLC, situated in a natural showcase of diverse pines, surrounded by the white quartzite crests of the La Cloche Mountains and translucent, tea-stained waters of Charlton Lake, Frood Lake, and Cranberry Lake with the Whitefish River providing a throughway to the lakes. In the morning, CLC was filled with a wilderness chorus of birdsong, loon calls, bull frogs, lapping sounds of water against rocky shores, and, of course, the buzzing hum of countless varieties of insects.

Settling into Quiet 🤫

Breathing in deeply, my lungs filled with the aromatic aromas of pines, damp soil, sunned rock, and a hint of morning coffee as I continued to sit and observe, communing with my surroundings. The sun would soon begin lifting above the craggy cliffs behind the cabin in which we stayed, and life would soon begin stirring with those gleaming rays. But, in that moment, hovering between the hush of night and the dawn of daybreak, there was a stillness in which my heart was soft and open–receptive to that still small voice that resides within.

*_{Boating through Frood Lake with the La Cloche Mountains in the foreground.}*

Slipping into the Gap of peacefulness 😌

I once read that praying is talking to the Divine Creator; whereas, meditation is stilling the mind for the purpose of listening. Sitting there on that screened porch on the cusp of a new day, I was reminded of that idea. My heart, head, and soul had relaxed enough to hear the truth–to really parse the ongoing narratives that, when left unchecked, my brain tends to repeat on an endless loop. By settling into the surrounding peacefulness, I could focus on listening, and begin to see how many of those narratives were (and are) often baseless claims forged by past experiences, trauma, anxiety, negative self-talk/criticism, and even a little fear.

Sitting, breathing calmly, and savoring CLC’s peaceful surroundings through my senses, I found I could let my mind rest easily as if the wheel of ceaseless chatter had ground to stop, or at the very least, slowed its revolution. Taking in a deep breath of the clean, wilderness air, I softened my gaze on the water and continued listening.

*_{Afternoon sun glistens off the calm waters of Frood Lake.}*

Riding the waves of emotional influence🌊

Matching my inner calmness to the stillness of the river led me to a realization. My own mind often mirrors those waters of CLC. My mind tends to be at its calmest in the early morning or at night–just before drifting off to sleep, letting go of the day’s worries. However, once the day fully begins, I am immersed in work and various tasks with multiple decisions being made throughout the day. As my decision making increases, my judging brain kicks into high gear. With that continued judgment comes an inner dialogue often influenced and affected by emotions, which rise and fall throughout the day much like the water around me did during the week.

Throughout our time fishing, resting, and relaxing in CLC, I observed how the river and surrounding lakes could quickly become stirred up, rising and falling with the winds of the day, tossed about with a changing weather front, or even fill with large waves when an occasional boat sped across the waters to the farthest end of a lake. There were additional times, when for no discernable reason, the waters would suddenly ascend and descend, jostling the boat John and I were in.

*_{Riding out the waves of emotions can be similar to navigating a fishing boat over wave-filled waters.}*

Restless emotions 😬

Fishing during those moments of restless waters and winds was challenging. The wind would take hold of a perfectly thrown cast and carry the line and lure in a completely different direction than intended. Likewise, when the waters were lifting and dipping with waves, the view beneath the waters was clouded and murky–not allowing the eye to determine if the boat was above rocks, a weed bed, a submerged tree, or any other number of possibilities. Conversely, during the moments of calm, settled waters, navigating and fishing those waters was fairly easy and what was beneath the boat was clearly visible.

*_{Looking out at the peaceful waters of Whitefish River through the screened porch.}*

The influence of a RAcing Mind 🤯

The riverview before me, in that early morning hour, was emblematic not only of ideal fishing waters, but also a peaceful state of mind. Unfortunately, our modern world tends to create and drive the opposite effect–a constant flurry of stirred-up waters–our minds fidgety and/or frantic, racing from one thought to another, moving through agendas of busyness, entertainment, and avoidance. Therefore, if we don’t set aside time to allow our minds an opportunity to cease its chatter and rest easy, how can we ever feel calm and think clearly?

The importance of intentional Quiet 🤫

Our inner dialogue is often affected by the changing weather of our emotions. Those emotions vacillate and shift with each decision we make and with each event we encounter. And while I fully admit that mind chatter, and all of the emotions that come with it, cannot necessarily be avoided, in similar manner to the weather fronts we experienced during my time at CLC, our emotions can vastly change within the course of a day, much less a week. Therefore, deliberately providing pockets of time for stillness allows us to detach from the emotional narratives, and instead, fosters listening to that still, small voice of knowing, which allows us to, well, “fish” for the truth.

*_{Listen for the whisper of our Creator, the great I AM.}*

LeT us Listen for the whisper 👂

Ralph Waldo Emerson once penned, “Let us be silent, that we may hear the whisper of God.” What a powerful reminder of the importance of settling the mind, like the still waters that were before me on that morning at Charlton Lake Camp. The type of quiet we choose can be a formal meditation/reflection, but it could also be achieved through walking or other forms of exercise, tending to your flowers/plants, or simply sitting on the porch sipping coffee or tea and listening to the birds. It really doesn’t matter as long as it is an intentional moment set aside to calm those mental waters of ceaselessly, flowing chatter. Prioritizing time for quiet reflection or meditation, however you define it, allows the flow of our hearts and minds to settle, soften, and encounter the “whisper of God.”

Nutritious Maple Walnut Salad Inspired by Alzheimer’s Study | Health Recipe

June 28, 2024 by stephsimply, posted in Recipes

“I am cautiously optimistic and very encouraged by these findings, which may give many people new hope and new choices,” Dr. Dean Ornish

highly anticipated study 📈

I recently returned from a trip to Ontario, Canada. While I was there, a major study, led by Dr. Dean Ornish, was released in BioMed Central’s Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy. This highly anticipated research was widely promoted across various news outlets weeks earlier. Despite the fact I had read the earlier press releases, reading the report, one peaceful early morning in a rustic cabin along the shores of backwoods lake, provided greater understanding.

As I have previously written, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia are part of the genetic make-up on both sides of my family history. Watching it take the minds of my beloved grandparents was heartbreaking. Ultimately, they required extensive care in large part due to AD, the burden of which fell upon their children. Therefore, I want to do all that is possible to avoid placing that type of burden upon my loved ones.

Ornish’s study is the first controlled clinical trial to demonstrate that lifestyle habits can delay the onset and progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early dementia due to AD. The study initially enrolled 51 patients and their designated partners, aged 45-90, for 20 weeks, but two withdrew. Nonetheless, the study guided the remaining 49 patients through a series of interventions, including a plant-based diet; walking 30 minutes per day; strength training three days a week; stress management including yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation, to name a few; group support via Zoom meetings, and specific supplementation, all of which is clearly spelled out.

Excitement Incitement 💡

The excitement of this study got my recipe-creating gears grinding, especially as a major heat wave sank its talons in a large swath of the U.S. and Canada, including where I was staying with my husband. With the extreme heat we were experiencing, the last thing I wanted to do was turn on the cabin’s stove or oven, especially since there was no air conditioning. Therefore, throughout our stay, I created several dinners of seriously large salads, adding additional inspiration for this month’s recipe.

Of further influence was the wide availability of Canadian maple syrup. In fact, I encountered a representative of White Meadows Farms, out of St. Catherine, Ontario. This family-owned farm, established in 1937, has been harvesting sap to make maple syrup for over three generations. After one sample, my taste buds were “stuck” on the flavor of their dark syrup. I knew I had to put their syrup to good use as part of this recipe creation. After all, sweet moderation is an important part of good health.

Nuts for health 🌰

Another point of inspiration for this recipe was the wide availability of bulk walnuts at the local market near our camp. Nut and seeds are a healthy part of the Ornish diet. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, walnuts provide a good source of omega-3 fats and antioxidants for heart health, benefit gut health due to their high fiber content, help stave off inflammation, and may reduce risks for certain cancers. Additionally, those healthy fats and antioxidants may boost brain health–perhaps that is why walnuts are shaped like a brain!

A rainbow recipe of pride 🏳️‍🌈

One final source of inspiration for this recipe was the fact that it was created during June, the month of Pride, dedicated to celebrating my friends and loved ones in the LGBTQ+ community, including my brother and two nieces. It is with great, well, “pride” and celebration that this recipe will debut on June 28, International LGBTQ+ Day. This gorgeous salad offers a RAINBOW of tasty colors and textures designed to nourish EVERY body.

From my home to yours, I wish you health, happiness, and hope for an optimistic future free from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease!

Rainbow salad with maple walnuts and vinaigrette, gluten-free with vegan options

Maple walnuts ingredients:

2 cups walnuts

⅓ cup pure maple syrup

½ to 1 teaspoon vanilla

¼ to ½ teaspoon cinnamon

⅛ teaspoon sea salt

Salad ingredients:

5 or more ounces of favorite baby greens

1 cup sliced strawberries

¾ cup blueberries

2-3 clementines, sectioned

½ sliced large red onion

½ cup roasted red peppers and/or shredded carrots

2-4 ounces goat, or equivalent vegan, cheese or 1 cup beans, drained and rinsed

Maple walnut balsamic vinaigrette ingredients:

¼ cup walnuts

½ cup water

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 tablespoons dijon mustard

½ teaspoon dried onion powder

½ teaspoon dried oregano

⅛ teaspoon salt

Pepper to taste

Maple walnut directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Line baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease and set aside

Place maple syrup in a small, microwave safe bowl.

Heat syrup for 30-60 seconds

Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, and sea salt until thoroughly mixed

Pour syrup mixture over walnuts, and stir until well coated

Spread coated walnuts onto prepared baking sheet

Bake 5-7 minutes, then stir and rotate

Continue baking for 3-5 minutes or until walnuts are golden brown

Remove walnuts from oven and allow to cool on baking sheet

Break walnuts apart and store in airtight container or baggie for up to 3-4 for weeks

Enjoy these maple walnuts as a snack or sprinkle over salads, fruit bowls, oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, ice cream sundaes, etc

Maple walnut balsamic vinaigrette directions:

Place all ingredients in high powered blender and blend until smooth, approximately 45 seconds

Pour into glass container (I like to use canning jar)

Store in refrigerator for up to 4 weeks

Makes approximately 1 cup dressing

To assemble salad:

Add greens to large salad bowl

Add sliced strawberries, blueberries, clementines, sliced red onion, sliced red pepper, and/or shredded carrots, if using.

Toss with desired amount of dressing, divide among plates/bowls and top with goat or vegan cheese (or top with beans instead, such as roasted chickpeas)

Serves 2-4

This recipe also took inspiration from the following websites and articles: Better with Cake, The Garden Grazer, Hello Nutritarian, “Effects of intensive lifestyle changes on the progression of mild cognitive impairment or early dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease: a randomized, controlled clinical trial,” an article on BioMed Central,“‘A study to give us hope’: Lifestyle changes improve Alzheimer’s symptoms for some,” an article on CNN, and Shane and Simple.

Discover ‘The Soo’: Friendly Charm and Scenic Waterfront of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

June 21, 2024 by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“Situated at the heart of the Great Lakes, along the banks of the St. Mary’s River, Sault Ste. Marie is an international port of entry to the United States and continues to be an important destination for business, trade, and travel.”–City of Sault Ste. Marie website

Welcome to “The Friendliest City” 🏙️

If you have ever traveled to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, then you most likely are familiar with “The Soo.” Despite the fact John, my husband, and I traveled to and briefly stayed in this area June 2023, I never picked up on the name. However, after spending a short time in Sault Ste. Maria, Ontario, I can say with confidence that I now not only know what “The Soo” is, but also I have been there and would highly recommend visiting this welcoming, community-centered place.

According to the city’s website, Sault Ste. Marie is known as the “Friendliest City” in Algoma, a district in Ontario. I can certainly believe that assessment based upon our encounters during our recent visit. John and I met numerous friendly and helpful people throughout our short stay. During our stay, the Sault Ste. Marie was energetic and bustling during a temperate June weekend. The city was dressed in its best, filled with murals, gigantic art sculptures, and stunning, overflowing flower-lined streets and walks.

A bridge apart

*_{The view of International Bridge from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.}*

Sault Ste. Marie is nestled along the St. Mary’s River, which serves as an international divide between the US and Canada. The city was incorporated 1912, but it was founded in 1680. The town’s rich history makes sense given the fact it is situated among three of the five Great Lakes, including Superior, Huron, and Michigan. Specifically, The Soo Locks, located on the St. Mary’s River, allow freighters to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. In fact, according to Sault Ste. Marie Pure Michigan, these locks move 86 million tons of cargo each year, which includes 95% of the United States’s iron ore.

Walkable/Bikeable City 🚶🚲

*_{One view of Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Boardwalk overlooking the St. Mary’s River.}*

One of the first noticeable highlights of Sault Ste. Marie is how walkable the town is! Sidewalk lined streets, a boardwalk along the St. Mary’s River, and numerous other trails connected various parts of the city. We were fortunate enough to stay at the Delta, a hotel right along the Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Boardwalk. Measuring 2.6 km (1.6 miles), this boardwalk offers delightful views of the river, The Soo Locks, river traffic, and ample opportunities for people watching at the Roberta Bondar Park and Tent Pavilion. There are numerous picnic tables, benches, and gorgeous landscaping along the path.

Visual Appeal 🖼️

*_{The Art Gallery of Algoma at the foot of the Waterfront Boardwalk.}*

_{Images from the Elsie Savoie Sculpture Park at the Art Gallery of Algoma.}

Just steps from the end of Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Boardwalk is the Art Gallery of Algoma. Overlooking the St. Mary’s River near public parks and trails, the Art Gallery of Algoma, according to its website, is committed to “celebrating culture, educating visitors, and enriching lives through the visual arts.” This commitment could be clearly seen and felt from the outside (They were closed on the day of our visit.) via their permanent outdoor exhibit, the Elsie Savoie Sculpture Park. These larger than life sculptures feature both Canadian and American artists and offer visitors and pedestrians alike visual interest, and, of course, plenty of one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. Additionally, the gallery offers numerous tours, a gallery shop, a cafe, numerous special programing, and rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

Historical Walk 🏢

*_{The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, Saint Mary’s Island, and the Attikamek Trail are near the International Bridge.}*

At the other end of the Waterfront Boardwalk is the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, Saint Mary’s Island, and the Attikamek Trail. The island can only be explored by walking or biking along the Attikamek Trail. This 2.5 km (1.5 miles) loop offers visitors spectacular opportunities to view and photograph wetlands, wildlife, the International Bridge, and the Canal Historic Site. Additionally, visitors can also view Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan directly across the river. According to one person, the island and trail are popular attractions for both locals and visitors.

The Hub of the City 🚶🏽‍♀️

*_{The John Rowswell Hub can be found in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie.}*

Additionally, the Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront Boardwalk is part of the 25 km (15.52 miles) John Rowswell Hub. This trail was designed to create recreational opportunities for residents and tourists alike as it connects several important sights of historical, cultural, and natural areas throughout the city. John and I couldn’t help but notice that our hotel offered bike storage for those visitors hoping to take advantage of this trail and numerous other nearby biking and hiking trails. (There are even opportunities for winter fat biking!)

Flying High 🚁

*_{Not far from the Waterfront Boardwalk is the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre.}*

Unfortunately for John and me, our visit was short, so we only had time to explore the riverfront area of The Soo. However, one attraction we would have loved to have visited was the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. This unique museum, according to its website, was established in 1987 by a nonprofit (www.bushplane) to safeguard Canada’s beloved bush planes and their history of forest fire protection. Most reviewers wholeheartedly recommend setting aside two-three hours to get the most out of this museum. Appropriately located in a waterfront airplane hangar, this interactive center offers visitors 24 aircraft exhibits, including a CL-215 water bomber and the original De Havilland Beaver. If we have the opportunity to travel to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, this is one attraction that we definitely plan to visit.

A Boatload of Fun 🛳️

*_{Be sure to include Miss Marie Sault Lock Tour on your visit to Sault Ste. Marie.}*

Another fun draw to The Soo includes a boat tour on the Miss Marie Sault Lock Tours. This two hour tour takes visitors through both the Canadian and American Locks. It does not require a passport, and offers various package and group rates. Based upon the group John and I saw heading out, these boat tours look like a popular, and highly demanded attraction, and it is another adventure we wouldn’t mind experiencing on another visit.

Goat what?

Photo by KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA on Pexels.com

_{Imagine a goat beside you on the yoga mat instead of your beloved dog or cat? Sound impossible, but it’s not!}

One of the more whimsical sites I wished I could have visited was Goatopia. This singular business, according to its website, offers goat therapy as a way to feel “calmer, lighter, and internally more spacious.” Goatopia offers group socials where participants of all ages can go to interact, groom, and learn about goats. They also offer goat-yoga, which involves practicing yoga while goats roam freely throughout the space, interacting with practitioners. Plus, they offer group classes/corporate team building, community events, and birthday parties with their mobile goat petting farm!

Catch the Soo Vibe 🤙

*_{Catch the positive vibe of Sault Ste. Marie.}*

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario offers has much to offer tourists. From the local farmer’s market to numerous parks and beaches, from a wide array of shopping opportunities to a number of museums and cultural events, and from sports and recreational activities to numerous restaurants and dining venues, this town has something for everyone. The welcoming vibe of “The Soo” can be felt in its warm people, interconnected footpaths, and centrally located, community-focused commerce, culture, and recreation along the beautiful St. Mary’s River. Whether you’re visiting the Upper Peninsula, traveling through Ontario, or simply looking for a unique destination, Sault Ste. Marie is a vibrant and highly recommended locale.

An adventure awaits you in Northeastern Ontario, Canada

Featured by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“I believe the world needs more Canada,”–Bono

_{Despite the juxtaposition of the sounds from the overhead highway, the falls’ beauty cannot be denied.}

What’s Not to Love about Northeastern Ontario?❤️

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, especially hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing/kayaking, cycling, motorcycling, camping, or even just traveling/visiting places with beautiful scenery, then Northeastern Ontario, the area north of Lake Huron and east of Lake Superior, is an area to consider visiting. My husband, John, and I recently traveled to the area and discovered an abundance of remarkable surroundings filled with frosted quartzite mountains, carefully managed hiking trails, pristine lakes and rivers for fishing and/or canoeing/kayaking, and a variety of accommodations. Not only that, this area is rich in art, natural history, varied attractions and cultural interests, as well as historic sites. Which is why we decided we need to return next year to further explore the wonders of this area.

*_{A deer casually gazed at us as we searched for the trailhead for Whitefish Falls.}*

Charming Charlton Lake Camp🏕️

As mentioned in a previous piece, John and I stayed at Charlton Lake Camp–a camp we highly recommend–which prides itself on being a “housekeeping cottage resort for families, fisherman, artists, and adventurers.” It is located in the heart of the La Cloche Mountains, with its stunning scenery, nearby hiking trails, charming nearby towns–such as nearby Espanola and Whitefish–and welcoming people. In addition to being able to walk out the door of our cottage and head directly to the water for fishing, boating (including kayaking/canoeing), and swimming, we were also a short driving distance to historic hiking trails, cultural centers, and landscapes that have inspired scores of great art, made particularly famous by a group known as the Group of Seven.

*_{The La Cloche mountains provide constant the backdrop to the scenery in Northeastern Ontario.}*

Ring the Bells🗻

The La Cloche Mountains rose up out of the earth like glistening castles of white and offered a wondrous backdrop to everything we did while visiting this area of Ontario. These mountains are believed to be over 3.5 billion years of age and consist of glistening quartzite and granite. Once higher in elevation than the Himalayas before the glacier destruction but now rounded with age and erosion, the mountains were named “La Cloche,” which means “the bell” in French, because of the ringing sound that could be heard from a distance when struck. It is said that First Nations used this sound as a warning signal. Now these mountains are a source of inspiration for artists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

With all of its mountainous topography, Northeastern Ontario is full of hiking trails. In the area in which we were staying were ten highly recommended trails; however, as you fan outward, there is a countless array of trails for all fitness levels. Two trails John and I hiked within the local area of camp were Willisville Mountain Fire Tower Trail & Whitefish Falls. Additionally, we also visited Manitoulin Island and hiked the Cup and Saucer Trail.

Willisville Mountain Firetower Trail🥾

Part of the Escarpment Biosphere Conservancy (an Ontario-focused charitable land trust), Willisville Mountain Fire Tower Trail was first brought to our attention by Charlton Lake Camp owners, Dan and Lisa McGuire. They recommended it for its panoramic views of the La Cloche range and the surrounding area. According to Dan and Lisa, it was a hidden gem of trail. The trail, once you realize where it is, (They did say ‘hidden’ after all.) is marked with red dots and arrows that are repainted every year. Unlike many of the U.S. trails for which John and I are accustomed to hiking, this trail mostly consists of white quartzite, and it is steep–heading straight up the rock face of the mountain. We definitely recommend hiking shoes or boots for this route, but the views are nothing short of spectacular, momentarily allowing hikers to experience the soaring eye view of the local golden and bald eagles.

_{What a view 🦅}

_{In the heart of the La Cloche Mountains.}🦅👀

Whitefish Falls Trail🌊

In contrast, Whitefish Falls trail does not rise straight up a mountain, but it too is a bit of a hidden gem. Finding where the trail starts took John and I a second time driving by it before we figured out where it was located. This out and back trail was partly an earthen/dirt path and, once more, partly quartzite, which can be slippery alongside the water’s edge. Once you arrive, the view (and sounds) of the falls is stellar! However, I did find the juxtaposition of the falls’ wondrous beauty, and clamorous traffic passing overhead on the highway bridge above, a startling contrast. Nonetheless, Whitefish Falls trail was a worthwhile experience.

_{I can only imagine the sound of these falls after a heavy rain or spring snowmelt.}

Cup and Saucer Trail☕️

One other EBC trail John and I explored was the Cup and Saucer Trail located on Manitoulin Island. This out and back trail is 8 km (4.97 miles) long and is not for the faint of heart! Winding around a mountain with a wide variety of footing challenges (At one point, the trail has a rope for hikers to use to hoist themselves uphill!), this trail offers heavenly views from its cliffs. Made of 400 million year old silurian deposits, the cliffs earned their name because higher, cup-shaped cliffs appear perched on top of the lower saucer-shaped cliffs. While this trail kicked our, shall I say, boots, the views were outstanding, and the drive to and from the trail across Manitoulin Island was scenic, making the overall experience quite rewarding.

Manitoulin Island🏞️

*_{The Manitoulin Information Center is full of historical pictures, artifacts, and information about the island.}*

Another stop we made while visiting Manitoulin Island was to visit the town of Little Current. In order to explore the town, John and I walked part of the town’s official recreational walking trail which is approximately 7 km (about 4.3 miles) long. We walked along the walks of the pleasant downtown area and on to its attractive waterfront/marina area and continued on up a hill to an area known as Low Island Park. The trail continued, but we headed back towards the downtown in order to have adequate time to hike the Cup and Saucer trail. Nonetheless, we could feel the vibrancy of the town, its businesses, and its people. We definitely hope to return for another visit.

Group of Seven🎨

A piece about Northeastern Ontario would not be complete without a nod to the infamous Group of Seven Artists. According to Canadian Encyclopedia, this was a group of landscape painters, often known as the Algonquin School. These self-proclaimed modern artists were officially established in 1920, but sadly disbanded by 1933. They were part of Canada’s first internationally recognized art movements. While the styles of the seven artists greatly varied, the artists were united in their exploration of Canada’s rugged, windblown landscapes, spending a good deal of time painting and illustrating Northeastern, Ontario, as well as establishing a credible art school. Due to the enduring work of these world renowned artists, travelers can embrace the Group of Seven Artists’ spirit by embarking upon road trips, much like John I did, in order to experience an immersive, 3D exploration of their indelible canvases.

_{Immersing oneself into the natural beauty of Northeastern Ontario fosters a feeling of connection when viewing the various artworks created by the individual artists that made up the Group of Seven.}

Nature’s Playground🌄

*_{What’s not to love about Northeastern Ontario?}*

In the end, Northeastern Ontario, Canada is a playground for all types of adventure seekers. With its glistening lakes, windswept woods, majestic milky mountains, rushing waterfalls, charming cities and towns, and a wide array of accommodations, it offers individuals, families, and groups multiple opportunities for exploration and great escapes. Sure, the drive, or flight, may take a bit more time, but that’s all part of the great experience of traveling!

Wishing you safe and happy travels!

Fishing for a Great Tale: Part 1 Charlton Lake Camp

Featured by stephsimply, posted in Travels

“The pull of nature, the peace of the forest and water couldn’t be ignored any longer . . .”–Dan McGuire, owner, Charlton Lake Camp

There’s Something about CanadA🇨🇦

It had been a long time since John, my husband, and I had been to Canada. Unlike me, John began traveling to Canada for annual fishing trips in 1985. At that time, he was the young one, newly initiated to the fishing group. Thirty-five years later, many of those long ago fishing buddies have since departed to heavenly waters. Others have lost interest in participating in a trip that requires such a long drive, and some no longer have the vacation time needed for a week of fishing plus an extra day or two for driving. John gets it, but his heart was breaking with the thought of not returning to his beloved fishing playground.

Therefore, after a bit of “mediation”, John and I sketched out a travel plan that included a trip to Canada, specifically to Charlton Lake Camp, but it also included a couple of other stops along the way. (One of those was Mackinaw City, MI for which I previously wrote about last week.) Little did either of us know how very much we would enjoy Charlton Lake Camp and its lovely surrounding areas!

Charlton Lake Camp🏕️

*_{Park your, ring up Dan and Lisa, and get ready to cross over the other side, releasing your day-to-day stress and immersing yourself in the laid-back, relaxing environment of Charlton Lake Camp.}*

Nestled in the La Cloche Mountains just beyond the hamlet of Willisville, Ontario.

Charlton Lake Camp, currently owned by Dan and Lisa McGuire, is a picturesque waterfront setting. With access to Frood Lake, Lake Charlton, Cranberry Bay, as well as canoe only portages leading to Grace Lake (made famous by the Canadian Group of Seven Artists) and Nellie Lake, Charlton Lake Camp offers a wide-array of adventures for family, individuals, or friends. Think of all your favorite summer activities–fishing, paddling (canoe, kayak, paddle board, and even peddle boat), hiking, boating, swimming, sunning, campfires, smores, lounging/reading/napping in hammock, and plenty of space to hike, write, paint, draw, or simply dream–and you’ll discover that Lake Charlton is the perfect place for all of these and more!

*_{Bring your own or rent/use one of the camp’s many canoes, kayaks, peddle boat, pontoon boats, Lund aluminum boats}*

For those interested in fishing, Lake Charlton has access to over 1,700 connected acres of fishable lakes. Their waters are filled with northern pike, small and largemouth bass, walleye, and a wide variety of panfish. Of course, they can’t turn the fish on for visitors, but during the week John and I were there, we landed scores of large and smallmouth bass while a group of guys staying in a nearby cabin caught their legal limit of walleye and several sizable northern pike.

What about Boats?🛶

Visitors to the camp can bring their own boat; however, the camp offers a full fleet boats for rent, including 14’ Lund Aluminum fishing boats, three pontoon boats, as well as 16’ and 18.5’ tripping canoes. All boats come with 9.9 Yamaha motors, and every cabin has its own private docking slip. John and I merely stepped off the porch of the cabin in which we were staying and walked down a slight embankment directly to our dock. The docking was sturdy and easy; plus the camp had an excellent launching ramp to get to and from the camp.

*_{Step out of your cabin and walk the pine-needle carpeted path to your own dock.}*

For those who like to keep and eat their fish, Charlton Lake Camp has a centrally located fish cleaning hut. It is well lit, screened-in, and it even has outlets for those who prefer to use electric fillet knives. I noticed several campers using this hut throughout the week.

Accomodations🏡

*_{We stayed in cottage 7. John sits at our picnic table assembling fishing gear upon our arrival.}*

Charlton Lake Camp is made up of twelve symmetrically arranged cottages with one, two, or three bedrooms, and all have one bathroom. Every cabin faces the lake, a point John and I loved, and each one has its own tightly screened porch. The kitchens are well-equipped with all of your cooking and eating needs. There is also a propane BBQ and picnic table for each cabin. Most of all, Dan and Lisa work hard to ensure their cottages are scrubbed clean for your arrival, hence a 9:00 am check out time, and they even have their cabins treated monthly for pests. As an added bonus, the camp’s water goes through a multi-step filtration process, and it is completely potable–no funny smell or weird taste, just pure, clean water.

Just splashing about🏊‍♀️

*_{Swim platform and roped off swimming area in front of sandy beach to left of picture. Meanwhile, fish cleaning hut is center with one of the pontoon boats and more of the camp to the right.}*

For those who love to splash about, the camp has a roped off area for swimming with its own private sandy beach. There is a swim platform for those cannonball splashes, and there are plenty of Adirondack style chairs for drying off or simply lounging about the water’s edge. The swim area is centrally located in the camp making it easily accessible for those quick trips back to the cottage for snacks, beverages, or that bottle of sunscreen you may have forgotten.

Want to Hike?🥾

*_{Map of hiking trails on Charlton Lake property, along with a few of my written notes regarding other nearby trails.}*

Did I mention that the camp also offers hiking? Both Dan and Lisa have plenty of outdoor expertise and experience. Unfortunately, the management and day-to-day upkeep of running the camp leaves them very little room for that these days. However, they have hiked all of the trails on their 50 acre property. They will gladly give visitors maps and offer tips for finding the best views of the lakes or the La Cloche mountains. John and I can attest to the fact that the trails are well-marked, but hikers will definitely want to bring along the bug spray when heading off into the woods!

a “Reel” gem of a Place!💎

*_{John claims the fish look bigger when I catch them due to the fact I am under 5′ tall! 😂}*

Personally speaking, John and I fell in love with this gem-of-a-camp. Dan and Lisa are attentive and available hosts if/when guests need them to be, but they do not hover. The camp fosters a laid back vibe that warmly welcomes family and friend groups as easily as it does couples and individuals. The interests of guests while we were there varied–some were drawn to fishing, boating, and/or swimming while others were more drawn to quiet walks, card games, and reading. Additionally, several of the cabins are pet friendly, and we certainly made friends with a few camp canine guests!

Pristine Waters🌊

The lakes encompassing Lake Charlton Camp are pristine and do not appear overused. Its surroundings are serene and filled with bird song, encouraging guests to unwind amidst the exquisite nature-centrentric setting–alabaster mountains; rising rock on wind-swept islands; pine-scented, needle-strewn forested paths; and plenty of rippling lake water. Paradoxically, guests are a super-short boat-ride away from nearby Espanola, Whitefish Falls, and Manitoulin Island, but I’ll write more about that in my next piece.

We’ll Be Back

In conclusion, whether you are looking for a solo/couple nature retreat or you’re looking for a one-of-kind summer/fall adventure for family and/or friends, check out Charlton Lake Camp. It provides the ideal setting for getting back to nature and all the simple goodness the great outdoors provides if only we are willing to venture there. The cottages are clean and comfortable, the view of the lake is spectacular, especially with the setting of the sun, and the location is ideal–far enough away from all the sights/sounds of the city, but close enough if you need to get back to town for that one item you forgot to pack. In fact, John and I have already tentatively booked our stay for next year. Meanwhile, I am already dreaming of waking to the sound of the loon, listening to gentle sounds of lake waters lapping the shore, and the glint of evening sunlight as it kisses the lake goodnight.

Here’s to safe and happy travels!

^{Important Note from Author}

_{John and I only practice catch and release fishing. According to the U.S. National Park Service, this practice improves native fish populations by allowing more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem. We make every attempt to handle the fish properly, photograph it quickly, and then gently release it into the waters to continue swimming another day. This also allows other anglers the opportunity to experience the joys of fishing and the great outdoors for years to come.}