2010
Blog Breakaroo
Thanks to everyone who visited and experienced a small slice of my Muskoka this past year. By the time this gets posted I should be on a Caribbean beach recharging for the new year. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Yuletide Tidings and what ever else aligns with your world.
Peace, love, health, happiness and great success in 2011!
Ed
2010
Muskoka Sky
I was driving across a stretch of old Highway #69 just as the sun was going down. The sky was beautifully lit up and I stopped, setup the tripod and took a few shots. It really was darker than what the photo shows however a little longer exposure time brought out the sky. Please click for a larger photo.
2010
Big Lake Freeze Over
The larger lakes are starting to freeze up in Muskoka now and it won’t be long until we see the deer walking out on the lakes, fish huts and sleds zooming by. For those of you that know what bubblers are it might be time to turn them on.
2010
Can’t See the Forest for the Snow
Winter has arrived and I don’t think there is any turning back this time. Throw another log on the fire and crack open a fine varietal.
As always please click on the photo to see a larger version.
2010
November Snow
Arrived in Muskoka and discovered close to about one foot of snow had fallen. Even the small lakes and bays are starting to freeze over. Please click on the photo for a larger image.
2010
Lake Rosseau Island
This will be the last shot I will post this year taken from the boat. Everything is put away now for the winter. There are a few boats zooming about however they are mostly work boats. Not many taking leisurely tours around the Muskoka lakes these days. I forgot to look at the charts to get the name for this Island. It is just off Tobin Island and not too far from Bohemia.
Please click on the photo for a larger size
2010
Lake Muskoka Dreariness
Lake Muskoka on a dark and dreary November day. Please click on the photo for a larger image
2010
Flocking Off?
I am not sure what the Canadian Geese are doing hanging around the Bala Bay Park, everything else has vacated. I think I would have flocked off by now.
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
A Bus in the Bush is Worth …
I am not sure what this bus was doing down an old pathway in the bush. Its getting a little chilly now and we have seen a few flurries around the area. It won’t be long until old man winter gives us a good blast.
2010
Happy Halloween Pumpkin Heads
Pumpkin head on top of a rock outside Port Carling
Please click on the image for a pumpkin sized photo
2010
Muskoka Emporium
The bursts of Muskoka color now lie on the ground, crumpled in scattered heaps. Seen near Bala in Muskoka
Please click for a larger sized photo
2010
Autumns Final Surge
To experience vivid foliage extraordinaire you need to time it just right. Unfortunately the Muskoka fall colors do not last very long. Part of the fun of fall is stretching it out as long as we can, repudiating the inevitable approaching winter. The cold temperatures, heavy rain and northern gales have hammered home a new reality. Time to recalibrate.
2010
The Rugged Wilson’s Falls
Located near Bracebridge on the north branch of the Muskoka River is Wilson’s Falls. There is a fairly rugged trail that leads you through some hilly terrain in the bush and out to the falls area. There is a very small hydro damn at the top that is visible in the photo. You can also drive right up to the falls if you follow Wilson’s Falls Road not far from downtown Bracebridge. Here is a Map
Please click for a larger photo.
2010
Happy Trails
Muskoka has great trails available to everyone and for free. I have taken a number of people out on the various trails around the area and they are always blown away. The Muskoka Trails Council has a good website that features maps, distances, photos and degrees of difficulty. I found even the ones marked difficult were pretty easy so don’t be intimidated or think you need any special gear. Just get out and give them a shot and I promise that you won’t regret it.
For more information please visit
http://www.muskokatrailscouncil.com
2010
Bohemia Island, Lake Rosseau
The weather was cool but still warm enough to enjoy a seasonal boat ride without layering up too much. This is Bohemia Island on Lake Rosseau near Tobin Island not to be mistaken for North Bohemia which lies on the opposite side of Tobin Island closer to Juddhaven. I am not certain of its history however if its consistent with other Muskoka Islands I am sure it has a storied past.
Please click for a larger sized photo
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
Cranberry Festival Time
Just a reminder this weekend, Friday to Sunday Oct 15-17, 2010 is the Cranberry Festival in Bala. If its anything like last year it will be very busy.
Click HERE for directions to Bala, Ontario
Last years crowd at the Cranberry Fest in Bala. Click for a biggie size.
2010
Lookout Island
I went out for a little field trip as the sun began to rise and noticed the fog had not yet burned off the lake. This time of year there really is some spectacular scenery around Muskoka.
Please click for a higher res photo
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
Da Plane, Boss, Da Plane!
I snapped this shot as I was traveling up near Rosseau, Ontario and towards Parry Sound, just off old Hwy #69. For us Canadians it is our Thanksgiving weekend and Columbus Day for our American friends. Safe travels to all.
Please click on the photo for a larger size.
2010
Connected at the Cottage
This months Muskoka Magazine features an article by Norah Fountain on staying connected while at the cottage. The article discusses how many of us connect through social networks like Facebook, Twitter and personal Blogs while we enjoy our time in Muskoka. Thanks Norah for including some background on this blog.
2010
Leonard Lake
Contrary to what the media reports, the fall colours have not peaked in Muskoka so you still have time to take in one of the most spectacular times of year. Driving across highway #118 towards Bracebridge I found a road to Leonard Lake. At the end of the road is a public boat launch where I discovered this scene.
Please CLICK and enjoy a larger photo
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
The Lone Cruiser
Its getting a little chilly out on the Muskoka lakes but there are a few of us die-hard’s still cruising around. Captured off the Port Sandfield swing bridge heading up Lake Joe.
2010
Where Did All The Cash Flow?
I tried to avoid the gridlock in the Huntsville area this past summer due to the G8 Summit . So now that the hoopla had blown over I was curious to see what is going on. It seems to have returned to its original self pretty much. I walked around the Deerhurst Resort where the worlds great leaders schmoozed however I didn’t really notice any difference from the year before. You would have thought they would have upgraded the carpets or painted the walls or something? Where did all the cash go?
Please click on the above photo for a larger sized – thanks
2010
Wenonah II at Port Carling Locks
I was passing through Port Carling the other day and noticed the Wenonah II moored at the Port Carling Locks. Apparently someone rented her out for a wedding party. I’m sure the steamships will be busy this fall as people visit to see the world famous Muskoka colors.
Please click for biggie sized
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
Spinning into a New Season
Its getting a little cooler on the water and temperatures are dropping into the single digits at night. The fall fairs are a true reminder that the summer season is over. Click Here for a list of fall fairs across Ontario.
Please click on the photo for a larger sized shot – tks
2010
Marine Railway at Lock #44
Here is a shot of the Big Chute Marine Railway at lock #44 on the Trent Severn waterway. This baby can carry a boat up to 100 feet long and 24 feet wide. Please click on the photo for a much larger version.
2010
Water Wheelin
Lots to do and see around the town of Bracebridge, Ontario. This weekend is their annual fall fair. This water wheel is located near the waterfalls in the main part of town. Please click on the photo for a larger size.
2010
Captain Randy’s Idyllwood
If you have traveled around on the Big 3 lakes in Muskoka for any length of time you have probably noticed the Idyllwood. Captain Randy Potts was born and raised in Muskoka and used to captain the Segwun Steamship. Now he has his own gig operating Sunset Cruises. One of the cool things they will do is set you up on your own custom cruise picking 12 people up at your dock. I plan to do this with a group of us someday. Small businesses like Captain Randy’s deserve a plug. Its not easy making a living as a seasonal business.
PLease click on the photo for a larger version – thanks
2010
The Plane Leaves at 8 Be Under It
The first DC-3 aircraft were built by Douglas in 1935 under the military destination of C-47. Dakota’s or Gooney Bird’s as they are affectionately referred to are one of the most significant transport aircraft ever built. This machine is part of the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum and was on display at the recent Parry Sound Air show on September 11, 2010.
Please click on the image for a larger sized photo
2010
Your Nothing but a Big Chute
Shooting down the Big Chute. This photo was taken just off lock #44 on the Trent-Severn waterway in Big Chute, Ontario. This is the runoff area beside North Americas only operating Marine Railway. It is a national historic site and I highly recommend you check this place out. If you are driving on highway #400 just north of Port Severn take the White Falls Road exit and follow the signs to Big Chute. I will post a shot of the Marine Railway itself soon.
Please click on the photo for a larger version – thanks
2010
54-40 Rocks The Kee
The Kee to Bala was wrapping up its summer concerts this past Labour Day weekend with 54-40 (below) performing on Saturday night and Sloan on Sunday night. The photos are a little soft as you are not allowed to bring in a full sized camera so I used my trusty pocket cam that struggles with the light conditions.
Below is a shot of Neil Osborne of the band 54-40. They are in my opinion one of the most underrated Canadian rock bands with great tunage like; Baby Ran, I go Blind, One Day in Your Life, Baby Have Some Faith, Ocean Pearl, Lies to Me, etc. They are a Muskoka favorite.
Please click on the images for larger photos
2010
Random Acts of Patriotism
You can never see enough random acts of patriotism in this country. Have a safe and happy labor labour day.
2010
We Were Lost in Rock Formations
Usually there is so much water cascading over this trippy piece of rock you never get to see it. I believe this is what they refer to as Precambrian rock which dates back to 4.5 billion years ago. Yes it is part of the Canadian Shield and ts everywhere you travel in and around the Muskoka district. Imagine coming here to farm in the 1800′s and this is what your plot of land looked like.
Please click for an even bigger and more trippy photo
2010
Stopped in Your Track
I took this photo a while back. I was on my way to Bala when I found this dirt road off highway #169. I am always interested to find out what is down some of these roads. Usually there is something interesting. I guess this would be a snowmobile trail sign.
Please click on the photo for a larger size
2010
The Red Canoe
It was early morning and I was having coffee on the dock when this red canoe with a family of blonds darted by.
please click on the photo for a larger 1280 pixel sized photo
2010
Shadows
Down the Indian River and through the Port Carling locks on a sunny afternoon. Where else do you get to see a scene like this?
Please click for a large photo
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
Railroaded
After the major sugar hit from Marty’s world famous butter tarts the gals went shopping for shoes (again). So I wandered down to the end of the main street in downtown Bracebridge near the falls area. It was mid day so the light was not perfect and I was sans tripod but nevertheless found this interesting train track.
Please click on the photo for a larger version
2010
Gullible
No its not a scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” but I find sometimes black and white can add a certain amount of drama to a photo. Seen everywhere in Muskoka, beach communities, waterways and MacDonalds parking lots – the common seagull. Please click for a larger photo – thanks.
2010
Bestest Friends
Erika traveled from the prairies to Muskoka for her 16th birthday and brought her bestest friend in the world along for the journey. We picked a bay near the top end of Lake Rosseau to drift and swim in the August sunshine. Life is good!
Please click on the photo for a large sized pic.
2010
Welcome to the Machines
The machine of a dream
Such a clean machine
With the pistons a pumpin
And the hub caps all gleam
.. from Queen’s, I’m in love with may car
As seen on Peninsula Rd. in Muskoka. An old Jeep Wagoneer from the 1960′s I think. I never knew they had a front grill like a Rolls Royce. The other mean machine is an Audi R8, V10 Supercar.
Please click on the photo for a super-sized image
2010
Gentleman’s Racers of Muskoka
I dropped by the Antique Boat Show in Port Carling this past Saturday just as it was coming to an end. It was put on by the Muskoka Lakes Association better known as the MLA and this year they featured the Gentleman’s Racer. Many of the vintage boats were starting to make their way back home through the lock system and I hurriedly snapped a few shots. The locks in Port Carling straddle Lake Muskoka on one side and Lake Rosseau on the other. This is a very busy are and popular tourist destination. The hub of the lakes as its known.
If you are interested in the Gentleman’s Racer boats, check out Neil Honeymen’s book that documents many of the vintage boats of the area. And thanks Neil for including one of my photos of Dukes Marine
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
Cruising up by Playfair Island
I found this cool looking old boathouse/barn and old cottage tucked into a little bay up on Lake Joseph just past Playfair Island. I have no idea of its history however I would hazard to guess this was probably a working farm at some point. You can see the location on Google Maps HERE
Please click on the photo for a much larger sized photo
2010
You Go First
If you take a close look or maybe click on this photo to enlarge you will see three young guys standing at the top of this 60 foot granite cliff in Burnegie Bay on Lake Joseph. I watched them scale the rock and then proceed carefully to the edge. For the next 15 minutes they negotiated back and forth as to who would have the guts to go first. Finally, the young dude on the far right stepped up and did a full gainer into the lake below followed by a loud yelp of joy.The other two jumped right after with similar cries of victory. Would you take a leap off this rock?
2010
Joseph River Marina, R.I.P.
It’s the end of an era in Muskoka. The Joseph River Marina held an estate type auction sale this past Saturday July 31, 2010. The Rosenthal family operated this popular marina on Peninsula Rd. near Minett, Ontario for over 35 years. I believe this marina was originally called the Waters Marina prior to Joerg Rosethal’s purchase back in the early 1970′s. Joerg and his wife Marilyn have left us now and the family has decided to sell everything off and move on. They will be greatly missed.
please click on the photo for a larger shot
2010
Juddhaven Barn
I found this old barn up off Judd Haven Rd. in Muskoka. The wood frame and beams would have been milled from the area and the granite stones harvested here too. The one side looked like it was ready to cave in at any time.
Please click on the photo for a larger sized pic.
2010
Passing By The Lady of the Lakes
The sky was overcast and it threatened rain all day however that did not stop the crowds from coming out to the lawn for the Windermere House concert on July 24, 2010. As I was passing by in my boat I could hear the distinct sounds of Canadian tenor Michael Burgess and the National Academy Orchestra emanating from the lawn. Just as I started to take some shots this work boat swooshed by from out of the shadows.
Please click on the image for a larger sized photo
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary
Take time to smell the Roses - … Echinacea Purpurea Maxima
Please click on the image for a biggie sized photo
2010
From The Mother In-Laws Seat
This photo was taken from the mother in-laws seat in a 1930″s Ditchburn launch on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka. Unfortunately we were not allowed to bring cameras on the Muskoka Heritage Foundations annual Summer Tour. I snuck this low quality shot in from my iPhone as we were being transported across the lake by beautiful vintage boats. The summer tour was well organized and we had the privilege to learn about 3 very distinct and fascinating summer homes, Grey Rock, Monyca Island and Llanfair.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
Everythings Just Ducky
A typical scene along the shorelines of Muskoka’s lakes and water ways. I believe this is a female Mallard duck with her chicks.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo
