Nanabush Trails, Georgina Island

Nanabush Trails, Georgina Island

Attractions

By: Rebecca Reid

A tranquil island getaway is closer than you think. Georgina Island is the perfect destination for a unique family excursion.

Sit back and breathe in the fresh air as you travel across beautiful Lake Simcoe on the Aazhaawe Ferry. (In English, Aazhaawe appropriately means "to go across").

Although only a few minutes from the mainland, you will feel a million miles away as you arrive at this beautiful Chippewa community. At 1416 hectares, Georgina Island is the largest of three islands on Lake Simcoe and has a population of close to 700.

Purchase your trail pass at the Trails Centre and embark on a scenic journey through the forests once walked upon by the Chippewa elders.

The name Nanabush Trails originates from an ancient Ojibwa story about the Great Spirit, Kitchi Manitou, who sent Nanabush to earth to instruct about honesty, generosity, kindness and healing plants. The son of a West Wind Spirit father and human mother, Nanabush was blessed with incredible magic.

The Nanabush Trails system consists of four diverse pathways. The Tobacco Trail, The Cedar Trail, The Sage Trail and The Sweetgrass Trail are named after Mother Earth's sanctified offerings and identified by the colours of the medicine wheel.  Each provides areas to observe wildlife, exhibits, and a wonderful chance to discover wetlands. Trained guides are available. Trails vary in length and degree of difficulty so there is something for everyone.

There are many other interesting things to do on Georgina Island. Enjoy delicious Native fare, relax by a wigwam and listen to marvelous legends, or perhaps create a dreamcatcher or other traditional craft to take home as a lasting memory of your visit. A new picnic area with authentic teepees is an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.

To book a tour or for information call 1-866-340-4996 or visit www.nanabushtrails.com. For ferry prices and departure times (running April through December) go to www.georginaislandtourism.ca

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