Au Canada

The drive north from Lake Michigan into Ontario Province was stunning and I'm looking for a bike touring pal to ride this peninsula next summer! Any takers? 

I spent my first weekend in Sault Ste Marie to regroup (phone, laundry, money, food, etc.) before heading off for a 7-hour drive to Algonquin, Ontario's oldest Provincial Park.  It was a long but scenic drive with views of the northern bay, and through a number of small towns where I was surprised to see Amish people in buggies dressed for Sunday service. Of note: the Canadians definitely drive slower than Americans do and this was quite pleasing as I watched for my next route or turn! 

I arrived at the Wolf Den Retreat to a warm welcome, and headed down the road to Ragged Falls for a walk in the woods. My bunkhouse was set to sleep 8 but most of the week was spent with an Aussie roommate, Thea and a few days with a local gal, Topaze. Spacious quarters, cool night breezes, and deep sleep. 

Algonquin Provincial Park, created in 1893, is over 7,600 square kilometers of forests, lakes and rivers. There is a vast interior (back country) that's accessible by foot or canoe but I stayed to the park's hiking trails which were enough of a challenge! Sadly, the only wildlife I saw were birds and turtles. 

Of course, there were cycling days which is how I discovered the nearest town of Dwight and the most wonderful sandy beachfront lake. It was a lovely start to my summer in Canada. 

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