OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF DISCOVERY ROUTES TRAILS ORGANIZATION                                                                  Winter 2009

In This Issue:

 

 

Trails Across the Region

 

Callander

Corbeil

North Bay

Whitestone

 

 

Helping Us Connect

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the snow and deep cold sets in, cabin fever threatens our mental well-being.  As northerners, a long, cold winter is expected.  We do not, however, have to accept hibernation during these lengthy months.  It is important for our psyche to take advantage of the northern climate by getting outside to discover a new winter trail or re-discover our favourite summer trail as it appears under a blanket of snow.  Many of the trails that we enjoy during the summer are accessible year-round and take on a whole new exhilarating persona in the winter, especially at –30C!

There are literally hundreds of kilometres of trails in the area that can be enjoyed during the winter months.  The snowmobile clubs are boasting fantastic conditions on their local trails that connect to every community in the region.  Those who prefer to experience the silent beauty of winter might choose to cross-country ski along a groomed trail.  There are four Nordic ski clubs scattered across the area.  These clubs are beginning to expand their trails to include trails exclusively for snowshoeing.  Our featured trail this month is just such a trail that is a hidden treasure in West Nipissing.  Whatever your preference, these trails will not disappoint.  

Trails Across the Region

Callander

Calling all Event Planners!

We are finally ready to call the world to Callander to experience the Trans Canada Trail.  Discovery Routes is in the process of putting together an ad hoc committee that will plan the celebration.  We are anticipating that the event will take place this June.  The profile of the Trans Canada Trail could attract some VIPs from around the province, and if the will exists, naming the trail to reflect the local flavour is another possibility.  We have a blank slate that is waiting to be filled with some exciting and unique ideas.

A preliminary meeting will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 2:00pm at the Chamber of Commerce boardroom at 1375 Seymour Street in North Bay.  Participants will determine the timing and location of future meetings.  Please contact Discovery Routes if you are interested.  

Corbeil

Voyer Trail

The Voyer Trail Action Plan is complete.  Discovery Routes worked with local consultant Keith Harriman of Harriman and Associates and local partners to set out an action plan to connect the Voyer Trail from the community of Corbeil into North Bay at Birch's Road.  Three routes are outlined in the document, each with their own set of challenges.  Recommendations are made that present a clear direction for the development of the trail and the required budget.  The full document is available on our website.

The next step in the process is to formalize a committee that will resolve any outstanding issues and oversee the fundraising and development of the trail.  The first meeting will take place at the end of January.  Anyone interested in becoming involved can contact Discovery Routes.

North Bay

La Vase Portages get into Social Networking

The Friends of La Vase Portages have joined in the digital craze and created a new Facebook group.  The idea is to keep those interested involved and updated on events.  New members are welcome to join the group... the only catch is that you will need to join the menacing and addictive world of FACEBOOK (aka crackbook) to participate.

Whitestone

The Municipality of Whitestone is looking at the possibility of building two new trails on Crown Land within the township.  The potential trails, near Dunchurch and near Ardbeg have been identified and mapped.  The committee's next move will be to obtain a work permit through the Ministry of Natural Resources and raise the funds necessary to build the trails.

Helping Us Connect

Discovery Routes would like to thank all of our current Business Members for supporting our organization and the region's trails.

- FRi Ecological Services -
- H. Freeman and Company -
- Quiet Bay Log Motel -
- Woodland Echoes Cottage Resort -

All of our trails partners throughout the region provide continuous support to our organization by keeping us up-to-date on the status of trails and local trail events.  Discovery Routes would like to extend our thanks to these Trail Connector Members for contributing to our organization and our efforts:

- West Nipissing Nordic Ski Club -
- North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority -
- Near North Trail Association -
- North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit -
- West Nipissing Information Centre -
- Forgotten Trails Association -

Over the past year, Discovery Routes has welcomed new Municipal Members to our organization.  We would like to thank the following for their support:

- City of North Bay -
- Municipality of Powassan -
- Municipality of Magnetawan -
- Municipality of Whitestone -
- Municipality of Callander -

Trails connect communities businesses and families.  Bring trails to your business or organization and become a member of Discovery Routes.  By building awareness and exposure of our regional trails system, you will be contributing to a healthy, natural Near North.

1375 Seymour Street, North Bay, P1B 9V6  ~  T: (705) 472-8480  ~  F: (705) 472-8027  ~  info@discoveryroutes.ca