The coast we're travelling was once a much busier place. As the nose of our kayaks hit the beach at the old town site of Jackfish, a deeply rusted bicycle frame resting on the rocky bluff above hints at an active past.

What began as a fishing village back in the 1870s would change abruptly in 1884 when it became a coal depot for the Canadians Pacific Railway. We hike along the beach, the tracks and onto a granite bluff where old chimneys and foundations are all that remains of a town of 30 homes. The switch from coal-fired steam engines to diesel in the 1940s, combined with the decline of the fishery, spelled the end for Jackfish.

The story is similar for Port Coldwell. We paddle past the carcass of a long-retired fishing boat toward the twisted remains of an ancient crane and boiler once used for loading vessels. Like Jackfish, Coldwell has changed from being a busy place to a lonely place. The buildings are gone but the distinctive landscape, as painted by Harris, Carmichael, Jackson and others, remains.

Our next campsite lies 10 km ahead. We paddle on through Group of Seven Landscapes as they were experienced almost 100 years ago.  

Naturally Superior Adventures offers guided sea kayak, canoe, hiking and voyageur canoe trips, certified sea kayak and canoe instruction, equipment rentals and vehicle shuttles. Rock Island Lodge, surrounded by wilderness, features four double occupancy bed and breakfast-style rooms with private baths on Lake Superior. Their company philosophy is simple: enjoy the spectacular beauty of the Lake Superior region in a safe, fun, non-intimidating and environmentally responsible way. Their hallmarks are professional, skilled and personable guides, instructors and site staff and a commitment to positive, sustainable environmental values.