Finally, Spring has been making an appearance and in the last couple of days the snow has been melting. Depending on where you are, some areas in Ontario are completely bare while, others are left with icy and slushy conditions. This in-between season, reminds me of the end of Fall when all the colourful leaves fall, leaving our trees naked and exposed to the harsh conditions that follow. Now, that the winter is gone we are faced with the muddy trails and waiting for the buds the bloom. I don’t know about you but, I need COLOUR! The sunshine has been sprucing up my mood but, I still needed more.
I spontaneously decided to make my way to Bruce Peninsula the next day in search of some turquoise and blue hues. I drove 213km away from home which, is about a two hour and forty-five-minute car ride to my destination. Typically, when I drive for that long I like to pair it with an Airbnb so, I can relax and unwind afterwards but, I didn’t have the time to research. After all this was a last-minute decision.
I suggest parking at 5 McCurdy Drive, there you will see a parking lot just off the trails. There is a map of varies trails at this provincial park and many ways to get to Lions Head Lookout. Whatever you decide, make sure to bring lots of water, snacks, a battery pack, cleats (in winter) and of course your camera. I took the Bruce Trail and it took me an hour and some just to get to the first lookout but, it was amazing to see the forests grounds still covered in snow.
I haven’t been to Bruce Peninsula since I was a little girl, I want to say I was under the age of ten. I’ve never been to Lions Head Provincial Park which is located on the Northern side of Bruce Peninsula so, this was all new to me. In the Winter, you can watch the ice formations rock back and forth with the motion of the water on Georgian Bay. Not for the faint of heart, there are no fenced off areas so, be careful of your footing. But, it shouldn’t deter a person from exploring. The turquoise and blue hues of the water will leave anyone speechless and awestruck. Believe me its well worth the drive and trek to get to. In the Summer, you will see canoes and kayaks on the water exploring from down low or rock climbers on the top 100ft cliffs. The bottom 200ft are not climbable and are dangerous or you can stick to the trails like me. This park is HUGE!!
I get lost often and discover so much in those moments. When you rely on yourself it is quite empowering. Without struggle there is no growth, without growth there is no change and without change life would be boring. Dare to push your limits. Take an impromptu road trip, hop on a plane, try something you’ve never tried before and most importantly have fun doing it!
I’ll need to come back here in the Summer to see it in a different perspective. Lions Head is located at the midway point of the Bruce Peninsula, about halfway between Owen Sound and Tobermory. I have yet to explore Tobermory but, Owen Sound has been knocked off the list.