With the whole idea of these posts being about what life is like as a forestry summer student, you might have expected to hear about nothing but work, but in jobs like this, its easy to forget that work is only one part of your summer experience! I love my job, but after hours of driving, the occasional camp shift, and two months of a five-on-one-off schedule, the summer can admittedly start to get a bit exhausting at times! As such, I’ll be devoting this post to sharing how I make the most of my days off.
Just living in Northern Ontario has honestly been one of my favourite things about the past two summers. Being surrounded by forests, rocky hills, and literally hundreds of thousands of lakes, makes for some pretty good recreational opportunities! Unsurprisingly, my favourite ways to spend my days off all involve going right back into the bush (As if I’m not there enough already…).
I’ll include some descriptions of my top three favourite day-off activities below along with some images. Maybe you’ll be inspired to try one or more of these yourself!
1. Hiking
Sometimes I’m really not sure why I do this. After spending the entire workweek on my feet in slashy cut blocks, you’d think I’d want to give my legs a rest… not so apparently! All jokes aside, I really enjoy getting out on a trail to take in the scenery. Not only does it keep me in shape, but its also surprisingly relaxing. It’s a fun way to relieve stress and can also help to take my mind off work. Being as beautiful as it is, Northern Ontario has a lot of quality trails. I tend to enjoy the challenge of longer more difficult hikes, but there really is something for everyone. Halfway Lake Provincial Park is a nearby spot I enjoy, but farther trips to the La Cloche Conservation Reserve are more than worth the drive!
2. Stand-up Paddle Boarding
Another one of my favourite ways to spend a day off is out on my paddle board. After all, who wouldn’t want to spend a summer afternoon out on the water!? I picked up this hobby a few years ago when I got my inflatable board as an end of school present from my Dad and instantly loved it. Standing just above the surface of the water offers a really interesting and unique perspective, and its also great at helping to build upper body and core strength. I have also been very lucky for the past two summers in that my work accommodations are right on the shore of Minisinakwa Lake here in Gogama, Ontario. With the lake only steps away, it’s really convenient as well! On certain days I’m even able go out after work! The lake has lots of different bays and islands to explore which makes for some excellent day-off adventuring, and, some excellent photo opportunities.
3. Landscape Photography
Arguably my favourite way to spend a day off combines either hiking or paddle boarding with a camera. Landscape photography has always been one of my favourite hobbies, and with lakes and forests at my doorstep this summer, I can hardly think of a better time or place. Aside from it being another reason to get outside, my favourite aspect of landscape photography is being able to share the beauty of the natural world with others; especially those who don’t have the same level of access to it as I do. I’ve included some of my favourite shots from my past two summers in Northern Ontario down below.
I hope you enjoyed the photos! Even though reading about reading about summer days is only a fraction as enjoyable as living them, I hope I’ve provided some inspiration to make the most of your free time and explore what the natural world around you has to offer.
As always thanks for reading!
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