Monday, September 28, 2009

fall colour report for algonquin park

Report Date: Monday September 28, 2009
Dominant Colour: Algonquin Park is at its fall foliage colour peak. Reds, oranges, and yellows are dominating the landscape making for impressive viewing. Reds are especially noticeable this year throughout the Park.

In many observers' opinions, Algonquin Park's upcoming overcast and rainy weather enhances fall foliage viewing when compared to sunny days. Thus, a rainy day trip to Algonquin Park can have substantial rewards. Check the weather forecast for more details.

The peak of fall colour in Algonquin Park is relatively short-lived lasting approximately 7-10 days under ideal conditions. Despite recent rain and associated high wind, leaf fall continues to remains low.

Substantial rainfall amounts during summer and temperatures dropping to near freezing in late August/early September have resulted in brilliant colours. In combination with other factors, such as shortening daylight length, trees have been rapidly breaking down chlorophyll (the green food manufacturing pigment in leaves) revealing Algonquin's outstanding fall colour.

For the past 35 years, the average peak of Sugar and Red Maples in Algonquin Park has been September 27 (with a range from September 15 [1982] to October 9 [1996]. This variation in the peak is a result of numerous environmental conditions such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus the exact timing of peak colour can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor from Algonquin Inn and the western half of the backcountry change colour earlier than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation. This year, wide-spread frost has encouraged fall foliage change throughout the Highway 60 area including: West Gate (km 0.0); Lake of Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8); and Brewer Lake (km 48.6).

Plan now for your Algonquin Park fall foliage trip any time from now to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foliage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 80%-89%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 10%-19%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)



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e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Saturday, September 26, 2009

fall colour report for algonquin park

Report Date: Saturday September 26, 2009
Dominant Colour: Algonquin Park is nearing its fall foliage peak. The peak of fall colour is expected in the next 7 to 10 days. Reds and oranges are beginning to dominate the landscape, with plenty of green, yellow and purple showing to make for impressive viewing. Despite recent thunderstorms (and associated wind) leaf fall continues to remains low.

Substantial rainfall amounts during summer and temperatures dropping to near freezing in late August/early September have resulted in brilliant colours. In combination with other factors, such as shortening daylight length, trees have been rapidly breaking down chlorophyll (the green food manufacturing pigment in leaves) revealing Algonquin's outstanding fall colour.

The peak of fall colour in the Sugar Maple canopy is expected during the last week of September or the first week of October. For the past 35 years, the average peak of Sugar and Red Maples in Algonquin Park has been September 27 (with a range from September 15 [1982] to October 9 [1996]. This variation in the peak is a result of numerous environmental conditions such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus the exact timing of peak colour can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor and the western half of the backcountry change colour earlier than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation. This year, wide-spread frost has encouraged fall foliage change throughout the Highway 60 area including: West Gate (km 0.0); Lake of Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8); and Brewer Lake (km 48.6).

Plan now for your Algonquin Park fall foliage trip any time from now to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foliage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 60%-69%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 10%-19%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)



www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

fall colour report for algonquin park

Report Date: Saturday September 26, 2009
Dominant Colour: Algonquin Park is nearing its fall foliage peak. The peak of fall colour is expected in the next 7 to 10 days. Reds and oranges are beginning to dominate the landscape, with plenty of green, yellow and purple showing to make for impressive viewing. Despite recent thunderstorms (and associated wind) leaf fall continues to remains low.

Substantial rainfall amounts during summer and temperatures dropping to near freezing in late August/early September have resulted in brilliant colours. In combination with other factors, such as shortening daylight length, trees have been rapidly breaking down chlorophyll (the green food manufacturing pigment in leaves) revealing Algonquin's outstanding fall colour.

The peak of fall colour in the Sugar Maple canopy is expected during the last week of September or the first week of October. For the past 35 years, the average peak of Sugar and Red Maples in Algonquin Park has been September 27 (with a range from September 15 [1982] to October 9 [1996]. This variation in the peak is a result of numerous environmental conditions such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus the exact timing of peak colour can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor and the western half of the backcountry change colour earlier than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation. This year, wide-spread frost has encouraged fall foliage change throughout the Highway 60 area including: West Gate (km 0.0); Lake of Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8); and Brewer Lake (km 48.6).

Plan now for your Algonquin Park fall foliage trip any time from now to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foliage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 60%-69%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 10%-19%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)



www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

ALGONQUIN PARK FALL COLOUR REPORT

ALMOST AT PEAK !!!!

Report Date: Tuesday September 22, 2009
Dominant Colour: A substantial portion of the Sugar Maple canopy is showing quickly developing yellows, oranges, and reds. Recent below freezing temperatures, frost, and shortening daylight length has been rapidly encouraging the breakdown of chlorophyll (the green food manufacturing pigment in leaves) revealing Algonquin's spectacular fall colour.

The peak of fall colour in the Sugar Maple canopy is expected during the last week of September or the first week of October. For the past 35 years, the average peak of Sugar and Red Maples in Algonquin Park has been September 27 (with a range from September 15 [1982] to October 9 [1996]. This variation in this peak is a result of numerous variables such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus exact timing can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor out to Algonquin Inn and the western half of the backcountry change colour eariler than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation. This year, wide-spread frost has encouraged fall foliage change throughout the Highway 60 area including: West Gate (km 0.0); Lake of Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8); and Brewer Lake (km 48.6).

Therefore, plan now for your Algonquin Park fall foliage trip any time from now to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foligage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 40-49%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 0%-9%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)



www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Friday, September 18, 2009

RENTING MOUNTAIN BIKES INSIDE ALGONQUIN PARK

We are asked, 'where can we rent mountain bikes and the best place to use them ?'.
so that you don't have the hassle of renting a bike, placing it on top of your car, and transporting it. The answer, simply rent a bike directly from the Two Rivers Store located 34.1 kms from the West gate on highway # 60.
Once you have parked and rented the bike you can just head out directly from the store onto the bike trail which runs along the old railway line which makes it nice and flat in parts.

The Lake of Two Rivers Store rents GIANT Mountain Bikes. All bikes are well maintained, are available in a variety of frame sizes and include a helmet in the rental rates.

Rental Rates:

Mountain Bikes (with Helmet) $ 34.50 / day (24 hour rental)
$ 23.50 / half-day (4 hour rental)
Youth Bikes (with Helmet) $ 23.50 / day (24 hour rental)
$ 16.50 / half-day ( 4 hour rental)

Rates do not include PST and GST. In additional to the rental fee (payable at the time of rental) a refundable damage deposit of $50.00 per bike is required.

The Old Railway Bike Trail is easily accessible from the Lake of Two Rivers Store and runs for 10 km from Mew Lake Campground to Rock Lake. It utilizes an old railway bed (and therefore is flat) that runs along the shore of Lake of Two Rivers and Whitefish Lake. It’s perfect for family outings and beginner to intermediate bikers.


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e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Thursday, September 17, 2009

THE FIRST FALL FROST

It's that wonderful time of the year , when the trees are well on the way with the fall colour and there is now the classic early morning mist ,
caused by cool air moving over relatively warm lake water. With the clear, cool weather we have been enjoying lately, early mornings are now a photographer's and paddler's dream come true.
Today we woke up to our fist frosty morning , time to get out dust off the camera and get some classic early morning Misty shots...the best fall colours so far have been along the highway 60 corridor from here at the Algonquin inn on Oxtongue lake through the West gate of Algonquin Park to Smoke Lake.
It's great to see all the first emerging reds, oranges and yellow burst out against the backdrop of rich summer green.




www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

ALGONQUIN PARK FALL COLOUR REPORT

Report Date: Wednesday September 16, 2009

Dominant Colour: A small portion of the Sugar Maple canopy has already started to show fall colour change. Temperatures as low as 1°C have been recorded in Algonquin Park already encouraging the progress of fall colour change.

The peak of fall colour in the Sugar Maple canopy is expected during the last week of September or the first week of October. This peak is subject to numerous variables such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus exact timing can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor and the western half of the backcountry change colour eariler than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation.

Therefore, plan now for your Park visit starting mid-September to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foligage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 20-29%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 0%-9%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)


www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Monday, September 14, 2009

Things to Do After Thanksgiving



Staying with us OCTOBER 16TH, 17TH AND 18TH
Looking for something to do.

THE BALA CRANBERRY FESTIVAL

A great weekend activity or Day Trip

for directions

while you are there why not check out Muskoka Lakes Winery




www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Sunday, September 13, 2009

FALL COLOUR REPORT FOR ALGONQUIN PARK

The following information was updated on September 8th, 2009

Report Date: September 8, 2009
Dominant Colour: a small portion of the Sugar Maple canopy has already started to show fall colour change. Temperatures as low as 1°C have been recorded in Algonquin Park already encouraging the progress of fall colour change.

The peak of fall colour in the Sugar Maple canopy is expected during the last week of September or the first week of October. This peak is subject to numerous variables such as temperature, frost, precipitation, winds, etc., thus exact timing can not be precisely determined until it happens.

Traditionally, higher elevation areas of Algonquin Park, such as the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor and the western half of the backcountry change colour eariler than the eastern half, as a result of the east's lower elevation.

Therefore, plan now for your Park visit starting mid-September to mid-October to see Algonquin's brightest season.

This fall foligage colour report will be updated as the season progresses. Check back for updates.

Percentage of Colour Change: 0-10%
Percentage of Leaf Fall: 0%
Good places for viewing: West Gate (km 0.0)
Algonquin Art Centre (km 20.0)
Two Rivers Picnic Ground and Beach (km 33.8)
Visitor Centre Viewing Deck (km 43.0)
Brewer Lake (km 48.6)
Algonquin's Backcountry (Interior)

Side Roads with Great Foliage Viewing Opportunities: Arowhon Road (north from km 15.4)
Source Lake Road (north from km 20.0)
Centennial Ridges Road (south from km 37.6)
Rock Lake Road (south from km 40.3)
Opeongo Road (north from km 46.3). This road is best for late season foliage viewing.
Recommended Trails: Hardwood Lookout Trail (Km 13.8)
Track and Tower Trail (Km 25.0)
Centennial Ridges Trail (south from Km 37.6)
Booth's Rock Trail (south from Km 40.3)
Lookout Trail (Km 39.7)



www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

best trails in Algonquin Park for fall colour veiwing

Autumn brings colour…


The fall colours alone make a trip to Algonquin worthwhile, especially if you catch the maples at their peak in the last week of September or, in the first week of October.

A couple of weeks later, the aspens, Tamaracks, and Red Oaks hit their best and put on another interesting show before giving way to a more subdued November.

Walking trails along Highway 60 with lookouts offering good views of maple colour include:

Trail Name, Length Rating, Time Needed to Walk Location on Hwy 60

Hardwood Lookout 0.8 km loop Moderate 0.75 hours Km 13.8 on Hwy 60

Track & Tower 7.7 km loop & 5.5 km side trail Difficult 4 hours Km 25 on Hwy 60

Centennial Ridges 10 km loop Difficult 5 hours 2 km South from Km 37.6 on Hwy 60

Lookout 2.1 km loop Difficult 1 hour Km 39.7 on Hwy 60

Booth's Rock 5.1 km loop Difficult 3 hours 9 km South from Km 40.3 on Hwy 60

Don't forget about SAFETY!

Remember…days are shorter and weather conditions may change quickly as we approach winter.

Allow enough time to be off trails and back at your vehicle before dusk.
Wear appropriate footwear, and wear clothing appropriate for the time of year.
Use CAUTION when walking trails; you may encounter downed trees, wet areas, snow, and icy conditions.
Cell phone coverage may be "limited" or "none."
Overnight parking at interpretive walking trail parking lots is prohibited.
Your safety in Algonquin Park is ultimately YOUR responsibility!




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e-mail stay@algonquininn.com

Sunday, September 6, 2009

Algonquin Park’s Spectacular Dark Sky

Astronomy Workshop in Algonquin Park.
Algonquin Park’s Spectacular Dark Sky
September 26, 2009
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, followed by observing

Algonquin Park, with its clear, dark sky, provides the ideal location for observing the Moon, planets, and stars. Join Francois van Heerden as he introduces you to the basics of observing, recognizing the constellations, and using star hopping to find the hidden treasures of the night sky. He will demonstrate the correct way to set up a telescope and provide you with information on how to get the very best out of binoculars and telescopes. Finally, the group will enjoy looking at the available objects through his 11" and 6" Celestron telescopes. View the surface of the Moon, Jupiter and other planets, and then amazing deep sky objects, from star clusters to distant galaxies.

Workshop instruction will include:
• Settng up a telescope, properly aligning and maintaining it
‐ do's and don'ts of buying a telescope
‐ starting with observing ‐ binoculars and telescopes
‐ viewing the Moon and planets
• An overview of the constellations and how to navigate using them
• Using a star chart and planesphere
• Understanding how to find objects with a telescope
Instruction will be followed by an exclusive viewing session, and every
participant will take home a planesphere and software DVD loaded
with a personal planetarium, tips and hints sheets, observing logs,
and more! Space is limited. Register early to secure your spot.
ABOUT FRANCOIS VAN HEERDEN
Francois van Heerden (‘Van’) has been a life member of the
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Toronto Centre since the mid‐1970's. He is an avid amateur observer who believes in sharing his hobby and providing entertaining presentations
interspersed with anecdotes from his own experiences.
HOW TO REGISTER
Pre‐registration required. To register for this workshop, or for more information, contact Sophie
Mazowita at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre, (613) 637‐2828 ext. 227. When you call to register, please be ready to give a contact phone number, an e‐mail address, and a Visa or MasterCard number.
The cost for this workshop is $20.00 (including applicable taxes) for members of The Friends of
Algonquin Park. Non‐members pay $32.00 for the workshop and a one‐year individual membership.
The workshop includes a star chart (planesphere), a DVD loaded with stargazing software to get you started at home, instruction by Francois van Heerden, and an exclusive observation session with use of his telescopes and binoculars. All ages welcome.


www.algonquininn.com
e-mail stay@algonquininn.com