Oct 3 - Tiny Beaches Rd to Wasaga Beach

Mild October weather had me itching to get out on the Rebel today. I took a leisurely ride on Tuesday along Tiny Beaches Rd from Penetanguishene to Wasaga Beach.

Road Trip: 107 km 
Map: Wasaga Beach 

What a beautiful day to get out and ride. I left around 9am and the temp was already around 19C. Tiny Beaches Rd is a road that you should not exceed 40km on, so it makes for a nice leisurely ride that will take you all the way into Wasaga Beach. This time of year most of the cottagers are not here during the week day, and the permanent residents are hiding I suppose LOL. I didn't seen many cars until I got to Wasaga Beach.

It was a ghost town when I stopped in Balm Beach

Not much happening right now on the beach in Wasaga, but then again it is a Tuesday.

When I stopped at the famous Wasaga sign there was no one around.

Of course I had to get the famous sign pic. 

As I was putting back on my gear a convertible pulled up behind me, I suppose they wanted their pic at the sign too. Glad they pulled up after I got my pic.

When I turned down Sunnidale Rd S. from Mosley I couldn't believe all the new housing going in. It stretched what looked like for miles. (Shutter) I guess new development is everywhere, even Penetanguishene is under construction with all new housing, although none of it is very affordable for the average person, especially when some of it is starting at $844,000! I digress...

When I got back to Penetang I had always wanted to take a picture of this lemonade stand on Water St. that is kind of like a landmark around here. Although I have never seen anyone actually selling Lemonade there. I know there is a story behind it, and it has been there for quite sometime, but I can't remember what it is. Anyway, I pulled over and finally got my pic.

Until next time, Keep.... 

Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride

Sept 23 - Eagle Lake

Took advantage of the great weather on Saturday and mapped out a little ride that would bring us past Eagle Lake.

Round Trip: 100 mile / 160.93 km
Map: Eagle Lake 

We headed out on the 518 E towards Kearney. The trees are turning and it made for a colourful show. The 518 also has sweeping curves and passes close to Beaver Lake where you can stop and take in the view. (Obviously we didn't stop but I had snapped a few pics back in October of 2021 when I was on the Rebel - I never did get around to blogging about that tour...) Anyway, we stopped for gas at Fetterley's Gas & Convenience in Kearney, which was a buzzing hive of activity with ATV's and Pick Ups gassing up for their days festivities. We continued on the 518 which then morphs into Chetwynd Road. For the most part, Chetwynd is a fairly nice paved road, with twisty curves and hills. Although there is a section that becomes hard packed dirt with a smattering of gravel. It doesn't last long, and then back to pavement. I have no clue why they didn't pave the entire length of road, just a mystery of the road lol. It has been like that since I can remember. Staying on Chetwynd brings you into Burk's Falls via Yonge St. This time Chetwynd morphs into Yonge St.  

We stopped at the Stan Darling's Village Park  on Ontario St (520). We have been there before back in June and I wrote about it, although at the time I didn't know the name. 

Onward we went, turning onto Pickerel & Jack Lake Rd, avoiding hwy 11 as much as we can. It too morphs into another road which is called Berriedale Rd. We turned left onto Pevensey Rd then hooked onto hwy 11. You could continue along Muskoka Rd (Berriedale morphs into Muskoka Rd when you cross over Pevensey) But for a paved road it gets very rough. We were only on hwy 11 a short jaunt until exiting at Sundridge (hwy 124)

We then turned at Mountain View Rd (only one way to turn and that is left) It passes over hwy 11 and then we turned right onto Tower Rd. It abruptly ends with a stop sign and the cross road (Ottawa Ave.) is split into a Y.  It was a little confusing as there was no sign that said Ottawa Ave, although there was a sign that showed Municipal Rd S and another that said to Eagle Lake. 

Municipal Rd S. dumps out at Eagle Lake Rd where we turned left and stopped just past the Eagle Lake Narrows Country Store to take in the views and admire some of the spectacular colour display that the trees were showing. 

The BF took this one

I was out this way on the Rebel in 2021 and had went the entire Eagle Lake Rd. I remember that it did turn into hard packed dirt/gravel, although I am not sure if it has been paved since then. I had chose to take a left at Park Rd. S. on this tour. Park Rd S looked to be freshly paved and was a pleasure to ride. It passes the Mikisew provincial Park. Park Rd ends and we made a left on Machar Strong Boundry Rd. which is still paved but we were getting close to a few roads that I had marked as questionable. When I map out our routes I try to view the looks of the road on the street view on google. When I went to check out the next few roads, google decided it had no intention of going down them, so I figured they wouldn't be paved, the question was, how bad might they be.

Making the turn onto Hornbrook Rd was a pleasant surprise, it was paved and not in bad shape either. Although that was to end quickly after passing over a cross street. However, even though the pavement was gone the surface was hard packed with just a smattering of gravel. As you know, I have been on paved roads that were bumpy enough to shake the fillings in your teeth. So it was a relief to ride a dirt road that was smoother than some of those paved ones I have been on. When Hornbrook ended at Adams we made a left then a quick right on Cottrall which brings you out onto hwy 124. All these roads were also hard packed and all an easy ride.

We headed right along hwy 124 until making a left onto River Rd. This is another hard packed dirt road that has a smattering of gravel. Very easy to ride that weaves along the Distress River. It ends at hwy 520 by Lake Cecebe. We turned left heading back to Burk's Falls. Last time we were out this way the road was being resurfaced, now it has been completed with nice new pavement to enjoy.

We made our final stop back in Burk's Falls again at the same park before heading home.
(I am sure you noticed the "old school" GPS taped to the BF's bike LOL)

It was a wonderful ride and seeing all the beautiful colours of the changing leaves was spectacular. Although it brings a sadness to my heart because we all know what that means next.

Until next time... Keep

Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride

Sept 10 - Falkenburg Loop

Back on the Harley and riding again with the BF. It has been quite awhile since I have been able to get out on either of my motorcycles. Sad but true. That's life, anyway, today is shaping up to be perfect riding weather, sunny and mild with no humidity making for a pleasant ride.

Round Trip: 125 mi / 201 km
Map:Falkenburg Loop

Started off on the 518 taking Stisted Rd which becomes Ravenscliff. Pretty good roads, and both paved. Maybe the odd rough patch here and there, but overall not bad. We turned off on Hoodstown Rd [45] and then left onto Etwell Rd. Again both roads are fairly easy riding, a few really sharp turns and squiggly with a little twisty thrown in. lol It comes out on Aspdin Rd where we turned right. Then the next side street Domtar we made a left. It is just a short road that ends at Old Muskoka Rd where we turned right.

I hadn't been on Old Muskoka Rd in 5 years. That was back when I first got my Rebel. The road seems a lot more bumpier than I remembered. It was quite rough riding in spots even though it is paved. Not a good Harley riding road lol. Oh well, the way I see it, we were already committed to it, so just ride it out.

We then Made a left at Stephenson Rd 4 W. to get to Lone Pine Rd. This will bring you right into Bracebridge as it dumps out on Manitoba St. Lone Pine Rd starts off a little rough but eventually smooths out. Nice road with very little traffic. As it nears Manitoba St it gets a little more residential. 

Stopped at the beginning of Lone Pine Rd for a little rest after the bumpy ride.

Making a right on Manitoba St. we headed to Falkenburg Rd. I have been on this road a lot of times with my Rebel. It is a nice road with lots of twists and curves. Very nice ride with a fairly smooth surface and even the Harley seemed to handle it fine. 

This morning when I first plotted out the route I had planned on riding part of the Frank Miller Memorial Rte that would take us along Forman and Mortimer Point Rd and loop back up to Rosseau along Peninsula Rd. Well, when we got to the end Falkenburg Rd I just wasn't sure if I was up to some more potentially rough riding roads that could be quite possible on Foreman or Mortimer. So I told the BF to turn right on Brackenrig Rd instead of left. Brackenrig Rd is another great road to ride, although just too short lol. (If you are curious about the original route you can find it at the end of my babbling lol) 

We turned left onto Windermere Rd. keeping right as to continue on Dee Bank Rd.
All wonderful riding. 

When Deebank Rd ended at hwy 141 we turned right heading towards Rosseau. You will never be disappointed riding on 141. Lots of twisties and curves. Although at the time of this riding tour there is construction as you round Skeleton Bay and it is down to one lane, so be prepared to stop at the automatic stop light thingy. At least there was not much traffic so it was just a short delay before we were on our way again.

Construction - one lane

We stopped at the Rosseau Waterfront Park.
Nice place to take a rest before heading back.

We continued up 141 turning right on Cardwell which becomes Aspdin Rd., which heads back into Huntsville. The beginning of Cardwell/Aspdin is a little rough but then whoohoo, they resurfaced most of it since the last time we were on it. It was SWEET! All the rough spots were gone and made for a very pleasant ride with all its twists and curves. Had to slow down when a family of  wild Turkeys decided to cross the road. The little young Turkeys were cute as they waddled across the road, but the adults sure were ugly lol.

We went back up Etwell Rd and Hoodstown to Ravenscliff where we made a right. Next we turned left on Fowlers Rd. Then a left onto Old North Rd until it was time to hook back onto highway 11 for a short spurt. We exited at Novar where we connected onto the 592 back to Emsdale. (Not bad roads if you are wanting to avoid highway 11 as much as possible). 

Until next time, Keep...

Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride

Oh, almost forgot

Here is the extended version of this route

Aug 19 - Laughlin Falls & Upper Big Chute Rd

Silk Line

I have neglected my L'll Rebel for months, so with the beginnings of a beautiful day, sun shining and temps rising to 23C it was time for solo spin. 

Round Trip: 138 km
Map: Laughlin Falls & Upper Big Chute

I had been browsing google maps when I noticed a scenic spot icon just in Coldwater (Ontario) I have toured around many of those roads in that area, but never noticed it before. Weird how that happens. Anyway, I decided to plot my course to include that spot.

I have always thought Coldwater was a quaint little town as you meandering along River St.  I have been on Upper Big Chute Rd plenty of times, it is a ride that is curvy with plenty of scenery to tantalize the senses. 

This time instead of staying on Upper Big Chute Rd I went straight onto Mt. Stephen Rd. Then with a left on Taylor and a right on Laughlin Falls Rd I pulled up to Laughlin Falls. 

I was disappointed when I seen people milling about. It was a family having some kind of a photo shoot and were spread across the road as the photographer directed them for the perfect poses. Usually my solo rides are through the week, and I rarely run into people, but I should have known better on a Saturday and in prime tourist season. At least the road itself was devoid of traffic.

I parked my bike along the guard rail, unfortunately not where I wanted as to get in the water in the background. At least I could snap a couple pics. 

As I was stowing my camera away one of the gentlemen in the group said to me "Oh, I thought you wanted to take a picture of me" I chuckled and he smiled. Maybe I should have, I rarely take pictures of people. lol

I continued on my way turning onto Silk Line that brought me directly back onto Upper Big Chute Rd. Even though it was Saturday there was very little traffic (on coming) and no one behind me. (Which I suites me just fine) As I rode, a rich earthy aroma permeated the air, the kind of smell you get after a lot rain from the day before. (Friday was a rainy crap day)

I passed by the Big Chute where boats get a ride down to the lake below on a mechanical lift  and continued on to ride the fun and twisty S. Bay Rd. I made a left onto Honey Harbour Rd and went through Port Severn. 

At Lock 45 on Port Severn Rd N I decided to stop just before the lock at the rest area along the river. The parking lot was packed full so I just pulled up on the side to snap a few pics. I barely got one picture snapped when a guy crossed the parking lot. I looked at him and said "I guess that is your jeep?" (who I was blocking) he smiled and said yes. I quickly packed my camera in my saddle bag and as quickly as I could hoped on my bike and left. As I rode off I thought to myself, 'It is too peoplely out here for me"  I headed home.

Until next time... Keep

Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride

Aug 05 - Bala - Clear Lake Rd & Tally-Ho Swords Rd

I usually don't like to ride anywhere too far on a long weekend,
(too many idiots on the road) but it was such a gorgeous day, I couldn't pass it up. 

Round Trip: 143 mi / 230.13 km

Map: Bala - Clear Lake Rd & Tally-Ho Swords Rd

Rosseau Ball Diamond

Aspdin Rd to Rosseau was busy, (I knew it would be) but the traffic was moving so it made it tolerable. Add Aspdin to your must ride list if you are in the area, it is full of twists and curves. When we got to Rosseau it was just bustling there, tons of cars and people criss crossing at the corner. We eventually made a right on hwy 141 and then a left on 632 where we pulled over at the Rosseau Ball Diamond for a break. The 632/Peninsula Rd is another fantastic road, lots of twists and curves along with lots of scenic views. Surprisingly not much traffic considering it being a long weekend and all. Of course I am not complaining, I love when no one is behind (Just the way I like it lol) and most of the way no one was. 

The 632 or should I say Peninsula Rd (the name changes halfway along the road) ends at the 118 West, we made a right on it until it ends at the 169 where we made a left. The 169 will bring you right through Bala. Lots of shops to browse or take pics along Bala Bay and Bala Falls. (Obviously, we did not stop, hence the lack of pictures lol) We turned right onto Muskoka Rd 38. This is yet again another road to add to your growing list of roads to ride on with your motorcycle. 

We stopped at the Wahta Station and lucky me the BF bought me a Kawartha ice cream cone. Yum, I had chocolate and he had vanilla. The were running out of flavours and I was lucky to get the last of the chocolate. The place was packed, think everyone was having Mrs H's fish & chips. I hear they are good, but I am not a fish person. lol

You can always find a spot to park on a motorcycle
(Looks like we are the only ones in the parking lot lol)
This was off to the side, no room for any cars here

After the delicious cone we continued along Muskoka 38 until hwy 400 where we headed north. Unfortunately, there is no choice but to go onto hwy 400 to get to the roads I wanted to ride from here. It wasn't as busy as I thought, there were just a few clusters of speed demons, and once they passed us we had the hwy to ourselves again. At least it wasn't too far before our exit onto Lake Joseph Rd. 

 

Lake Joseph Rd, Clear Lake Rd and Tally-Ho Swords Rd are all excellent motorcycle roads, I guarantee you won't be disappointed. Bonus, no traffic :)

Tally-Ho Swords Rd ends at the 518 where we made a right. The 518 from this point to almost Sprucedale can really be a bumpy ride, so keep this in mind because all the sharp twists and sharper curves have the roughest patches that will have you bouncing around like a tennis ball. I knew how bad this road was from the last time we were on it, but it is the road that fit into my my plan, so as they say "suck it up buttercup" and I did LOL

We stopped one more time along the Seguin River before we headed home.

Until next time... Keep

Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride

July 30 - Mattawa, Rte 533-Ottawa River

A perfect day for a ride, well almost perfect. The sun was out and again no humidity, yeah! Temps were to get up to 23C, however leaving at about 9:30 am (Sunday July 30, 2023) it was about 18C. 

Round trip: 208 mi / 334.74 km
Map: Matawa, Rte 533-Ottawa River 

As much as I like to avoid all major highways, even highway 11, for this tour we will have to spend a little time on highway 11. Sometimes there is just no way to get around it. We did the usual 592 through Burk's Falls then out onto hwy 11. At least it wasn't long before we were turning off at Sundridge (for the record, we could have got to Sundridge by the back way, however the last time we were on Muskoka Rd it shook the hell out of us, the road was so bumpy and was just a very unpleasant ride.) We exited to Hwy 124 and went through Sundridge and South River then back out onto hwy 11 to exit at Powassan. 

We turned right onto Memorial Park Drive, the a left onto Alderdale Rd. All was going fairly smoothly on paved roads until the next turn onto River Rd. You guessed it, gravel. I just have this talent of finding gravel lol. Anyway, it wasn't the really horrid gravel, it was hard packed with just a light smattering of gravel spread across it. I have been on worse. 

The next right turn onto S Shore Rd was the same surface. Finally found pavement again when we turned right onto Development Rd. and then made a left onto Gagnon Street which was still paved, if you could call it that lol. 

This little town is Bonfield and we were close to our first stop.
Making a left at Trunk Rd and headed toward Kaibuskong Park.

Very picturesque park, the river cascading down from Lake Nosbonsing.

After a rest we were back on the road heading along Rte 531 it was just a short ride before turning right onto the Trans-Canada Hwy [17]. Until this point there wasn't much traffic. It was a little heavier along the Trans-Canada, but not bad.

We stopped at the Esso station to fill up. When I had originally plotted out this route I also had a planned stop at the Pimisi Rest Stop/Picnic Area, but because we had a nice rest at the Kaibuskong Park we decided to stop in Mattawa instead. As we drove by I think it would make for a nice stop. 

As we headed toward Mattawa I noticed the clouds were increasing and some had that ominous darkness to them. But so far the sky wasn't too threatening.(Famous last words) This was the first time I had ever been in Mattawa, and for such a little burg of 2,500 it was full of life and rocking. As we rolled through you could hear music blasting from a bar/restaurant and people milling about. Curious, I later learned that  it was the annual Voyageur Days festival that was happening. 

A quick look up on google; I found in the Northern Ontario CTV news an article: "Every summer since 1998, this festival of local heritage sets the Laurentian Mountains and two rivers: Ottawa River and Mattawa River as its backdrop." Read more here 

We didn't stay for the festival but we did stop along the river.

Next it was off onto the road that had intrigued me, Rte 533. On my google map it looked like an interesting and fun road to ride and certainly did not disappoint. As we started along Rte 533 that ominous cloud I mentioned before decided to sprinkle on us, but as the road twisted around it kept those nasty rain clouds to the left of us, just hovering on the edge. Rte 533 has lots of twisties and the road itself was in good shape, making for a wonderful ride. This road definitely feels like it is out in the middle of nowhere, and I guess it is lol. It had walls of trees on either side and as it wound around you could catch glimpses of the river. When we had first started along it, a car had passed us and had sped off leaving the road mostly to ourselves. The entire length of this road maybe four cars came from the opposite direction and other than that one car passing us, no one else came from behind. 

We got to the end and pulled over just before our left turn onto 63. 

The sky looked very threatening in the direction we were headed. Not much we could do, so we headed out towards the darkness. At first it was a little sprinkle, then the further we went the harder the rain cascaded down. It had turned into a cold rain, which made getting soaked even worse. Then my teeth started to chatter. It was also getting a little hard to see, although there really was no place to take shelter, so we just had to push through it. (If you are wondering, no we did not have any rain gear) Eventually I could see the brightness ahead and thankfully about 20km or so before North Bay the rain stopped. I was glad when the sun came out and the air turned warm again to air dry our wet clothes. My socks were still soggy. We went through North Bay and then got back on hwy 11. 

We made another stop in Callander along Callander Bay for a rest.

We went along Callander Bay Rd. and hopped back onto hwy 11 until turning off onto the 124 again. We filled up gas again in South River.

Our last stop before heading home was at a rest area along 124. 

Except for my soggy socks and very wet feet it turned out to be another great ride.

Until next time... Keep

 Cruising Through Life & Enjoying The Ride