Day three of our Lake Superior adventure did not include as many kilometres as the previous two days, but it did include five flights of stairs to the top of the Nipigon Bridgeview lookout tower.
I have no issue with climbing stairs, but I DO have a minor problem with heights - especially when one can see clear down to the ground regardless of how high one gets. That said, I was determined to make it to the top and when I did John offered to pose for a selfie. Bonus!
The view directly behind us was stunning, while the morning light was exquisite.
And the view of the Nipigon bridge from the tower is equally breathtaking.
Another great feature is the walking path that connects the lookout tower, bridge and the downtown area. A portion of it is visible in the lower left of the photo above.
The population of the town of Nipigon is less than 2,000 people according to the 2016 census, but they have done a stunning job of showcasing their town and its beautiful surroundings. In the downtown area is an all-purpose gathering place called Paddle to the Sea Park.
The stores also include murals that focus on the town's history.
Next to the boat launch and riverside park that is a few blocks from downtown there is a feature that caught John's attention - a ramp to facilitate kayakers of any age and physical ability. I imagine if he has access to one of these he'll be kayaking on his hundredth birthday!
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| The Nipigon Bridge crossing the Nipigon River in is the background. |
Next stop, the small but picturesque town of Red Rock.
The road off of Highway 17 to town included a beautiful vista and a wooden railway bridge.
Initially, upon our arrival in town our focus was on the rock cliff face (above) that towers over it. Then, we looked in the opposite direction toward the water and spotted what appeared to be a splattering of small white rocks.
Not so! They're gulls!
Our next stop was the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
We had a hankering for a picnic table as well - preferably a view of the giant - and we were not disappointed.
After lunch John took up residence on a nearby picnic table to do his own rendition of the sleeping giant.
Established as a silver mine, the community is not part of the provincial park and a grand total of five hardy souls live here during the winter. The General Store is the hub of the community and stepping inside takes one back in time.
The original safe of the silver mine still contains some original cheques and other coupons that were given to the workers.
After we were shown inside the safe I was given the opportunity of closing one of its doors. I could barely budge it.
The photo below shows a Canada Post mailman delivering letters. Even more of a surprise is that his sled is pulled by a team of Newfoundland dogs.
Upon our arrival at the General Store a customer told us she could definitely vouch for the cinnamon buns. Naturally, we had to test that out for ourselves...and we're happy to report the sour cream pumpkin muffins were equally delicious.
What a wonderful note to end day three of our Lake Superior road trip.
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