The Great Northwest Circle

Growing, growing, growing, that is what I want my garden to do at this time of year, become stronger and greener. The weather has been more balanced, rain and sun working together to create Life.

We just got back from our annual tour of the west of the northwest. Last year we made the journey in mid-July and it was hot and dry. When we got back the gardens were thirsty and beginning to suffer. This year we left about three weeks earlier and returned to lush green plots. A nice difference, a few days of rain makes.

The trek begins and ends in Thunder Bay of course, with stops, in Ignace, Dryden, Red Lake, Kenora, Fort Francis and Atikokan. We have short stops in Balmertown and Ear Falls. This is a land of lakes, trees and hills, a truly inspiring region that awakens your connection to the wild. You can fly into Thunder Bay and rent a vehicle so that you can enjoy the sights and sounds that await. You travel west along Hwy 11-17and then at the junction of these two you follow 17 up through Igance , Dryden, then take 105 up to Ear Falls, Red Lake and be sure to spend the night at the Nature's Inn in Balmertown, great accommodations with a dynamite view.

I love the drive along 105. You are in the North. Human settlements are few and far between. This is the land of the moose, deer, bear, lakes and trees. If you need to make a pit stop be aware that not all stores have rest room facilities, something a family may need, so look for a restaurant or other tourist-wise merchant. Be sure to spend a couple of bucks and let them know you appreciate their thoughtfulness. It is good business all around. Note the stops on the way to Red Lake as you will be travelling back the same way as you head towards Kenora.

Pie and coffee, that is what I look for at a highway restaurant or post cards or local crafts in the gift shop. I feel that part of the journey is to spend a few bucks in the locally owned and independent stores.

We always stop at a little Mall just outside of Vermillion Bay as we make the turn along 17 to Kenora. There is a Husky there ( more on this Canadian icon another day) and a great gift shop. It is a good spot to take a break before completing the drive into Kenora. Kenora is a lake town situated on the shores of the Lake of the Woods, in prime tourist territory. Be sure to book your reservations well in advance. This applies to all the stops. If you rent or own a recreational vehicle this is an ideal region for you. Scenic lake side camp grounds are all around.

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