Witness nature’s awakening: 3 spring activities

The trees are starting to bud, large V formations of migratory birds can be seen in the sky, the thawing of rivers…spring MUST be in the air! Here are 3 activities to enjoy this unique time of year to the fullest, without wasting a minute.

1. Birdwatching: On the Wings of Discovery

You don’t have to be an ornithologist to appreciate and get into birdwatching this spring. Large migratory birds return to our northern provinces and gather in parts of Quebec and Ontario where you can catch a glimpse of them.

Several well-known places to explore for your first outing are:

• Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area (Quebec)
• Lac-Saint-Pierre Biosphere Reserve (Quebec)
• Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve (Quebec)
• Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area (Ontario)
• Point Pelee National Park (Ontario)
• Bruce Peninsula National Park (Ontario)

Before heading out:

• Arm yourself with a good pair of binoculars to observe birds, even at a distance. Select a pair that isn’t too heavy, and that has a style that you like.
• A harness for your binoculars will free you from having to carry them during your entire outing, so that you can better enjoy your walk as well as the fresh air.
• A book all about bird species can also be quite practical. Before taking on your first birdwatching outing, you can learn more about each different kind of bird, and how to recognize them.

2. Combine maple delicacies and hiking

“Sugar shack” brunches are often a good reason to be active after a big meal in order to better digest. A nature hike with the entire family, cross-country skiing or fat biking can allow you to breathe fresh air and help you feel lighter.

Before heading outside to enjoy the outdoors, prepare a homemade maple syrup feast, or turn to these two tempting offers that will allow you to enjoy sugaring off in complete safety. Fortunately, some measures have been taken to the delight of those with a sweet tooth:

• In Quebec, you can order a sugar shack meal to eat at home thanks to the Ma cabane à la maison initiative.
• In Ontario, it is possible to visit the outdoor areas of certain sugar shacks and/or order a meal to go. Please contact the nearest sugar shack located in your area.

3. Thawing rivers mean fishing

So, the ice on your favourite lake has now melted and ice fishing season is over? Don’t let this get you down, river trout fishing is a great alternative.

If you’re well equipped, fly fishing is very accessible for both beginners and experienced anglers. Here are some places to try out this spring:

• Yamaska River (Quebec)
• Châteauguay River (Quebec)
• The lakes and rivers around Perth Area (Ontario)
• French River (Ontario)
• The lakes and rivers around ​Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario)

We recommend that you check the fishing season open dates in your area.

With all of these different activity options, you have absolutely no excuse to stay cooped up indoors this spring!