Thursday, October 28, 2010

the magnificient Pigeon River Trail, Canadian side

Unlike the trail on the American side of Pigeon River, the Canadian trail is not wheelchair accessible. It is quite a climb and restricted to those who are sure-footed and have hearty lungs. I'm still trying to figure out my new camera so, unfortunately, the American forest on the other side of the river washes out.
If you are afraid of heights, some sections of it might spook you, but there are options so you don't have to go that route. Over many years gone by, glaciers, volcanoes, water, wind, and ice have carved out this amazing landscape.
Parts of the trail are less challenging than other sections. But you still need to be able-bodied and fit to hike this trail as the path is full of roots and is not asphalted and planked the whole way like the American side. Only sections of the Canadian trail have a boardwalk and that's over the swamp down river by the end of the trail when you loop back. Parts of the trail have stones placed in such a way to help you climb up or down the path, depending on which loop you take first. Whether these rocks are natural or placed strategically for hikers' benefit, I'm not sure. I would say not as the path is left to its natural inclination for the better part; indeed, this is what contrasts it most strongly with the American side. If you are able-bodied and fit, this short invigorating trail won't disappoint you. I recommend the half hour drive down Highway 61 to the American border to hike this trail. If it's raining, however, take a rain date as the rocks will be slippery when wet.
Why risk a fall?

2 comments:

Merche Pallarés said...

You ARE an adventurer! And I suppose it's your son once again risking his life!!! I remember doing the trails of Muskoka, in the 80's when I was back in Toronto working in the Spanish National Tourist Office. We camped one weekend in the Muskoka region and I was amazed at all the trails they had, so well organized! We took several but the one I remember most vividly was the beaver trail which was a half an hour walk. Following the blue or red spots on the trees (I can't remember which colour they were right now...) we arrived at at a cliff and watched the beavers eagerly making their dams! It was beautiful.
I'm going to see Janita's video right now. Hugs, M.

northshorewoman said...

I wonder how those Muskokan trails have changed over the years? Or are they still the same? One day you will have to return and walk the old paths you walked!