a postcard from: Thunder Bay

Since arriving in Canada at the beginning of June, I've been searching for what I imagine to be 'real Canada.' For me 'real Canada' is landscape as far as the eye can see. Tall, tall trees. Ravines, rivers and mountains to be photographed at each view point along the great highways. Having explored Montreal and Toronto, this landscape was obviously not on our doorstep. Montreal had the beautiful Mont Royal and the suburbs of Toronto their lush parks but for me I still felt like I hadn't experienced 'real Canada'. That was until we landed in Thunder Bay, Northwest Ontario.

Thunder Bay is an historic city which grew from the fur trade. Now it is a major port in the shipping of crop from the Prairies to the East of Canada. We didn't get to see much of Thunder Bay the town as we spent our time exploring the great outdoors as you can see from this week's postcard!


My highlights were Silver Islet, which I blogged about yesterday. Thunder Bay viewpoint from the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park (bottom left and right). The view point provided the most spectacular scenery, it took my breath away. The water appeared crystal blue and glittered in the evening sun. On looking over Thunder Bay and the water I realised we had found what I call 'real Canada.'


I would also recommend taking a fishing trip on Lake Superior. To anyone from the UK at least, it appears to be an ocean but dip your finger in and taste the water for a refreshing surprise! Off the shore of Thunder Bay charters will take you out to try your luck at catching Lake Trout or Salmon. I caught a Lake Trout. Salmon is usually the catch of the day but unfortunately we only caught 3 Lake Trout. Perhaps, the fish got smart during the competition that week. We went out on Archie's fishing charter - look for him if you want a great fishing trip!


For a road trip and adventure, take a drive out to Eagle Canyon. For $20 you gain entry to the park and the opportunity to walk 600ft across a suspension bridge, 125ft in the air. From the bridges you have an unobstructed view of the forests and mountains. You can see for miles on a clear day. After testing your nerves take advantage of the trails and see what wildlife you can spot. It is so silent out here you can hear a penny drop. If you're up for more thrill, take the zipline from the top of the canyon for $60.


Lastly, do not miss Kakabeka Falls. This is quite a quick stop off but for me a must see. I think waterfalls are mesmerising. All that force and power rushing by carving its passage. So Kakabeka Falls, otherwise known as the Niagara of the North for me is a must see. Pictured top left.


If you are looking for a spot of adventure take a trip to Thunder Bay. Make sure you have a car as the potential road trips in this area are endless. I'd also recommend taking a trip to Hoito in town. A Finnish restaurant that serves a delicious breakfast - their pancakes are something else!