2013
Blog Break and Happy Everything!
I would like to thank everyone who took the time to visit the Muskoka Blog this past year. I enjoy the many connections we have made over the years. Its time to take a little blog break, abandoning ship so to speak. I’m aimed due south and off to explore sandy beaches, splendiferous sunsets and just perhaps, the sampling of cool liquid amalgamations.
I wish you and your loved ones peace, love, health, happiness, prosperity and look forward to connecting in 2014.
2013
My Mom Would Have Been Proud
I’m lacking some new Muskoka photos so I decided to include a little unbridled self promotion for content. Thank you Georgian College for including me in your recent selection of 10 entrepreneurial alumni. It is a real honor!
I have also included another article below titled, Nature vs. Nurture from a few years back. For the new article in PDF version please click HERE.
2013
Precipitous Manifestations
Winter has arrived with a vengeance and has transformed the region into postcard pretty. Some of the smaller lakes have begun to freeze over which seems early compared to other years. Its a beautiful time to get out and experience the arctic fresh air. I wonder what the Farmers Almanac predicts for the kind of winter ahead, that is if you believe in that kind of thing.
2013
Before the Big Freeze
Anticipation of high water levels in Muskoka if we get the 40-50mm of rain forecasted these next few days. And we thought we were done with high water after this past spring. A Muskoka boathouse before the big freeze.
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2013
Boathouse Shutdown
Its eerie quiet around Muskoka as we prepare for what feels like an early winter. Not many boats out on the lake anymore and when you see one its usually a service boat from a local marina. For some reason all the visitors have disappeared. Boathouse shutdown has commenced.
2013
The Seasons Last Boat Ride
I enjoy being out on the lakes this time of year. Its extremely peaceful and somehow the raw beauty of it all gets amplified exponentially. I try to keep the boats in the water as long as I can and that’s usually until we get our first snowfall which has now happened. We made our way across Lake Rosseau and on up the Joe River into Lake Joseph. To keep warm we meandered slowly as the air was crisp and sharp making our eyes water. For a long duration no one spoke as our brains soaked it all in. A final goodbye to the Muskoka boating season.
2013
Searching for Emanating Color
Out on the water I had a difficult time finding fall colors since the shorelines are predominately lined in mature conifers. While passing through Port Sandfield I noticed this small bay dotted with boathouses with a semblance of color. Shooting with an ultra-wide angled Nikkor 14-24 lens produced this panoramic type shot. Please click for a larger 2048p sized photo.
2013
On the Road to Big Chute
While driving back from the cottage last week I was trying to explain the marine railway system at Big Chute to some guests. If you haven’t checked it out I highly recommend you stop by. Especially if you are one of those curious techno-geeks like me and besides who wouldn’t want to travel to a cool place called Big Chute? I got a little sidetracked with some roadside distractions along the way but we were lucky enough to see the giant apparatus in operation. Oh and looks like awesome weather for a happy Canadian Thanksgiving!
2013
Falling for Fall Foliage
The colours (or colors for you Americans) are really starting to dazzle around the Muskoka area right now. The Ontario Parks Fall Colour Report states that Muskoka is near peak. I hope you get a chance to get out and experience it all. Take in one of the awesome trails if you can.
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2013
Goodbye Summer
It was only a few weeks ago that we were frolicking in the lake and basking in the sun. Now suddenly the big switch has been pulled. I took this shot with an iPad and ran it through the camera+ app
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2013
Whats SUP?
Have you tried to SUP – Stand Up Paddleboarding? I haven’t, but I think I may be good at it. Taken at the Touchstone Resort on Lake Muskoka in the early morning.
2013
Edith Island, Lake Rosseau
Hope you are getting out and enjoying the short-lived warm weather which is currently upon us. Perhaps its our Indian Summer? Here is a recent shot looking towards the Venetian group of islands on Lake Rosseau with Edith Island in the middle. Click for a large 2048p image
2013
Return to Huckleberry Rock
I don’t know about you but I’m real crazy about views. Have you hiked up Huckleberry Rock? The trail is a relatively easy walk from the parking lot. When you get to the top the views are breathtaking. I recommend the end of the day to capture some of the most amazing sunsets in Muskoka. Information is here and a Map
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, uncategorized
2013
Rockhaven Boathouse
As you tour around the Muskoka lakes by watercraft you get to witness some real spectacular scenery. It could be a simple rock formation, weathered pine trees, a kid with a fish on his line or taking in the beautiful architecture. This is one of my favorite properties on Lake Rosseau. It is the boathouse on Rockhaven Island. Have a safe and enjoyable Labour / Labor Day long weekend. Where did the summer go?
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2013
Riding Shotgun
This is the Wenonah II riding shotgun during last August’s recreation of the historical 100 Mile Cruise that took place on the big 3 lakes, Muskoka, Rosseau and Lake Joseph. I had the pleasure of riding alongside on the Segwun steamship for the 12 hour journey. It was the first time they embarked on this historic cruise since 1958. I hope it doesn’t take another 50+ years to do it again. 
2013
Is Muskoka the Hamptons of the north?
I recently gave permission to a website called Classic Driver to use some of my photos for an article they published about Muskoka. The article goes on to suggest that Muskoka is the Hamptons of the north. I guess in some ways people see Muskoka in this capacity with the extravagant lake houses and boathouses on the big three lakes. Having a few celebs, sports stars and wealthy business people is only a tiny part of Muskoka. They are here amongst the many thousands of others because they enjoy the natural beauty and all it has to offer. I certainly don’t see people hunting for celebrities with cameras in hand and hope I never do.
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2013
Touristy Santa
I recommended this dude slip into the obligatory t-shirt and sneaks but he would have no part of it. Strolling around the wharf in Gravenhurst.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, tripin around towns
2013
The Lady of the Lakes
The summer in Muskoka would not be complete without a visit to Windermere House. I truly enjoy the food choices here from the Sushi Bar to the Oliver & Bonacini fine dining room and pub. Sitting up on the veranda soaking in the spectacular view with a fine beverage is the way to go.
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2013
Pure Loonacy
I started making my way back to the cottage thinking I should avoid the approaching rain storm. The ominous skies produced no lightning so I hung around watching a young Loon hunt for dinner. Even though I received a severe drenching I try and not let the weather dissuade me from getting out on these amazing little adventures. Photo near Cedar and Oak Islands on Lake Rosseau.
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2013
Therapeutic Exploration
In my free time I love to make solo missions on my Seadoo and just cruise to somewhere on the lakes I have not visited for a while. I find it very therapeutic being out all alone looking at things without a myriad of distractions. One of my favorite areas to explore in Muskoka is around the north end of Lake Joseph. Lots of islands, jutting rocks, wind blown trees with very little development. I hope it stays this way for a long while.
