Big Beaver Dam Lake

Big Beaver Dam Lake

Lyons, Big Beaver Dam, Three Island and Salmon River Lakes are each easily accessible from the 12 Mile Woods Road. The Trans Canada Trail crosses the highway at the bridge over Salmon River and more or less parallels the dirt road until it crosses to the opposite side just before Mosher’s Lake. In practical terms this means you can park almost anywhere and walk north a short distance with the certainty you will come to the TCT.

Having four lakes available close to one another with easy access is a terrific hiking opportunity. With autumn approaching you should take note because these lakes are mostly surrounded with hardwood, they will be looking their best in another few weeks. The 12 Mile Woods Road is well maintained. There are few potholes or ruts so it should be considered car friendly.

Three Island Lake

My hike was relatively short because I ended up at the edge of the lake. Instead of walking and covering ground I got lucky: lots of little creatures to observe. I was able to watch several frogs, a snake and a ballet put on by two dozen beetles. The value of a hike is not necessarily to be found in the bragging rights of going a long distance quickly. In fact I’d be more inclined to support an opposing view, that distance in and of itself is of little value. Moving a hundred meters from your car then stopping to watch water beetles for a while won’t yield a lot of cardio benefit but it will be interesting, of greater value than bounding along oblivious to your surroundings. The outdoor world is not the Discovery Channel. You have to slow down to ‘see’ anything.

I’ve been hoping to spot turtles. No luck so far.

Frog

Small frog in the mud

Garter snake

When you go slow and observe things you wouldn’t ordinarily pay attention to little surprises are inevitable.

Coyote poo with bug