explore the bruce guide

Creative Director: Chris Hughes, Designed by: Chris Irvine, Lisa Cruickshank, Written &Edited by: Sue Lebrecht, Maps: Justin Kraemer, Paulette Weber, Photography: FrontCover, Point Clark Lighthouse: Willy Waterton, Ethan Meleg, Telfer Wegg, WillyWaterton, Don Lamont, Justin Kraemer, Yves Cloutier, Lisa Cruickshank

Printed in Canada 60m08 by Quebecor World (Richmond Hill)Copyright 2008 Bruce County Tourism. All information in this guide was deemed accurate at thetime of printing. The listings do not represent an endorsement of events, facilities or activities.

“You can’t do it in just one day.”

- Go Riding TV

Contact Us Bruce County Tourism

800-268-3838519-534-5344

Box 129, 578 Brown St,Wiarton, ON, Canada NOH 2TO

[email protected]

Sauble Beach - weggphotos.com

www.explorethebruce.com

This official guidebook to Bruce County is your ticket to exploring some of thebest hiking, biking, birding, beach’in, paddling and diving experiences to behad in Ontario and Canada! Two hours northwest of Toronto, yet in a world ofits own, the Bruce is part wonderland, part funhouse, where nothing is ordi-nary, much is superlative, and all is very welcoming.

Look for info on the Adventure Passport on pages 4 & 5.

3 . . . . . . . .Welcome5 . . . . . . . .Passport7 . . . . . . . .IPM Event9 . . . . . . . .Bike11 . . . . . . .Hike13 . . . . . . .Paddle15 . . . . . . .Dive 17 . . . . . . .Kids19 . . . . . . .Beach’in21 . . . . . . .Caves23 . . . . . . .Parks25 . . . . . . .Birds27 . . . . . . .Flora29 . . . . . . .Fishing 31 . . . . . . .Captain Bruce33 . . . . . . .Eats35 . . . . . . .Backroads

37 . . . . . . .Georgian Bay39 . . . . . . .Rides41 . . . . . . .Sleds43 . . . . . . .Winter45 . . . . . . .Artistic47 . . . . . . .Culture49 . . . . . . .Events51 . . . . . . .Golf53-55 . . .B&Bs57-59 . . .Motels/Inns61-63 . . .Campgounds65-67 . . . .Cottages/Vacation Homes68-82 . . .Bruce Lighthouse Tour83-85 . . . .Bruce County Map86-87 . . . .Manitoulin Map88 . . . . . . .Visitor Services

5Bruce’s Adventure Passport Contest Thousands have taken the challenge since 2005. Each year we have made it more tricky,more interesting, and people just can’t get enough of the Adventure Passport. This ready-made trip plan requires a little creative thought and some navigation skills that will eitherbring your family closer together or tear them apart….just kidding.

Here’s what previous Adventurers have said:

“We loved it and quickly became addicted to our adventure!” - The Thorsteinsons, Whitby ON

“We were exposed to several beautiful areas we normally would never have known about.”- The Jackson/Davidson Family, London ON

“My daughter got her VIP passport last night from Kait (Bull cruiser). It hasn’t come off herneck since.” - Amanda, Wingham ON

“It gave me a destination to go for a ride.”- Pete, Alma ON

“We love the Bruce and encourage our friends to visit also.” - Jan, Ethel ON

“We had a riot!”- Michelle, Springfield ON

Some hints for 2008:• Use the website for clues and full Adventure Passport information

www.explorethebruce.com/passport• To obtain your official copy call 800-268-3838 or request one from the website.• Contest runs from April to December.• Look for the Explore the Bruce Adventure Toyota Tundra for bonus clues and official

walking sticks.• Attend the International Plowing Match in September for bonus stops.• Be prepared to walk ‘downtown’.

Your Adventure Starts Now!Looking for the Adventure Passport?This year we’ve taken it out of the guide and published it separately.Call or go online to download a copy. What is the Adventure Passport?It’s Bruce County’s amazing scavenger hunt with $12,000 in prizes tobe won. Your Adventure Starts Now!www.explorethebruce.com/passport


“We loved it andquickly becameaddicted to ouradventure!” - TheThorsteinsons,Whitby ON

Lisa Murawsky at the Arran Lake Punch- Lisa Cruickshank

Adventure

7International Plowing Match‘Come Home to the Country’ in 2008 and attend the International Plowing Match inTeeswater, Ontario September, 16-20. The largest industry in the county is farming, so whynot have 100,000 of our closest friends over and have a party to celebrate it?

Visit ‘tented city’ sprawled out over 1000 acres and get a taste of what life in the countryis all about. Bring your RV and camp in the RV park right on site.


www.ipm2008.ca

See You At The Match!

Down On The Farm In Arran Elderslie - weggphotos.com

Bruce Plows

9

Mountain Biking MeccaBruce County has a mission to become the number one off-road ridingdestination in Ontario. Already, three forest tracts have been transformedinto rollicking, singletrack trail parks – and there’s more to come. The starof the show is Bruce Peninsula Mountain Bike Adventure Park which presentsan array of technical trail features including roller coaster-like boardwalks,suspended bridges and rock ladders, all scattered amidst forested loops.


Bruce Peninsula Mountain Bike Adventure Park - Yves Cloutier

Bruce BikesOffroad Rides Name Location NetworkBrant Tract . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 km S of Paisley on Conc 12, E of Bruce Rd 3 30 km Bruce Peninsula Mountain

Bike Adventure Park . . .10 km N of Wiarton on Bruce Rd 9 20 kmCarrick Tract . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 km NW of Clifford on Huron Bruce Line 8 kmSawmill Ski Trails . . . . . . . . . 1 km E of Hepworth on Hwy 6 10 km

Offroad Family RidesName Location NetworkMacGregor Point Provincial Park . .4 km S of Port Elgin on Lake Range Rd 15 kmSaugeen Rail Trail . . . . . . . . . . . .Links Port Elgin to Southampton 6 kmHanover Community Trails . . . . . .Off 7th Ave North by Saugeen River 11 kmWalkerton River Trail . . . . . . . . . .Along the Saugeen River on SW side 5 kmChesley Heritage Trail . . . . . . . . .W on Riverside Dr off 1st Ave South (main st) 4 kmBruce County Rail Trail . . . . . . . . .Links Mildmay to Port Elgin to Bruce Power 88 km(under construction)

Road RidesBruce County’s country roads lend themselves naturally and beautifully to touring.Quiet and well-surfaced, they’re jam-packed with scenic diversity, ups and downs,and twists and turns. Using the free Grey-Bruce Visitor Map cyclists can spin theirown tour following shorelines for example, or linking lighthouses to gardens andother attractions.

Bike ShopsName PhoneCollingwoodKamikaze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .705-446-1234Owen SoundBikeface Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-376-9777Jolley’s Alternative Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-371-1812SconeWheelfast The Bicycle Shoppe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-363-3175SouthamptonMartin’s Bike Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-797-3200

“See You OnThe Bruce.”

- Don

11

Stepping OutBruce County worships trails; it has over 1000 km worth! Its most prizedpossession is the Bruce Trail, running atop of the grand ridge of the NiagaraEscarpment. The county’s 156-km-long segment of the Bruce Trail is indis-putably the most spectacular and rugged section of the world-famous, longdistance footpath. Here, hikers can actually enjoy multi-day treks with food,lodging and luggage transfers with the Home-to-Home Network(www.hometohomenetwork.ca, 888-301-3224).


Rock & Ferns - weggphotos.com

Bruce Hikes

Please support the Bruce Trail Conservancy. Become a member and purchase aBruce Trail Reference Guide, 800-665-HIKE or www.brucetrail.org.

Other Great Hiking OpportunitiesName LocationThe Bruce Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Along the shore of Georgian Bay (white blazes)Brant Tract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 km S of Paisley on Conc 12, E of Bruce Rd 3 Bruce County Rail Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . .Links Mildmay to Port Elgin - to Bruce PowerBruce Peninsula National Park . . . . . . .Visitor Centre (Tobermory), Cyprus Lake, Singing

Sands, Halfway Log Dump, & Flowerpot IsBruce Peninsula Mountain

Bike Adventure Park . . . . . . . . . . .10 km N of Wiarton on Bruce Rd 9Cabot Head Lighthouse . . . . . . . . . . . .Dyers Bay Rd to Cabot Head Rd to endCape Croker - Boardwalk . . . . . . . . . . .Within Cape Croker Campground, NE of WiartonCarrick Tract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 km S of MildmayChesley Heritage Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . .W on Riverside Dr off 1st Ave South (main st)Corran (Spirit Rock) Trails . . . . . . . . . .1 km N of Wiarton on Hwy 6, E sideLucknow Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S side of Campbell St in Waterworks ParkKincardine – Boardwalk . . . . . . . . . . . .Station Beach beside HarbourLion’s Head – Gun Point . . . . . . . . . . .Park at the school, follow Moore St to trail headMacGregor Point Provincial Park . . . . . .4 km S of Port Elgin on Bruce Rd 33Mildmay Nature Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.5 km N of downtown on Hwy 9Fen Boardwalk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .N of Oliphant on Shoreline RdPaisley Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Park at the arena downtownPetrel Point Nature Preserve . . . . . . . . .1 km N of Red Bay turn W on Petrel Point RdPoint Clark Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Access points within communityRankin Ski Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 km N of Sauble Falls on Bruce Rd 13Sauble Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 km along the Lake Huron shorelineSawmill Ski Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 km E of Hepworth on Hwy 6Saugeen Bluffs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 km N of Paisley, W on Saugeen Bluffs RdSaugeen Rail Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Links Port Elgin to SouthamptonSouthampton – Boardwalk . . . . . . . . . .From High St S to Beach StStoney Island Conservation Area . . . . . .5 km N of Kincardine on Bruce Rd 23Walkerton River Trail . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Along the Saugeen River on SW side

Ideal Bruce Trail Day HikesName Nearest Community 2007 Guidebook Distance

Reference # (km)Bruce's Caves . . . . . . . . . .Wiarton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sydenham 119 . . . . . . . .8.4Jones Bluff Side Trail . . . . .Cape Croker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Peninsula 26.6 . . . . . . . .7.5Sydney Bluff Side Trail . . . .Cape Croker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Peninsula 39.9 . . . . . . . .7.5McKay's Harbour Loop . . . .Lion's Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Peninsula 81 . . . . . . . . . .7.2Devil's Monument . . . . . . .Cape Chin North . . . . . . . . . . . .Peninsula 119.1 . . . . . . .4.2Cyprus Lake . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National Park . .Peninsula 156.2 . . . . . . .3.7Little Cove to Tobermory . .Tobermory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Peninsula 168.4 . . . . . . .4.5

13

Scenic StrokesWith Lake Huron to one side, Georgian Bay to the other, with three rivers anda dozen inland lakes, Bruce County has a whole lot of shore to explore. Oneexceptional experience is on Georgian Bay at Bruce Peninsula National Park,sea kayaking alongside the monolithic and cave-pocketed rock walls of theNiagara Escarpment.


Issac Lake - weggphotos.com

Bruce PaddlesRiver PaddlingName Route DistanceSaugeen River . . . . . . . . . . . . .Hanover to Southampton . . . . . . . . . .102 km, 3-4 days

with shorter optionsRankin River . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Isaac Lake to Sauble Falls . . . . . . . . .8-10 hrTeeswater River . . . . . . . . . . . .Riversdale to Ellengowan . . . . . . . . . .10-12 hrBeaver River . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kimberley to Slabtown . . . . . . . . . . .5-7 hr

Lake PaddlingName AccessArran Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .On SR 10 N of Bruce Rd 17, just E of BurgoyneCape Croker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Melville SoundCyprus Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National ParkDyer’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wingfield BasinEmmett Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National ParkBoat & Isaac Lakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rankin River SystemMiller Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Off Barney’s Blvd, Maple Dr & Miller Lake RdOliphant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Fishing IslandsSouthampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chantry Island (restricted access)Stokes Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lyal and Knife IslandsTobermory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cove Island, Shoreline to Dunks Bay

Canoe & Kayak Outfitters open year-round: √Coummunity & Name Phone StreetHepworthSuntrail Source For Adventure . . . . .877-882-2958 . . . . . . .100 Spencer St. . . . . . . √PaisleyCowan Canoe Livery . . . . . . . . . . . .519-353-5535 . . . . . . .316 Mill Dr.Greater Saugeen Trading Co . . . . . . .519-353-4453 . . . . . . .473 Queen St S . . . . . . √Thorncrest Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . .519-353-9283 . . . . . . .258 Queen St NSauble BeachOutervision Adventure Tours . . . . . . .519-422-0333 . . . . . . .Southampton PkwySouthamptonThorncrest Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . .888-345-2925 . . . . . . .193 High St . . . . . . . . . √TobermoryThorncrest Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-8908 . . . . . . .7441 Hwy 6WalkertonGrey Bruce Outfitters . . . . . . . . . . . .519-881-4868 . . . . . . .1047 Bruce Rd 3 . . . . . √

15

Deep EngagementWelcome to the scuba diving capital of Canada! Fathom Five NationalMarine Park, offshore of Tobermory, is site to 22 shipwrecks – mostlyschooners, barges and steamers, many dating back to the mid-1800s.Non-divers can see them too via glass-bottom boat tours; the water isexceptionally clear. As an added attraction, the lake’s floor bed featuresthe below-surface continuum of the Niagara Escarpment.

“Ditch the socks and tie. This year give pop an experiencehe’ll remember.”

- Tobermory Diving, Sunday Sun


Diving at Big Tub in Tobermory - Lisa Cruickshank

Bruce DivesScuba ShopsName Phone StreetPort ElginGroundhog Divers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-389-3629 . . . . . . . . . .582 Gustavus StTobermoryDiver's Den Scuba Charters . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2363 . . . . . . . . . .3 Bay StG&S Watersports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2200 . . . . . . . . . .3 Bay St

Marina & Small Craft LaunchName Phone StreetKincardineKincardine Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-396-4336 . . . . . . . . . . .736 Huron TerLion's HeadLion's Head Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-793-4060 . . . . . . . . . . .1 Dock StOliphantMurdoch McKenzie Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-1017 . . . . . . . . . . .27 Oliphant WayOliphant Boat Launch . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1262 . . . . . . . . . . .End of Bruce Rd 13Owen SoundOwen Sound Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-565-2628 . . . . . . . . . . .195 24th St WPike BayAnchor's Rest Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-793-4309 . . . . . . . . . . .838 Pike Bay RdBy the Bay Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-793-3317 . . . . . . . . . . .817 Pike Bay RdPort ElginPort Elgin Harbour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-832-2008 . . . . . . . . . . .At the HarbourRed BayLittle Red Bay Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-3306 . . . . . . . . . . .155 Resort RdSauble BeachSauble River Boat Launch . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1262 . . . . . . . . . . .King Edward StSauble River Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1762 . . . . . . . . . . .18 Marina AveStokes BayStokes Bay Camp and Marina . . . . . . . .519-592-5648 . . . . . . . . . . .9 Tamarac RdTobermoryHarbour Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2731 . . . . . . . . . . .33 Carlton StLittle Tub Boat Launch . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2452 . . . . . . . . . . .Little Tub HarbourWiartonBoat Lake (sm craft launch) . . . . . . . . .519-534-3111 . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Rd 13Bluewater Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-2592 . . . . . . . . . . .400 Williams StWiarton Marina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-1301 . . . . . . . . . . .771 Bayview St

Great Dive SitesDive Site LocationCabot Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wingfield BasinCedar Hill Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 km E of Wiarton on Grey Rd 1Chantry Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Southampton beach by Gerry’s FriesColpoys Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Government DockDyer’s Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Government DockFathom Five National Marine Park . . . . .Tobermory Fishing Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Off Oliphant, boat requiredInverhuron Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . .Main beach in parkKincardine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Station BeachLion’s Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Accessible by boatSouthampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Long DockWiarton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .At town park on Bayview St past Marina

17

Swings & SlidesThe most warm and wonderful thing about travelling around Bruce Countywith kids is that no matter where you go, which route you take, the commu-nities you pass through or arrive at, by chance or as planned, all have at leastone playground. At schools, in parks, on beaches and along rivers, with picnictables and benches, they are all welcoming for you and your family to enjoy.


Watching the River Flow - weggphotos.com

Bruce The KidKid Stuff1. Get your picture taken with ‘Big Bruce’ in Chesley2. Touch, taste, and listen at the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre3. Climb the lighthouses at Point Clark, Kincardine, Chantry Island, and Cabot Head4. Cool off in the ‘Splash Park’ in Chesley by the arena5. Explore the cliffs and shipwrecks on a glass bottom boat tour6. Hike to the Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park and swim in a cave7. Flip off a trampoline into Lake Huron at Sauble Beach8. Spend your change at the Sweet Shop in Tobermory9. Race go-carts at Sauble Beach Amusements, or Family Funland, Kincardine10. Ride the miniature steam train in Port Elgin11. Say ‘cheese’ with the world’s most famous Groundhog, Wiarton Willie12. Climb the Lookout Tower at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre13. Mountain bike the trails at the Brant Tract, S of Paisley, the Carrick Tract, S of Mildmay,

and test your metal at the Bruce Peninsula Mountain Bike Adventure Park, N of Wiarton14. Go caving at Greig’s and Bruce’s Caves15. Learn to kayak in a ‘play boat’ on the Saugeen River16. Sleep in a yurt at MacGregor Point Provincial Park17. Check out the speed demons in race cars at Sauble Speedway18. Take a drink of water at the Mildmay Rotary Park or from ‘Leo the Lion’ in Teeswater19. Pig out on beach fries and ice cream – the best food combination in the world! 20. March with ‘Blinky’ and the Scottish Pipe and Drum band in Kincardine21. Olie at the Skate Park in Walkerton22. Get some wicked air at the BMX Park in Port Elgin

Horseback RidingName Phone StreetPurple ValleyPurple Valley Riding Stables . . . . . . . . .519-534-0598 . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Coronation St

Mini GolfName Phone StreetDunkeldDunkeld Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-881-0479 . . . . . . . . . . . .1601 Bruce Rd 3KincardineFamily Funland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-395-0360 . . . . . . . . . . . .Hwy 21Port ElginMini Steam Train Station . . . . . . . . . . .519-389-3919 . . . . . . . . . . . .At the beachSauble BeachPinewoods Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1546 . . . . . . . . . . . .661 Bruce Rd 8Sauble Beach Amusements . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1078 . . . . . . . . . . . .701 Main StTobermoryDuffers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2634 . . . . . . . . . . . .7178 Hwy 6WiartonHarbour Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-2798 . . . . . . . . . . . .Point Rd

19

Leaving FootprintsSandwiched between two large water bodies, Bruce County offers up morethan 100 beaches! The Lake Huron side is warm and sandy with popularhangouts and secluded, quiet coves. By contrast, the Georgian Bay side is coldand rocky with long ledges for lounging, boulder jumbles for scrambling, andsea caves for exploring. Most popular is Sauble Beach with its 11-km-longstrand of gold, voted best beach in Ontario and ranked among the top ten inCanada.

“Sauble Beach - Voted top ten beach in Canada”

– Readers Digest


Theo at the Beach - explorethebruce.com

Bruce Goes Beach’inAllenford Arran Lake CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .On SR 10, N of Bruce Rd 17, just E of BurgoyneCape Croker Sydney Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cape Croker Indian Reserve on Sydney Bay RdDyer’s Bay Cape Chin South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carter Rd, E of Cape Chin South Rd Wingfield Basin, Cabot Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cabot Head Rd, NE of Dyer’s BayHope Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .On Beach St, E of Bruce Rd 9, N of WiartonKincardine Station Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Harbour St, W off Queen StLion's HeadBeach Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .On Scott St, E of Main StMiller Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Miller Lake Rd, E off Hwy 6Myles Bay Sandy Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Miles Bay Shore Rd, W of Stokes Bay Rd Oliphant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Oliphant Way, W of Bruce Rd 13Pike Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .At the Community Park on Pike Bay RdPoint Clark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lighthouse Rd, S of Victoria Rd, W of Conc 2Port Elgin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Harbour St, W of Elgin St, W off Goderich StBrucedale CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sprucedale Dr, N of Conc 10, W off Hwy 21MacGregor Point Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Rd 33, W of Conc 4, W off Hwy 21Red Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Waterview Rd, N off Huron Rd, W of Hwy 6Sauble Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .At the lights go WSouthampton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Multiple access points off Huron St, W of Hwy 21Tiverton Inverhuron Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jordan Rd, off Conc 2, W of Hwy 21Tobermory Cameron Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cameron Lake Rd, E of Hwy 6Cyprus Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National ParkDunks Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dunks Bay Rd, E of Hwy 6Halfway Log Dump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National ParkLittle Cove (Dave's Bay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bruce Peninsula National ParkSinging Sands (Dorcas Bay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dorcus Bay Rd, W of Hwy 6 Wiarton Berford Lake Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E of Mar, on Mar SR, to Berford Park RdWiarton Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E of lights at William St, off Hwy 6

Dog-friendly beaches at MacGregor Point Provincial Park, North Shore Park in Port Elgin, and Kincardine.

Water Sport ShopsName Phone StreetOliphantMurdoch McKenzie Ltd - Sea-Doo . . . . . . . . . .519-534-1017 . . . . . . . .27 Oliphant WayPort ElginBeachin’- Kiteboarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-389-5790 . . . . . . . .582 Goderich StSauble BeachJack n Jill’s Surf Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-9997 . . . . . . . .107 Main StMakin Waves Watersports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1313 . . . . . . . .Main StSauble Beach Amusements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-422-1078 . . . . . . . .701 Main StSauble Beach Kite Boarding School . . . . . . . . .519-422-3962 . . . . . . . .Main St Sauble River Marina – Water Toys . . . . . . . . .519-422-1762 . . . . . . . .18 Marina Ave

21

Truly, Madly, DeeplyDuring the last ice age, about 7,000 years ago, powerful waves pounded holes in therock wall that is now the Niagara Escarpment. Bruce County has a fascinating collec-tion of these caves and caverns, some linked by tunnels and adorned with weathered,hourglass-shaped pillars. Geological spectacles, scenic icons, natural funhouses, eachwith its own story, they await the curious adventurer.


Grotto - Bruce Peninsula National Park - Don Lamont

Bruce CavesCaves and CavernsName & Description Location Contact

Bruce’s Caves....................................Former home to Wiarton’s hermit, RobertBruce, this conservation area features amassive “undercut” cave with a crevasse atits back and a pillar at its front. Exploringinside calls for poise, stepping on rock rub-ble that has collapsed from the ceiling.Greig’s Caves ...................................Claiming “Ontario’s Largest NaturalLimestone Caves”, this attraction presents12 caves and tunnels linked by a kilome-tre-long trail. The 1980’s classic movie“Quest For Fire” was filmed here.Admission fees apply.The Grotto .........................................Of the 7 km of karst caves (created bywave action) along the park’s shoreline,the Grotto is the largest and most outstand-ing. Bottomless, it cups the turquoise, sun-bright water of Georgian Bay and invitesswimming on a hot day. Park fees apply.Flowerpot Island .............................The 3 km trail that leads from the landingdock to the “flowerpot” rock formationsloops back past caves. A set of stairs leadsup to the maw of one while interpretivesigns describe their formation. Park feesapply. Neustadt Springs Brewery .............Deep in the bowels of this historic stonebrewery, a natural spring flows through anetwork of manmade caverns constructedin 1859. Weekend tours available May toSeptember. Admission fees apply.Scenic Caves Nature Adventures....A 1.6-km-long self-guided trail with rampsand staircases leads playfully into a seriesof caves and passages. This property alsohas a massive suspension bridge, an eco-adventure tour with a treetop walk, ziplinecables, and more. Admission fees apply.

On Grey Rd 1, ................4 km E of Wiarton

29 km N of Wiarton .......on Bruce Rd 9, then Eon Scenic Caves Rd

Indian Head Cove ...........in Bruce PeninsulaNational Park,Cyprus Lake

Accessible by tour boat ....from the harbour inTobermory

On Grey Rd 10, ..............uptown Neustadt

Collingwood,...................Scenic Caves Rd atopBlue Mountain

Grey SaubleConservationAuthority,519-376-3076

519-793-3158

Bruce PeninsulaNational Park,519-596-2233

Parks CanadaVisitor Centre,519-596-2233

519-799-5790

705-446-3515

23

Green AromaThere’s an exceptional amount of greenspace in the Bruce. The county boasts twonational parks, three provincial parks, two conservation authorities, provincial naturereserves and – not least – protected land all along the mighty ridge of the NiagaraEscarpment, which is designated as a World Biosphere Reserve. In the Bruce, naturehas room to thrive.

“Ancient white cedars are rooted in the dolomite cliffs,and the wild orchids and ferns provide lush and colour-ful groundcover.”

- Canadian Geographic


Flowerpot Island - weggphotos.com

Bruce’s ParksBruce Peninsula National ParkAt the top of the peninsula, this national park features a 20-km-long stretch of the NiagaraEscarpment with its 40-metre-high cliffs, sea caves and car-sized boulders. The hiking here isworld class. Tobermory.519-596-2233 (Reservations -877-737-3783)

Fathom Five National Marine ParkRenowned for scuba diving, Canada’s first underwater park has crystal clear water and 22shipwrecks! However, one needn’t be a diver to see down below. Glass-bottom boat toursoffer shipwreck sightseeing plus visits to Flowerpot Island where a looped trail leads tofascinating rock formations. Tobermory.519-596-2233 (Reservations -877-737-3783)

MacGregor Point Provincial ParkOn the shore of Lake Huron, MacGregor has a 7-km-long series of sandy coves plus differentforest and wetland habitats, all laced by easy trails, most of which are open to biking too.Ideal for families, the park is naturally entertaining with exceptional wildlife viewing, espe-cially for birds. A dozen yurts offer an alternative to camping, and make a winter visit acozy experience. Bruce Rd 33, S of Port Elgin.888-ONT-PARK (Reservations)

Inverhuron Provincial ParkWhat was site to a small town in the 1800s is now a recreational campground with a sandybeach, hardwood forest, wetlands and renowned sunsets. N of Inverhuron off Albert Rd.888-ONT-PARK (Reservations)

Sauble Falls Provincial ParkFrom waterfall-side boardwalks, visitors have a front row seat to watching rainbow trout andChinook salmon in their struggle to leap over Sauble Falls to spawn upstream. The spectaclecan be seen every spring and autumn at this park and summer camping facility. Bruce Rd13 N of Sauble Beach.888-ONT-PARK (Reservations)

Saugeen Valley Conservation AreasFor a peaceful camping destination, consider Brucedale on Lake Huron or Saugeen Bluffs onthe Saugeen River. For a family or romantic day getaway visit Headquarters with itsstreams, ponds, trails, sulphur springs, and hundreds of ducks and geese. Saugeen Bluffs CA – 4 km N of Paisley on Bruce Rd 3. Brucedale CA – W of Hwy 21 on Conc 12, N of Underwood.Headquarters CA – 4 km S of Hanover just E of Grey Rd 10.519-364-1255

25Birding Bruce

Dramatic in DrovesThousands of birds funnel through the Bruce Peninsula each spring and fall while 150different species stay to make the Bruce their home. But more than big migratorywaves and arousing summer displays is the wondrous wilderness setting. In theBruce, chances are you’ll have the trail, the sites, the backdrop and the birds all toyourself. To meet other enthusiasts come to the Huron Fringe Birding Festival in late-May. Also, the Bruce Peninsula Bird Observatory (www.bpbo.ca, 519-795-7652)puts on birding workshops and other interesting events.


Oliphant Fen Boardwalk - weggphotos.com

MacGregor Point Provincial ParkSite of the Huron Fringe Birding Festival in late-May, early-June, MacGregor is a birdinghotspot; more than 200 species have been sighted here. Songbird watching is exceptional inspring and fall. Also, the park’s diverse habitats host numerous breeding species includingCanada Warbler, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and Rose-breasted Grosbeak.

Chantry IslandOffshore of Southampton, this Canadian Wildlife Sanctuary is host to a large number ofnesting waterbirds including Great Egrets, Great Blue Herons, and Black-crowned NightHerons. The birds can be seen easily by spotting scope, but guided tours of the island and itshistoric lighthouse are also available June to mid-September (www.chantryisland.com,519-797-5862 or 866-797-5862).

Isaac LakeBirders can drive right into this large wetland north of Wiarton, notable for its nesting marshbirds such as Sandhill Crane, American Bittern, Sora Rail, Virginia Rail, Hooded Merganser,Marsh Wren, and Black Tern. The experience here at sunrise and sunset is just magical.

Ferndale FlatsHabitat that’s prairie-like, the agricultural land surrounding Ferndale is home to nestingmeadow species including Brewer’s Blackbird, Upland Sandpiper, Bobolink, and EasternMeadowlark. Birds sit on fenceposts, the back roads are quiet, the veiw is panoramic andthe spotting is easy.

Black Creek Provincial Park/Stokes BayOut of sinc with the rest of the peninsula, Black Creek encompasses a unique northernecosystem that draws many migrants and hard to find breeders such as Magnolia Warbler,Olive-sided Flycatcher, and Golden-crowned Kinglette. Adjacent Stokes Bay is one of thecounty’s best spots for spying on migrating shorebirds and ducks; bring a spotting scope.

Bruce Peninsula National ParkWith its wide array of habitats the park features a large diversity of both migrant and breed-ing birds. The creek between Cyprus and Horse lakes draws many warblers during May. InJune, the forests along Emmett Lake Rd are particularly good for colourful breeders includingScarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blackburnian Warbler, and Black-throated BlueWarbler. The 20-m-high observation tower in the park’s visitors centre provides the perfectperch for watching migrating hawks launch off the peninsula in spring.

Cabot Head/Dyer’s BaySpring or fall, drive out to the lighthouse to see why Cabot Head has been designated as an“Important Bird Area” in Canada. Offshore in Dyer’s Bay, large numbers of Red-neckedGrebes congregate in late-April along with White-winged Scoters, Long-tailed Ducks andLoons.

“I enjoyed seeing the beautiful nature that weseem to forget that we have in our own backyard,

I am interested in hiking some of the BruceTrail.”

- Nancy Dyment, Oshawa

27Flora Bruce

Precious & PrettyExtreme and unusual habitats make for strange and remarkable plant life in BruceCounty. Escarpment cliffs, alvars, dolostone bedrock shores, marl fens and sand dunesare just some of the environments that challenge plants and promote diversity. Notonly does the county boast a kaleidoscope of nearly 1500 plant species, it has one ofthe highest concentrations of orchids on the continent with 44 species. Fern diversityis also impressive with 50 species. One needn’t be a botanist to appreciate the manycuriosities. To assist in the search and identification of orchids and ferns, two locallyproduced guidebooks are readily available. Please tread lightly; protect our plants.


Wild Flowers - weggphotos.com

WonderlandOliphant Fen, Red Bay, Petrel PointOn the shore of Lake Huron near the base of the Bruce Peninsula, low sandy areas floodedfor most of the year are host to several fens. These grassy wetlands feature carnivorousplants and orchids. In late-June look for Showy orchids; their pink and white booty-shapeflowers stand out above the crowd of sedges and grasses. Oliphant Fen welcomes visitorswith a boardwalk and interpretive signs.

Dorcas Bay (Singing Sands)The variety of habitats is what makes Dorcas Bay a hot spot for plants and led to the site’sprotection in 1962. Among a profusion of wildflowers are orchids, including Ram's HeadLady Slipper. In mid-June the fen is alive with Rose Pogonias interspersed with the insect-eating Linear-leaved Sundews and Pitcher Plants.

Lake Huron AlvarsNatural pavements of limestone, alvars are at their best when the Lakeside Daisies are inbloom in early-June. This yellow daisy is one of the rarest flowers in Ontario, though it iscommon on certain alvars in the Tobermory area. The big cracks that run through alvars alsohold many treasures including the cute Maidenhair Spleenwort. Globally rare habitat, alvarsare extremely sensitive; please stay on trails. One excellent site lies at the end of SingingSands Trail in Bruce Peninsula National Park.

Escarpment CliffsOn the cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment running up the east coast of the Bruce Peninsula,gnarled eastern white cedars, often hanging upside down, are amongst the oldest trees inNorth America – some over 1000 years old. Good places to see them are at the Lion'sHead Nature Reserve or in Bruce Peninsula National Park. Look too for ferns like the SmoothCliffbrake growing in crevices at the base of the cliffs.

Flowerpot IslandFive kilometers offshore of Tobermory in Fathom Five National Marine Park, FlowerpotIsland is best known among floral enthusiasts for its small population of Round-leavedOrchids. Many other orchid species including Large Round Leaved Orchid and Heart LeavedTwayblade are found on the island. Flowerpot is also renowned for its ferns, notably theWall Rue, Ostrich and Northern Holly.

Word of CautionNever pick, dig or trample our plants; it’s against the law.

Rural Gardens of Grey BruceA collective of gardeners has created a marvelous form of horticultural show-and-tell. Rural Gardens of Grey and Bruce Counties is an organization of bothhobbyist and professional gardeners that not only welcome visitors but alsoshare their green thumb secrets. The nearly three-dozen member sites rangefrom internationally recognized gardens to lush organic crops to sanctuariesfor butterflies. Some gardens have decorations including sculptures, toy trains,miniature villages and unusual grapevine structures. Visit www.ruralgardens.cato print off a map, or pick up a brochure at any local information centre.Admission is by set fee or a recommended donation of $2. Visiting hours varyand some sites are by appointment only.

“Dorcas Bay... this little pocket of heaven offers an astonishingand diverse range of Flora.”

- Canadian Gardening

29Bruce Goes Fishing

Streams & LakesCasting from a dock or down-rigging from a boat can yield a good catch. During thespring and fall the fish are running, literally. The river banks are lined with anglerstempting their luck. During the summer the cool deep waters of Georgian Bay andLake Huron are the place to be. Several major fishing derbies take place. Inland lakesprovide world class Blue Gill and Bass fishing.


Saugeen River - Walkerton - weggphotos.com

“...fishing that doesn’t get a lot of publicity, against abackdrop of world class scenery.”

- Ontario Out Of DoorsFly FishingThe Saugeen River is one of the largest watersheds in Southern Ontario and the number ofpools, combined with little angling pressure, make the river one of the top fly fishingdestinations in the province. The headwaters of the Saugeen have abundant mayfly hatchesand the incredible “classic trout water” affords ample opportunity for large Brown Trout andabundant Brook Trout in the 8-12 inch range.

Fly Fishing ShopsName Phone WebsiteFirst Cast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-766-4665 . . . . . . . .hooklineandsinker.caGrand River Troutfitters . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-797-4359 . . . . . . . .grandriveroutfitters.comGridstone Angling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .905-689-0880 . . . . . . . .grindstoneangling.comNatural Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .888-629-3474 . . . . . . . .naturalsports.ca“Wilsons” Ontario Fly Shop . . . . . . . . .877-347-4460 . . . . . . . .wilsonstoronto.com

Fly Fishing GuidesName WebsiteIan James . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.sympatico.ca/ianjamesMike Verhoef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .flyfitters.comKen Chandler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .ontariodriftboatguides.com

Fishing DerbiesFish Kincardine DerbyCFPS Chantry Chinook ClassicBruce Peninsula Fishing DerbySauble River Marina Fishing DerbyOwen Sound Salmon Spectacular

For dates and times check www.explorethebruce.com.

Fishing ChartersName Phone StreetDyer’s BayDyer’s Bay Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-795-7253 . . . . . . . .61 Old Pine Tree RdKincardineDwindle’s Dream Fishing Charters . . . . .877-396-6144 . . . . . . . .1090 Huron TerThe Mac Fishing Charters . . . . . . . . . . .519-396-2238 . . . . . . . .1090 Huron TerTobermoryG&S Watersports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2200 . . . . . . . .3 Bay StKing Fisher Charters . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2443 . . . . . . . .22 Front StWiartonKW Fisherman Charters . . . . . . . . . . . .519-534-4975 . . . . . . . .111 Spencer St

31Captain Bruce

All Aboard!Knowledgeable boat tour operators offer up excursions to offshore sites including thelighthouse at Cove Island, the birds at Chantry Island, shipwrecks, Flowerpot Island,and the deepest spot in Georgian Bay (170 m). Private sailing charters along thecoast are also available.


Great Blue HeronGlass Bottom Boat - Tobermory

- Don Lamont

Dining On The WaterThe MS Chi-Cheemaun doesn’t just provide ferry service to Manitoulin Island.Through spring, summer and fall, the large vessel also offers up a Sunset DinnerCruise. Featured on the last sailing of the day, this romantic or family affair is agourmet experience on the sundown side of the boat with a wall of windows grant-ing full outdoor view. Of course, before and after the meal, the deck is the place tobe, sitting on benches or leaning against the rail, while the sun does what it does,in a grand way, on a great lake. The four-hour round trip excursion with dinnercosts less than $50 per person. Reservations are required. 800-265-3165, www.ontarioferries.com

Tour BoatsName Phone StreetPort ElginOffshore Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-832-6052 . . . . . . . . . .698 Gustavous StSauble BeachOutervision Adventure Tours . . . . . . . . .519-422-0333 . . . . . . . . . .Southampton PkwySouthamptonChantry Island Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . .866-797-5862 . . . . . . . . . .Saugeen StTobermoryBlue Heron Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .519-596-2999 . . . . . . . . . .24 Carlton StChi-Cheemaun Car Ferry . . . . . . . . . . .800-265-3163 . . . . . . . . . .8 Eliza St

Big BlueThe Great Blue Heron Tour Boat Company offers an array of tours. Spend a fewhours on Georgian Bay touring shipwrecks and rugged shoreline of the NiagaraEscarpment in Canada’s only National Park located on water. Boat tours range fromglass bottom, rigid inflatables (Zodiac), and offer round trips to Flowerpot Island.You can get off and explore the island for 2 hours and the boat will pick you upand bring you back to Tobermory. Another way to enjoy the Peninsula is to take inone of the Blue Heron’s sunset cruises.www.blueheronco.com

"Tobermory invented quaint." – Toronto Star, Wheels

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