As we roll into October amidst a rich backdrop of delightful fall colours, thoughts of soothing comfort foods, family gatherings and crisp evenings spent around the campfire creep into our minds. If you’ve spent any length of time in the north, you’ll be quite familiar with the smell of wood burning in the evenings, the crunch of dried leaves on the trail and the brisk wind reminding you to layer up your clothing. It’s a spectacular time to be out on the trails, and the leaves are nearing their peak luminance at this time of year. Take a hike alongside Duchesnay Falls, grab your bike and head up the newly opened Three Towers Mountain Bike Trails or take a peaceful walk through the Laurier Woods Conservation Area.

October guides us gingerly from the long, hot days of summer, into the dark, chilly days of winter, and indulges our senses with an abundance of delectable sights, scents and flavour. A bounty of rich flavours characterizes the classic northern autumn feast – something that is at your fingertips if you are visiting, or lucky enough to live in northern Ontario. If you are looking for the best of the season, and desiring locally-grown ingredients, you need only to go a short distance to find them:

1. Winter Squash – If you’ve visited the North Bay Farmer’s Market lately, you’ve likely been affronted with an abundance of winter squash! The end of season harvest is in full swing, and you’re apt to find Acorn, Butternut, Delicata and Sweet Dumpling Squash, in addition to pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. Whether roasted, mashed or puréed into soup, squash brings a rich, hearty flavour to a meal that soothes the soul. Try slicing up sweet dumpling squash and BBQing it with a little oil and herb seasonings for a summery side dish.Acorn Squash are fantastic when sliced and oven roasted.    

2. Cranberries – If you haven’t yet visited the Cranberry Bog in Callander, it’s wonderful opportunity to do so! Consider taking friends and family for a walk through picturesque Cranberry Trail at the end of Cranberry Road; enjoy the lookout, and find some cranberries in the bog. The trail is an easy stroll and features a beautiful view of Callander Bay at its end. Cranberries are in season at this time of year, and these tart berries made a fantastic addition to any autumn feast.

A walk down Cranberry Trail will offer you the opportunity to pick fresh for your table!

3. Turkey – Traditional turkey has long been the main feature of Thanksgiving dinners in Canada, but there’s never really a wrong time for turkey dinner! Orchard’s Fresh Food Market offers locally sourced turkeys, and all of the fixings. You can place an order online and pick up at their beautifully appointed store on Trout Lake Road in North Bay. If you’re seeking direct-from-the-farm-freshness, check in with Wand Family Farm, who frequent the North Bay Farmer’s Market on Saturdays during their open season. The Wand family also have a farmstand you can visit if you are looking for more locally-grown meat, at their Powassan location.
4. Skip the cooking altogether! – For fantastic local fare boasting farm-to-table freshness and a charming dining experience, an absolute MUST TRY restaurant is the White Owl Bistro. With a lovely patio featuring lakeside dining, commitment to local products and an everchanging, enticing menu, the White Owl has been a longstanding North Bay delight. Chefs Laura and René offer catering in addition to outdoor patio dining, and indoor restaurant space (Always check the website for updates on COVID-19 restrictions before heading out!).

Seafood Cannelloni from the White Owl Bistro.

5. Delightful dessert – pie, pastries, butter tarts, cobblers, fudge, doughnuts – create a dessert table to die for, by visiting some of the amazing bakeries and cafes in North Bay! Have a hankering for a honey glazed doughnut? Swing in to Good Glaze Dessert Bar on Main Street in North Bay. Good Glaze offers delivery of hand-crafted doughnuts baked fresh, with seasonal flavours to suit. They also do custom cakes, cinnamon buns, cheesecake, sticky buns and scones. While you’re downtown, take a look at what the North Star Diner on Algonquin Avenue has to offer (you can check them out on Instagram under the handle north_star_diner); scones, cake, ice cream, cupcakes and so much more. If you’re looking for rich sweetness, make your way down to The Green Store located on Trout Lake for handmade fudge and ice cream. Filled to the brim with delectable treats, giftware, home decor and souvenirs, there’s something there for everyone. Trout Lake is also an amazing place to take a quiet evening paddle on your kayak or canoe and enjoy the beauty of our fall scenery.

Some of the incredible, edible creations being made at Good Glaze Dessert Bar.

With many local options to fill your table this autumn, why not connect with some businesses and producers and learn more about the processes and methods they use to grow and raise food. You’ll be amazed at the quality and flavour of the food, not to mention the feeling you get from supporting North Bay’s amazing collective of producers and talented culinary professionals!

The post Put LOCAL on the Table This Fall appeared first on Tourism North Bay.

Rebuilding a connection to how our food is produced, and teaching children valuable skills, are strong driving factors for many families entering agriculture as first generation farmers.

Throughout the challenges of the pandemic, many local farmers began to think outside of the box to create safe opportunities for the public to access their goods. With farmer’s markets making changes due to COVID-19 restrictions and at times, closing or reducing capacity, good old-fashioned farm gate sales began to be a viable option. What began as a casual conversation between farming friends soon grew into a full-fledged tourism initiative for Powassan and area, drawing those from North Bay and beyond, for a fun touring experience. A Facebook page was set up, a map created showing the public producer locations and their offerings, and the Great Powassan and Area Farmstand Tour was born.

The self-guided, self-serve platform allowed people the convenience of picking up local food, while abiding by the current public health regulations during the pandemic.

The Great Powassan and Area Farmstand Tour is a self-guided driving and cycling tour winding through Nipissing, Powassan and Chisholm townships, along roads dotted with small roadside farmstands offering goods for sale. There are just under 30 stops on this year’s tour, which now include local food and gift shops, where you’ll find locally-raised meat, vegetables, dairy products, honey, maple syrup, preserves, baked goods, eggs and much more, throughout the season. Several events involving the tour are organized and hosted in conjunction with 250 Clark in Powassan, including cycling events, a poker run and a maple pumpkin themed day, being held in October. You’ll definitely want to mark down October 2, 2021 in your calendar – the Maple Pumpkin Tour features on-farm activities and a wide variety of maple and pumpkin-themed local food!

Great times on two wheels! Creating a dedicating route connecting cyclists with the farmstands and local food stops has fostered a cycle-friendly experience enjoyed by locals and out-of-towners alike.

If you think driving around the beautiful countryside is a wonderful time, try taking it all in on two wheels! Discovery Routes Trails Organization recently released the Farmstand 40 cycling experience, which outlines route details, mapping and amenities which are important to cyclists. If you are seeking equipment or advice, bike shops like Wheelhouse, Cheapskates and North Bay CycleWorks are great places to begin your cycling journey. The farmstand route is mainly a gravel ride, but sections of it are paved and suitable for beginners. 

Powassan offers great amenities in a quaint small-town setting, and at a short 20 minute drive from North Bay, you can easily spend a day exploring. The Powassan Farmer’s Market runs from Victoria Day weekend until Thanksgiving weekend each Saturday morning from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm on Main Street beside the Beer Store. Many of the farmers and producers you’ll meet on the farmstand tour attend the Powassan Farmer’s Market, as well as the North Bay Farmer’s Market, (in North Bay, beside the North Bay Museum). 

The North Bay Farmer’s Market offers a wide variety of vendors providing local food, handmade crafts, giftware, clothing and much more.

If you’re looking to browse for gifts and other goods, wander through Powassan Flowers & Country Favourites, stop in at Krause Farms Food & Feed for local food and outdoor goods like birdfeeders and décor, or take the 10 minute drive down Memorial Drive and Alderdale Road to the Alderdale General Store for an amazing selection of locally made handcrafted pottery, yarn crafts, soap, baked goods, jewellery and preserves. You can also grab a bite to eat at the Red Roo which is parked at the store for the season, and finish up with delightful Kawartha Dairy ice cream! If you’re hunting for a quiet spot at the beach, the Hydro Pond on the west side of the highway just off of Maple Hill Road South will serve you well – good swimming, fishing and sunbathing opportunities are plentiful, with washroom facilities close by. Kids can play at the Powassan Lions Park behind the SportsPlex on Main Street in Powassan, or take them hiking up The Pines for a spectacular view from the top of the mountain.

A view that does not disappoint – hike to the top of Powassan Mountain via the Pines trail system. It’s a beautiful spot to take in the fall colours, or even enjoy a picnic!

If you’re keen on discovering otherworldly treasures, then your travels should take you into South River and to the Crystal Cave – an astonishing collection of precious gems, crystals, fossils and more awaits you. You can further refresh your senses at the Crystal Moon Café during your visit.

The Crystal Cave offers an amazing opportunity to see a wide variety of crystals, gems, minerals and precious metals up close and personal!

With a wealth of culinary delights and truly northern experiences just minutes outside the city’s borders, you’ll discover welcoming communities with much to offer. From farmers and shop owners, beautiful scenery, family-friendly amenities and an entertaining farmstand tour, there is a lot to see and do, within half an hour of North Bay! 

The post Agriculture & Farmstands are in Full Swing appeared first on Tourism North Bay.

A welcoming community is exactly what Melanie discovered in North Bay thanks to our very own, long-time cycling advocate and fellow Liv ambassador, Connie Hergott (@NorthBayWomensCycling).

Melanie recalls “Connie put the call out late on Saturday: “We got a Torontonian rider coming in—who’s in?” In only a few hours, seven women moved schedules, hired babysitters, threw on their gear and ran out the door to ride with me. That’s dedication and a testament to the community of mountain bikers in North Bay. As a Torontonian, trying to arrange anything with seven people on such short notice is almost impossible. It’s the truth.”  

“We got a Torontonian rider coming in—who’s in?” – M. Chambers

With a group spanning ages 30 to 50 years, and a variety of skill levels–even a first timer— the Upper Highland trail was the chosen route. This rooty and narrow romp cut through the forest and over Chippewa Creek; requiring each rider to carefully pass their bike down to another rider waiting in the river. Strong teamwork was on display almost immediately.

Melanie discovering North Bay’s hidden trails with Connie and the crew – M. Chambers

The ride involves some steep hill climbs, but there are benefits for those who choose to conquer the climbs – spectacular views.

“I love a good climb, so I grunted up to see what was at the top–the airport runaway with blazing lights. One-by-one the women followed: “wouldn’t it be cool if a plane comes in?” said someone.” remembers Melanie.

View of City from atop North Bay’s Escarpment – P. Gilbert

Continuing on to the lookout which offers a beautiful a view of the city, the women exchanged social media contact information, and made future rendezvous plans – on bikes of course! With a broad spectrum of experience levels and commitment, the cycling community in North Bay ranges from complete beginners eager to soak up every opportunity to tackle the trails, to those who have casually competed in races and events, to those who live, eat and breath cycling.

That’s Connie, who is also a CAN-Bike/Cycling Canada instructor, and, program coordinator and board member for the local North Bay Mountain Bike Association (NBMBA), all in her ‘spare’ time! NMBMA is another connection riders need to check out when seeking out a great ride. The relatively new club has a growing network of trails with built-in TTF’s (or technical trail features to the laymen) to amuse every age and ability.

Another North Bay-specific curio that intrigued Melanie was uncovered during her second day shredding up (and down) the escarpment trails. After catching up with some old friends for a ride on the trails, she learned the ground under her wheels is hollow, thanks to the NORAD North Bay Complex. NORAD was a cold war era bunker built underground, and although it has been decommissioned, its original intent was to protect from a Soviet threat. Built in the 1960s, complex was designed to sustain 400 people for up to a month, in the event of war.

“We all said how cool it would be if they opened the bunker to cyclists—a cold war bike race!”

Drop on the Escarpment Trails – P. Gilbert

Not long into the ride, the group encountered local cycling talent Dave, (@flyindutchman on Instagram) who grew up riding these trails as a teenager. His skill on a bike was evident as he smoothly landed a drop to a rock embankment during the ride – skills he puts to good use on social media to teach others how to ride those TTFs. With such accessible training grounds, it’s no wonder the area has so many talented riders, eager to share their skills and knowledge.

Chillin’ on the Escarpment Trails – M. Chambers

In addition to an engaged, enthusiastic cycling culture, North Bay boasts excellent support from locally-owned cycling shops. Whether you’re looking for an equipment upgrade, repair parts and accessories, or a great place to meet other enthusiasts, be sure to check in with Cheapskates Bike Shop, Wheelhouse Bike Shop or CycleWorks. Any of these shops are an excellent choice, with plenty of experts ready to assist you with anything related to cycling.

North Bay’s mountain bike trails are easy to find using Trailforks, and reveal a plethora of terrain. You can also find lots of local information and mapping available through Discovery Routes. Bring your bike and come experience true northern hospitality and incredible community spirit–it’s one thing you cannot find online!

The post Shred, drop and roll with North Bay’s Mountain Bike Community appeared first on Tourism North Bay.

communities in the north’s friendliest city for cyclers!

The Near North is full of interesting landscapes, fascinating history, and unique communities. North Bay’s most experienced riders, known informally as the Gateway Breakaway Cycling Club share some of their local favourites suited to newcomers to the sport and recreational riders right up to the most seasoned veteran. Check out their club site on Strava to connect.

Kate Pace Way and Kinsmen Trail

Kate Pace Way, North Bay; Kinsmen Trail, North Bay

Wind, water and wanderlust—the perfect way to experience an intimate connection to the Gateway of the North is through pedal power. The Kate Pace Way, North Bay’s original bike trail, gets top honour when highlighting great places to ride in the city. The envy of northern communities near and far, the Kate Pace Way is a 12+km paved pathway winding leisurely through the city’s core, and curving around the east end of the bay. If the sun is shining, the path will be buzzing with energy as families and friends bike together and connect at North Bay’s lively waterfront. The Kinsmen Trail connecting to the “Paceway” near the waterfront offers another 7km path along Chippewa Creek through the heart of the city. If you’re seeking a unique experience, check out North Bay Fun Rentals at the waterfront, and try their multi-seat bicycle!

Whether you’re seeking a closer connection to nature or want to experience the energy of the waterfront, you’re sure to find something to invigorate your senses and lift your spirits while exploring these trails.

Corbeil Circle Cycling Route

Kate Pace Way, North Bay; Nipissing Manor near Corbeil. Once home to the Dionne Quints, it is now a senior’s home.

Local Gateway Breakaway rider, Todd, recommends the Corbeil Circle as a good route for those wanting to spread their wings, get in some additional road miles and still not be too far from anything. The route takes riders on a trip through time in the villages of Callander and Corbeil featuring some of the historical sites connected to the Dionne Quintuplets while offering small town personality and hospitality. Callander’s waterfront has a bike stand with basic tools near the splash pad and offers an unobstructed view of Callander Bay. A handful of local eateries are sure to tempt your taste buds. Our recommendation is 1886 Lake House Bistro, known for its popular patio and they are Bicycle Friendly certified!

A cautionary note when traversing the Highway 11/17 bypass area—while cyclists are prohibited on the bypass itself, you can follow Twin Lake Road to the north end where a small gate stops vehicular access to Progress Road, and allows you to connect back to the route.

Lake Nipissing South Shore Road Route

Paved shoulders on Hwy 654 in Callander make the ride smooth; Voyageur Cycling Route in Callander

Looking to ride rolling hills on wide paved roadway shoulders and some of the finest pavement in the area, while experiencing the lifestyle and spirit of Lake Nipissing? This ride taking in Lake Nipissing’s south shore is for you! Sprawling countryside, wild northern forests, and Ontario’s third largest freshwater lake are some of the highlights of this ride just south of the bay.

Venturing north off the highway will bring you closer to Lake Nipissing’s rocky shoreline with its wind-swept pines and occasional beaches, where a dip in cool northern waters soothes the soul. Sections of this route are part of the Trans Canada Trail which features a breakaway wilderness trail through wetlands and forested areas.

Don’t miss the Callander Bay lookout just south of the Village of Callander with a stunning vista of Lake Nipissing’s Callander Bay.

Lake Nipissing’s South Shore has long been a magnet for avid anglers chasing the one-that-got-away. There are plenty of lodges and cottage rentals dotting the shoreline, and as more people discover (and rediscover) cycling, these small family-owned businesses are evolving and welcoming cyclists to their small piece of Northern Ontario’s splendour.

To add a little grit to this ride, one can head west on Highway 534 out of Nipissing Village and make your way to Restoule Provincial Park. If you choose to go to the park, be forewarned as the last 10km to the park entry presents some short steep climbs that will test even seasoned riders.

Voyageur Cycling Route – North Bay to Bonfield

Lake Nosbonsing (Bonfield); Lake Nosbonsing Road near Callander

A lesser known route (yet one not to be overlooked!), is the North Bay to Bonfield section of Ontario’s newest long-distance cycling route: the Voyageur Cycling Route. Road cyclists are a common sight along the road between Callander and Astorville. A steady sweeping uphill at the east end of Lake Nosbonsing will get your legs burning with the just reward of a fast roll along the northwest shore of the lake. The quieter country roads leading to Bonfield have pavement that is a little less smooth but allow an opportunity to push yourself over the gentle rollers while feeling the quiet peace of the rural countryside. The deep blue sparkling waters of Lake Nosbonsing are irresistible, and you’re guaranteed to feel fresh and cool after taking a swim.

Astorville and Bonfield both have outdoor bike stands at their lakeside parks if you need to do a quick tune-up before heading back to North Bay.

Voyageur Cycling Route – Sturgeon Falls to Monetville

Rest Stop on Lake Nipissing’s West Arm off Hwy 64; Mashkinonje Provincial Park

If you’re keen to explore the outskirts of North Bay, head west of the city, and connect onto the Voyageur Cycling Route in Sturgeon Falls. This section of the Voyageur Cycling Route takes riders southwest, along quiet country backroads through agricultural lands and past the site of the 2019 International Plowing Match. The culture and languages of West Nipissing will connect you to both Indigenous and French heritage through art, food, and events offered in the area.

You’ll notice a change in the landscape as you approach the west arm of Lake Nipissing to that of granite ridges and expansive wetlands. Grab a takeout lunch from the friendly folks at Lavigne Tavern and savour it on the shores of Lake Nipissing’s west arm just south of Lavigne at the rest stop on Highway 64. A must-see for nature lovers are the spectacular hiking trails at Mashkinonje Provincial Park. The park is “non-operating” so the only facilities in the park are the trails.

Whichever route you choose, you’re bound to return home refreshed, invigorated and ready to plan your next adventure on two wheels. See you on the trails!

The post North Bay’s 5 Best Road Rides appeared first on Tourism North Bay.

SIGHT

The simplest visual clue that spring is nearing arrival, is the obvious snowmelt. Fluffy powder turns to ice crystals, then slush and eventually water. Well-worn paths are carved by this melt into the ice and resemble miniature ice caves at your feet! The advent of spring brings longer days with it, and cues all manner of birds to migrate, find mates, and tell the whole world all about it! From Canadian Geese flying overhead as they return home, to the familiar Robin, northern Ontario is flush with a wide variety of native birds, which can be seen in forested areas, often high in the trees.

If you’re keen to hit the trails early in the morning, you may be lucky enough to spot a Snowy Owl! Trees begin to bud with the warmer weather sweeping in, and observing the bud formation can aid in the identification of trees. The Nipissing Naturalists Club is a great resource if you would like to learn more about the environment specific to our region. Friends of Laurier Woods offer themed hikes during the spring (available as COVID-19 restrictions will allow).

SOUND

If there’s one great reason to get outside at this time of year, it’s the wonderful variety of sounds you’re bound to encounter. From a gentle spring breeze weaving through the forest to the melodious cacophony of birds in full song; spring is rich with sound.

Soon is the time of the Spring Peepers, which are small frogs found in northern Ontario. Peepers reside in calm bodies of water, and their recognizable ‘peep peep’ call can be heard beginning at dusk and carrying into the night. Laurier Woods offers ample habitat for these amphibious friends, but be sure to bring along a flashlight if you’re heading out for a twilight concert!

The warmth of the sun invites our insect friends to come out, so you’re likely to notice more ‘buzzing’ around on the trails. Native pollinators like Mason bees will awake from their winter hibernation around this time, so be sure to sit quietly and listen for them. If you are interested in trying a taste of northern honey, you can find local honey products from Board’s Northern Nectars available at the North Bay Farmer’s Market during the spring, on Saturdays.

SMELL

The scent of a warming earth is invigorating. Close your eyes, and breathe deeply; those earthy scents naturally lower your stress levels, enhances your immune system and increases your focus. Studies on the positive effects of forest bathing have been well documented, and forest therapy is something you can practice during any season in the woods.

It won’t be long before the intoxicating scent of blooming flowers permeates the region, and North Bay’s waterfront boardwalk is a wonderful place to experience this seasonal phenomenon. As plants begin to produce pollen, the aromas from a variety of blossoms encourage pollinators to travel between plants and foster good pollination.

TOUCH

Nature offers so many incredible textures – moss, bark, soil, rock and water is a few. Exploring the forest floor with our sense of touch deeply connects us to the environment, and there are health benefits, too!

Children are natural-born explorers and will find an amazing world at their fingertips in the woods. Encouraging children to interact with the natural world around them fosters a life-long relationship with nature, and builds in the desire to help protect it. Whether it’s the feeling of crispy leaves between their fingers or the soft fluff of a Pussy Willow across their cheek, nature offers an experience bound to leave an impact on all of their senses.

TASTE

Wild edibles are abundant in the north and begin growing in the spring. Maple sap has begun its annual run, and local maple syrup producers will have syrup available at the North Bay Farmer’s Market so you can try this sweet treat for yourself!

There are many resources available to learn about edible wilds in the north, and a good place to start is by reading the Culinary Tourism Alliance’s post: 10 Things to Forage in Ontario: An Edible Timeline | Ontario Culinary. Always be respectful of our natural resources when foraging for edible wilds, and learn what is acceptable to harvest, and what should be left alone.

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