There are some places in this world that hold special places in our hearts. A place that heals us, rejuvenates us and sets us free. These places seem to hold an energizing power over us like none other. Perhaps it is because we match the vibration of the land. Or, perhaps it has been such a part of our life that it seems to be ingrained in our being. Continue reading Northwest Territories – The Land That Lures You
Category: The Great Canadian North
All about the my beautiful home turf in Northern Canada
Relishing In The Unique Beauty Of Early Winter In The NWT
With Winter having arrived in its early stages, there is always this unique and stunning beauty of the area around Hay River, NWT. Being built on the shores of the ninth largest lake in the world, the Great Slave Lake, and in very close proximity to a few different waterfalls – the ice always freezes over.
As it is still the early stages, the freeze is not totally complete yet. I absolutely love appreciating the abundance of beauty this area has to offer all year round. With each changing season, the beauty alters to another unique state.
With the weather being so mild, I decided it was the perfect day to go on some ‘me time’ adventures, and do a bit of cruising. One of my favorite past times in life is my solo adventures, and going on scenic drives. I figured I would go to the beach and check out the lake before heading out to Alexandra Falls.
The beach was so pristine and tranquil.
With a thin sheet of ice blanketing the top, no wind, and not a sound other then my shoes crunching in the snow to be heard. It was incredible. Moments like that totally sooth the soul.
In the distance not far out you could still see a bit of water where the ice has not covered yet. It will not take very long to be totally covered with the cold snap that is due to come in.
I was feeling so relaxed on this peaceful walk, it was one of those soul soothing moments for sure.
I hit the road towards Alexandra falls after I was done frolicking on the beach. A nice 40 minute drive. The snow was lightly falling, and it added to the early winter feel. Cruising on the highway and being in my thoughts is another very relaxing place for me to be.
As I was walking on the trail to the falls viewing point I could already hear water flowing, so I knew the falls were not frozen over yet. I was so pleasantly surprised with the showcase that the falls had on display.
Half frozen, half flowing. Such a stunning contrast. It is one of those things that you can get lost in. It is so easy to just sit and stare, and listen to the sounds, it becomes mesmerizing. Well it’s without a doubt healing and soul soothing.
There was beauty to be appreciated from all angles.
I took it in as long as I could before getting a chill. The wind out there was a bit nippy.
Seriously though, the sights here never get old. Growing up here, I must have done the tour hundreds of times, and yet, every time is better then the last. It is never boring or run of the mill, instead it always just makes me feel so darn amazing.
I highly suggest getting the North on your bucket list.
If you are interested in veiwing my YouTube Video of the excursion you can check that out here.
Top 5 Sights To See In A Day Trip To Wood Buffalo National Park
Wood Buffalo National Park is one of the biggest parks on the planet, sprawling over 44, 807sq km of sheer natural beauty. It spreads between Northern Alberta and Southern Northwest Territories. The park was found in 1922 in order to protect the worlds largest free roaming wood bison, with the population believed to be over 5000 at this moment. The park is also home to a nesting site of whooping cranes.
I had toured around the park when I was taken there on a school trip in elementary, however that was quite some time ago now(not that you would ever guess). It had been on my adult bucket list to go and visit it once again for many years.
What amazed me was that some of the places that I remembered, looked exactly as I envisioned and recalled them. One could say, ‘Just as beautiful as I remembered’. There was that and the discovery of new places that I didn’t know existed.
The town of Fort Smith, Northwest Territories is known as the gateway to Wood Buffalo National Park. Located in Southern NWT, its a charming little town that is well worth exploring on its own. So in reality this is also on the list of top sights to see. You can’t really enter the park without entering Fort Smith.
Once your in, if you only have a day to tour around here are the top 5 sights to see that are easily accessible, and each uniquely beautiful.
- The Hamlet of Fort Fitzgerald
Fort Fitzgerald is literally a settlement, it is located on the NWT/Alberta border and is the most Northern hamlet in the regional municipality of Wood Buffalo. With only approximately 9 people residing there, it is for sure one of the smallest communities I have visited.
This little hamlet was a unexpected diamond waiting for me to discover it. The river is huge, and is basically the back yard of the community.
Absolutely worth checking out if you are in the area.
2. Mountain Portage Rapids
In the area of Fort Smith there are plenty of rapids to play in or just appreciate from a shoreline view. Of those, the Mountain Portage Rapids are some of the most easily accessible.
Just a little trip down a steep hill and you will arrive.
Whether you want to get in or enjoy the sandy shores which make for a beachy feel, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy.
Although my visit was cut short due to a bear encounter. Not just A bear, but a mama bear and her three cubs. Let’s just say, the shore line became a distant memory pretty darn quick. A gentle reminder to always be bear aware in these areas. Made for some good adrenaline for the day.
3. Take A Dip In the Turquoise Water At Pine Lake
Located 60 km from Fort Smith in the middle of the Boreal Forest is a hidden gem called Pine Lake. The water is the bluest I have ever put my eyes on in the North.
It was created by a series of 3 sinkholes, and is a getaway destination for the residents of Fort Smith. There are campsites, cabin rentals and plenty of picnic spots in the area. You can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, as well as swimming(watch out for leeches though).
This is a MUST visit spot if you are in the area. The campground is open from May long weekend to September labour day weekend. So get your wiener roasters ready and head on out.
4. Visit The Sea Of Salt Crusted Ground At The Salt Plains
When you stand on the crystal like ground looking to the vast flat expanse of the salt covered ground, you can’t help but be in awe.
The Salt Plains were created from ancient seas, that left behind saline water in which pushed the salt to the surface.
At times you can see wood bison grazing on the plains, or even whooping cranes. When you look at the ground beneath you, you can observe the myriad of animal tracks left behind.
There is an energy to this place that is undeniable – you can run and frolic in the open air of the plains, and if if your feeling adventurous you can give the ground a little lick. Trust me – it’s salty.
5. Observe The Wood Bison In Their Natural Habitat
Clearly when you are in Wood Buffalo National Park, you must keep your eyes peeled to see the buffalo. I think that is a given. Although it’s not hard as they are all over the place and do tend to enjoy hanging out on and beside the highways.
These very large and majestic creatures are something to be appreciated, and seeing them up close and personal are something you won’t soon forget. It adds the extra magic to your unforgettable visit to the park.
It is amazing what you can accomplish in day in this park. Although a day just doesn’t seem like enough, it is more like a warm up for my next lengthy visit. Wood Buffalo National Park – Get it on your bucket list.
Top 3 Activities To Enjoy In A Festival Filled March Weekend In Yellowknife NWT
With winter winding down and spring being sprung upon us, March brings loads of end of season activities going on around the North. Every season has it’s unique events to enjoy in this beautiful area of the world, and in Yellowknife – it is no exception.
My appreciation for the North and all its endless splendor is unwavering. It is a land of extremes. From climate, weather to beauty. It will never cease to amaze you. I continually feel proud and very lucky to be able to call this majestic area of the world my roots, and my home.
Having enjoyed my first full winter back in the NWT in many years due to my global adventuring, I have made it a point to take in as much as I possibly can. This past weekend I went to Yellowknife, NWT, where I had the extreme pleasure of checking off a few long awaited boxes yearning to be ticked in my endless pursuit of life – and all in one epic weekend none the less.
So here are my top three not to be missed March activities that I enjoyed in Yellowknife, NWT.
For the last 22 years they spend two months in -30c temperatures, constructing a massive ice castle on the frozen bay, in which they call ‘The Snowking‘.
It is extremely impressive, and also boasts incredible snow sculptures in and around it’s premises.
For the whole month of March the Snowking festival includes all sorts of live shows for all ages to enjoy, art exhibits, Â and rock bands, as well as film festivals. It’s truly a work of art.
I was diggin the ice tables.
It’s a grand structure and you can’t help but to appreciate it, especially with all the hard work and conditions that are braved in order to construct it. It proudly brings the community together in a very positive way. Having seen photos’s of it for so long, I knew it was about time that I feast my eyes on it. Let me tell you – It did not dissapoint.
Held right beside the Snowking for 3 days in March is the annual Long John Jamboree. With a jam packed weekend of awesome events ranging from curling, to igloo building demonstration, and a snow beach volleyball tournament, just to name a few. You can kick it in the ‘Brrrr garden’ and have a cold brewski while taking in some live music and playing some trivia. Or perhaps an ice skating disco is what you are after. The events are imaginative and endless. Fun for the whole family.
One of the highlights of the Jamboree is their ‘Burn on the Bay’.
Burn on the bay is where they lite up a big wooden structure on the ice in the bay to have what was hands down the biggest bonfire I have ever experienced in my life.
It was so cool, and pretty intense when you are standing right beside it.
The whole jamboree brought the community together and then some. I would absolutely go back to experience more of it again next year.
3. Enjoy some Dog Mushing at Arctic Village
How did I not even know this place existed after growing up in the North?! Probably one of the coolest places I have ever been in the North. I have always wanted to dog mush, like seriously, for a very very long time. I was stoked that we were invited to go on this little adventure.
Little did I know the grand experience Arctic Village offers. From Dog Mushing to Teepee’s, onward to heated viewing seats to bask in the Northern lights spectacular show for longer periods of time in the harsh winter weather.
 
I was enamored instantly by this beautiful winter paradise.
My ridiculously excited state soared when it came time to finally try my hand out at dog sledding. It rocked my adventuring souls world.
I was in the drivers seat for the mush, and the break is a rubber square you have to step on when directed ‘break on’. Let me tell you, when you are in the drivers seat and you have to step on that break pad, you best hang on tight! Otherwise, you will go flying off the back. Which luckily – I did not.
Our guide Kevin, was so knowledgeable and has a real passion for his job. He made the whole experience that much more memorable.
It’s amazing how when these dogs are running a sled, they have massive smiles on their faces. You can see they truly love what they do.
We were lucky enough to meet Diego, whom was the lead dog in the Disney movie ‘Eight Below’. Now the ripe old age of 17, he ain’t no pup anymore. Still such a sweet dog though!
I was super intrigued by Skookum the one eyed sled dog. From what I was told the poor little fella lost his eye in a fight. But he is still happy as can be, and one heck of a little musher.
Seeing as how there is also a slide there with tubes, there was no way I could not go for a rip before departing.
Nothing like a small spike of adrenaline to top off the weekend.
How can you not love that really?!
I will absolutely be visiting Aurora Village once again. I want to sit in those heated seats under the Northern lights with a nice warm drink.
Let me tell you, this was an epic and jammed packed weekend visit to Yellowknife. I was able to experience so many things that I have waited so long to do. Making checks on my list in life is what I live for. No matter how long the box waits, it’s only a matter of time before it gets that big ol’ check.
If you are planning a trip to Yellowknife in the month of March one of these years, then I say do it on this particular weekend. That way you can experience the Snow King, and the Long John Jamboree, all in one weekend, topping it off with and unforgettable dog mushing adventure. Northern adventures, continually setting the bar.
A Uniquely Unforgettable Stay At Mo’s Houseboat Bed & Breakfast
Staying on a houseboat in Yellowknife, NWT has always been on my bucket list. Being from the Northwest Territories I have been to Yellowknife plenty of times, and never ceased to be intrigued by the house boating community there. In the summer they float effortlessly, and in the winter they are frozen in place. I have always observed it to be a unique life, and some of those houseboat’s have some pretty impressive architecture.
I was finally had the opportunity to check that experience off my list and had the pleasure of staying at one of the most unique places in my life- Mo’s Houseboat Bed & Breakfast. Not going to lie, I was pretty darn excited leading up to this trip. I love unique and out of the ordinary experiences, and this was exactly that.
The houseboats are off grid, and use solar power and generators, as well as water straight from the lake below. With ice roads all over the place on the frozen bay it is very easy to drive out to the houseboat in the winter. In summer you are given a canoe to use, so you can paddle to shore at your leisure.
There is the main houseboat where owner/artist/entrepreneur and world traveler Monique Robert calls home.
Then there are also two stand alone rooms located on their own houseboat, just beside the main one. I found it pretty cool to know that there are underwater cables from the main house generator that go straight over to the cabins.
The rooms inside are bright, colorful and very inviting. Much more chic then I would have imagined.
Although with Mo being an artist, she has great taste and a keen eye for decor. Each suite has a built in kitchenette, which she fully stocks with all your breakfast needs.
There are washrooms that include a shower, toilet and sink. Literally all the amenities you could possible imagine.
I was super impressed with the comfort of the beds as well.
The main house is full of character, beautifully decorated, and furbished with many of Mo’s stunning art pieces.
Mo’s passion is her artistry work, and I was totally amazed at the beautiful creations that she produces. She is absolutely gifted in her artistic abilities.
In 2009 Monique also published a book called ‘Papier Mache Design‘ which received worldwide attention for being the only book on the market describing universal techniques to create a sculpture of your choice. Monique’s website has a great and broad showcase of her art www.moniquerobert.com. I know for myself that I need to get a piece of her art in my life.
Being winter, you can watch all the vehicles on the ice roads, including dog sleds, and snow machines. Its really kinda magical. A winter wonderland at your doorstep.
I could imagine how incredible it must be to sit on the deck in the summer with the sun shining, water splashing up and the boats cruising by.
This is not the first time Mo’s houseboat has received recognition, she has some pretty prestigious mentions under her belt, from Macleans Magazine, to Kayak Magazine, as well as Afar Magazine. Let’s also note that the Amazing Race Canada used her houseboat as their base when the show was in Yellowknife. Why am I not surprised though?! It is that marvelous of a place.
Mo has done extensive traveling around globe herself, so with her own travel knowledge she knows how to take outstanding care of her guests.
This was truly an unforgettable and special experience – Mo is an inspiration, and gem of a person, whom I feel was such a pleasure to meet. Herself and her houseboat are both things you won’t soon forget after visiting.
Mo’s Houseboat BnB. An absolute must for your bucket list!
It Was A Walk In The Bush
February in Northwest Territories usually means -30 degree Celsius temperatures, and 10 layers of clothing to protect from the very real potentials of frost bit and freezing to death. However this year the weather has been so unpredictable and up and down, every week we have something else. Lately it even go in the the plus temperatures. Of course that’s pretty awesome if you want to go on a nice bush hike and be out in nature. Not sure if its best for the environment up here though.
That being said, it was an absolutely stunning and warm day, so I decided the best way to spend it would be hiking out in the bush, and seeing what mother nature had on offer this particular day.
The surroundings themselves are absolutely beautiful. Winter wonderland is the exact description I would use.
The snow was pretty deep in lots of area’s, every time I would take a step, it would go straight over the top and straight into my boot.
Just your typical ‘Snow booter’, no big deal… Scoop that right on out and keep trucking along. Ok, well it was a bit of a chilly deal after the 10th one, not gonna lie.
The scenic view kept changing, which kept the walk enthralling.
We are so lucky in this area of the world that one of the most sought after medicinal mushrooms in the world grows wild. The Chaga mushroom.
There is an ample supply of birch trees here, in which host the Chaga mushrooms. Chaga mushrooms have the highest number of antioxidants of any food, incredible immune boosting properties, anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-viral and cholesterol  lowering effects to name a few. It is a powerhouse of a healer, that’s for darn sure.
When your out on the land here, it’s always prime time to do some Chaga hunting.
We were not super successful this day, but we did find some. There are times you find a area covered with Chaga. Even finding a nice chunk is awesome, and you can cut it off and take it to make some super healing tea. Yum! Health taste’s so good.
I also came across a spruce tree that was oozing with sap.
Alright, well perhaps I should say it had oozed with sap, as the sap was hard. When I was a child growing up in the bush, I spent quite a lot of time out on the land a lot. I always loved chewing on spruce sap, I called it tree gum and/or bush gum. It is also full of healing qualities and vitamins, as it comes straight out of the tree, it kinda like tree blood.
I was pretty excited when I found the sap, and straight away cut a piece off and tucked right in.
I love the taste! It definitely has an earthy taste, similar to a tea, however I love those types of flavors. I suppose because I grew up with them, so my pallet is  accustomed to them. Of course a few beautiful flashbacks from my childhood came flooding in – which was absolutely wonderful in and of itself. This day had proved a be a massive success, and probably one of the best ideas ever.
Let’s not forget one very important detail. Being a lover of grounding and tree hugging, there was absolutely no way I could be out there without giving a tree a hug.
The energy exchange is undeniable, and the healing benefits are amazing. Nature always fills my soul.
After a couple hours of adventuring around, we decided to head back and end this nature filled day the only way that seemed to be the cherry on top. A good ol’ bonfire.
Not before taking in the spectacular sunset though.
It was such a fabulous day out in pure blissful nature, it was too great not to share.
What can I say, don’t underestimate the soul soothing, energy topping abundance of a day in mother natures playground. Get out there and go bask in it. Heck yes to being awesome in nature!
Northern Canadian Class – Dining In Style At ‘The Back Eddy’
Classy dining around the globe is a hobby that I take very seriously. Enticing the palette with incredible and unique flavors and food pairings, all while surrounded in a comfortable chic atmosphere – is exactly what I am after when dining out. I am continually on the hunt to find the best and most amazing places to experience and share around the world. It’s an art that one can’t help but appreciate.
Here in the hub of the North –Â Hay River, NWT, there happens to be one of my absolute life long favorites. The Back Eddy. They always provide an unforgettable experience, and the dishes will never disappoint. Â Having been in business for over 40 years, Â it is clear there are many things being done right here.
The decor of The Back Eddy reflects a nautical theme, adorned with helms, and various pieces from ships.
Hay River has been a port for shipping and barging for many years, so it was very fitting for The Back Eddy to take on this theme. The name is derived from an ‘Eddy’, which is a whirl of water, and in this case, ‘Back Eddy’, intended to represent the whirl of water created by the back of the ship.
The original owner of The Back Eddy also created what’s called, Back Eddy Spice, which is still sprinkled in quite a few dishes on the menu to this day, as well as sold in many stores. It’s a Back Eddy staple. The Back Eddy has now been family run by some pretty phenomenal people for the last 16 years.
The atmosphere is inviting and very relaxing. Particularly now with all of their festive decorations making the place feel ‘oh so magical’.
Each month they feature different lunch and dinner specials, as well as a monthly dessert(made in house).
The majority of their dishes are all made from scratch in house and with plenty of love, so you are guaranteed to always have a fresh flavorful experience.
One of my absolute favorite dishes of theirs is the ceaser salad. Nothing fancy, but they make their own dressing, and it is sooo darn good. I can eat it every day. In fact, when I am home every year, I pretty much do eat it every day. I have yet to find another around the globe that compares.
This time around on our ladies of leisure dinner, rather then one of their tantalizing menu items, we were after one of their other classics. Hot Rocks.
Hot Rocks are just that, heated marble slabs, that you get to cook your own food on, right at your table.
It’s seriously a lot of delicious fun. They come out already nicely heated and then you place them on the flames to keep the sizzle going.
You have the choice between meat rocks, seafood rocks or a combo of both. We decided to go for the combo rocks which included, Lobster, Prawns, Chicken and Beef, along with plenty of various veggies.
The platter is very abundantly stocked, and has a fabulous array of house made butters and dips. So you absolutely will no be going home hungry – better bring those stretchy pants.
First thing was first though. I needed to prepare my palette by getting the vino flowing(lets not forget who we are talking about here). It’s simply the classy lady way to begin any culinary journey. For a small Northern establishment they do have quite a good little selection of Vino to choose from. I opted for a Rose, a nice inbetween of white and red.
With hot rocks, your act of having dinner truly turns into an experience. It so nice to share fabulous food, great chat, and good drinks all while being surrounded by an extremely comfortable environment. It’s the best way, and always creates it to be nothing less then memorable.
You won’t forget how full you were in the end either. Good thing the seats have wheels on them – in case you can’t get up and need to be wheeled out. Isn’t that a classy mental picture?!
The Back Eddy truly is a Northern Gem, and it only gets better with age. That’s right, just like a fine wine. If you find yourself in Northwest Territories, and particularly in the Hay River area, make sure you stop in and enjoy some Northern class and true North hospitality. Cheers to keeping the palette adventures going!
Chasing Beauty In The Northwest Territories – The Land That Doesn’t Disappoint
Well it’s official. It is mid October, and there is snow everywhere here in the Northwest Territories. Winter has come early this year. Not that I am complaining, I do love the snow. Especially when it’s accompanied by favorable temperatures. Although, the up and down, above and below zero game, makes things messy, wet, and slick. You never know what your going to get. Yes, the pro’s and con’s to everything in life.
Just before the snow flew, I went out on another day of adventuring. It’s just what I do. No matter where in the world I am. Trust me though, the snow ain’t gonna stop this lady from adventuring. It simply creates more various adventure opportunities. Particularly in the NWT.
The week prior to this I went to Twin Falls Gorge and enjoyed the epic ambiance of Alexandra Falls.
This time, we went the opposite direction. We cruised out to the little community of Kakisa, which is about 1.5 hours North of Hay River, NWT. With a population of about 45 people, I don’t mean little lightly.
The primary reason of driving out there was to visit Lady Evelyn Falls. Which is located just 5 km away from Kakisa. Obviously I had to take a little cruise through the quite little community since I was in the area. Lady Evelyn Falls are closed for the season. Well the campgrounds are.
  You can still walk in and see the falls. It was quite cool being in the area when everything is totally shut for the winter. A completely empty campground. Not a soul to be found, other then a couple of birds that is. Funny enough though, I wouldn’t have any problem camping in that weather. Get a nice warm fire going, a couple extra layers of clothes, and your laughing. Or perhaps I am just a die hard?! Ahh well, next summer.
Don’t forget to heed the warning before you embark on your waterfall adventure.
I guess it depends what a high level really means? Thanks for the warning though!
Lady Evelyn Falls are quite a bit smaller then Louise and Alexandra Falls at the Twin Falls Gorge, however she is not lacking in pure stunning beauty.
It’s almost a calm feeling and smooth flowing energy when you are around them. As opposed to the powerful high energy feeling you get at the Twin Falls. It’s not hard to get down beside them, but we didn’t go for it that day. Â It was a beauty of a pit stop, and well worth the drive in itself.
After we took in our fill of Lady Evelyn Falls, it was time to start driving back in the direction of Hay River. Not without keeping our eyes peeled for more pit stop adventures to be had along the way. I absolutely love having no plans sometimes. I truly believe in the journey along the way, and when you are open to receive whatever awesomeness is out there, you get exactly that. More awesomeness. Not without a few bumps in the roads at times. I mean trust me when I was crossing Africa alone with that mentality, there were some bumps. However, it always turned out amazing or with a big ol’ forehead swipe of ‘phew’ , and definitely added to my story.
There was this awesome little lookout point that we pulled into. You stand tall on the rocks, and take in the spectacular Northern view.
It’s total Northern landscape as far as the eye can see, and it’s absolutely wonderful.
 It is so unique, and as you progress up North towards the Tundra, you have less and less plantation. The changes are dramatic, and the beauty just continually morphs, yet never becomes less. Looking into this bliss, makes a person want to bring a canvas and paint it. Maybe I will wait for warmer weather though. 
Don’t forget to lick a tree while you are there.
Not far up the highway from that look out point, we pulled into McNallie Creek, where sit’s another one of mother natures dazzling gem’s.
There is a day use area, and once again, another set of little waterfalls flowing into a bowl shaped ravine. With the icicles forming on the edges of the water, you can see winter is well on it’s snowy and cold way. 
 If you keep your eyes peeled when you are there, you can see cliff swallows nesting in the walls as well. Which we didn’t see that day…..
The depths of the water at the base does appear fairly deep. I have been told that people do enjoying jumping in there in the summer.
The paths around the area are great if you feel like frolicking in the bush.
 The colors were magnificent, and even though there was a chill in the air, after a bit of walking you don’t even feel it. You get warmed up by the incredible setting. Nothing compares to being in nature, it gives you such an uplift and flow of awesome energy. And particularly in the North. It’s a very special place that I will never stop boasting about.
That was a whole day of absolute pure bliss. It’s amazing what you can accomplish in one day. The majestic Northwest Territories once again did not disappoint. It seems as though she is the land of endless waterfalls.
While you wait to check the NWT off of your bucket list, don’t forget to explore your own back yard. There are always beautiful places hidden around every corner – where you would least expect it.
Northwest Territories Timeless Beauty – Small Town, Big Charm
The natural beauty in Northwest Territories is endless and enchanting. Each corner has it’s own unique splendor to be enjoyed. Even having grown up here, there are still so many places I have yet to discover in this vast territory. It’s full of culture, northern lights, midnight sun, incomparable landscapes and pristine natural beauty. Yes, mother nature does not skimp out on us up here.
The beauty surrounding the quaint little town of Hay River, NWT is no different. Every year I make sure to come and enjoy a few months back here, and no matter the season, it is always incredible. Although some seasons are faster then others.
Summer is amazing with the midnight sun, winter is long and a tad dark, however the majestic beauty of the snow covered landscape is one to remember, the cold is a small price to pay, and in between those two there is, Fall. I love fall. The colors are magnificent, and there is such an array of colorful beauty to be basked in.
A day trip to the waterfalls is a must when you are in the area, during anytime of year really. There are actually three sets of waterfalls located about 45 minutes drive from town. The small ones at Escarpment Creek, and the two larger ones at Twin Falls Gorge, Louise Falls and Alexandra Falls. It’s amazing to see such impressive and grand falls and landscape so close to town. There is something about waterfalls, you can just feel the energy exuding from them when you are in their presence. It’s even more amazing to see them frozen over in the winter. Frozen beautifully in place. Not a sight you come across every day.
These ones in particular are Alexandra Falls. They are directly off the highway, so an easy pull off for a pit stop. There is a lookout point you can walk to, which gives you the perfect picturesque view.
Or you can very easily walk down along side of them at the top of the actual falls, where you can take in all the awe-inspiring natural brilliance and energy of the flow up close and personal.
Don’t be grabbing no barrels and trying to go over though. Probably wouldn’t be the best idea.
There is a fantastic path between Alexandra and Louise falls.
So if you are keen for a nice afternoon stroll between the two, it’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the serenity of the Northern nature.
Make sure you bring a picnic as well, as there are picnic area’s where you can have a fire and a cook out, as well as endless laughs with some of your favorite companions.
You can keep it extra northern and local, by using fresh locally caught whitefish, and garden fresh veggies.
Keeping it local no matter where in the world I am, is exactly how I like it.
This area is timeless and rich in beauty. A feast for the eyes and a treat for the soul. If you have not already been, Northwest Territories is a must see destination, and so is the town of Hay River. This small place really is just the beginning, or one could say – the entrance to the ‘Spectacular NWT‘.
NWT – Beach Vibes On The Shores Of The Great Slave Lake
Northwest Territories, sun, sand, beach, and fall weather – I love all of those things. The NWT continually has unique beauty on offer. Summer comes to an end so fast here. When she goes, she goes. It’s essential to enjoy as much of the sunshiny outdoors and beach weather as possible before the Arctic freeze takes over.
So a sunny warm day in September, means it has to be enjoyed!
My hometown of Hay River is situated on the Great Slave Lake, the tenth largest lake in the world.
At first glance you may think the water looks a little murky, being brown and stuff… But it’s as fresh as they come, being a fresh water lake, and the fishing is fantastic. The water can be chilly, but us Northerner’s are used to it, and our blood has no problem adjusting. Really though, it’s not bad at all. Once you hop in it only takes a minute to adjust.
Now even though there is also a very large amount of driftwood, don’t let that deter you either.
The more driftwood the bigger the beach bonfires.
I love when myself and friends get together and crack some cold ones on the beach while enjoying the crackling of a bonfire.
I would call it pure soul food. It always varies with the drift wood situation, sometimes there is loads, other times not so much.
It was a stunning autumn day – warm, sunny, calm winds, absolute perfect day to enjoy some outdoor bliss. Not to mention I had scheduled a date with myself. You know, epic ‘me time’, where I bask in my own awesome company, and re-charge.
One of my favorite past times. It also gives me the opportunity to reflect, and get my creative juices flowing. I decided what better place to go then to the beach on such a miraculous fall day.
The water was ridiculously calm, not too cold, and the sun was as bright and lovely as a ever. I brought my blanket, and had some chill time. It was truly blissful. I have a massive appreciation for this part of the world. Perhaps I am a bit biased because this is my home, but it speaks for itself really.
My awesome energy was once again on full form so I could venture back into the world and share it with as many people as possible. Taking time for yourself is a gift that everyone deserves. Not to mention, taking that time to appreciate the beauty you have surrounding you exactly where you are. So what are you waiting for?! Get out here and enjoy some of that epic ‘me time’. You should also plan a trip to the alluring Northwest Territories.
A Pursuit of Life - Barefoot& High Heeled 