Category: Exploration
Exploring the outdoors.
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Shadows and Spires in the Dawnland
We had left the windswept shores of Nova Scotia behind us, pointing the car south to cross the border. The plan was a sweeping loop, dropping down the eastern seaboard into Maine before cutting back up through the green hills of Vermont to finally cross into Quebec. My partner navigated from the passenger seat while… Read More…
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An Unsettled Mshkawji Giizis (The Freezing Moon)
The Anishinaabe call this Mshkawji Giizis, the Freezing Moon. It’s a name that carries weight. It speaks of a hard, honest transition, a time when the land finally shrugs off the memory of warmth and submits to the ice. It’s the stillness of the first true freeze, the locking of the lakes, the silent signal… Read More…
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Burnt Lands Provincial Park
Situated only a five kilometres from Almonte, Ontario, lies a remarkable testament to ecological endurance: Burnt Lands Provincial Park. This 516-hectare nature reserve is not just a space of natural beauty, but also a crucial ecological site with a rich history and a name that speaks to its past. Admittedly, my young son was less… Read More…
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Granite and Asphalt Collide in the Carp Hills
The geography of the Ottawa Valley is generally predictable. It consists of flat expanses of ancient seabed, rich farmland, and the sprawling grid of the capital city’s periphery. But just northwest of Kanata, the landscape hiccups violently. Rising abruptly from the agricultural plains is a geological anomaly known as the Carp Hills. It is a… Read More…
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Chrome and Hibernation: An Ecology of Repair
This is a community built on a shared language—a language of socket wrenches, timing lights, and the unmistakable, sweet-and-sour smell of unburnt hydrocarbons. Read More…
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Revealing Achray Campground in Algonquin Provincial Park
Situated in the southeastern corner of Algonquin Provincial Park, Achray Campground is one of my favorite campgrounds in the entire park. It’s far removed from highway noise and busy day tourists, offering a peaceful retreat where you can truly connect with nature. The tranquility of the area allows you to fully immerse yourself in the sounds… Read More…
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How Black Bears and Their Habitats Are Impacted by Human Encroachment and Large-Scale Wildfires
Black bears (Ursus americanus) are a vital part of North America’s wildlife, known for their adaptability and omnivorous diet. However, their habitats and populations are increasingly threatened by human encroachment and large-scale wildfires. This article explores how these factors impact black bears, using three valid examples to illustrate the challenges they face. Human Encroachment: Urban-Wildland… Read More…
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The Rideau Canal: An Enduring Canadian Legacy
The Rideau Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering, stands as a testament to Canada’s rich history and ingenuity. Stretching 202 kilometers from Ottawa to Kingston, this waterway is not only a functional piece of infrastructure but also a cherished cultural landmark. Its locks, historical significance, and the ongoing efforts to preserve it highlight the importance… Read More…
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The Great Canadian Death Race: A Journey of Endurance and Empowering Environmental Stewardship
The Great Canadian Death Race, held annually during the Civic Holiday weekend in August since 2000, is more than just a test of physical endurance. This grueling race, set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, challenges participants to push their limits while fostering a deep appreciation for the natural environment. Having participated in… Read More…
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Discovering Halls Harbour, Nova Scotia
Along the rugged coastline of the Bay of Fundy lies Halls Harbour, Nova Scotia, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. This charming locale is not only a haven for tourists seeking a tranquil escape but also a shining example of environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. I’ve visited… Read More…
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