Adventures with the Ojibwae Crew: From Maple Mountain to Center Falls
Hey, everyone!
Orianna here from Camp Temagami, and I’m thrilled to share some highlights from our recent adventure with the Ojibwae section. Our journey took us to some of the most breathtaking spots in the Lady Evelyn backcountry: Maple Mountain and Center Falls. This is a classic trip for all ages, and a must see for anyone planning a trip in the area!
The boys of Ojibwae—Max, Caspar, Peter, Fernando, and Will — were an incredible group to travel with. They embraced every challenge and soaked in every experience with enthusiasm. We were also joined by the awesome staff members, Salomon and Nathan, who made the trip even more memorable. Whether it was killing time in the canoe with jokes and songs, or just a quiet night by the fire, this lot kept me grinning from ear to ear the entire trip.
Our trip included a climb up Maple Mountain. The hike was invigorating, and reaching the summit was an achievement that filled us all with a sense of accomplishment. From up high, the view was absolutely stunning, making every step worth it. A few years ago there were some significant forest fires that tore through the northern part of Lady Evelyn Provincial Park, but we’re pleased to report that the forest is well on it’s way to recovering from the burn. Only a few short seasons ago this region looked like footage out of the moon landing, with baren rock being the only sight for kilometers; today it’s lush and green once more with new growth taking back the scorched earth!
One of my favorite parts of being on trip at this time of year is blueberry picking. We gathered an abundance of these delicious little berries, which made for some tasty snacks along the way. The blueberries added a sweet touch to our days and were a great reminder of the rich bounty that nature provides. Whether in pancakes or just straight from the bush, a sweet treat is always a welcomed addition.
Near Maple Mountain is Center Falls. The roar of the cascading water was both exhilarating and calming. The real thrill came when we tackled the bum chutes—an adventurous, water-filled descent that brought out everyone’s playful side. It was a great way to cool off and enjoy some laughter together and is the closest thing to Canada’s Wonderland we can get on trip. Taking a moment to pause, catch our breath, and let out a scream or two as you rush down the natural slides made by the falls is always a camper favorite.
One of my personal favorite moments was fishing. There’s something truly special about catching your own dinner and then enjoying it by the campfire. It was a delicious reward for our efforts and a great way to bond as a group. Although I am not a fisherwoman at all, Salomon and Nathan really helped teach all of us about the world lurking just beneath our boats.
Overall, this trip was a fantastic experience, and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of campers. Max, Caspar, Peter, Fernando, and William, you all made this adventure unforgettable. I’m already looking forward to the next time we can hit the backcountry together. I hope to see you all next summer!
Until then, keep the spirit of adventure alive, and I can’t wait to see what our next journey holds! Remember; Phones are the death of adventure. Even when at home, take a moment to put down your tech and get lost in your backyard!
Warm regards,
Orianna
