rev-digital-FINAL-PRESS-2023-PAGES-AHCC-QUARTER-BLEED - Flipbook - Page 47
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“... sharing stories of connection that inspire
discovery and exploration of the region’s
vast network of trails deeply rooted in our
past, present and future.”
On the shores of Eagle Lake, Mikisew Provincial Park gets its name
Almaguin’s cycling routes are diverse, plunging deep into woods
from the Cree language meaning eagle. With a beautiful network of
and then emerging at unique and engaging sites. Attractions off the
well-maintained trails for every ability, you can immerse yourself in
beaten path tease all the senses: the smell of fresh country air, the
nature and learn from experts in ecology about the natural history
feel of exhibits Crystal Cave, the visual awe of Screaming Heads, the
of the area. In the winter, return to the park for cross-country skiing
aural experience of NAISA’s sound art and the emotional connection
or try the growing network at the Almaguin Community Ski Trails
with animals at Horse Sense North. Missing Link Adventure Tours
where dog sledding races may soon be a regular occurrence. For
and Santosha Farm (mlat.ca) combine roots and routes, with their
the healing power of water, Magnetawan’s Dam Trail or the Heritage
new retreat centre, The LINNK, and co-located organic veggie farm.
River Walk in Burk’s Falls are perfect for a peaceful stroll along the
Specializing in cycling retreats, guests can experience local food,
banks of the Magnetawan River animated by historic plaques telling
connect with local artists and get a glimpse into the challenges and
tales of the past and present. Or stop at Brooks Falls in autumn when
environment faced by settlers from the perspective of their bike.
the colours are a dramatic backdrop.
You’ll find many small businesses sharing a philosophy of stewardship
for land-based cultural knowledge through trail-based experiences
The experience of rolling along Almaguin’s backroads and old
that have put down roots in Almaguin.
settlement trails on two wheels provides a tangible though faded
memory of the early pioneers. The evolution of transportation
Each generation of ‘explorer’ comes from a unique place and what
modes dictated changes in route options shaping Almaguin as we
they might discover when travelling these routes will differ. Discovery
know it today. The first settlements established along the Nipissing
Routes aims to foster a sense of stewardship for our trails, to ensure
Colonial Road would be impacted as shipping, rail and modern
that opportunity for discovery – of self, present and past, is available
highways arrived. The ‘new’ routes would lead to the rise and fall
for future explorers.
of fortunes and the creation of Almaguin’s ghost towns. Today, the
Trans Canada Trail follows the “Old Nipissing Ghost Road” through
This is an invitation to discover your routes with hundreds more to
the heart of Almaguin, along paths that once would have been
explore at discoveryroutes.ca.
prominent and now are seemingly in the middle of the wilderness.
You can still trace this history and the rugged paths which make for a
tantalizing challenge and are being discovered by cyclists and other
explorers.
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