Saturday Morning
Maple Lake Paddle (morning)
All paddlers are welcome to enjoy this delightful 2-hour two-person canoe or solo
kayak paddle along the east shore of magnificent Maple Lake. Starting at Camp George, paddlers will turn past
the dining hall towards picturesque Prospect Island. Next on the tour is the serene Little Seguin River. Lots of
sublime photo ops in this enchanted forest scene, replete with lily pads and reflections of the dense vegetation
in the water! When the river gets too narrow, we turn our canoes and kayaks around and head along the east shore
of Maple Lake, past a forested shoreline dotted with striking rock outcrops, sand beaches and cottages big and
small. At the northeast corner of the lake, we disembark at Maple Key Beach for a short break and optional swim.
Refreshed, we return to camp after a marvelous morning paddle on the water.
Saturday Afternoon
Moderate Hike: North Shore Rugged Trail (afternoon)
This hike is without a doubt the
most unique “trail” you’ll experience at JOE! There’s a reason it’s called “rugged”! The terrain includes rocky
footings and some short but challenging inclines. Your reward is the opportunity to experience the geologically
significant shoreline of Georgian Bay in Parry Sound. Famous Canadian artist Tom Thomson’s easel is located near
the trailhead. Beyond there, the trail is unmarked; just follow the shoreline and enjoy amazing views of the bay
along the way. The many scrambles up and down the rocks are interrupted at the lovely creek with a brief foray
into the forest before returning to the shoreline. The hike features brushy, lakeside vegetation and windswept
pine for which Georgian Bay is famous. But the all-star attraction of this hike is underfoot and right beside
you…the fractured Canadian Shield, the jagged granite outcroppings, the twisted gneiss and rock pools, the
smooth pebble beaches, the pink stripes running into the water’s edge. A true artist’s canvas! (Hike also
available Saturday morning)
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Saturday All Day
Advanced Hikes: Algonquin Park Centennial Ridges & Two Rivers
Centennial
Ridges is the longest and hilliest day trail in Ontario's world-renowned Algonquin Park. Hike up and down
five ridges at a fast clip. The trail can be rough, rocky, and muddy at times. Diverse vistas, from woodland and
ponds to breathtaking views overlooking Algonquin's tranquil forests and lakes will reward your
"cardiac climbs"! From the trailhead, head uphill past a stream amidst scattered rock outcroppings. At
the trail intersection, start the loop up to a small cliff with a splendid vantage point overlooking the forest
below. The path then skirts the edge of a pretty pond with a beaver dam at eye level. Ascend once again for more
panoramic views across the vast Canadian Shield. Then follow the trail as it descends steep rock steps. Cross a
stream and walk alongside Cloud Lake through a boggy area. The trail passes by several smaller lakes, then
climbs once more for magnificent views overlooking Whitefish Lake just below. Make your way past Rutter Lake,
back to the original fork, and return to the trailhead. Time permitting, stop by nearby Two Rivers Loop for an
easy ascent to a pine-clad clifftop overlooking the Madawaska River. A quick descent and it's time to rest
your weary legs on the ride back to camp.
Easy Port Carling Walk, Fish Hatchery Hike & Swim
Is a leisurely stroll
through a charming village, a short hike in the woods, and a refreshing dip at a gorgeous waterfall your idea of
a sensational Saturday? Then sign up right here! We begin in Port Carling, a pretty little town at the hub of
two lakes. Starting at serene Hanna Park, walk past delightful homes and shops on our way to the main
attraction. The Port Carling Mural, "The Wall Looks Back," is an eye-catching image of a steamship
passing through a lock. Check it out up close! What do you see?
Next, we drive to the former fish hatchery. Strange machinery amongst the vegetation is a reminder of the
area's previous function. Interpretive signs along the river walk offer information on local flora, fauna,
and the fish farm. The short trail takes you into a deciduous forest, river shoreline, meadow, and wetland. Can
you find the little gnome fairy house? At the trail's end, descend the steep path beside the double cascade
waterfall. Cool off in the "purdy little swimmin' hole" at the base of the falls to end your
perfect day!
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All Day in Parry Sound SPACES ADDED
- All participants going to Parry Sound must select one-morning activity and one-afternoon activity.
(There is no opportunity to return to camp mid-day.)
- Please select Full Day Out of Camp Parry Sound Options to pick from the listings below
Parry Sound Morning
Easy Hike: Rotary Fitness Trail (morning, Parry Sound) VERY LIMITED SPACES
ADDED
Enjoy the splendid sights along this urban
hike! The Rotary trail winds its way through Parry Sound and along the spectacular shoreline of Georgian Bay.
Start at the eye-catching Butterfly Garden. Cross the bridge, admire the wild rapids and the train trestle way
up overhead. Follow Bay Street past the restaurants, the cruise boats, and the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame. The paved
path becomes hard-packed gravel, still suitable for wheelchairs. Trees and rocks frame your fantastic views of
the water. Exercise at the fitness stations along the route. Continue past Canada's Coast Guard HQ and its
odd-looking marine equipment. At Waubuno Beach, admire the outdoor ping pong table. Then take the narrow path
hugging the shore, which ends near the municipal building with the dramatic rooftop lookout. Turning back, enjoy
the birch trees, elegant lighting poles and jagged rock edges along the Rotary Fitness trail on your way to your
lunch destination at the Stockey Centre/ Island Queen area.
- Cost: $14 CA/ $11 US (transportation fee)
- Length of hike: 4.3 km (2.7 mi.) / 2 hours 30 minutes
- Elevation gain: 12 m. (39 ft.); primarily flat trail, with one long, gently sloped hill
- Estimated time away from Camp (including afternoon activity): 8:00 am ~ 5:00 pm
- Total round trip driving distance / time: 71 km (44 mi.) / 1 hour 30 minutes
- Vehicle: bus
- Rough Draft of Leader Packet: MS Word
- Links: Rotary & Algonquin Regiment Fitness Trail (parry sound.ca)
- Pictures of Rotary Trail
Easy/ Moderate Hike: Rose Point Trail (morning, Parry Sound) SOLD OUT
The Rose Point Trail,
located in the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, is designated as an "Amazing Place" in Ontario. The
Canada Atlantic Railway that once connected Parry Sound to Ottawa across central Ontario provides a solid base
for this broad, hard-packed gravel or compacted soil path. The trail is relatively flat, with shallow slopes
here and there. This multi-use route is shared by pedestrians, cyclists, and ATV riders. That striking charcoal/
pink rock in the parking lot sets the tone for the sculptural jagged rock cuts encountered along the hike. The
Rose Point Trail crosses the meandering Boyne River three times, providing picturesque views of the stream.
Multiple small lakes and marshes harbour blue herons, ducks, and other waterfowl. Watch for wildlife like moose,
deer, beaver, and otter. Listen to the songbirds and marsh birds calling from the forest and wetland habitats
along the trail. On warm sunny days, look for turtles basking in the wetlands near the trail. Return to the
start point with lots of glorious photos!
- Cost: $14 CA/ $11 US (transportation fee)
- Length of hike: 8.7 km (5.4 mi.); min. 6.2 km (3.9 mi.) / 2 hours 30 minutes
- Elevation gain: over max hike: 44 m. (144 ft.); flat rail trail
- Estimated time away from Camp (including afternoon activity): 8:00 am ~ 5:00 pm
- Total round trip driving distance / time: 71 km (44 mi.) / 1 hour 30 minutes
- Vehicle: bus
- Rough Draft of Leader Packet: MS Word
- Links: Rose Point Recreational Trail (alltrails.com)
- Rose Point
Trail (YouTube)
Moderate Hike: North Shore Rugged Trail (morning, Parry Sound) SPACES
ADDED
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This hike is without a doubt the
most unique “trail” you’ll experience at JOE! There’s a reason it’s called “rugged”! The terrain includes rocky
footings and some short but challenging inclines. Your reward is the opportunity to experience the geologically
significant shoreline of Georgian Bay in Parry Sound. Famous Canadian artist Tom Thomson’s easel is located near
the trailhead. Beyond that, the trail is unmarked; just follow the shoreline and enjoy amazing views of the bay
along the way. The many scrambles up and down the rocks are interrupted at the lovely creek with a brief foray
into the forest before returning to the shoreline. The hike features brushy, lakeside vegetation and windswept
pine for which Georgian Bay is famous. But the all-star attraction of this hike is underfoot and right beside
you…the fractured Canadian Shield, the jagged granite outcroppings, the twisted gneiss and rock pools, the
smooth pebble beaches, the pink stripes running into the water’s edge. A true artist’s canvas! (Hike also
available Saturday afternoon)
Parry Sound Afternoon
Tower Hill Lookout & Garden, Museum & Moderate Hike (afternoon, Parry Sound)
SOLD OUT
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Looking for an
enjoyable "workout" in nearby Parry Sound? A vigorous 130-step climb up the 30 m (96 ft) Tower Hill
observation tower will get your heart pumping. The reward? A stunning 360-degree view of Georgian Bay, the mouth
of the Seguin River, and the surrounding 30,000 Islands landscape.
At the foot of the tower is Heritage Garden. Wander amongst the flagstone paths connecting rock gardens, a
goldfish pond, and a raised pedestal sundial enhanced by flowering shrubs and perennials. Stroll along Lilac
Walk. Learn about native plants that attract birds and butterflies at the Wildlife Habitat Demonstration Garden.
Step into the Museum on Tower Hill and experience the rich history of Parry Sound. From the cultural heritage
of the Anishinaabe people to the logging boom, the Museum demonstrates the area's transformation from
remote wilderness to the gateway of Northern Ontario.
To round off your "workout," take a short hike down the hill through the woods to the Trestle
Brewery. Time permitting, enjoy a sampling of their craft beers before climbing the steep hill back to the
Museum.
Island Queen Flagship Cruise (afternoon, Parry Sound) SPACES
ADDED
Welcome aboard the Island Queen's 3-hour
Flagship cruise through Lake Huron's 30,000 Islands! Enjoy the pristine beauty of Georgian Bay's
remote island wilderness and the rustic charm of its grand summer cottages. See exquisite granite-sculpted
shorelines and the signature windswept white pine forests that adorn the islands. The area's unique
ecosystem earned it UN World Biosphere Reserve status. A highlight of the cruise, "Hole in the Wall,"
is one of Ontario's "Amazing Places." The captain brings the ship surprisingly close to the
rugged shoreline of Parry Island and the remote outer islands, meandering past granite shoals into narrow
channels. Get your camera ready as you cruise past The Big Sound, Huckleberry Park, Killbear, Massasauga
Provincial Park, and the Rose Point Swing Bridge. The Island Queen, designed for maximum comfort and viewing
quality, is wheelchair accessible and fully equipped with comfortable seating, large viewing windows, outside
observation decks, a snack bar, and full commentary. Truly a cruise to remember!
Islander Huckleberry Island Cruise, Hike & Swim (afternoon, Parry Sound)
SOLD OUT
Georgian Bay's
famous 30,000 Island landscape offers adventure at every turn! See this marvel of Canada's wild ruggedness
aboard the Islander, a 40-passenger zodiac style boat, for this short ride to picturesque Huckleberry Island.
The vessel will cruise through the "Hole in the Wall," so get your cameras ready for an "Amazing
Place" in the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. After you disembark at Huckleberry Island, a Reserve
naturalist will lead a casual half hour stroll over the granite rocks. After the short hike, a seductive,
secluded, shallow beach beckons, so bring your swimsuit for a quick dip! Passengers will be onshore for about
one hour before heading back to Parry Sound. From windswept pines to the extraordinary granite rock of the
30,000 Islands, from smooth rock, lapping water, and the smell of juniper, there's no place on earth like
Georgian Bay and no better way to experience it than a ride on the Islander.
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