2016 Ottawa Outdoors Summer | Page 13

Using them in summertime might reveal such migratory songbirds as Baltimore orioles or rosebreasted grosbeaks , and a host of waterfowl , including common loons and great blue herons . Even though trails are not demanding , summer ’ s humidity got to us and the lake beckoned .
After our three-hour drive southwest of Ottawa to Roseneath ( north of Cobourg ) we were eager to jump into Rice Lake . Take your snorkel : the water is clean and clear , and no matter how far you swim around the island , it ’ s fun to investigate lakewater life .

Etiquette for recreational trails

TRAIL ETIQUETTE is a fancy way of saying be polite and consider others when walking , biking or riding horses on multi-use trails . Trail use is a privilege , so treat it with respect .
• Take heed of those trailhead signs about what you can and cannot do
• That said , pedestrians always have the right of way
• Step off the trail and speak calmly when a horse rider comes along
• Keep to the right
• Warn others when passing
• Don ’ t speed
• Pack out whatever you take in
• Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them
• Don ’ t disturb wildlife
• Go easy on the environment by staying on trail
• Respect private property
• No booze , no drugs
• Equestrians
• Observe speed limits
• Clean up after your horse
• Tie up your horse at least seven metres from lakes , streams or springs
• Control of your horse always and never leave it unattended Φ
As firm believers of the adage “ have paddle will explore ,” we were happy that T . J . supplies canoes , kayaks and paddle boats , plus adult life jackets . Again , take binoculars and look for beavers , muskrats , painted and snapping turtles . Also , Rice Lake is famous for muskie fishing , along with smallmouth and largemouth bass , crappies , and walleye being caught .
Note that getting down to the water at Rice Lake can involve a steep slope , depending which cabin you ’ re in , but it ’ s all in good fun even if you have to descend via the help of ropes . That ’ s what we had to do at Sunset cabin but the going is easy if you take your time .
If you ’ re looking for a place that ’ s fun to explore , easy for families , with a built-in message about how to enjoy an eco-friendly holiday , Northumberland County ’ s Island Spirits is it . Youngsters and friends can learn how to camp , with basic amenities provided . Not to mention fabulous sunrises and sunsets . Φ
When hiking the island , an alpaca cosied up to our friend . ( top left )
Katharine gathered fresh organic eggs from Island Spirits chickens . ( bottom )
Chowing down on our camp cook stove breakfast . ( above )
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