In This Issue:

Trail Projects on the Go

hike and go-seek

cycle tourism

Trails Across the Region

Kearney

East Ferris

Mattawa

Lavigne

Fun on the Trails

I am so very pleased to be proclaiming that the Trail Signage Program is now.... finally....  in full swing.  What this means for you is that some of the more elusive trails that we keep raving about will be easier to find, easier to navigate and easier to interpret.  (If you’re the sort that likes to “find your own way” without navigational aid, don’t worry, this is the North, there will still be countless bushwhacking experiences left!)  Newer additions to our network of trails are those that line the southern parts of the region.  Trails in Kearney and Sprucedale will bare the Discovery Routes stamp of approval.  Requests to participate in the Signage Program have been received from groups in Powassan, South River, West Nipissing, Mattawa, Bonfield and North Bay.  But all you need to know is how to get to the trailhead.... and our new signs will lead the way!

Trail Hike and Go-Seek

Discovery Routes has begun to put together a variety of activities that will enhance your experience on our local trails.  The first in the series is a “Hike-and-go-seek” activity intended to encourage the little ones on your excursion to be more attentive to nature’s splendour.  It is a winter scavenger hunt of sorts that would be suitable to most of the winter trails in the area, but we suggest a few trails where your little hikers will be more likely to find everything on the list.  Click on the link here to download a .pdf version of the activity.  We will be posting other activities on our website as they are available.  As always, feedback is welcome.  We would also love to see any pictures of winter adventurers.  Send them along and we will add them to the photo gallery.

Bicycle Tourism

A great deal of excitement and attention was focused on the Bike Train in our region over the past two summers.  The innovative project saw cyclists encouraged to explore northeastern Ontario and other destinations by taking their bike on the train.  The Bike Train’s successes have led VIA Rail and GO Transit in the south to enhance regular services to cyclists that allow for easier bicycle transport.  This shift is a tremendous step forward for cycle tourism in this province.  But, after its fifth year of operation across Ontario, the Bike Train project is under review because essentially it has become redundant along most of the original routes.  Bicycle-friendly destination development is receiving a greater focus.  Ontario Northland has yet to alter its bicycle transport policies and without a financially sustainable model, the unfortunate result will likely be a lost opportunity for all points north of the last GO station.  Discovery Routes remains optimistic that bicycle tourism is viable in this part of the province.  The cause needs a champion.  If, together, we can build a financial case for cycle tourism in the north, we will have a chance to alter perspectives and develop an industry that has tremendous potential.

Trails Across the Region

Kearney

Kearney’s Parks and Recreation Committee was the first to jump at the chance to sign the way.  At the first ‘business’ meeting in Kearney, I was greeted by the mayor himself, who proudly took me on a tour of the community’s numerous trails.  This small community, known for its access to a number of Algonquin Park’s famous canoe routes, has much more to celebrate.  Seven hiking trails and six water trails will be added to the Discovery Routes network as we work closely with Kearney’s volunteers to map and sign these natural resources.

P.S.  This tiny town also hosts renowned dog sled races in February.  Rumour has it that all of us in these parts travel by dog sled, so why not see what it’s all about, first paw?  Here are some photos of events past to entice you.  http://www.kearneydogsled.com/photo.htm

East Ferris

The East Ferris Knights of Columbus Council 6664 presented Discovery Routes with a whopping $10,000 towards the development of the Voyer Trail at their holiday dinner in December.  This incredible achievement is enhanced by the fact that it was accomplished by an organization that is made up entirely of volunteers in a small community.  During the course of the evening, Discovery Routes was not the only beneficiary of the Knights’ work.  Over $25,000 was committed to community programs. 

The commitment and drive of volunteers like the Knights of Columbus impels Discovery Routes to keep going in our efforts to make this trail a reality.  The challenges often seem insurmountable, but circumstances keep changing, and Discovery Routes remains persistent and ready to act when opportunities arise. 

Mattawa and Nature's Harmony

With their own extensive groomed trail system for cross-country skiing, several marked trails for snowshoeing, kicksledding and a new tube tobogganing run, Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge is an 'all-inclusive' winter playground.  And to keep you warm between activities, they also have a bonfire burning, campfire lunches and hot sauna.  Winter lovers click here for details on an great winter special.

Mashkinonje

The Friends of Mashkinonje have been working hard with numerous volunteers towards a "barrier-free" trail that can accommodate all types of trail users.  Their frequent newsletters tell the story of this trail, the critters that reside along the trail and the fantastic accomplishments of the group of volunteers that have been working together for 10 years.  All of their newsletters are available to download from their website, along with details of how to become a "Friend" of the park and make a donation that will assist in their efforts.

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