Blackstone Harbour is one harbour that hides its treasures well!
Located deep within the Massasauga Provincial Park the narrow shallow entrance can be found off Woods Bay just north of Moon River Marina. Depth through the channel varies from a few inches to about 5’ so keep a bow watch going through and try to stay in the middle.
Upon first entering the harbour only the occasional campsite or cottage can be seen lining the shore, nothing to tempt you onwards. However looks can be deceiving, especially on Georgian Bay!
From the entrance continue straight ahead to the back east corner of the harbour and locate the mouth of the Blackstone River which spills into a small bay. Although no dock exists, there are a few spots you can easily shore up and disembark.
Walk alongside the chute and follow the water as it winds over the dark gneiss, carving multiple paths through the ancient rock. At the top is a good view of the river which flows from Little Blackstone Lake – a fairly easy portage should you wish to bring an inflatable kayak.
Blackstone River
After the falls we head to the northeast side of the harbour to visit the old Calhoun Lodge and Baker Settlements for a glimpse of early living (1900’s – 1970) on Georgian Bay. After the death of the original land owner in the ‘70’s, the Ministry purchased the property and since the 1990’s have focused on restoring and maintaining the buildings so they remain near their original state but also accessible for Park visitors. With the help of numerous volunteer groups, they have made the Lodge very “visitor friendly”.
Peeking through a window you can see an ancient diesel generator in the maintenance shed, and much of the farm equipment sits out, like it was just abandoned yesterday. With an abundance of timber and rock, but limited equipment and supplies, it’s amazing to see what they were able to accomplish back then!
From the Calhoun Lodge, there is a 6 km trail that will take you past what remains of the Baker Homestead and then loops around passing Little Blackstone Lake, returning to the Lodge.
The Park have put together a great little information pamphlet that outlines the full history of both the Lodge and Homestead; click the link below to download and read the very interesting story about the original land owners, including photos from life in those days, maps and a ghost tale or two! Here is a link to that:
This is a great dinghy day trip for boaters in the Massasauga or Sans Soucis area, just keep in mind the water is very dark throughout Blackstone Harbour and occasionally the odd deadhead sits just below the surface as this was a major logging area back in the days. Be sure to wear good walking shoes, long pants if possible, and remember to bring bug spray, a compass and drinking water.
Georgian Bay Beauties: Find Your Wilderness! 