Author: vicki
If you want an excuse to take another long weekend off in August, look no further than Terrace Bay’s fantastic Lighthouse Festival, taking place on Friday, August 16. It’s the 12th year for the festival and organizers are saying that this will be the best one yet so plan to make the scenic drive along the North Shore of Lake Superior to one of the prettiest communities in Northern Ontario. The festival starts at 1 p.m. Friday and ends in the wee hours of Saturday morning. Let the fun and festivities begin!
Celebrating an Icon
The focal point for the celebrations is Terrace Bay’s iconic lighthouse, located in the heart of the community. Built in 2011, the Terrace Bay lighthouse stands as a 50 ft. replica of the lighthouse on the Slate Islands Provincial Park which is the highest elevated lighthouse on the Great Lakes, at 224 feet above sea level. The Township of Terrace Bay lighthouse stands as a symbol to the community’s long-standing connection with Lake Superior, the Slate Islands and the majestic woodland caribou that reside there.
People love to climb to the top and admire the views of Lake Superior, Slate Island, the terraced cliffs that gave the town its name and the forests.
The Artisan Market
The popular artisan street market will take place in Simcoe Plaza, not far from the lighthouse from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. This is your opportunity to pick up some one-of-a-kind treasures from an array of talented local and regional artisans and artists. Making sure you don’t go hungry as you shop, there will be lots of food and beverages available in the plaza area, provided by local restaurants and food trucks. Visit Drifter’s Restaurant, Wah’s Restaurant, Subway and Mo & Jo’s Lighthouse Variety as well as food vendors The Orchard Café, The Golden Rail, El Comal, Twisted Treats and K & R Northshore Fries.
You won’t want to miss the sidewalk sale either where local businesses offer their deals of the day.
Then, if you’ve worked up a thirst from all that fun, you can head over to Drifter’s Lounge and Slate Islands Brewery for some beer tastings.
Cheers to Beer
The festival beer gardens will be the place to meet old friends and make some new ones from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. The fully licensed bar is provided courtesy of local community groups. Age of majority proof will be required, smoking is not permitted and the tent closes to minors at 9:30 p.m.
For the safety and convenience of festival goers, the Schreiber shuttle bus starts at 9 p.m. and runs on the hour until 1 a.m. The shuttle starts at the Drifters Parking Lot and drops passengers off at The Voy. Remember to drink responsibly – and have fun!
First Class – Car/Motorcycle Show & Shine
From 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. in Simcoe Plaza will be another crowd pleaser, the Annual Car/Motorcycle Show and Shine. Check out the beautiful vehicles & motorcycles, chat with their proud owners and cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Fun in the Park
Young adventurers – and grown ups ones too – always have a blast at Fun in the Park, held from 2 – 7 p.m. Remember to bring your swimsuits to enjoy the water slide and don’t miss the huge bouncy castles for more fun.
The lovable clowns Dottie and Lulu spread laughter wherever they go, and the Lighthouse Festival will be no exception. They will be busy painting faces and sculpting balloons in the park.
Music to Your Ears – A Full Day of Music
Starting at 3:00 p.m. and going strong until one a.m., the live stage show will treat your ears to some great music.
The Curbside Cruisers will kick things off from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. These local favourites feature classic rock hits and they’re a definite crowd pleaser.
Throwback, the hottest band in Thunder Bay, will be on stage from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. They cover country tunes and 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and current music that will have everyone on their feet dancing. Not only was Throwback rated one of the top cover bands in Thunder Band and Hottest Band in Northwestern Ontario, but their singer Chris Talarico was named best singer and best country singer in Northwestern Ontario.
Terrace Bay’s own D.J. Derek Boucher aka D.J. Dbbl D will also be playing music all day long.
New This Year – Corn Hole Tourney!
Get ready to test your skills at this summer favourite. The tourney starts at 5 p.m. in Simcoe Plaza and there is no charge to enter. Open to all ages, the tourney offers some great prizes. Register the day of the event by 4pm at the Terrace Bay Tent.
In Control
The whole family will want to take in the demonstration by the Terrace Bay Radio Control Club at Simcoe Plaza from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Precision and speed are showcased at this exciting event.
Make Plans Now
Make your plans now to head to Terrace Bay on the third Friday of August for the Terrace Bay Lighthouse Festival. Join in the celebrations with music, local food, arts and crafts, fireworks, playground fun and much more against the iconic lighthouse backdrop. It’s a beloved annual tradition that celebrates this Northern Ontario town’s beauty and maritime history.
For more information and updates, go to https://visitterracebay.ca/terrace-bay-events
Nestled in the rugged and untamed wilderness of Northwestern Ontario, close to the beautiful community of Terrace Bay, lies one of Canada’s best-kept secrets: the Casque Isles Hiking Trail. Among its captivating segments, the Death Valley section stands out as a testament to nature’s raw beauty and the indomitable spirit of adventurers. This challenging 10-kilometer stretch takes hikers through an awe-inspiring landscape where towering cliffs meet the relentless power of Lake Superior, and dense forests conceal serene, hidden lakes. As you traverse the rugged terrain, every step reveals a new breathtaking vista, offering both a test of endurance and a reward of unparalleled triumph. Whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking a thrilling escapade, or a nature lover drawn to the call of the wild, the Death Valley segment promises an unforgettable journey through one of the most spectacular regions in the Great White North.
The Death Valley segment has two access points on Highway 17, at Worthington Bay Road and Hydro Bay Road. The segment itself, when through hiking the trail is about 10 km, but if you are electing to do just the one segment it adds another 7 km to get to your vehicle at the access points. It’s a point-to-point segment, so the best way to tackle transportation is bring two vehicles and park at each access point or get a ride from your end point back to your vehicle. My favourite way to hike this segment is to start at Hydro Bay and hike west. I have done this segment many times as a stand-alone, and as a through-hike of the whole Casque Iles Trail, and it continues to be my favourite hike in Ontario, hands down. Let me tell you about it!
Park at the Hydro Bay trail head marker and make your way down a private drive lined by camps. Follow the trail markers as you leave civilization behind. The trail starts through dense forest, a journey into nature’s serene beauty. The thick canopy overhead filters the sunlight, creating a dance of light and shadow on the forest floor. Towering birch, poplar, and pine, stand like ancient guardians watching the trail. The air is fresh and filled with the earthy aroma of moss, punctuated by the distant calls of birds and the rustling of squirrels. As you tread softly on the cushioned path of fallen leaves and pine needles, the forest envelops you in its tranquil embrace, offering a peaceful prelude to the stark, contrasting landscapes that lie ahead in Death Valley.
From Kelly’s Harbour to Les Petit Escrits, the journey challenges you with steep inclines and drops as you navigate the landscape from hillside to shoreline. This exhilarating challenge rewards hikers with breathtaking beauty at every turn. The rugged terrain demands careful footing as you climb steep inclines and navigate precipitous descents into the stunning rocky bays of Lake Superior. Each ascent brings you to lofty lookouts where the vast expanse of the lake unfolds beneath you. These panoramic vistas, high above the shoreline, offer a sense of awe and accomplishment. Descending, you find yourself intimately close to the water’s edge, where the waves lap gently against ancient rocks, and the air is filled with the crisp, refreshing scent of the lake. The juxtaposition of challenging climbs and serene bays creates a hiking experience that is both physically demanding and spiritually uplifting, immersing you in the wild beauty of the landscape.
At Petit Escrits there is the most beautiful campsite. A glorious white sand beach nestled into the protected cove of the channel. I have so many wonderful memories camping at this spot, and although it is a challenge to haul in overnight gear, it is absolutely worth it to camp that close to the wonder and beauty of the big lake.
Passing by the beautiful beach of Petit Escrits, you are on the home stretch to Worthington Bay. which is my favorite part of Death Valley. Scrambling across rocky shoreline where you are face to face with huge fissures and incredible basalt structures that tower above you in an artful display. There is one spot just before Worthington Bay that my friends and I have lovingly nicknamed “Mars”. Here, the rock flows over the landscape in red tinged waves gently kissing the turquoise waters of Lake Superior. The otherworldly vibe of Mars is just as interesting to look at as it is to hike across – with some technical sections that require slow and steady foot placements!
Worthington Bay is always a welcomed sight. The dark grey shoreline of course sand and small pebbles stretch across a beautiful bay. A few amazing things about this spot is the pictographs. They are hidden along the far west side of the beach in a little cove. Another favorite feature of mine is the Worthington Bay Rock. A stunning jagged structure rising from the dark beach. A great place for an Instagram worthy photo!
As you reach the end of the Death Valley segment, the sense of accomplishment and wonder is palpable. Every step taken over rocky outcrops, through lush forests, and along the breathtaking shoreline has been a testament to the beauty and challenge of this extraordinary trail. The memories of panoramic vistas, the thrill of navigating rugged terrain, and the quiet moments of reflection in lush moss-covered forest make every moment of the journey profoundly rewarding. This trail is more than just a hike; it’s an experience that reaffirms the unbelievable allure of nature. Each step is a reminder that the most challenging paths often lead to the most beautiful destinations, and the journey through Death Valley is undeniably worth every stride.
Terrace Bay is a small town with a big heart and a wealth of natural beauty along the rugged coastline of Lake Superior. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler passing through, there’s no shortage of activities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors and experience the charm of this northern community. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Terrace Bay.
Aguasabon Falls & Gorge
One of the crown jewels of Terrace Bay is the Aguasabon Falls & Gorge. This stunning natural wonder offers magnificent views and a rich history. The falls cascade down 100 feet and are over 2 billion years old, providing a breathtaking sight. With amenities like a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk and picnic areas, it’s a perfect spot for all visitors.
Casque Isles Trail
For the hiking enthusiasts, the Casque Isles Trail is a dream come true. Ranked as one of the top ten hikes in Ontario, this 53-kilometer trail is full of diverse landscapes and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. It’s a challenging adventure, but portions of the trail are accessible for those looking for a less strenuous experience.
Terrace Bay Beach
If you’re looking to relax by the water, Terrace Bay Beach is the place to be. With its lovely shores, pagoda, boardwalk, Parks Canada Red Chairs, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife, it’s a great location for a family outing or a solitary retreat to nature.
Aguasabon Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the scenic Aguasabon Golf Course, a 9-hole course that offers stunning views of Lake Superior and the Aguasabon River, perfect for a relaxed game in nature’s embrace. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking for a leisurely round, the Aguasabon Golf Course is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of sport and scenic beauty in Terrace Bay.
Slate Islands Provincial Park
Kayakers and nature lovers will find their haven at Slate Islands Provincial Park. Although it requires a boat to reach, the park is a northern island paradise with deep waters and an abundance of wildlife, including the rare woodland caribou.
Terrace Bay Lighthouse
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Terrace Bay Lighthouse, a replica of the one found on the Slate Islands. While it may be unusual to find a lighthouse by the road and not by the lake, it offers a quick climb and a higher vantage point to take in the surrounding views.
Local Brews and Culinary Delights
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than indulging in the local flavors of Terrace Bay. Make your way to the Slate Island Brewing Company, where you can enjoy handcrafted beers brewed in a fun and friendly environment. This small craft brewery is a testament to the town’s community spirit and love for quality brews.
For a delightful dining experience, consider stopping by Drifter’s Restaurant & Motel. Offering a cozy atmosphere and a menu that caters to various tastes, it’s a great spot to refuel and relax. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or just a quick bite, Terrace Bay’s culinary scene is sure to satisfy your appetite.
With these local gems, you’ll get a true taste of Terrace Bay’s hospitality and charm. Cheers to good food, great beer, and the unforgettable memories you’ll create here!