Category: Backcountry
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Spring paddling safety
Itching for ice out? We certainly are. But spring weather can be fickle. Hitting the lake too early, failing to respect weather conditions or paddling beyond your skill level isn’t just risky — it’s downright dangerous. We chatted with Paul Smith, past park superintendent of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, to get some top do’s and don’ts for…
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Backcountry basics: know your limits
You’ve heard about this fantastic new adventure through a friend, route guide, or Instagram. It looks kind of tough, and you’re pretty new to the whole backcountry thing. Still, you don’t want to miss out, so you decide to go for it. But as you start planning, there’s a little voice wondering if this is…
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6 tips for winter camping at Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
So you’re no stranger to camping but want a new adventure? Or maybe you’ve invested some money in winter camping gear? Congratulations! Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park offers the perfect opportunity for those looking to get into winter camping. Just a couple hours outside of the GTA and three hours west of Ottawa, any weekend warrior looking…
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10 ways to enjoy winter at Quetico
Today’s post comes from Quetico Provincial Park Superintendent Trevor Gibb. Quetico is primarily known for its world class backcountry canoeing opportunities. However, once the lakes freeze and snow blankets the forest, the park transforms into a wilderness winter wonderland.
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Master Chef: Ontario Parks backcountry edition
Today’s post comes from Will Oades, Discovery Program Educator at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Eating in the backcountry should be no different than eating at home! Well-planned and prepared backcountry meals can taste amazing, satisfy your hunger, and foster conversations about your long day of hiking or paddling. Tasty outdoor meals are a simple comfort…
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Fall paddling at Restoule
Imagine. You put your canoe or kayak into the lake. The water is smooth and reflective. The sky’s a deep, dark blue, and the clouds are brilliant white. The day is sunny, cool and crisp, and the trees that cover the hills around you…well, they’re a stunning display of red, orange, and yellow. There’s something special…
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Why backcountry campers should share their equipment details
When making a reservation for a backcountry camping trip, you will be asked to describe your camping equipment in detail. In the rush to confirm your booking, it can be easy to ignore this request, or to give a quick answer. But have you ever considered why we ask this question?
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Say "no" to axe-idents
You’ve just paddled your heart out to get to your campsite. You put on your flannel and grab your axe to prepare your campfire. Something about being in the wilderness that brings out our inner woodsperson. We know the feeling. However, for the preservation of your toes, please read this before you swing that axe!