Coureurs de Bois Voyageur Trail Outdoors Club

The Sunny Side of Life

2012-01-29T11:42:00.000-05:00

These pics courtesy of Jim.

A thorn between two roses

"If we smile hard enough, maybe we can fool everyone into thinking we're actually enjoying ourselves, but secretly we'd rather be snowshoeing in Elliot Lake"

Hiking Tuesday January 31st

2012-01-29T11:35:00.002-05:00

There will be both a Leisure snowshoe hike AND an Easy Hike on Tuesday Jan.31. The Easy hike meets in the Sears parking lot at 10 am, the Leisure hike meets at 10:30 am. Gayle (848-7282), accompanied by Emily, will lead the Leisure hike to the same area [Denison mine site,Big-D loop] that Jean-Guy (848-2544) is taking the scheduled Easy hike to.

Easy Hike Horne Lake January 28

2012-01-28T18:22:00.000-05:00

Commentary by Pim and Astrid. Photos by Pim and Scott
Thirteen people went out on Saturday, January 28 for a snowshoe outing in heavy snowfall to Horne Lake and Westview park along a section of the Voyageur trail. The snow laden trees made this a "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" experience. We had a quick lunch stop at the picnic shelter at Westview Park and then made our way to McDonalds (which looked like a ski chalet!) where we ended our snowshoe trip. The snow got just about everyone wet. As well, snow kept balling up under our feet and we had to tap our snowshoes against bridge railings and signposts along the way to keep them clear. It was a losing proposition, and on the way back a number of us took off our snowshoes and walked back through the blowing snow over the snowpacked trail.

And we're off!

Starting our snowshoe hike

Across the Bridge we go!

Around the curve on Horne Lake

Wipers for our eyeglasses would've come in handy today.

Such a gentleman!

Whomever goes down the hill must come up the hill!

Through the woods

Nice 'n cozy....

....under the roof

A Snowy return trek

At Chalet McDees

Leisure Hike Denison Mine site January 28

2012-01-28T17:36:00.000-05:00

Commentary and Photos by Donna

Jean-Guy lead 6 hearty souls on a blustery day for a leisure snowshoe out to Denison minesite. Nice and mild even with the wind and snow/rain mixture.

Intermediate Hike Slipper Lake Loop January 26

2012-01-27T21:28:00.000-05:00

Commentary and photos by John B.

I led seven hikers on a challenging Thursday hike following the shores of Angel, Chrystal and Slipper Lakes. The start of the trail was fairly icy but things improved once we got to the bush trail were there was several inches of crusty snow, this made for good footing and no snowshoes. Once on the Slipper Lake Loop Trail we did opt for snowshoes until we reached our lunch spot on the shore of Slipper Lake. The day was overcast but calm and the temperature was on the mild side.

Saturday January 28

2012-01-25T16:59:00.000-05:00

There will be an Easy Hike and a Leisure Hike this Saturday. Easy Hike, led by Scott, meets at 10, Leisure hike, led by Jean-Guy, meets at 10:30. Enjoy!

Leisure Hike Golf Course January 24

2012-01-25T12:07:00.002-05:00

Jean-Guy led 4 hikers over the golf course to the Eagle trail and back. Lots of moose tracks in one area!
If you have photos of this hike, please email to elhiking@gmail.com and I'll post them here. Thanks!

Easy Hike Hell's Gate January 24

2012-01-24T14:11:00.000-05:00

Six hikers, including hike leader Steve, ventured out to the end of Milliken Mine Road and parked at Hell's Gate. After a climb to the top of the hill, we took the switchback and looped around to the berm on Milliken Mine Road and walked along the road back to the cars. The trails were "crusty" and slushy in parts. Because of the high winds and snow, we decided to forego lunch in the open and opted for the warmth of McD's.

Easy Hike Rochester Falls January 21

2012-01-22T08:47:00.000-05:00

Commentary by Pim and Astrid. Photos by Al, Pim and Astrid.
Twenty-three people, led by Shelley, went up to Quirke Lake and Rochester Creek on a crisp sunny January 21. The temperature was a cool -14 degrees but the beautiful sunshine and lack of wind made it feel much warmer. We snowshoed from the end of Panel Mine Road along an old bush road along the north shore of Quirke Lake, taking in some nice views of the lake and winding up at our lunch spot at the bottom of Rochester Creek with a great view of the lake and its islands.

Leisure Snowshoe Hike

2012-01-20T13:07:00.000-05:00

Jean Guy will be leading another leisure snowshoe hike on Tuesday, January 24th Please meet in the Sears parking lot at 10:30 am. This leisure hike is in addition to the regularly scheduled Easy Hike which will take place at 10 am as usual.

Leisure Hike Snowshoe Trail January 17

2012-01-18T16:49:00.002-05:00

Allan sent these pictures of the leisure hike led by Jean-Guy on the Snowshoe Trail.

General Meeting NOTICE

2012-01-17T10:17:00.004-05:00

A notice for those attending the General Meeting at the Snowbird Clubhouse Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 7:00 pm.
John Burns will be at Sears Parking Lot (our usual meeting place for hikes) until 6:45 pm Tuesday. He will lead the way for anyone who is not sure of the location of the Snowbird Clubhouse.

Easy Hike Horne Lake January 14

2012-01-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

Commentary and photos by Pim

A dozen people braved the chilly weather for some snowshoeing to Horne Lake.
We took a loop that went by the ski hill, stopping to watch some snowboarders before having lunch on the island on Horne Lake. It was a crisp sunny day with fresh snow making for some nice snowshoeing.

Minutes of the November meeting

2012-01-14T16:27:00.000-05:00

Minutes of the November meeting have been distributed via email.
If you did not receive a copy and would like to be added to the email list, please send an email to elhiking@gmail.com with your name and email address. We will also have copies of the minutes posted on the bulletin board at the clubhouse.

Leisure Showshoe Hike

2012-01-13T10:18:00.001-05:00

Jean-Guy will be leading a leisure snowshoe hike on Tuesday, January 17th.
Please meet in the Sears parking lot at 10:30 am. This leisure hike is in addition to the regularly scheduled Easy Hike which will take place at 10 am as usual.

Flashlight Hike Ryan Lake January 11

2012-01-12T18:11:00.000-05:00

Commentary by Emily, photos by Astrid.

Many thanks to Grant, Russ, Shelley, John, Gerry R. Jean-Guy and Roger for the great snowshoe hike to the campfire east of Ryan's Lake.
Lots of fun was had by the 28 members who attended.

The marshmallows, hot chocolate and hotdogs by the roaring fire were much appreciated.

Easy Hike Mississagi Provincial Park Jan 10

2012-01-10T16:09:00.001-05:00

Photos by Kelvyn and Maureen
Hike leader Steve and 23 hikers took advantage of yesterday's snowfall and snowshoed into Mississagi Provincial Park.
The hike split into two groups at the gate house. One group took the trail bordering the creek and had lunch in the bush. The other group hiked up (and up and up and up....geez I get tired just thinking about it!) the main road to the top of the hill, then down to Semiwite Lake where we had lunch, returning to the main gate via the trail along the creek.

General Meeting January 17

2012-01-10T01:00:00.000-05:00

A reminder that our General Meeting will be held on
Tuesday, January 17, 2012, 7 pm, at the Snowbirds Clubhouse. If you wish to bring some baked goodies to the meeting they would be appreciated!!

Larry Clinesmith

2012-01-09T06:46:00.003-05:00

Gail told us yesterday that Larry had to be admitted to hospital Saturday night. He is at St. Joseph's Hospital in Elliot Lake. He is conscious and is talking. Gail will keep us updated with Larry's progress.

Easy Hike Panel Mine January 7

2012-01-09T06:45:00.000-05:00

20 hikers led by Grant hike the Snowshoe Trail where Panel Mine Road crosses the Serpent River. It was a mild day after the deep freeze of the preceding Tuesday!

Hicker Chicks Dinner January 20

2012-01-06T17:16:00.000-05:00

The Coachman has been chosen for our monthly hiker chick dinner on Friday, January 20th at 5 p.m.

Please reply by January 18th as to whether or not you are coming. If you know of a chick who doesn't have a computer to check the blog please give her a call to let her know.

RSVP to Rae at 848-2544 OR Donna at 461-7958 before the 18th. Hope to see you all there.

Intermediate Hike Quirke #2 January 5

2012-01-06T17:10:00.000-05:00

Commentary and photos by John B.

I led 10 hikers on Thursday to the Quirke #2 mine site off Panel Mine Rd.
The snow was deep enough that you needed snowshoes for this outing. We saw numerous animal tracks, rabbit and Lynx mainly, and were followed by 4 Whiskey Jacks for part of the way. Under perfect conditions we had lunch over looking Quirke Lake.

New Year's Day Hike

2012-01-06T16:57:00.004-05:00

Commentary and photos by Scott

Carol & Lionel Frigault, members of both the Coureurs De Bois & Penokean Hills Field Naturalists Club,
along with Bob & Fran Young, Charlie the dog, & owner Scott Helman went for a hike through Sherriff Creek Bird Sanctuary. We filled various bird feeders along the way, on a wet snowy day! Two mourning doves greeted us at the end of the hike!

Full Moon means an evening Snowshoe Hike

2012-01-03T17:07:00.003-05:00

Russ has come up with a terrific idea; a snowshoe hike under the full moon!
The hike will take place on Wednesday, January 11 and will be led by Grant and Shelley. Meet in the Sears parking lot at 7:30 pm

This Easy Hike will depart from the golf course, across Ryan Lake, through the bush to another lake where there will be a lovely campfire including hot chocolate.

A few things to keep in mind

1. Dress appropriately

2. Bring a flashlight with fresh batteries

3. Bring a cup for the hot chocolate

See you on the 11th!

Easy Hike Ryan Lake January 3

2012-01-03T16:02:00.002-05:00

Nine hikers led by Jean-Guy set out from the golf course, across southern section of Ryan Lake,
through the bush, across another small lake, then back through the bush to the northern edge of Ryan Lake where we stopped for lunch. A short hike along the shore brought us back to the golf course. The frigid temperatures did not dampen our spirits as the sun shone brightly upon a winter wonderland. Thanks Jean-Guy!

Easy Hike & Cookout Sherriff Lake December 31

2012-01-01T08:55:00.001-05:00

Photos from Donna, Gerry R, John B and Astrid. Commentary by Astrid.

Twenty one revellers said farewell 2011 with a cookout at Sherriff Lake.
Thanks to the efforts of Grant, John B and Gerry R, the area was ready for us and John B had the fire blazing by the time we arrived. Baked potatoes (thanks Kelvyn!) were a big hit as was the Kahlua (thank Darla...hiccup).

We're off!

Nice and warm!

Grazing wildlife

Grant's "Victoria's Secret" Sandwich

Waiting for the potatoes

Octodog!!

Cookout Mexican style!

Taking a break

Happy New Year!!

Whaddaya mean I have to cook it. Isn't that what husbands are for??

Toasty!

January 2012 Schedule

2012-01-01T08:43:00.002-05:00

Tuesday January 3 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Thursday January 5 - Intermediate hike Nickie & Gerry 461-6304
Saturday January 7 - Easy hike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday January 10 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Wednesday January 11 - Executive Meeting 7pm @ Emily's
Thursday January 12 - Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956
Saturday January 14 - Easy hike Otto 848-5981
Tuesday January 17 - Easy hike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday January 17 - General Meeting at the Snowbird Club 7:00 pm.
Thursday January 19 - Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980
Saturday January 21 - Easy hike Shelley 848-0831
Tuesday January 24 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Tuesday January 24 - Leisure Snowshoe Hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Thursday January 26 - Intermediate hike - John B 578-2122
Saturday January 28 - Easy hike Scott 848-5188
Saturday January 28 - Leisure Snowshoe Hike Jean-Guy 848-2544 Meet @ 10:30
Tuesday January 31 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Otto's China, Part Two

2012-01-01T08:36:00.001-05:00

For your enjoyment!

Inside the Forbidden City

Apple Blossoms

Tulips

Olympic Stadium in Beijing

Statue outside a foot doctor's office.

Inside the Forbidden City

Heads up!! Cookout on Saturday December 31

2011-12-29T18:36:00.001-05:00

This just in from Grant......the Easy Hike on Saturday, December 31st will include a cookout!
Those planning to attend are asked to bring something along that can be roasted over an open fire. What a great way to wrap up the year!

If you have snowshoes please bring them. If you don't and would like to borrow a pair from the club, please contact Barry Hunt at 705-578-2640.

Intermediate Hike Quirke Tailings Deccember 29

2011-12-29T18:28:00.002-05:00

Twelve hikers, half of whom wore snowshoes, followed Grant on a hike to the Quirke tailings.
Those without snowshoes had a more difficult time than those with, so be prepared!

If anyone has photos of this hike, please send them to elhiking@gmail.com. Thanks!

Easy Hike Here and There December 24

2011-12-29T18:21:00.000-05:00

Jean-Guy led 7 hikers along the portage trails to Gullbeak Lake and Elliot Lake
before proceeding to the High Rocks. Light snow contributed to that Christmas feeling! After lunch and some hot drinks overlooking the lake, we returned to the cars. On the drive out Pipeline Road back to the highway we saw a wolf in the middle of the road!

Sadly, no photos of this hike :(

New Year's Day Hike

2011-12-21T22:02:00.002-05:00

The Penokean Hills Field Naturalists have invited members of the Coureurs de Bois to join them on a New Year's Day hike at Sherriff Creek Park at 11:00 am. Start at the main parking lot at Sherriff Creek Bird Sanctuary.

Otto's China

2011-12-21T18:48:00.000-05:00

Otto was kind enough to send these photos for all to enjoy.

Forbidden City's Gate of Divine Might

Pagoda in Xian

Otto outside the TV Tower in Beijing

Entrance to the Forbidden City

WAG Sherriff Lake December 21

2011-12-21T18:25:00.001-05:00

Pictures and commentary by Phill;

Chuck lead 5 on the walk & gawk hike today to Sherriff Lake area
via the upper trail and back thru the old townsite. A beautiful day, we met a few people on the trail, with their dogs, also enjoying the outdoors.

Easy Hike Lacnor Mine December 20

2011-12-21T08:14:00.004-05:00

Pictures and commentary by Scott

Steve lead 19 hikers up into the Lacnor Mine site.
It was a cold, crisp & overcast day. We had Mrs Claus with us on the hike!.

GPS Units

2011-12-20T18:10:00.000-05:00

The Elliot Lake Coureurs de Bois club has 9 hand held GPS units available to our members.
These include;

7 Garmin ETRex Legend H
1 Garmin R1No 520 HCX
1 Garmin 12

All units come with an an owners manual

If you would like to borrow one and start to learn how to use them contact Grant at 705-848-7055. Please note that you will have to supply your own AA batteries.

Snowshoe Hikes

2011-12-20T18:06:00.002-05:00

A reminder to everyone that when the snow is deep enough we hike with snowshoes.

If you wish to borrow a set of snowshoes for one of our scheduled hikes please call Barry Hunt at 705-578-2640. Please call Barry the day before the scheduled hike to borrow the snowshoes.

Christmas Party

2011-12-20T17:57:00.002-05:00

A GREAT BIG Thank you Al and Charlotte Rutherford for their organization of the Christmas Party.
We hope everyone enjoyed themselves. Special thanks to all of the other volunteers and especially the Men of Song and Women of Strings for the sing along entertainment.

Elliot Lake Food Bank

2011-12-20T17:51:00.001-05:00

This just in from Emily; Thanks to the members of the Coureurs de Bois Hiking Club
the Food Bank has received 4 boxes of canned goods. These were collected at the Christmas party on Saturday night. The Food Bank volunteers on Monday morning send their thanks to the club

Christmas Party December 17, 2011

2011-12-18T17:51:00.001-05:00

Pictures and commentary by Scott.

Seventytwo people attended our annual Coureurs de Bois 2011 Christmas party held at
the Curling Club. After a deliciousturkey dinner, Scott led a singalong of his We Three Kings rendition aptlyretitled We Three Hikers of Elliot Lake, complete with props and lots of helpfrom the Men of Song and the guitar skills of Emily, Paula and Stephani. Emily thanked the outgoing executive whilePhill introduced the new members of the excecutive. No Christmas party is complete without avisit from Santa himself, and we were not disappointed! Ho! Ho! Ho! He left candy canes for everyone,wished all the members of the lcub a Merry Christmas and to all a Good Night

North Lake & South Lake December 17

2011-12-18T17:27:00.003-05:00

Pictures and commentary by Scott.

It was a cold crisp sunny morning as I lead 7 hikers on asnow covered road out to North Lake and South Lake which are joined by aportage route. They are located offDunlop Shores Road, left at the fork in the road, through an old logging /gravel pit area.
We saw what looked tobe lynx tracks & other animal tracks, mice, and a snowshoe hare.

Beaver Mountain and More

2011-12-18T17:03:00.000-05:00

Under an overcast sky, Emily led a group of over 15 hikers from the Sherriff Creek
parking lot, along the base of Beaver Mountain, over the bridge through the marsh to the top of the cliffs overlooking Horne Lake. After a well deserved rest and lunch, we returned to the parking lot via the Marsh. Thankfully, the rain held off!

Pictures by Gerry R. and Astrid.

May 2012 Schedule

2011-12-14T20:43:00.000-05:00

Tuesday May 1 – Easyhike Emily 848-5980
Thursday May 3 – Intermediatehike to Victoria Falls Nickie &Gerry 461-6304
Saturday May 5 – Easyhike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Tuesday May 8 – Easyhike Sue & Jim 848-6035
Thursday May 10 – Intermediatehike to Mt. McBean Grant848-7055
Saturday May 12 – Easyhike Shelley 848-0831
Tuesday May 15 – Easyhike Steve 461-3872
Tuesday May 15 – Executive Meeting 2 pm @ Emily's
Thursday May 17 – Intermediatehike John B 578-2122
Saturday May 19 – Easyhike Scott 848-5188
Tuesday May 22 - Easyhike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Tuesday May 22 – General Meeting 7 pm at the Snowbird Club
Thursday May 24 – Intermediatehike Fred 848-2956
Saturday May 26 – Hike Leaders Course Gerry 461-6304
Tuesday May 29 – Easy hike Otto 848-5981
Tuesday May 29 – Hike Leaders Meeting 2pm @ Maureen's
Thursday May 31 – Intermediatehike John B 578-2122

April 2012 Schedule

2011-12-14T20:26:00.000-05:00

Tuesday April 3 – Easyhike Grant 848-7055
Thursday April 5 – Intermediatehike Emily 848-5980
Saturday April 7 – Easyhike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday April 10 – Easyhike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Thursday April 12 – Intermediatehike Fred 848-2956
Saturday April 14 – Easyhike Sue & Jim 848-6035
Tuesday April 17 – Easyhike Nickie & Gerry 461-6304
Thursday April 19 – Intermediatehike John B 578-2122
Saturday April 21 – Easyhike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday April 24 – Easyhike Diane H 578-2210
Thursday April 26 – Intermediatehike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Saturday April 28 – Easyhike Scott 848-5188

March 2012 Schedule

2011-12-14T20:15:00.000-05:00

Thursday March 1 - Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980
Saturday March 3 - Nancy-Jo's Cottage 848-2947
Tuesday March 6 - Easy hike Grant 848-7055
Thursday March 8 - Intermediate hike John B 578-2122
Saturday March 10 - Easy hike Sue & Jim 848-6035
Tuesday March 13 - Easy hike Emily 848-5980
Thursday March 15 - Executive Meeting 2pm @ Emily's
Thursday March 15 - Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055
Saturday March 17 - Easy hike Otto 848-5981
Tuesday March 20 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Tuesday March 20 - General Meeting 7pm at the Snowbird Club
Thursday March 22 - Intermediate hike John B 578-2122
Saturday March 24 - Easy hike Shelley 848-0831
Tuesday March 27 - Easy hike Nickie & Gerry 461-6304
Thursday March 29 - Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956
Saturday March 31 - Easy hike Scott 848-5188

February 2012 Schedule

2011-12-14T18:42:00.001-05:00

Thursday February 2 - Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980
Saturday February 4 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Tuesday February 7 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Thursday February 9 - Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055
Saturday February 11 - Easy hike Sue & Jim 848-6035
Tuesday February 14 - Easy hike Shelley 848-6035
Thursday February 16 - Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956
Saturday February 18 - Easy hike Scott 848-5188
Tuesday February 21 - Easy hike Nickie & Gerry 461-6304
Thursday February 23 - Intermediate hike John B 578-2122
Saturday February 25 - Winterfest Activities Sue 848-6035
Tuesday February 28 - Easy hike Emily 848-5980

January 2012 Schedule

2011-12-14T18:16:00.000-05:00

Tuesday January 3 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Thursday January 5 - Intermediate hike Nickie & Gerry 461-6304
Saturday January 7 - Easy hike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday January 10 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Wednesday January 11 - Executive Meeting 7pm @ Emily's
Thursday January 12 - Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956
Saturday January 14 - Easy hike Otto 848-5981
Tuesday January 17 - Easy hike Grant 848-7055
Tuesday January 17 - General Meeting at the Snowbird Club 7:00 pm.
Thursday January 19 - Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980
Saturday January 21 - Easy hike Shelley 848-0831
Tuesday January 24 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Thursday January 26 - Intermediate hike - John B 578-2122
Saturday January 28 - Easy hike Scott 848-1-5188
Tuesday January 31 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Walk and Gawk update from Chuck

2011-12-11T11:17:00.001-05:00

The Walk and Gawk hike scheduled for Wed. Dec. 14 is rescheduled for Wed. Dec. 21 as the current one is in conflict with the Penokean annual bird count. Most of the hikers that signed up for the WaG hikes are also Penokean members and I do not want to interfere with this event.

Christmas Party ticket update

2011-12-11T11:12:00.001-05:00

We are happy to report that 67 tickets have been sold for our club Christmas Party on December 17th. There are still a few tickets left. Contact Al or Charlotte @ 461-8187

Dec 10, 2011 Northspan Lake

2011-12-10T14:34:00.001-05:00

Jim led a group of 14 hikers along the shores of Northspan Lake on the former Spanish American mine site. The sun made one short appearance just as we were finishing lunch.

Rooster Rock

Walk 'n Gawk

2011-12-07T15:29:00.001-05:00

Chuck will be leading a Walk 'n Gawk on Wednesday, December 14, 2011. Please meet in the Sears parking lot at 10 am. Bring a snack. Call Chuck at 705-848-1076 for more information.

Sherriff Creek

2011-12-07T15:12:00.001-05:00

These wonderful pics of Sherriff Creek first week of December, courtesy of Phill.

Volunteer of the Year!

2011-12-07T15:06:00.001-05:00

The Volunteer of the Year award dinner was held on December 1st. The City of Elliot Lake honoured Alan Day for his many years of volunteer work in many different areas. The dinner was held at the Renaissance Centre on and was attended by volunteers from various organisations that work on projects with the city and dignitaries from City Hall.

Photos and commentary by Phill.

Christmas Party

2011-12-05T09:03:00.001-05:00

What's THE BEST Christmas deal in Elliot Lake?

Why it's our very own Coureurs de Bois Voyageur Trail Christmas Party, to be held on Saturday December 17th!!

A reminder to those who haven't yet bought tickets that the window for purchasing tickets is closing soon. We have to give the Curling Club our numbers this coming Friday (Dec 9th) so they can round up enough turkeys for the dinner. If you don't have yours yet, please contact Phill @ 848-8767; Jean-Guy @ 848-4544 or Sue MacLean @ 848-6035.

Dinner will be roast turkey (the real thing) with all the trimming and assorted desserts. There will be entertainment galore, a visit by the jolly old man himself, AND door prizes!

***** ALL THIS FOR ONLY $25 PER TICKET *****

***** DON'T DELAY, ORDER YOURS TODAY *****

A GREAT BIG THANK YOU to those who have already bought tickets and don't forget your food bank donations!!

December 2011 Schedule

2011-11-30T00:30:00.000-05:00

Thursday Dec 1 - Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980
Saturday Dec 3 - Easy hike Scott 848-5188
Tuesday Dec 6 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Tuesday Dec 6 - Hike Leaders’ Meeting 2:00 13 Vienna 848-8426
Thursday Dec 8 - Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055
Saturday Dec 10 - Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035
Tuesday Dec 13 - Easy hike Emily 848-5980
Thursday Dec 15 - Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956
Saturday Dec 17 - Easy hike Scott 848-5188
Saturday Dec 17 - Christmas Party
Tuesday Dec 20 - Easy hike Steve 461-3872
Thursday Dec 22 - Intermediate hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Saturday Dec 24 - Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544
Tuesday Dec 27 - Easy hike Otto 848-5981
Thursday Dec 29 - Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055
Saturday Dec 31 - Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035

Walk 'n Gawk

2011-11-26T17:11:00.002-05:00

Any hike leaders interested in leading a Walk 'n Gawk please contact Chuck ASAP. Lots of help will be available so if you've been considering this, please call Chuck at 705-848-1076.

Lacnor Ridge Sunday, November 20, 2011

2011-11-25T21:41:00.000-05:00

A few pics from the Lacnor Ridge hike last Sunday. It was challenging but well worth it. A Jean-Guy special!

Thanks go to Al for the pictures and commentary.

Rochester Creek, November 19th

2011-11-21T07:24:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Kathy for the pictures.

As ever, an enthusiastic group hiked to Rochester Creek for the Saturday November 19th Easy Hike.

YOUR NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

2011-11-17T09:33:00.004-05:00

The new, minus John Burns, and the old (very old - but not you Brenda or Nickie!) committee - Good luck guys!

Voting to elect a new executive committee took place at the General meeting on Tuesday, 15th. November at the Snowbirds Clubhouse.
The successful candidates elected are:

Emily Windle - President
Grant MacPhail - Vice President
Jim MacLean - Vice President
John Burns - Trail Master
Donna Condon - Secretary/Treasurer

Congratulations!

Intermediate Hike

2011-11-16T13:55:00.001-05:00

Jean-Guy (8482544) is willing to lead an intermediate special hike on Sunday, 20th. Nov, Meet at Sears at 11am.

Milliken to Strouth Lake

2011-11-16T13:53:00.000-05:00

Strouth Lake

Milliken Mine Rd
Thanks to Claudette for these picks. Apparently there were 37 attended this hike to Strouth Lake via Milliken Mine Rd..

Snowshoe Trail

2011-11-16T13:45:00.003-05:00

Thanks to Paula, Pim & Scott for the reports and pictures.

A large group of people - twenty-three - went out on a sunny November 12 to visit a ghost town, the former mining town of Quirke Lake near the Quirke Lake 1 Mine. Coming in through the back way, we explored an abandoned railroad from Quirke Lake 2 Mine, town streets, former residential lots, remnants from somebody's garden, and a lunch break at the river behind a one-time residence. Pim Delfgou

Grant Lead 22 Hikers through a well Cleaned, & Cleared Snowshoe Trail, but several Wet Areas to By Pass. With the Help of Jean - Guy, who gave us a History Lesson of the Area, by Showing Us 2 Old
Garden Plots, that belonged to a Trailer Park, back during the Mining Days, in the Old Quirke 1 Mine Site Area. We also came upon the Old Rail Bed. Lunch was held at 2 Shore Line Areas, by Splitting up the Group. Scott Hellman.

At the rail bed

Serpent river

Lunch

Hungry whisky jack

2011-11-14T11:14:00.000-05:00

The WG hikes:

-should take place on a regular hiking day.

-must follow the regular hike protocol by being led by a certified hike leader, using the hike sign-in

sheets, use of whistles, safety precautions, etc.

-should not be part of any other hike, but be a hike in itself.

.should be approx. two hours in length, but no longer.

-should be on terrain that is relatively easy to traverse and exclude bush- whacking.

-should require that all participants be within 50 meters of each other.

-the pace should be easy and adjusted to the slowest in the group.

-lunch stops should be an enjoyable experience and final decision to move on is up to the hike leader.

All participants must advise the hike leader in advance of any medical conditions that need to be

considered during the hike.

A simple way to ensure keeping within the recommended time allotment is to do an "in and out" hike,

i.e. it does not necessarily need to be a loop. This allows the group to hike approx. one hour one way,

stop for lunch and return.

I am oflering to lead a W/G hike soon.

Chuck

2011-11-13T10:23:00.002-05:00

A large group of people - twenty-three - went out on a sunny November 12 to visit a ghost town, the former mining town of Quirke Lake near the Quirke Lake 1 Mine. Coming in through the back way, we explored an abandoned railroad from Quirke Lake 2 Mine, town streets, former residential lots, remnants from somebody's garden, and a lunch break at the river behind a one-time residence.

Nordic Mine site Etc.

2011-11-10T15:27:00.000-05:00

Tuesday November 08 2011. Hiking in the Nordic Mine Site. Jean - Guy Lead 25 Hikers through the Nordic Mine Site, from one End, to the Other End. We had Lunch on a Lookout Over Looking Highway 108 South. We went through a lot of different Terrain, Grassy Paths, Across Streams, Over Metal Bridges, Past Man Made Rock Valley, & River Passage Ways, Along the Trans Canada Trail, Up, & Down through the Woods, & Hiking along An Area Called Dirty Creek Trail. We got back to the Cars just in Time for the Rain to Start, it is a Good thing Jean - Guy Brought His Umbrella, We needed it! By Scott Helman.

Thanks Scott!

Annual Christmas Party

2011-11-08T16:46:00.003-05:00

Our annual Christmas Party is less than 6 weeks from now: December 17th at the Curling Club 6pm for cocktails, Dinner @7pm.

Dinner will be roast turkey with all the trimmings and assorted desserts.

Ticket price: $25.00 (including HST)- Cash Bar

As we did last year, we will be collecting non-perishable food items for the local food bank - please be generous!

Tickets are being sold by Phill & Liz, Jean-Guy and Sue MacLean who will be contacting members from assigned portions of the members' list.

We hope to see as many as possible on December 17th!

Terry Croteau

2011-11-08T16:42:00.003-05:00

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that Terry Croteau, husband of Janet -affectionately known as "the chocolate lady", passed away yesterday.

A Celebration of Life for Terry will be held at the Grace Christian church on Colwil Drive at 11AM tomorrow, Wednesday, 9th. November.

The family have asked that donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.

Phill

2011-11-06T09:58:00.002-05:00

Twenty-one people went out to Northspan Lake near the former Spanish American Mine site. We made a few interesting finds including a hole drilled through a rock, a nesting box for woodpeckers and a natural "boat ramp" on Northspan Lake. Although it was overcast, the sun did come out while we had lunch at the western end of the lake.

Pics and comments above by Pim, Thx.

Scott wrote: I Lead 20 Hikers Around the Shores of Northspan Lake, Via the Spanish / American Mine Site Road. We Ate our Lunch at the Tip of the Lake, on a Rock Dam. Pics below also By Scott Helman.

Thx Scott!

Trail Clearing

2011-11-05T09:27:00.000-04:00

Chuck would like volunteers to help clear the Snowshoe Trail on Monday, 7th. November.
Meet at Sears at 10am. No heavy lifting, bring gloves and lunch. This popular trail needs to be cleared before first snow.
Weather forecast is for cloudy and 10 degrees.

Hiker Chicks Dinner

2011-11-05T09:25:00.000-04:00

Hiker Chicks Dinner
Friday, Nov. 18
5:00 pm
Fireside Classic Restaurant in Elliot Lake

Contact Emily before Nov. 16 @ frew@eastlink.ca
or 848-5980 if attending.
Hope to see you there.

Hiking Schedule for November 2011

2011-10-30T12:52:00.003-04:00

Schedule November 2011

Tuesday 1st Easy hike Sue & Jim 848-6035

Thursday 3rd Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055

Saturday 5th Easy hike Scott 848-5188

Tuesday 8th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Tuesday 8th. Committee Meeting 9 Benner 2pm.
Thursday 10th Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980

Saturday 12th Easy hike Nancy-Jo 848-2947

Tuesday 15th Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035

Tuesday 15th General Meeting at Snowbird Club 7:00 pm
Election of the new committee

Thursday 17th Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956

Saturday 19th Easy hike Emily 848-5980

Tuesday 22nd Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Thursday 24th Intermediate hike Gerry & Nickie 461-6304

Saturday 26th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Tuesday 29th Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Lacnor area

2011-10-29T10:34:00.004-04:00

2011-10-29T10:34:00.002-04:00

Thursday October 27 2011.
Lacnor, & Nordic Mine Sites Loop Hike.
Jean - Guy Lead 14 Hikers Up Through The Lacnor Mine Site,
Passed Dumbbell Lake, then We Bush Wacked Down Through a Forest, Ending
Up at A Waterfall, at The Nordic Mine Site / Grasslands. After Lunch, We
Hiked Through The Nordic Mine Site, Passed Nordic Lake, & then back Up
towards Dumbbell Lake.

Carmaine McCallum

2011-10-25T16:03:00.003-04:00

The funeral for Carmaine McCallum will be held at 11.30AM at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic church on Spruce.

No flowers please, but bequests may be made to the Elliot Lake Skateboard Park instead.

Phill

Hike Ontario Summit 2011

2011-10-25T09:48:00.000-04:00

2011 Summit Report

The Summit was held in Elliot Lake from Friday, September 30 to Sunday, October 2. It was hosted by the Coureur de Bois club of the Voyageur Trail Association.

Approximately 45 people attended the pub night on Friday at the Fireside Grill

66 registrants participated on Saturday with 85 people attending the evening dinner featuring entertainment by “The Men of Song”. The following 17 trail associations were represented: The Avon Trail, Bayfield River Valley Trails, The Bighead River Heritage Association, The Bruce Trail Conservancy, The Elgin Trail, The Elora Cataract Trailway, The Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association, The Grand Valley Trails Association, The Guelph Hiking Trail Club, The Humber Valley Heritage Trail Association, Huronia Trails and Greenways, The Maitland Trail, The North Simcoe Rail Trail, The Oak Ridges Trail Association, Rideau Trail Association, Thames Valley Trail, and The Voyageur Trail. Additionally about 10 trail associations set up displays around the room which often formed a locus for discussions and interactions between trail association members.

The morning began with the Hike Ontario Annual meeting where the Annual Report that Angela Liu had assembled so effectively plus president and treasurer’s reports were delivered. The slate of executive officers was also presented.

The Summit was opened with by greetings from Hike Ontario President Bill Wilson, Coureur de Bois president Phill Barnes and the mayor of Elliot Lake.

The first session featured a virtual walk across Ontario’s volunteer managed pedestrian trails. Luis Costa had coordinated pictures submitted by approximately 20 trail associations and clubs. Jerry Bertrand and Gerard Jean gave quick overviews of their afternoon topics.

Bill Wilson presented Volunteer of the Year awards to Pat Aplevich (Grand Valley Trails Association), Alan Day (Coureur de Bois Club of the Voyageur Trail) and to Robert Groves (Rideau Trail Club) who accepted on behalf of Elizabeth Mason.

Wendy Hoernig presented the Virginia Johnson Award to David Francis for his outstanding service to Hike Ontario over 20 years.

Participants enjoyed a Submarine lunch that Phill Barnes had arranged for.

11 presentations were made in three sessions as follows:

Session 1 1:00 – 1:40 p.m.

A Elliot Lake Experience – Working Together Jerry Bertrand

A Hike Leadership Gerry Jean

A Geo caching Luis Costa

A Volunteer Recruitment and Management Tom Friesen

Session 2 1:50 – 2:30 p.m.

B Challenges of Building Maintaining a Long Distance Trail Phill Barnes

B Living with Wildlife Jim Johnston

B Risk Management Plans Tom Friesen/Bill Wilson

B Encouraging New Canadians to Hike Daniela Jameson

Coffee/Nutrition Break

Session 3 3:00 – 3:40 p.m.

C Hiking Experiences in Elliot Lake (Wilderness Camping ) Alan Day

C Trail Maintenance Wendy Hoernig C Running Special Events on Trails (Oxfam Trail Walker/Adventure Relay) D. Francis/S. Butcher

On Sunday morning over 35 people attended one of three hikes offered in the Elliot Lake area. Trained hiker leaders took people on hikes lasting two to three hours.

General Comments:

1. The program was planned and carried out with participation of the local organizer Phill Barnes and Tom Friesen on behalf of Hike Ontario with input from others locally and across the province using GOTOMEETING, e-mail and telephone. This was generally effective and cost efficient. A division of labour was performed with Phill Barnes and his committee handling the social and local arrangements and Hike Ontario handling registration and provincial advertising. Programming was handled jointly. It was a total pleasure to work with Phill and earlier with Alan Day as their “Can do attitude” was a delight and highlight of the weekend. We had good cooperation from the staff at the Hampton Inn (apart from the person who cancelled some of the rooms we had reserved for Summit participants).

2. Participants came from far and wide across Southern Ontario and there was great participation from the Coureur de Bois Club who provided wonderful hospitality for all of the events. The participation of 17 trail associations and hiking clubs was emphasized by the virtual hike across the province coordinated by Luis Costa. There was even some healthy competition for the honour of which association had the second longest trail and the most number of past presidents in attendance. We missed an opportunity to have more northern representation from clubs apart from the Voyageur Club and the participation of clubs apart from the local club was wide but not deep. (The maximum number of members from non-host trail associations was 4.) I suspect that most reps are not giving the Summit the advertisement to their members that we would hope for. The other lesson is that we could improve our advertising to non club and trail association members. Given that participants could be spending up to $1000 to travel and get accommodation and food, the numbers present could be deemed a success. I note that this is the most participants I have seen at any Summit I have attended (since 2007).

3. Hike Ontario offered a free Safe Hiker program on Friday as a way to attract and thank local participants. It was a good day with a great exchange of information. This did not cost more than $5 for each of the 10 participants as the instructors (Dave Potten and Tom Friesen) waived their honorarium and travel was largely paid for by TVTA.

4. Registration was $15 (although an earlier rate was paid by a few people of $10 and this was honoured as we were not able to get updates posted to the website in a timely manner). This amount covered our costs with the proviso that we budget $1000 to pay for the costs of the Annual meeting and Summit (reports, awards, room rental, food, honorarium and speaker gifts, etc.) .

5. Hike Ontario did offer a very modest mileage claim opportunity which only a few people have participated in (to my knowledge).

6. Registration went relatively smoothly with local volunteers managing the desk and lists plus the process facilitated by Hike Ontario. There were four ways that people were registering – on line by using a Google docs form that David Francis set up, by e-mail through info@hikeontario.com or directly to me, by speaking directly to Phill Barnes or myself, and by snail mail. An improved way to acknowledge registration would have been beneficial. As always there are people who say they will come who do not and walk ups. These provide frustration for organizers who need to get numbers but tend to cancel each other out numerically. As always people tend to ignore deadlines and a number of people show up with spouses whose attendance can be partial (only for awards or social events).

7. The program was a joint effort and seemed to be appreciated. We used local talent and resources as well as provincial strengths that Hike Ontario could provide in almost 50/50 split. The table talk format of the last 3 years seemed to function smoothly (although the morning presentations were not as sharply focused as in previous years). The lack of breakout rooms in the facility that was used did create some noise distractions but my observation was that the groups seemed engaged and participation was wide-ranging.

8. Due to the urging of Ron Scanlan (in the model of the Bruce Trail Conservancy) we have begun the process for the 2012 Summit well before the 2011 Summit occurred. This allowed us to have Pat Aplevich extend an invitation for Summit 2012 in Kitchener Waterloo and note areas of functioning that may be improved upon for the next event. Given a dynamic and effective committee and a large population base that is centered with an hour of thousands of trail users, and easily a dozen clubs, I have no doubt this event will be done exceptionally well.

9. We decided last year that the Summit coordination was not a task we wanted to task our president with so the Past President and the Vice President could take the lead role in equal parts with the local organizer(s). I would invite anyone from the Hike Ontario executive to jump in so this is not a one or two person operation from the Hike Ontario side.

10. We were greatly hampered by our website and e-mail problems of the spring and summer and having the Summit so closely after the summer hiatus people seem to take was also a challenge.

11. In the past we have had evaluations of the day (although the participation rate has often been low). This may have had some benefit but within the small number of people engaged in doing the tasks I decided not to add this form creation and collection to my “to do” list.

12. I would be happy to hear of other comments, positive and negative in order that that Summit 2012 will be another positive experience for its participants.

Respectfully submitted

Tom Friesen

Mississaugi Park

2011-10-23T16:23:00.000-04:00

I went on a hike that John Burns led on October 22 on the Helenbar Trail in Mississagi Provincial Park. That outing was originally to have taken place Thursday, October 20, however the storm that day forced him to postpone it to Saturday, October 22. I like to submit the following outing report from that hike:

John Burns took a group of seven people into Mississagi Provincial Park to hike the Helenbar Trail. We checked some nice fall scenery on Semiwhite Lake, sized up a giant glacial erratic boulder, took in the views at the lookouts over Helenbar Lake, had lunch at a picnic table there and went back along Semiwhite Lake to the campground.
Pim

Thx to Pim for the pics and comments.

Carmaine McCallum

2011-10-23T16:04:00.001-04:00

It is with a good deal of sadness that I have received the news today that Carmaine McCallum has passed away in Subury Regional Hospital. Our ally at City Hall who did so much work on the People Powered Use of Trails Initiative, and other programs, and was a continual supporter of our work on the local trails, Carm will be missed.

Carm, who was only 55, had been suffering with leukemia and was admitted about a month ago. This was her 3rd. bout with cancer. Apparently she was surrounded by her family when she died.

Further information re funeral arrangements will be passed on as we receive them.

Phill

Trail Clearing

2011-10-20T09:41:00.002-04:00

Chuck (705 8481076) has called a trail clearing hike for Monday, 24th. October, 10am at Sears, for the Snowshoe Trail. Panel Mine Road to the Quirke Mine site.

No heavy lifting, tools provided. Come out and help clear a popular trail.

Phill

Hiker Chicks dinner

2011-10-19T12:46:00.000-04:00

The Hiker Chicks dinner will be held at 5pm. on Friday 21st. October at the Dunlop Lake Lodge. Please let Rae Letarte know if you will be attending ASAP as she has to make the reservation.

Nominations 2011

2011-10-19T08:26:00.000-04:00

It appears there is interest by some of our members in possibly running for positions on the management committee of your club. Good news!

A couple of people have mentioned they would like to know more about what is involved with the various jobs on the committee. With that in mind I have suggested a meeting at the clubhouse at 7pm. on Tuesday, 25th. October at which we can explain what is involved in managing the club. We will also have a copy of the constitution and can discuss that and our connection with the VTA.

If you have interest, come to the meeting with your questions and we will do all we can to answer them.

Phill

Nominations 2011

2011-10-18T16:47:00.002-04:00

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 and counting………………

One month from today the Coureurs de Bois Outdoors Club will be holding its last general meeting of the year. This is also the meeting at which the new officers of the club must be elected..

The positions to be filled are:

President, Vice President, Trail Master, Treasurer and Secretary.

The club can be run with only two on the committee, President and Treasurer, but it is obviously better to spread the responsibilities over more people.

To date, the nominating committee, Gerry Jean and myself, have received no nominations for the positions.

I remind you that the present committee has to retire, having completed their two year term, but none of us are standing for re-election.

I would also point out the predicament that The Friends of Algoma East found themselves in recently when they could not find volunteers prepared to take over the reins. That club has now been forced to close.

Please look at yourself and ask “Do I want the club to close?” and if your answer is “no” either nominate yourself or put pressure on those you think could do the job.

I have said before, the job is not rocket science. Do you love hiking and the outdoors? Do you get along with people? Can you read and write?

Hey! Step up and take charge!

Phill

Banana Lake

2011-10-12T09:41:00.000-04:00

Lunch at the lake

Banana Lake

Gerry, & Nickie lead 11 hiker's, on the north side trail, to Banana Lake. It was very soft walking for our feet, through a moss covered forest. We hiked through an area of giant white pines. We met a hunter on the trail, heard a loon on Banana Lake, while having our lunch.
Thx to Scott for the comments and picttures.

Fall Pictures

2011-10-11T09:30:00.002-04:00

Great White pines

Lunch at Banana Lake

Liz & I have been out and about during this beautiful Fall and took a variety of colourful shots.

Mount McBean instead of Old Baldy

2011-10-11T09:13:00.004-04:00

The trip to Old Baldy mountain on Sat. 15th. Oct. is cancelled. The boats are now not available, despite the lodge telling us they would be!!

Instead, we are going to Mount McBean on the Sagamok Reserve. We will leave at 9am fromSears and if you would like to have a late lunch at the new restaurant (Was Vances) in Spanish, Shelley will let me know the name on it, let me know right away, that's right away!!, so we can reserve. It would be around 2.30pm.

Killarney Prov. Park

2011-10-11T09:07:00.000-04:00

Angela spent time in Killarney Prov. Park and sent these pics. Thx.

Chutes Prov. Park.

2011-10-11T09:01:00.000-04:00

I had a lot to be thankful for this weekend. beautiful, weather for a camping trip to Chutes Provincial Park. The last one of the season. Charlie enjoyed all the camping trips I took him on, a real camper dog he is! He also celebrated his birthday while we camped. He just turned 1 year old!
By Scott Helman.

ELECTIONS 2011

2011-10-06T12:52:00.003-04:00

An open letter to all members of the Coureurs de Bois Outdoors Club.

In a little over one month from now, November 15th to be precise, we will hold the last meeting of 2011. This is also when the new officers of your club must be elected.

The present management committee has to resign, having been elected for the past two years, according to the club constitution.

You should be aware that the present members of the committee are not only resigning, but also are not standing for re-election.

The latest report from the VTA shows that we have a very strong and increasing membership. We are now up to over 60 memberships.

The club has to have a minimum of two on the management committee. If this is not accomplished there is the possibility the club will fail.

I am sure, given the vibrant nature of our club at present, that you do not wish this to happen.

As we are not running for any office, Gerry Jean and I will be the nominating committee.

I have said many times that running the club is not rocket science! Yes, you have to be able to get along with people, but a good club largely runs itself. A cooperative committee can get things done very easily.

There are several ways to get people nominated. You may know someone in the club that you think would be ideally suited for the committee. Approach that person and see if they would be willing to be nominated for a position. Do not wait until the meeting and spring this surprise on someone before approaching them first. Once a person has expressed acceptance of your proposed nomination, let myself or Gerry know the name. Another way is to get together with the people you know would form a cooperative group and step up to the plate and let the nomination committee know. This is exactly what Gerry, Chuck and myself did four years ago. We agreed to all work together, Larry and Brenda were willing to help and we formed a close bond to run the club.

Call Gerry or me if you want more information as to what the jobs entail.

Phill

Aubrey Falls

2011-10-06T09:37:00.000-04:00

Alan & Charlotte took a trip around the Deer Trail and then to Aubrey Falls. Thx for the pics Al.

Hiking Chicks dinner for October

2011-10-06T09:33:00.001-04:00

A convener is wanted for the Hiking Chicks dinner in October. Any takers? Call Barb at 705 4618790

Bolger Lake hike

2011-10-05T16:15:00.000-04:00

Fred took a group to the cliffs above Bolger Lake. The rain held off until they had returned and the misty pictures tell the story. Pretty impressive! Thx to Kathy for the shots.

Accolades from Hike Ontario re Summit

2011-10-05T10:23:00.001-04:00

Hello Hike Ontario team member,

I want to express my deep appreciation for your attendance at this year's Hike Ontario Summit. I know that Elliot Lake is a distance and expense to travel. Nevertheless, I am delighted that we had it there as the colours were stunning and the hospitality was terrific. I believe the program and presentations were worth your time and attention. This was largely due to a talented and energetic team from Elliot Lake.
I would have liked a greater attendance from southern members but I was delighted that so many of our trail associations from across the province were represented and we have you to thank for this. From the 67 daytime participants I counted 16 Trail associations represented. Please take some time to tell your fellow trail association and club members of the value of the experience and encourage them to come to Kitchener Waterloo next year from November 2 to 4th for the 2012 Summit and 40th Anniversary celebration of the Grand Valley Trails. It will be a great time.
Finally if you have some time and talent to give to Hike Ontario, we are putting our team together for 2011- 2012 and will be having an executive retreat at the MEC store in Burlington from 9 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 23rd. If you see a role for yourself with Hike Ontario, I would be happy to speak to you. I am excited by the new people we have on our executive and know we can find a role for you as part of a committee or with a working group.
Best Regards Tom
Past President Hike OntarioHello Phill and Alan,

I am delighted to pass this on. It was my pleasure to work with you and witness the active and effective group of people you have in Elliot Lake. I have had some other very postive comments from other reps who came to Elliot Lake. I can always remember terrific cooperation and execution in everything you promised to do Phill.

Alan I wish to add my words of congratulations for winning the Volunteer of the Year Award. I was delighted to see some of the work that you have done in the Elliot Lake area on the Sunday hike lead by Jean Guy. I also witnessed the warm regard that the Voyageur Trail members have for you at the Friday and Saturday events. If you need to come to London in future, please get in touch with me. I would love to host you in some fashion.

I will have wonderful memories of the Summit that we produced. Thanks for all of your efforts and best wishes for your future endeavours. If you need accomodation for next year's Summit, I have space in my current location and would happy to offer it to either of you. I am only an hour away from the K/W location.

Regards Tom
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: raymond.soucy@live.com
To: tomfriesen@hotmail.com; w_m_c_wilson@yahoo.ca
subject: Excellent Summit
Date: Tue, 4 Oct 2011 22:34:58 -0400
Tom, Bill,
Kathy and I wanted to thank you for another excellent summit. I know from experience how much work these events are and you pulled off a great one. Can you also please pass on our sincere thanks to the organizers in Elliot Lake. We met a lot of great folks. The event was well run and the hike on Sunday was icing on the cake. I’m sure we’ll be heading back there at some point for some camping and hiking/canoeing.
Regards,

Raymond

Porridge Lake

2011-10-04T13:25:00.000-04:00

Liz & I hiked the Porridge Lake trail on monday and took the attached photos enroute. If you haven't hiked the trail in the fall, do so now, it is beautiful.

HIKE ONTARIO SUMMIT MEETING

2011-10-04T13:13:00.001-04:00

The summit meeting seems to have been a success. About 36 people attended the pub night at the Fireside Classic Grill and we all had a good chin-wag there. We had 65 people registered for the Saturday meeting and that went well also. The speakers were good and kept to the time allowed.
Alan Day received a well deserved award for his volunteer efforts.
The lunch from the Esso deli was well received and was certainly a lot less expensive than having a catered affair.
The dinner at the Moose on Saturday evening attracted 83, was outstanding and, of course, the Men of Song stupendous. (As usual)
The 3 hikes on Sunday were also well attended, both by our members and guests.
Thanks to all the volunteers for their efforts in making the meeting a success and the many members of our club that attended the meeting.

Cobre Lake hikes

2011-10-03T17:05:00.002-04:00

The Cobre Lake hikes are rescheduled to Thursday, 6th. October. John B 705 5782122 will lead the intermediate. all-way-round hike and Steve 705 4613872, will lead the easy lower impact hike.

Leave from Sears parking lot at 9AM.

There is no tail-gate party scheduled following the hikes.

Phill

Communication Tower above Sherrif Lake

2011-09-28T15:59:00.000-04:00

Saturday September 24 2011.

A Hike to Sheriff Lake,& Lacnor Communication's Tower Lookout.

Otto Lead His First Hike, with 5 Hiker's, Under a Very Overcast Sky / Wet Morning. We Hiked to Sheriff Lake, then it was a Long Hike Up a Gravel Road to The Lacnor Communication's Tower. We went on a Small Trail through The Wood's, to a Cliff, Overlooking The City of Elliot Lake, in The Distance. The Sun came out for our Lunch Break,& a chance to take in the Fall Colour's,& a Splendid View.
By Scott Helman.

Thx to Scott for the pictures and commentary

Safe Hiker Course

2011-09-26T15:53:00.004-04:00

Tom Friesen of Hike Ontario called today and is presenting the Safe Hiker Course on Friday, 30th. September - FREE!

I am attaching the original ad. for your perusal. If you wish to take advantage of this outstanding offer, get in touch with me ASAP.
Safe Hiker Course – Friday, September 29, 2011 -9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location:__Snowbirds Clubhouse.__________________________

The Hike Ontario Approved Course
Learn to Lead Safely and Enjoyably

Content:

Why Hike?

Types of Hikes

Hike Preparation – Route Planning and Guide Books

Knowing the Risks

Packing and Outfitting – First Aid, Safety Kit, Clothing

Nutrition and Hydration

Hitting the Trail:

Getting to the Trail

Following the Route

Breaks along the Trail

Monitoring Conditions

What-if Scenarios

Leave No Trace

Trail Etiquette

Course fee is normally $75, for this occasion only - FREE

Participants receive a manual and certificate.

For more information contact: Tom Friesen 519-439-8900 or Phill Barnes 7705 8488767

(tomfriesen@hotmail.com) (philliz22@hotmail.com)
This course will be followed up with a Guided Hike at a convenient time to practice the skills learned.

Horne Lake Island boardwalk trail

2011-09-26T15:51:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Liz, Mark and yours truly, for repairing the bridge over the creek at the entrance to the Horne Lake Island boardwalk trail. Vandals had done a job on the railing earlier in the year and we have once again put it right.

We also made use of our new weed whipper, thanks Alan for acquiring it from the City, to mow down the very overgrown section of the trail that crosses the Hydro line at the end of the boardwalk. Mark used the one with the blade and it appears as though it could cut down small trees - just kidding - it made short work of high weeds and small saplings though.

Trail Clearing Horne Lake Island Boardwalk trail

2011-09-24T19:08:00.001-04:00

Note: Date change due to rain
If you have some time and are interested, we want to repair the bridge over the creek leading to the Horne Lake Island boardwalk trail, repair a few boards on the boardwalk and clear the parts of the trail that cross the Hydro line.

We plan to meet at 10am. on Monday, 26th. Sept. behind the Civic Centre.

Phill

Cobre Lake hikes Sat. 24th. September

2011-09-23T09:36:00.000-04:00

The Cobre Lake Hikes are cancelled due to inclement weather.

This trail has sections that become hazardous during and after wet weather. The forecast is for rain tonight and continuing tomorrow.

If conditions improve, the 10am hike will go on. Meet at Sears as usual.

Phill

Hiking Schedule Nov. Dec. 2011

2011-09-21T13:22:00.001-04:00

Coureurs de Bois Elliot Lake

Schedule for October 2011

Saturday 1st No Hike due to Summit

Sunday 2nd 1- hike to Beaver Mountain Jean-Guy 848-2544

2- hike to Porridge Lake Emily and Sue 848-5980

3- TBA

Tuesday 4th Easy hike Emily 848-5980

Thursday 6th Intermediate hike John B. 578-2122

Saturday 8th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Tuesday 11th Easy hike Gerry & Nickie 461-6304

Thursday 13th Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956

Saturday 15h TBA

Monday 17th Highway Clean-up Phil & Liz 848-8767

Tuesday 18th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Wednesday 19th Highway clean-up rain day

Thursday 20th Intermediate hike John Burns 578-2122

Saturday 22nd Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Tuesday 25th Easy hike Emily 848-5980

Thursday 27th Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956

Saturday 29th Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Schedule November 2011

Tuesday 1st Easy hike Sue & Jim 848-6035

Thursday 3rd Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055

Saturday 5th Easy hike Scott 848-5188

Tuesday 8th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Thursday 10th Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980

Saturday 12th Easy hike Nancy-Jo 848-2947

Tuesday 15th Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035

Tuesday 15th General Meeting at Snowbird Club 7:00 pm

Thursday 17th Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956

Saturday 19th Easy hike Emily 848-5980

Tuesday 22nd Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Thursday 24th Intermediate hike Gerry & Nickie 461-6304

Saturday 26th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Tuesday 29th Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Schedule for December 2011

Thursday 1st Intermediate hike Emily 848-5980

Saturday 3rd Easy hike Gerry & Nickie 461-6304

Tuesday 6th Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Tuesday 6th Hike Leaders’ Meeting 2:00 13 Vienna 848-8426

Thursday 8th Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055

Saturday 10th Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035

Tuesday 13th Easy hike Emily 848-5980

Thursday 15th Intermediate hike Fred 848-2956

Saturday 17th Easy hike Scott 848-5188

Saturday 17th Christmas Party

Tuesday 20th Easy hike Steve 461-3872

Thursday 22nd Intermediate hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Saturday 24th Easy hike Jean-Guy 848-2544

Tuesday 27th Easy hike Otto 848-5981

Thursday 29th Intermediate hike Grant 848-7055

Saturday 31st Easy hike Jim & Sue 848-6035

Coureurs de Bois Voyageur Trail Outdoors Club

The Sunny Side of Life

Hiking Tuesday January 31st

Easy Hike Horne Lake January 28

Leisure Hike Denison Mine site January 28

Intermediate Hike Slipper Lake Loop January 26

Saturday January 28

Leisure Hike Golf Course January 24

Easy Hike Hell's Gate January 24

Easy Hike Rochester Falls January 21

Leisure Snowshoe Hike

Leisure Hike Snowshoe Trail January 17

General Meeting **NOTICE**

Easy Hike Horne Lake January 14

Minutes of the November meeting

Leisure Showshoe Hike

Flashlight Hike Ryan Lake January 11

Easy Hike Mississagi Provincial Park Jan 10

General Meeting January 17

Larry Clinesmith

Easy Hike Panel Mine January 7

Hicker Chicks Dinner January 20

Intermediate Hike Quirke #2 January 5

New Year's Day Hike

Full Moon means an evening Snowshoe Hike

Easy Hike Ryan Lake January 3

Easy Hike & Cookout Sherriff Lake December 31

January 2012 Schedule

Otto's China, Part Two

Heads up!! Cookout on Saturday December 31

Intermediate Hike Quirke Tailings Deccember 29

Easy Hike Here and There December 24

New Year's Day Hike

Otto's China

WAG Sherriff Lake December 21

Easy Hike Lacnor Mine December 20

GPS Units

Snowshoe Hikes

Christmas Party

Elliot Lake Food Bank

Christmas Party December 17, 2011

North Lake & South Lake December 17

Beaver Mountain and More

May 2012 Schedule

April 2012 Schedule

March 2012 Schedule

February 2012 Schedule

January 2012 Schedule

Walk and Gawk update from Chuck

Christmas Party ticket update

Dec 10, 2011 Northspan Lake

Walk 'n Gawk

Sherriff Creek

Volunteer of the Year!

Christmas Party

December 2011 Schedule

Walk 'n Gawk

Lacnor Ridge Sunday, November 20, 2011

Rochester Creek, November 19th

YOUR NEW EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Intermediate Hike

Milliken to Strouth Lake

Snowshoe Trail

Nordic Mine site Etc.

Annual Christmas Party

Terry Croteau

Trail Clearing

Hiker Chicks Dinner

Hiking Schedule for November 2011

Lacnor area

Carmaine McCallum

Hike Ontario Summit 2011

Mississaugi Park

Carmaine McCallum

Trail Clearing

Hiker Chicks dinner

Nominations 2011

Nominations 2011

Banana Lake

Fall Pictures

General Meeting NOTICE