Primitive. Survival. Rating.
Wait. I guess my first update should be that we made it through the l.a.s.t. lock! Phew!
Now that we can finally stop talking about locks…Have you ever watched Naked & Afraid? Its on the Discovery Channel and its one of our favs! Two people are dropped into the wilderness completely naked and expected to survive for 21 days using their “primitive survival skills”.
I’d have to say the Georgian Bay has been sort of like that! (I know, I know…now you have an interesting mental picture, but just bear with me here.)
We kept hearing that the Georgian Bay would be the crown jewel of our trip. Supposedly picturesque beyond belief. It certainly didn’t disappoint on that forefront but, where it really shines is in its remoteness. Island after island with no one to interrupt whatever your day has in store.
We anchored at Spider Bay and then the Bustard Islands. Fully stocked with grilling options and red wine, we decided to relish in the uniqueness of not only the beauty but the surreal opportunity of being completely alone.
The week consisted of a homemade bow drill…and the hours that go along with attempting to make fire without matches, a subsequent campfire (a la matches) 😉, hiking, cliff jumping, sun bathing, fishing, skinny dipping and even two(!) encounters with black bears. Its been a refreshing experience, one I’ll never forget. I’m blogging today from Killarney – the gateway to the North Channel. Its still picturesque and remote, but with a little bit of luxury on the side…quaint dining options, a spa, and LOTS of vacationers! More details on our time here next week! ✌🏼
Love Killarney Mountain Lodge to dock at, plus use of the pool and the Carousel Bar. Or catch a boat in movie if your at the Sportmans Inn. But no matter what, I would not leave the area without spending a night off the grid in “the pool” and hike to Lake Topaz. A must do !
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The Killarney Mountain Lodge is BEAUTIFUL! Thanks for the tip on Lake Topaz/the pool. We’ve added it to the schedule! ☺️
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Third pic down. You found our favorite spot in the Bustard Islands to anchor. Supremely serene! Kids loved jumping off those rocks into the water. 45 Tiara
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Beautiful spot! Already missing the Canadian waters!
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Enjoy your take on Georgian Bay. We liked Sportsmans. Guessing you’re there.
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Thanks! We’re at the Killarney Mountain Lodge – it’s been remodeled and is beautiful!
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So great to meet you both in Orillia! We are really happy that you have slowed down and are having such amazing weather and scenery! Safe travels and keep having fun! Dave, Pam, Alan and Terri.
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Thanks, Dave! Great meeting you too!
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LOL , I continue to be completely jealous of this whole adventure, just continue to have the time of your lives. Jack
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You 2 and your trip… Amazing!!! What an incredible experience! Xxoo love and hugs Jen and Bill
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Thank you!! Come visit! Seriously! Xo
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Really great pics. When will you be in Chicago? We are heading up to Mackinaw this coming week.
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Hopefully by Sept 20!
Any suggestions along the way?
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I love the Michigan side of the Lake Michigan even though I am from Wisconsin. We travel across the lake every summer. Both sides have a lot to offer. Here are some suggestions for both sides
Must stop on the Michigan side: Mackinac Island, Charlevoix, Traverse City or Elk Rapids, Leland, Ludington (Harborview Marina), Saugatuck (stay at Ship and Shore), and South Haven.
Must stops on the Wisconsin side: Door county has fish creek( alibi Dock) and sister bay, surgeon bay (Quarterdeck), Sheboygan (Harbor Center), Milwaukee(McKinley Marina or one of the Yacht Clubs), Racine (Reefpoint (this is were we keep our boat, if you stop please let us know)). In Chicago I would stay at DuSable Harbor its right downtown Chicago. Good luck and safe water travels!
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Hi Kim! Thank you so(!) much for this list! It’s beyond helpful!
If we come down the Wisconsin side of the lake, I’ll definitely make sure we stop in your neck of the woods!
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More excellent photography as well as interesting and fun commentary.
Hate to tell you this, but there are more locks on your route from Chicago and Mobile.
Rick
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Ha! Grrrrreat news! 🙈
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Hello Kate & Tom,
I am originally from Michigan Saugatuck is a great destination stop eat at Coral Gables on the Kalamazoo river.
It is also a good point to cross over to Chicago as it is 90 miles to the Chicago river.
Safe Travels
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Thanks, Robert! I think I’ve heard someone mention Coral Gables before! And it sounds like an ideal pit stop before Chicago!
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Do you have any ports of call planned for Lake Erie yet? Plenty of great stops in the Lake Erie Islands or if you looking for a Metropolitain stop head to rock n docks just behind the rock n roll hall of fame in Cleveland. Best food city on the lake and an uber ride to the Westside Market for provisions.
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Hi Art! Unfortunately we won’t be passing through Lake Erie 😦
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