Stepping Stones

snowmobiles at stepping stones on explorers snow tour northeastern ontario

About 15 kilometres east of North Bay (as the crow flies) there's a band of large boulders stretching most of the way across a narrow section of the Mattawa river. 10,000 years ago, as ice retreated, these rocks were left exposed. They were known as a location marker for voyageurs and Indigenous travellers along this historic trading route.

To get there from North Bay, start on the SSR711 to connect with the D Trail. Head north till you get to the A1 and follow it until the river narrows. They'll be on your left.

Purdy Mica Mine

sledder at Purdy Mica Mine

Point of Interest #3 on the Explorers Snow Tour is the old Purdy Mica Mine. Bring a flashlight and leave your helmet on—it can get pretty slippery in the winter. You’ll find it on the A112A OFSC snowmobile trail. It’s very well signed as it lies on the boundary between the North Bay Snowmobile Club and the Mattawa and Area Snowmobile Club. It’s also located on private property, so practice proper trail etiquette—pack out what you pack in.

Superior Picnic Table - Schreiber Beach

Superior Picnic Table Schreiber Beach

The Schreiber Superior Picnic table is located at Schreiber Beach. After your picnic, enjoy a short hike along a portion of the Casque Isles Trail to the Parks Canada Red Chairs. Directions: Turn right out of the Golden Rail parking area onto the highway, and make an immediate right onto Winnipeg St. At the end of the street, turn right onto Scotia St. and left on Subway St. Follow the signs to the beach, turning right after going under the railway bridge, about 2 km.

Lloyd’s Lookout

Lloyd's Lookout

Lloyd’s Lookout is located in Red Rock on the Nipigon River Recreation Trail. The lookout is found 0.8 miles (1.3 km) in from the Red Rock trailhead of the Nipigon River Recreation Trail. The viewing platform offers incredible views above the Nipigon River out to Lake Superior. A few minutes further into the trail there are a couple of Parks Canada Red Chairs to relax in and soak in the view.

 

Superior Picnic Table – Red Rock Marina

Red Rock Marina Superior Picnic Table

The Red Rock Superior Picnic table is located on the breakwater wall at the Red Rock Marina, overlooking Nipigon Bay on Lake Superior. Directions: Turn into the marina at the Red Rock Marina sign. Park at the Interpretive Centre, and follow the path to the right to the end of the break wall.

Superior Picnic Table - Hurkett Cove Conservation Area

Hurkett Cove Superior Picnic Table

The Dorion Superior Picnic table is located on the water’s edge where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Superior with your meal. Check out the interpretive information and take a stroll down the nature trail. Directions: The turnoff is 1 km west of The Grill Shack on Highway 11/17, follow the signs. The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority is the steward of this area. Please support them by paying the $5. parking fee.

Hannam Park

Hannam Park in Rainy River

Hannam Park is located in the Town of Rainy River on the Rainy River. There is something for everyone at this public park. There is a swimming area, a boat launch, a playground as well as a splash pad/wading pool! During the summer, there is a canteen with great food and service.

 

You can also go for a walk on the River Trails which are accessible from the park. One of two of the trails is wheelchair accessible. 

 

Ghost Lake Beach

Ghost Lake beach

Ghost Lake Beach is about 15 minutes from Dryden. It's a beautiful beach, with easy access for day-trippers, anglers, and swimmers. There is a boat launch, canoe rental, walking path, a picnic area, and restrooms. Great place to spend the day with the family.

 

In the winter, the area can be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Umfreville Park

Umfreville Park Beach

Located at the end of the Umfreville Walking Trail is the Umfreville Historic Park. A secluded rest area off of  Highway 72, visitors can enjoy a sandy beach area and a beautiful view of Abram Lake. While there are a bit more pebbles than on the other beaches, it's great to put in your feet or have a dip on a hot summer's day.

The park is equipped with picnic tables and outhouses for the convenience of those who stop to take in the views. Umfreville Park is a favourite destination for cyclists.

Pine Tree Park

Pine Tree Park pavilion

The hub of the trail system in Vermilion Bay, Pine Tree Park has a beautiful pavilion with picnic tables for visitors to take advantage of. This park has three trails along with a government dock where anyone is free to sit down and enjoy the view of Eagle Lake. Located minutes off of Highway 17, Pine Tree Park offers easy access and convenient parking for users to enjoy.
 

There is also a small beach and swimming area along with a government dock and boat launch.

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