I am always looking for somewhere different to explore. Often that means using my app to find new trails, but sometimes it is pure coincidence that I stumble upon a random place that I have never heard about. This is how I have ended up near Rama on a large tract of forest covering 180 acres of mostly wilderness, with the black river winding through dense pine forest.
Owned by the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, the Black River Wilderness is found just south of Washago and is more known for its camp sites then its hiking trails. We parked at the entrance and paid our day fee, and started our hike through the campground. This should be a boring walk, but was actually quite interesting, as there are two islands for tent camping that you must cross to get to the trail head. Sturdy bridges cross the dark waters between islands, while grey rocks chiseled by the eons of water erosion rear up to form the shoreline. Both children and adults use tubes to float down the gentle waters, and I had a moment of regret that I forgot my bright pink flamingo floatie until I had a vision of my chubby self, drifting away down that river with the flamingo head bobbing above me and a posse of predators chasing me down, salivating at the idea of an easy meal. Alright, no floating today, though I did admire the camp sites perched above the river with a spectacular view. Another time I would like to camp here, but for today we continued across the islands to the start of the trail system.
The red trail, also called the Mshkikiikimigaa Miikaanhs trail, follows the course of the Black River. The views were beautiful, dense forest looking out onto the river flowing between those dark rocks. Kingfishers dove into the deep waters, sometimes emerging with a small fish as a reward for their effort. People also fished the waters, but used poles instead of beaks, and with what appeared to be less success than the deft kingfisher. Cormorants stood regally on partially submerged logs, long beaks also perfect for catching fish. The shine of metal caught my attention just off the trail, which turned out to be one of several stainless steel easels initiated by artist Travis Shilling to inspire connection to the environment as well as honor his community. Other interactive signs dot the trail, introducing people to plants and animals and their traditional names and usages. I was surprised to learn that the common red dogwood was used as a treatment for malaria, as well as being a favorite food of moose. Can moose catch malaria? I always have questions.
The trail eventually veers away from the river and heads deeper into the forest. This trail is more rugged though still easy to navigate. Several small boardwalks cross areas that would normally be very wet, but now only dried mud remains. Cedars and pine trees stretch off into the distance past the short undergrowth. The sound of the river fades away into the distance. The red trail becomes the newer green trail, which we then continued until intersecting the yellow trail. The rumble of the river grows closer and then here we are, back at the trail head. In all a short walk of just over three kilometers, though with some great views.
While I have enjoyed traveling to different parks over the summer, and have found a few new favorites, I am more than ready to head into the real backcountry. September and October are my favorite times of the year to hike. I love the bright colors, the warm days and cool nights, and of course the quiet. Thus I am heading north, to climb a mountain and maybe make it to Heaven’s Gate. With that kind of name, I have more questions, as I am not quite ready for the final hike to the next life, though curiosity will have me at the door. I am more than ready for this next adventure.