Enjoy our fresh air, open space, rivers and trails in Brockton this summer! BYOB – that’s bikes and boats – and fishing poles too!
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Brockton
Offers Refreshing Change of Pace Welcome to Walkerton! When you’re craving a change from the beaches and trails of the Bruce Peninsula, head to Walkerton, where you’ll find a vibrant downtown with a delightful mix of historic charm and on-trend shops offering some of the best clothing, floral and home décor selections around, plus spa and holistic healthcare services and a wide array of cafes and restaurants to satisfy your palate. There aren’t many places in Grey-Bruce where you can book an expert bra or bikini fitting, order a custom cut from an experienced butcher, and choose from a huge variety of guitars and other instruments from two independent music stores. Need a new sound system, home theatre, hot tub or deck? Craving sushi, risotto, wood-fire pizza or vegan, gluten-free entrees or treats? Walkerton has you covered! Most of our shops and restaurants offer online services, take-out and delivery, and store-front pick-ups. For a full list of retailers and restaurants head to VisitWalkerton.com. Continued on next page
LOBIES PARK CAMPGROUND
ver i R y z a L Your n o i t a n i t s e D 519-881-0491 saugeenriverbank.com
Elegant weddings | Professional conference & meeting venue First class catering | Superior accommodations
Open Victoria Day Through Thanksgiving day
Best Western Plus Walkerton Hotel and Conference Centre Book online at Brockton.ca/lobiescampground
20 Hannah Street, Walkerton, ON Phone: (519) 881-0625 recreation@brockton.ca
10 East Ridge Road RR#2, Walkerton ON N0G 2V0 P: (226)-436-3030 F: (226)-436-3031 Just 7 minutes west of Hanover
www.bestwestern.com escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 7
Our lively downtown is just the start. The Saugeen River passes through Walkerton, offering wide, accessible walking and cycling trails with lookout points, interpretive plaques, and a bridge taking you to Lobies Park, where you’ll find a public boat launch, municipal campground, playground and visitor information at the campground kiosk. It’s a great place to enjoy a family picnic and let the kids run loose, as is Centennial Park, which also has an outdoor pool. Eager to get on the water to fish or paddle? Canoes, kayaks and inflatable tubes can be rented from the Saugeen Riverbank Campground or from Joy’s Source for Sports in downtown Walkerton. Paddling brochures, showing all the Saugeen River access points from Hanover to Lake Huron, are available at the visitor centre in Lobies Park. The river has wide areas of calm sections, interspersed with mild rapids and eddies, making the route ideal for learning the basics of navigating rapid water. Here in Walkerton you can access the river at the end of South Street, or from Lobies Park. Fishing the Saugeen in Walkerton and the surrounding municipality of Brockton is excellent, with some of the best fly fishing in Canada available right here! Junction 5 & 19, a tackle shop in Walkerton, can stock you with all you need or put you in touch with expert guides if you’re a novice. If golf is more your style, you’re in the right place for that as well with the Walkerton Golf and Curling Club and the Whispering Hills Golf Club both close by, offering a great way to pass a morning or afternoon. Curious to explore the region’s rolling countryside, picturesque farms and quaint, relaxing hamlets? Brockton includes smaller communities such as Cargill, Pinkerton, Elmwood, Riversdale and Chepstow, home to the oldest continuously operating hotel in Bruce County, the beautifully restored Chepstow Inn. Nearby is the Village of Cargill, where lumber baron Henry Cargill built his empire from logging the Greenock
Swamp, one of the largest forested wetlands in Ontario at over 20,000 acres! Steeped in stories and legends, the swamp harbours a fascinating mixture of folklore and intrigue and is an ecosystem like no other. You can access the wetland from the Schmidt Lake Trail off Schmidt Lake Road near Chepstow. Trail maps are available at VisitWalkerton.com, or in booklet form from our visitor information centres in Cargill or Walkerton. Cargill comes alive each summer with a seasonal artisan market featuring over 40 local vendors in Mwargaret’s Mercantile, plus a museum and cultural centre, blacksmith demonstrations and fresh burgers and fries featuring Bruce County beef from Wednesday to Sunday, plus holiday Mondays, until Labour Day (COVID-19 regulations permitting). New this year will be the Bruce County Bookstore and the Sawdust and Timber Café and Ice Cream stand. A visit to Cargill is not complete without viewing the mill dam, the heritage murals and cut-outs by Walkerton artist Steve Mackie, and the self-guided heritage walking tour. With luck, the Cargill Dinky Train will also be in operation, offering visitors a guided tour through the town and a glimpse into its colourful past. Heritage walking and driving tours are also available in Walkerton, for the history buffs among you! The Brockton area is also a popular spot for ATVs and mountain bike riding. Check out the Bruce County Rail Trail and the Brant Tract Trail near Paisley. More info available at brucecountytrails.com and at mtbthebruce. com/trails. If you’re looking for an alternative to the more crowded destinations in Grey and Bruce, check out Brockton. Staff at our visitor information kiosks in Cargill and Walkerton are happy to assist! Find out more at VisitWalkerton.com
Greenock Swamp Boardwalk/Municiipality of Brockton
Fish ON! When it comes to providing some of the best angling opportunities in the Province, Grey Bruce ranks near the top. Whether you’re looking to troll the big waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay for salmon, wade a trout stream or spend a summer’s day plying one of the many inland lakes for warm water sport fish, you can find it here! Big water anglers can score on both salmon and trout during the open water seasons on Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. Popular ports to access the deep waters include Meaford, Thornbury, Owen Sound, Lion’s Head, Wiarton, Southampton, Port Elgin, Kincardine and Sauble Beach. Offshore trolling for Chinook Salmon begins in the spring and summer as soon as the ice leaves local bays and boat launches. The Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular and the Chantry Chinook Classic are two major derbies held in the region each summer. In-land angling opportunities are endless for summertime anglers. Both largemouth and smallmouth bass provide anglers of all ages with incredible action from both the boat and on-shore. Pike, panfish, walleye, stocked trout and fish such as carp and suckers can be found throughout the inland lakes. For river fisherman, we have some of the country’s best migratory trout fishing. The Saugeen River is known across North America as a hotspot for steelhead (rainbow trout). Steelhead enter the river during the late fall, winter and spring, providing angling opportunities during the off seasons before they complete their spawning run and return to Lake Huron and Georgian Bay in May. The Beaver River, the Bighead and the Sydenham River also provide anglers with excellent trout fishing. Shore angling access is not an issue as these rivers have plenty of areas to access the waters by foot. Walleye, pike, and perch can be found awaiting eager winter anglers on many inland lakes. During very cold winters the bays of Colpoys and Owen Sound often freeze providing anglers with ice safe enough to fish on. When the “bigwater” freezes anglers have the chance to fish for whitefish, trout and even salmon, an opportunity that only exists in a few places across the planet. Article by Josh Choronzey
Owen Sound Bay Salmon, Josh Choronzey, Outdoor Media
OWEN SOUND SALMON SPECTACULAR • Aug. 27th to Sept. 5th, 2021
TOP SALMON PRIZE PACKAGE
• Angler V16 G3 boat and custom trailer • 70 Hp Yamaha motor • Lowrance Graph • Electric Scotty Downrigger • Replica Fish mount
*Prizes may not be exactly as shown
Owen Sound
TOP LAKE TROUT PRIZE PACKAGE
*Prizes may not be exactly as shown
• 14 ft. G3 Jon Boat and trailer • 15 Hp Yamaha motor • Lowrance Graph • Manual Scotty Downrigger • Replica Fish mount
Owen Sound
TOP RAINBOW TROUT PRIZE PACKAGE
*Prizes may not be exactly as shown
FRED GEBERDT MEMORIAL PACKAGE
• 14 ft. G3 Boat and trailer • 15 Hp Yamaha motor • Lowrance Graph • Manual Scotty Downrigger • Replica Fish mount
TOP BROWN TROUT PRIZE PACKAGE *Prizes may not be exactly as shown
Tackle Package provided by:
• Berkley Lures • Flintstone Lures • Len Thompson Lures • Lucky Strike Lures • BlackyflyLures.com • Northern King Lures • Panther Martin Lures • Rapala Lures • Silver Fox Lures • Lucky Bug Lures • Brecks - Williams Lures • Luremaking.com
• Sportspal square back canoe • Minkota electric motor • 1 Yamaha life jacket • Tackle box and tackle package
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 9
SAUGEEN SHORES. More than just the
BEACH.
SOUTHAMPTON . PORT ELGIN . SAUGEEN TOWNSHIP
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WWW.EXPLORETHESHORES.CA
When
You think of Saugeen Shores: Port Elgin, Southampton, and Saugeen Township your first thought may be its gorgeous beaches. And you would be right! The beaches are something to come and explore for sure, but come explore the other amenities we have to offer. Saugeen Shores is located on the shores of Lake Huron and coming to Explore the Shores is a great way to experience the area.
What
Further to the pristine beaches, Saugeen Shores is known for its over 40km of trails. The rugged and natural Woodland and Bieners’ Bush trail networks are a great way to get back to nature. The Saugeen Rail Trail is a tree lined accessible trail that links Southampton with Port Elgin and to our downtowns. North Shore trail is a paved multi use trail again linking the two towns together. This trail highlights the beautiful Huron coast. These trails are multi- use so come and stroll or bike, either way you will get to explore the shores.
Where
In Saugeen Shores you can experience the trails or beaches in the morning and experience fabulous shopping in the afternoon. Saugeen Shores has it all – in our two vibrant downtowns you’ll meet welcoming business owners in unique retail boutiques, find specialty shops for adventurers, foodies, and more, and have impressive culinary experiences; all within a walkable picturesque setting. Our downtowns have treasures waiting for you to discover so you can take a piece of Saugeen Shores home with you.
Why
Come to Saugeen Shores? The people are friendly, the air and water are clean and the sun always seem to be shining. There is always more to explore; the parks are a fabulous place to explore including our 2 splash pads. The Southampton Rotary Accessible splash pad is fully accessible and is fun for all. The Port Elgin & District Lions Club Splash pad in North Shore park is conveniently located near the Port Elgin main beach and North Shore Trail. Fairy Lake is another great place – come see the turtles, check out the carp and feed the ducks while strolling around the inland lake (another wonderful trail!).
How
When you come to Saugeen Shores try our ‘Learn like a Local” campaign. Starting in June 2021 this will direct you to specific locations throughout Saugeen Shores and with QR codes learn a little history of the area. Go to exploretheshores.ca to find out more. Yes, Saugeen Shores is more than the friggin’ Beach. Come Explore the Shores. escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 11
Express Your Talents in Paisley Paisley is a unique community located in the heart of Bruce County. Perfect for a day trip, a welcoming and safe place to call home and a supportive culture to own a business, the Village of Paisley has it all!
Visit Paisley
Paisley is full to the brim with history, nature and artistic elements. Take a stroll on the Paisley Heritage Tour to check out the many heritage buildings and features. Paddling and fishing are a large draw in the spring, summer and fall, with 3 Saugeen River access points located in the Village. Be sure to check out one of the many paths along the river or the Trestle Bridge walking trail. Follow the Paisley Art
Tour to find over 20 murals and public art pieces scattered throughout the Village. Visit Paisley during one of our unique community events – Paisley Blues Fest, Artists on the River or the Paisley Fall Fair. Check out VisitPaisley.ca or ArranElderslie.ca for information to plan your next visit!
Open Your Creative Business in Paisley
Step into one of the unique businesses that call Paisley home for an entrepreneurial talent show. Almost everyone has an artistic flare or creative talent! Have you always wanted to open a business? Explore your creative side and express yourself in a supportive and eclectic community. Share your talents and be a part of the experience.
1000 + KM of Shoreline and Rivers =
Incredible Paddling Paddle our Rivers
Whether you’re looking for family friendly flat-water or fast-moving whitewater, there’s a paddle that’s perfect for you. Load up your canoe or kayak and head for the Saugeen River. This well-known paddle is a local’s favourite and has a variety of put-ins from Durham to Southampton. The Sauble River also offers a nice paddle from Concession 15 to Lake Huron. You will have to either wrap up at Sauble Falls or portage around to finish at the shoreline. The Beaver River offers a variety of routes with shuttles and rentals available from Free Spirit Tours or Eagle Adventure Experiences both located in Heathcote. The Sydenham River in Owen Sound is a great option for beginners wanting to rent and paddle out from Harrison Park.
Sea Kayaking Hotspots
If you’re not looking for a point A to point B paddle, then taking a sea kayak out on Lake Huron or Georgian Bay is another great option. As with any open water, check the weather and ask local outfitters for advice first. In Bruce County, a paddle to Chantry Island in Southampton is amazing on a calm day. Try Cameron Lake or Cyprus Lake in the Bruce Peninsula National Park. The shallow waters of the Fishing Islands in Oliphant are a unique experience or paddle over the shipwrecks in Tobermory’s Fathom Five National Marine Park. In Grey County, Northwinds Beach in Craigleith is a great place to put in. Paddle to the small island to the north, head west towards the Shale Beach or hire a guide to help you find the wreck of the Mary Ward. Lake Eugenia has a public boat launch and this manmade lake offers some great fishing.
Marsha Courtney
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
An increasingly popular way to paddle our rivers and lakes in Grey Bruce, stand-up paddleboarding offers both a unique view of the water you’re gliding over and a truly relaxing experience. Rentals are available in Sauble Beach if you want to explore Lake Huron and at Blue Surf in Craigleith if you’d like to put in at Northwinds Beach and explore Georgian Bay. If you have your own board, SUPing a local river is another unique experience, just be sure that water levels will permit safe passage over rocks and obstacles.
Outfitters: Gear Rentals and Great Guides
Blue Surf – Blue Mountains – Georgian Bay Eagle Adventure Experiences – Beaver River and Georgian Bay Free Spirit Tours – Beaver River and Georgian Bay Sauble River Marina – Sauble River and Lake Huron Suntrail Source for Adventure – Sauble River and Lake Huron
Quality outdoor equipment and clothing for the camper, backpacker, canoeist & kayaker Sea kayaking trips and instruction
CANOE & KAYAK SALES AND RENTALS www.suntrail.ca info@suntrail.ca
Highway 6 in Hepworth
519-935-2478 1-877-882-2958
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 13
519-422-1175
329 Main Street, Sauble Beach
Season May 1 - Thanksgiving
• Indoor Heated Pool/ Whirlpool • Outdoor Children’s Pool • Complete Hook-ups • Wi-Fi • Hot Showers • Store • Laundry • Propane • Rec. Hall
Reservations Accepted
• Bingo • Movies • Wagon Rides in July & August • Horseshoes • Basketball • Volleyball • Playground • Activities Director (KIDS)
THE MARTIN FAMILY
877 Main Street, Sauble Beach, ON N0H 2G0
Tel: 519-422-1101 • Fax: 519-422-3580 BOOK ONLINE AT: www.saubleresortcamp.com • info@saubleresortcamp.com LOCATED 1 MILE E. OF THE LIGHTS IN SAUBLE BEACH ON THE HEPWORTH-SAUBLE RD.
Trailer Life Rating 10/10 /10
Baystreet Cottages 519.534.1338 PUBLIC BOAT RENTALS 10-5 pm in season
OPEN DAILY ACCOMMODATIONS
YEAR ROUND
519-422-1762 18 Marina Ave. Sauble Beach
saublebeachmarina@gmail.com
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ESCAPE TO GREY BRUCE • 2021
• 730 sites • RV and large pull-thru sites with cement pads • Indoor heated pool and whirlpool • Cable TV and high speed internet • Closest campground to downtown Sauble
Kayaks Lazy Sauble River TUBING SUPBoards
Pedal Boats
47 Sauble Falls Pkwy., Sauble Beach, ON N0H 2G0
info@woodlandpark.on. ca
www.woodlandpark.on.ca
. . . h c a e B e l b u a “S is calling!” happiness Lorna Rouse
Be a part of Sauble this year. After all, what happens in Sauble . . . stays in your family’s memories forever ;)
Sauble Beach is the second longest freshwater beach in the world…over seven miles or (11 kilometres) in length. The unique sandbar deposits along the Lake Huron shoreline keeps the water relatively shallow and warm. The beach’s name originated when early French explorers dubbed the Sauble River “Rivière aux Saubles.”
Lorna Rouse
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 17
Hit the Beach!
Ken Atkinson
It’s one of those Grey Bruce summer days where you wake up and it’s already 23 degrees; by mid day the mercury will be soaring to 30. Sure, you could crank the AC and stay inside, but if you’re from Grey Bruce, you’re more likely to hit the beach. It’s the simplicity of a day at the beach that makes it so beautiful. You only need the basics – sunscreen, some drinks, snacks and a towel. Upon arrival, start the time-tested rotation of swimming, lounging on your towel and playing in the sand until you’re smoking hot again … then repeat until sunset. The beach is one of the few sacred places where adults can act like kids. Go ahead, dig in the sand, run splashing through the water, pretend you’re a shark and deliver poorly-executed handstands under water. We won’t judge. No matter what your preferred beach style is, you’ll find one you love in Grey Bruce.
Shelley Partington
Top 4 Beaches: Sauble Beach – The nostalgic red sign will greet you as you arrive at this 11km sandy stretch on Lake Huron. Northwinds Beach, The Blue Mountains – This busy sand beach is centrally located by Blue Mountain. Popular SUP, kayak and swimming spot.
CANDACE MOORE 226.979.4499 Sales Representative
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ESCAPE TO GREY BRUCE • 2021
CandaceMoore.ca
Independently Owned & Operated
Cedar Hill Beach, Wiarton – A secluded treasure, this cobbled beach has amazing views of islands and Niagara Escarpment outcroppings. Very popular with scuba divers. Memorial Park, Meaford – Take the Georgian trail and head down to this sandy beach located in the heart of Meaford.
Fishing Islands of Oliphant The Saugeen Fishing Islands are rich in history. The Rankin Survey was done in 1855 and laid out the town of Oliphant. Saugeen Fishing Islands Reserve No. 1 are approximately 89 islands in Lake Huron off the western coast of the Bruce Peninsula and became Crown Land in 1885. These islands lie about 15 kilometres from Oliphant north to Howdenvale off the west coast of the Bruce Peninsula and were named after the abundant fish that once populated the waters. The shallow waters around the islands, with numerous shoals and sandbanks, have long formed a treacherous barrier for ships between the mainland and the open water of Lake Huron. In the late half of the 19th century and the early 20th numerous ships met a watery grave among these islands, either blown onto an outer reef by a Lake Huron storm, or wrecked while seeking safe passage through the islands’ narrow channels. The Flemings were among the earliest cottagers on these islands that lie along the western shore between Oliphant and Red Bay. “Oliphant” was named after Laurence Oliphant, who in 1854 was Superintendent General of Indian Affairs. These islands are shared between the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and Saugeen First Nation who have found evidence around the Islands of net fishing going back some five thousand years. The Fishing Islands were returned to the Saugeen Ojibway Nation in 1968. Fishing and the waters were and are central to their traditional economy and way of life and indeed to their spiritual beliefs. SON members feel a strong moral obligation to care for the water. The water is as important to them, if not more important, than their dry land territory. The Fishing Islands were one of the best whitefish spawning grounds on the Great Lakes. Today the Saugeen Ojibway are once again the owners of the commercial fishery around the Saugeen Peninsula. The Saugeen Ojibway Nation co-manage the fishery with the Ontario Government . In 1834 Crown Lands issued an order in council to the Huron Fishing Co. for the Fishing Islands. Prior to its fishing legislation of 1857, the Crown was supposed to have treated the Great Lakes fisheries as a public right. Captain Alexander MacGregor was the first to turn the fishing here into a commercial enterprise. He sailed and fished among the Saugeen Islands during the eighteen twenties, and took up his headquarters on the island which he called his Main Station. Here he built a large stone house now known as the Old Fort, on account of its tremendous walls and narrow windows. History of the County of Bruce gives the date as about 1834. Captain MacGregor and his men lived here for a number of years, and caught great quantities of whitefish and herring, which they shipped to Detroit. The Captain had a contract with a Detroit firm to ship 3000 barrels yearly for which he was to receive one dollar per barrel.
Until the late eighteen forties no fishing licences had been issued by the Government for Lake Huron. It was at this time that a number of people formed the Niagara Fishing Company and secured the sole license for the waters. The 89 Islands vary in size from a mere shoal of flat rock with a few currant bushes to the largest, Cranberry Island containing one hundred and twenty four acres. The Islands can be roughly divided into six groups, two south of the Gut and four to the north. Whiskey Island, situated about half a mile from shore, is circular in shape, and is covered with thick beautiful woods. The island is appropriately named. It seems that many years ago, an illicit whiskey-still existed here and as far as is known did good service. One Sunday in the Captain MacGregor days, it is related, the fishermen from Main-Station held a celebration which ended in a general fight. It was from then on that the fishermen called the place Whiskey Island. Lately the name has been changed to “Shamrock,” but it is hard to forget the old name. Smokehouse Island (No. 10) is the large island just north of Whiskey and separated from it by Smokehouse Channel. It contains over forty acres, thickly wooded with cedar, tamarack, and spruce. At the southern corner are the remains of the old Schell saw-mill, burned down about 1885. The Island was named by the Ojibways who had a smoke-house here for smoking their fish. Article by Susan Schank
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 19
Lorna Rouse
822 Pike Bay Rd. N. Bruce Peninsula NOH 2T0
EARTH BOUND GARDENS Red Bay Bruce Peninsula Plant Sales, Landscape & Design Gift Shop, Metal Art
Sunday Concert Series
519-534-2483
www.earthboundgardens.com
Off The Beaten Track & Worth It Red Bay is a true naturalist’s retreat.
©
The Saugeen/Bruce Peninsula Pledge 1. I PLEDGE to be: A responsible visitor respecting the land,
environment and the people of the Saugeen/Bruce Peninsula.
2. I WILL: Explore the Saugeen/Bruce Peninsula and leave foot prints only.
3. I WILL: Take photos to die for, without dying for them. 4. I WILL: Follow the road into the unknown, but never venture off the road.
5. I WILL ONLY: Park where I am permitted to park. 6. I WILL ONLY: Picnic in selected designated areas.
7.
Many orchids and rare ferns are found in the two parks: Petrel Point, just north of Red Bay, and Red Bay Conservation Area at Reid Point, west of the Red Bay Park and beach. Sprinklings of pink, mauve, red, blue and yellow that fill the wetland through the seasons can only inspire a passion for nature. Petrel Point Nature Reserve is a spectacular example of Great Lakes Coastal Meadow Marsh, a very rare habitat. Changes in elevation in the fen separate distinct communities of plants, many of them are rare. Petrel Point is home to many unusual wildflowers due to its basic acidic groundwater which is the result of dissolved calcium carried upwards from the limestone bedrock. A dense white cedar swamp surrounds the meadow marshes. This meadow marsh supports a diverse family of carnivorous plants, including Horned Bladderworts, Sundews and Pitcher Plants. Orchid lovers will find Showy Lady Slippers, Rose Pogonias, Grass-pink, Purple-fringed Orchids and Broad-leaved Twayblade scattered throughout. Due to the delicacy of the plant life, visitors must explore from the walkways provided. Pop into Earthbound Gardens where you can purchase Native Plants.
I WILL TAKE RESPONSIBILITY TO: Dispose of my garbage properly – either in designated areas or take it HOME.
8. IF I CHOOSE TO SLEEP OUT UNDER THE STARS: I'll stay within designated campsites.
9. IF NATURE CALLS: I won’t answer the call on nature. 10. I WILL BE PREPARED FOR: All weather, all possibilities and all adventures.
Visit www.bpbainc.com 20
ESCAPE TO GREY BRUCE • 2021
Pitcher Plant, Lorna Rouse
Birding Hotspots
Heritage Guesthouse and Gardens
Rose Breasted Grosbeak, Les Anderson
Birders Take Flight
Gardeners & Plant Lovers The Rural Gardens of Grey and Bruce Counties are natural destinations for those passionate about gardening. This network of private gardens offers both inspiration and knowledge for your own gardening desires. Come and explore the diverse garden experiences these spectacular rural gardens and landscapes offer you. For more ideas visit www.ruralgardens.ca
• Bognor Marsh – Red tailed hawk, Ruffed Grouse, Great Egrets • Cabot Head – Dyers Bay – Ontario’s premier area for Red-necked Grebes • Chantry Island – A Federal bird sanctuary. 50,000 birds on the island during breeding season • Grotto – Cypress Lake – Visit in May during Spring migration. Follow path from Head of Trails Parking • Gauley’s Bay – Stokes Bay – Shorebirds & Bald Eagles (almost guaranteed) • Hibou Conservation Area – Harlequin Ducks, Black capped chickadees, Bald Eagles, Mute Swans • Inglis Falls – Owen Sound – Northern Oriole, Pileated Woodpecker, Blue Jays • Isaac Lake – Wiarton – Nesting marsh birds ie Sandhill Crane • Linsday Tract – Miller Lake – Ducks Unlimited Viewing Platform • MacGregor Point Provincial Park – Port Elgin – Visit the Ducks Unlimited Viewing Platform • Oliphant North – Osprey, Swallows, Bald Eagles, Herons, and migrating shorebirds • Parks Canada Lookout Tower – Tobermory – Migrating raptors in May • North Sauble Beach – Piping Plovers • Skinners Bluff – Georgian Bluffs – Meadow Bird species • Singing Sands – Migrating songbirds in May
Combine these garden sites with the natural beauty of Grey-Bruce. Explore hiking trails, waterfalls, historic lighthouses, Bruce Peninsula rare orchids and ferns, rugged coastline and beautiful beaches.
Some Member Gardens: Artemesia Daylilies Essentially Lavender Ginkgo Footprints Morland Place Walnut Tree Hollow Willow Farm Grasses Plus 16 more...
Enter the
Female Piping Plover, Brendan Toews
Collect the Codes to
WIN!
For more information, visit ruralgardens.ca or pick up the Rural Gardens brochure at local information centres.
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 21
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Tobermory: Tip of the Peninsula The village consists of two deep, natural harbours called Little Tub & Big Tub. Tobermory was originally named Collins Harbour, but by the 1850s the Scottish immigrants who were fishing the area had renamed it Tobermory for their seacoast fishing and diving village on the Isle of Mull, Scotland. Today, the village still maintains the charm of a fishing village from another era. Take a leisurely walk around Little Tub Harbour, follow the bricked sidewalks past the numerous flowerbeds and visit the many quaint and unique shops, stores, restaurants and galleries. Two miles south of the village of Tobermory is the St. Edmunds Museum. The museum is in a settlement school built in 1898. The main floor deals with the fishing, lumbering and farming of the ancestors. The second floor deals with the rich marine history. There is also a log cabin
built in 1875 and totally furnished like a 19th century home. Admission is by donation, and well worth the visit. Big Tub Harbour is the deepest natural harbour on the Great Lakes and is home to two shipwrecks. The Sweepstakes, a schooner built in 1867 which sank in 1885, and the City of Grand Rapids built in 1870 and sank October of 1907. Both vessels are visible from the glass bottom tour boats that run out of Tobermory from May – October, weather permitting. These boats also have tours which will drop you off at Flower Pot Island to allow a few hours to explore. Modern, affordable accommodation is available in Tobermory, as well as a wide range of dining experiences. Don’t leave the Bruce Peninsula without enjoying a whitefish or prime rib dinner of locally raised Bruce County beef at the Tobermory Princess Hotel.
Book Online: Bluebay-motel.com escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 23
Respect the Beauty of the Bruce! Visitors to the Bruce Peninsula will see our green slogan posted throughout the area. Keeping the Bruce Clean and green reminds us that the beauty of our peninsula should be respected by all who visit or live here, so that it will remain healthy for all future generations. Started as a grassroots response to the large visitor influx to the area, Keep the Bruce Clean & Green volunteers promote ecological citizenship around the peninsula. The need to support the natural environment to keep it beautiful has the people of the peninsula banding together. In preparation for your trip to the Bruce it might be helpful to keep in mind that we can all help to keep the environment healthy. Plan to take along refillable liquid containers for drinking water. There are water filling stations around the villages. Pack your picnics with reusable containers to decrease the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill sites. Remember that we share our space with many other animals that forage for food in our waste areas so closing trash containers is essential. We encourage you to plan your visit well and remember that we should “take only pictures and leave only footprints” so that not only you but all future generations will also be able to enjoy the beauty of “The Bruce.”
Cottage Rentals
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Parks Canada
Parks Canada Visitor Centre
Orchids and Singing Sands
Make the state-of-the-art Parks Canada Visitor Centre in Tobermory your first stop to plan your stay and learn about Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park!
Singing Sands is located on Dorcas Bay, just west of Highway 6, about a 10 minute drive south from Tobermory. This is a popular spot because of the shallow sand beach for swimming and the abundance of wildflowers, including orchids, which grow in a diverse array of habitats. There are 44 varieties of orchids found here. If you are a wildflower lover, visit from late May through late June to see the succession of blooms.
The visitor centre is the “front door” to the two national parks on the Bruce. Friendly on site staff are there to help you plan your stay and provide up to date details on parking, interpretive programs, and other attractions throughout the region. As you walk through the gallery, you’ll learn about the different geological forces that have shaped the peninsula and the First Nations peoples that have lived on the Bruce Peninsula since time immemorial. Learn about the animals and plants that call this home and the ecological connections that support the largest contiguous forest in Southwestern Ontario. Interactive and multi-media displays will take you underwater to explore the shipwrecks and connect you with the rich marine heritage of the region. Before heading out on the trail, relax in the high definition theatre for a virtual adventure through the parks, from deep shipwrecks to a helicopter high above the cliff-rimmed shoreline of Georgian Bay. Outside, climb the 20 metre tower for a panoramic view of the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, the surrounding waters and islands of Fathom Five. The Bruce Trail crosses the deck of the visitor centre and following the trail past the tower will take you to one of the most scenic segments of shoreline on Georgian Bay. To get to the visitor centre, turn off Highway 6 and follow Chi sin tib dek Road across from the RBC bank in Tobermory. Or enjoy the 5 minute walk from downtown by following Head Street and the Bruce Trail. The visitor centre is from May to October and there is an entry fee. For more information, visit: www.pc.gc.ca/fathomfive or www.pc.gc.ca/grotto.
Indian Paintbrush, Lorna Rouse
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Summer House Park
Miller Lake Lion’s Head The Largest Inland Lake of the North Bruce Peninsula. The lake is a hidden gem, surrounded by majestic hardwood forests and inviting wetlands. Miller Lake provides a quiet, peaceful retreat to savour the haunting echoes of the loon, or the many other species of birds and other wildlife that make Miller Lake their home. Enjoy a day in a canoe or kayak exploring the nine kilometres of varied shoreline, or test your luck fishing. Conveniently situated between the grand cliffs of Georgian Bay and the rocky shallows of the Huron Shoreline.
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Summer House Park
Point Hangcliff “Neshebeese Oshitquon” Lion’s Head is located on the shores of Isthmus Bay and sits on the 45th parallel, halfway to the North Pole. The village’s central location on the Peninsula makes it ideal for exploring the Bruce Peninsula. It was named for the rock formation located on the east escarpment. The first settlers who waded ashore, having arrived by boat, thought it resembled a lion’s head in profile. Further into the harbour, you will find a great marina and docking facility, and a sandy beach with a playground. Come and view the rock face of the “Lion’s Head” from the observation deck at the Lighthouse, where mechanical binoculars have been installed to provide you with a close up view. Come down at dusk and join other astronomers who are eager to share their knowledge of the dark skies, on Friday and Saturday nights. The stars are so bright and plentiful you’ll think you can almost reach out and touch them. Lion’s Head is designated as a Dark Skies community and home to Bayside Astronomy. On Saturdays, there is a farmer’s market in the morning down at the beach, which runs from Victoria Day till Thanksgiving weekend. Lion’s Head has long been a favourite hiking destination on the Bruce Trail, thanks to its accessibility, rugged terrain and expansive views. The trails are challenging but not formidable and most routes can be enjoyed in an afternoon. A parking lot on Moore Street provides access to the trailhead. Due to the overwhelming numbers of visitors to this small village, paid parking has been instituted from 6 a.m. till 8 p.m. Parking downtown will cost $3.00 per hour. Premium locations such as the beach, the marina and McCurdy parking lot which allows you access to the trails will cost $6.00 per hour or $30.00 per day. Overflow parking lot will be located at the arena, across the road from the local LCBO. Rising through the forest and meadow, the trail climbs up through cedars and along the limestone cliffs past several lookouts, until it reaches the highest elevation at the Lion’s Head Lookout. From this spectacular vista, one can
Wilfred Laman Lion’s Head Beach Motel & Cottages Inc
see down to the Village of Lion’s Head and Isthmus Bay to the south-west, sweep around the whole of the coast of Whippoorwill Bay Bay to the west, and reach across to White Bluff and further north, to Smokey Head. Soaring birds, a bracing wind and the turquoise clear waters far below make this a view to remember. Ambitious? Consider a loop hike involving the side trails, lookouts and points of interest. Embark from the Moore
Street parking lot to the Lion’s Head Lookout, around the point down through birch, maple, poplar and beech forests to the sprawling stoney beach of McKay’s Harbour. Return to the main trail via the side trail, to complete a satisfying afternoon adventure. Other paths find the high elevation lookout at Gun Point with its grand views of Georgian Bay, and the Geodetic Side Trail which marks 45 degrees North Latitude. Spend an entire day on the sandy beach experiencing real serenity. Lion’s Head waterfront is the perfect location for enjoying crystal clear waters. Whether you are swimming, kayaking or pleasure boating, you are guaranteed a memorable day.
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Beach Motel & Cottages Inc.
Your Destination for 4 Seasons of Adventures • Kayaks and Canoe Rentals 519-793-3155 1 McNeil Street, Lion’s Head, ON lhbm89@msn.com www.lionsheadbeachmotel.com
escapetogreybruce.ca • 2021 27
The Saga of the Lion’s Head Lighthouse continues . . .
1932 1903 The first navigational aid was a red light, at the end of the Lion’s Head harbour dock. It was a square, tubular lantern hoisted upon a pole and located on the outer end of the breakwater at a cost of $197.16. 1911 In November plans for a lighthouse were prepared to replace the light on a pole. 1913 J. C. Kennedy of Owen Sound was paid $825.22 to construct a square, pyramidal tower on the breakwater. This lighthouse was knocked off the wharf in the Great Storm of November 8, 1913. It was recovered from the south beach by John H Tyndall. W.B. Lamont was paid $341.60 to repair it and restore to its original location in 1914. 1919 The lighthouse was moved further back on the wharf to reduce the possible damage from the storms. 1933 Fire caused more damage to it, but once again it was repaired and restored to its original location. 1969 The Canadian Coast Guard arrived early one morning, dismantled the light and burned it at the local landfill. It was replaced with a metal tower topped with a flashing light. Locals were enraged and pressed the coast guard for an explanation. They were told it was “rotten beyond repair.”
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Wilfred Laman
Wilfred Laman
1984
2020
1983 & 1984 Students, under the direction of their teacher Brian Swanton of the Bruce Peninsula District School, built a replica of the original structure. They used the original plans with funding provided by the local Rotary Club. The students’ tower wasn’t a replacement for the metal light tower that still sat unlit on the nearby shoreline. 2000 A violent storm damaged the metal pole and the coast guard decided to replace it with the student built replica. Once again, a proper functioning lighthouse proudly marked the Lion’s Head harbour. 2020 A vicious storm in January demolished the tower. Officials of Northern Bruce Peninsula immediately decided to rebuild the lighthouse. They accepted donations and volunteer help, so the community could once again, take ownership of their lighthouse. It is located at the original spot that it sat on in 1919, 40 feet west of its last location. Brian Swanton and Douglas Hill led the charge, to get the lighthouse to once again shine on the shores of Lion’s Head. 2021 Once again the lighthouse was damaged by a north easterly pelting rocks at her, but as of print date in May, the lighthouse is still intact.
Hope Bay:
A Thriving Cottage Community
Cedarholme Bed & Breakfast and Cottages, Lynn McCurdy
As you head south from Lion’s Head or north from Wiarton on Bruce Road 9, you will arrive at Hope Bay, a thriving cottage community with a natural sand beach. The Bruce Trail travels through Hope Bay north to Cape Dundas overlooking Hope Bay, where it passes a number of Glacial Potholes. Hope Bay is home to a Bed & Breakfast and cottage rentals. Area attractions within a ten minute drive include the Bruce Peninsula Mountain Bike Park, Cape Croker Indian Reserve and Campground, operated by the Chippewas of Nawash, and the reopened Greig’s Caves which offers ten caves for exploring. In 1981 portions of the movie “Quest For Fire” were filmed on location in the caves. The views are spectacular. Be sure to wear appropriate hiking footwear. With the beautiful sunrises, peaceful beach and great hiking, Hope Bay continues to be a popular and relaxing retreat on the Bruce Peninsula.
Open Daily – May to Thanksgiving
HOURS: Spring and Fall 9 am – 5 pm / Summer 9 am – 6 pm CASH ONLY Located between Lion’s Head and Hope Bay off Bruce County Rd. 9
CEDARHOLME
Bed & Breakfast and Cottages
108 Beech Street, Hope Bay South Bruce Peninsula, ON N0H 2T0
www.cedarholmebb.com 519-534-3705
ture n e v d A e Wher urally! t a N s n e Happ Hiking or Running Shoes Required No Pets Allowed
www.greigscaves.ca
519.377.8762 407 Scenic Caves Rd Northern Bruce Peninsula GPS Coordinates: 44.95117_81.141039
FREE PARKING
Bluewater Park Campground, Wiarton
Overnight & Seasonal Sites - Open May 15-October 15 Hot showers, accessible washrooms, dumping station, playground, boat launch, splash pad, swimming pool, Bruce Trail access, adult fitness equipment, ball diamond, tennis courts, Wi-Fi hot spot, historical Train Station, beautiful view of Colpoy’s Bay Inquiries welcome May 15-Oct 15: 519-534-1400 ext. 316 Jan 2-May 14: 519-534-1400 ext. 132 www.southbrucepeninsula.com
Home of Wiarton Willie
102 Parkside Ave, South Bruce Peninsula, ON rothfamilycampground@gmail.com www.rothparkfamilycampground.com
519 534 0145 - Call us Today! On Site Cottage, Trailer and Cabin Rentals! Overnight & Seasonal Sites | Private Sandy Beach | Boat Launch
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ESCAPE TO GREY BRUCE • 2021
Wiarton:
Holly Morrow The Cluttered Cupboard
Bruce Peninsula’s Basecamp! As you break over the hill going south into the town of Wiarton, witness the panoramic crystal blue waters of Colpoy’s Bay. This sheltered bay is a favourite with sailing enthusiasts and fishermen alike. The Bruce Trail runs through town with easy access for day or extended hikes. There also is a spiral staircase that leads you up to Spirit Rock Conservation Area. The name Spirit Rock derives from a legend involving an Indian maiden. The park encompasses 87 hectares, and features the historical ruins of the Corran, a 17 room mansion built in 1881 by Alexander McNeill, a Federal Member of Parliament for the North Bruce Riding from 1881-1901. The property is managed by the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority. The historic Wiarton Train Station is located in Bluewater Park, and serves as the campground office. There is a children’s playground, a small beach, a splashpad, pool and a fitness trail. In addition to Wiarton Willie, the town is home to many unique stores and services and is the perfect spot to shop before heading north. Its bevy of beautiful historic homes and buildings are also worth exploring. Fridays offer a midday farmers market at Bluewater Park Pavillion 9 a.m.– 12 p.m. in the heart of downtown with countless local goods from May to Labour Day. The group of vendors are celebrating their 13th season.
Lorna Rouse
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