Hike for Health: Reimagined

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September 15th, 2020
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Hike for Health – Reimagined

The Hike for Health has been bringing communities, outdoor enthusiasts, and philanthropists together for 23 years. Fundraising contributions go to much deserving programs that benefit the health and wellness of the local communities. At a time when caring about our and our neighbours health is at the top of our minds, this is ideal! Register for Hike for Health and be a part of this wonderful initiative to help with the well-being of our community members while having a fun time on a local trail.

Hike for Health is traditionally held every year on the last Saturday of September along the iconic Nipigon River Recreation Trail. For 2020, it has been re-imagined as “Choose Your Adventure” to help participants stay safe and have fun while hiking.

Choose Your Adventure

This year participants can choose from a variety of different local trails over a three-day period, from September 25th to the 27th. This encourages hikers to physically distance while enjoying the great trails the region has to offer. Whether you want to go with tradition and hike the Nipigon River Recreation Trail, hike an old favourite or find a new trail to explore, it’s your adventure to choose. There are plenty of incredible options for all skill levels with a variety of terrains and scenic vistas.

Here are just a few great trails to consider choosing for your adventure:

Nipigon River Recreation Trail

As mentioned, this is the traditional trail used for Hike for Health and it’s easy to see why. Not only does this 10 km trail connect the communities of Nipigon and Red Rock, but it offers so much variety and incredible views of Nipigon Bay along the shoreline of the Nipigon River. There is a trailhead at the Nipigon Marina and in Red Rock. It is usually recommended to start this hike at the Red Rock trailhead due to the climbs. It also offers breath-taking views from Lloyd’s lookout – what better way to start your trek? Closer to Nipigon you’ll enjoy meandering on flat terrain along the shore and reveling in the wooded scenery.

Clearwater Creek Loop Trail

If you’re looking for a bit of an easier pace but still want a taste of the Nipigon River Recreation Trail, consider Clearwater Creek Loop Trail. This is a 1 km loop trail along flat terrain beginning at the Nipigon Marina. Start this hike at the Nipigon River Recreation trailhead and continue for a short distance, then take a right at the first trail crossing. Interpretive panels dot this trail that detail the wildlife and flora and fauna you may encounter during this nature walk. Bird feeders along the trail enhance the chance of spotting birds filling their beaks preparing for migration.

Kama Cliffs

Another great option would be the Kama Cliffs Trail.  If you’re looking for a moderate hike that leads to an awe inspiring panoramic view, then this 7.3 km loop trail might be the choice for you. The trailhead is located just 24 km east of the Nipigon River Bridge on Highway 17.  Once you get to the top of this gradually climbing trail you are granted with a bird’s-eye perspective of Kama Point, Nipigon Bay, and Lake Superior as far as the eye can see. The large, open rocky area here offers the perfect place to take a break and soak in this picturesque scene.

Red Rock Mountain Trail

Gain a whole other perspective from the Red Rock Mountain Trail. This 4.9 km loop trail is rated as difficult though the unforgettable views are well worth the hike. Three separate wooden observation platforms around the mountain offer unique vantage points over the town of Red Rock, the Nipigon River and Black Bay. In addition to the incredible views, bald eagles are often spotted soaring overhead by hikers on this trail. What a great way to spend the afternoon while helping the cause!

The Bald Spot

The Bald Spot is perfect for families that are looking to get active yet not have to commit to such a long trek. This local favourite is a 1.4 km point to point trail that leads you up to the best view of the town of Nipigon and the river that one can get! Once you reach the top of this trail you will find a bare open space amid the mountains foliage. Hence the name “the Bald Spot” This is the ideal place to have a picnic while overlooking the town below.

Deer Lake Mountain Trail

Speaking of incredible views, the Deer Lake Mountain Trail offers a staggering thirteen cliff-top lookouts! As you circle the mountain you will be granted with scenic views at every turn with two spurs off this 6.6 km loop trail that lead above No Good Lake and Lofquist Lake. Make your way through old growth cedar forest and bask in panoramas of Nipigon Bay, Nipigon River, Deer Lake and Black Bay. If you choose this trail for your Hike for Health adventure, you surely won’t be disappointed.

 

Come on out and join the fun, choose your own adventure, help the community and register for this years reimagined Hike for Health. For more information on local trails to choose from visit Superior Country’s Interactive Trails Map or the Nipigon and Red Rock Area Trail Maps

Be sure to tag Hike for Health in your epic hiking photos and share your adventure! #hikeforhealthNR