When going off the beaten track becomes the norm, what’s at risk? Adventuring and exploration are part of being human. We’re curious. We want to know more, and we want to find new places. That want or need to seek out the unexplored can be beneficial or detrimental, depending on the approach.

In Muskoka, surrounded by wilderness – lakes, trees, granite – the urge to explore is intrinsic. But we have to consider the impacts we have by traipsing into the woods. We can no longer say we don’t know or understand the consequences of our actions. If we want to explore, we have to also plan to protect and conserve the land we call home.

Globally, famed attractions and destinations are changing rules about how and when these places can be accessed. Stonehenge in England, the Acropolis in Athens, the city of Venice, as well as temples, pyramids, vast wildlife reserves and more are no longer freely available for anyone to access. Changes like this aim to prevent damage while also repairing what has been over-used.

While we cannot prevent the passing of time and changes associated with it, we can preserve, protect and consciously adapt our own behaviours to ensure we’re sustaining, or even leaving things better than we found them. Nature can regenerate over time. We can also do our part to help Muskoka remain a beautiful, wild place.

Perspective is important. Understanding things from another viewpoint can help to build relationships and inform action. This year, we’re adding a new column to the mix. Local author Lori Knowles shares her view of Muskoka in From an Artist’s Perspective. In each installment, Knowles will cover the trials and triumphs of living an artist’s life. In this edition, Knowles shares how art has the power to transport us somewhere familiar. 

Also, in this issue of Unique Muskoka, regular contributor Patrick Boyer gives a detailed look into Muskoka’s boundaries. During settlement, both manmade and natural boundaries were used to define the region. Over time, those boundaries have shifted, whether for geographical or political reasoning.

Being inspired by the natural world, as contributor Bronwyn Boyer shares, potter Sue Hlywka creates functional items that reflect Muskoka – from shaping bowls with rocks to using pine needles or fern fronds as stamps to glazing pieces with colours derived from trees and rocks. Hlywka’s home studio for her Owl Light Ceramics has long been a dream that came true in 2020. Now, inspiration is right outside her door.

In this edition, we also learn about Chief John Bigwin, a hereditary chief of the Ojibwe people who played an active role in Muskoka during its settlement, advocating for his people. Living to the age of almost 102, Chief Bigwin balanced existing in two worlds – settler and Indigenous. He honoured his heritage and beliefs while also engaging settlers with story-telling and attending community events.

Products that are made in Muskoka are a point of local pride and the food-based companies highlighted in this edition’s Cottage Country Cuisine feature are no exception. Muskoka Springs has a long Muskoka history, over 150 years of it, which means many will recognize their Muskoka Dry Pale Ginger Ale starring in a cocktail recipe. Newer to the scene are Muskoka Granola and Muskoka Brand Gourmet Foods. However, both have rapidly built followings, thanks to flavourful, quality products.

Spring is the season of renewal. Temperatures fluctuate, snow melts and slowly white is replaced by green. As we make this transition into a new season, take time to consider your own role in the present and the future. And maybe, take a moment to read the features in this edition of Unique Muskoka. You never know where they may take you!

Happy reading!

Meghan Taylor