Location: Campbellford, Ontario
Address: Ferris Provincial Park
Date: Aug 2019
Website: www.visittrenthills.ca
On the August long weekend we took a road trip to Bancroft, Ontario. We went up in search of precious gems. The Rockhound Gemboree was being held in Bancroft that weekend and we hoped to find something special. We didn't find exactly what we were looking for but also didn't leave empty-handed. We managed to get a few gifts from the show.
The Gemboree is the biggest gem and minerals show in Canada and Bancroft is often called the "Mineral Capital of Canada". The Bancroft community centre, curling rink and hockey rink were filled with vendors. A lot of the sparkling rocks had come from nearby areas.
After attending the show we headed across the York River and stopped at The Granite for lunch. We both had wraps and shared some truffle root fries which were delicious covered in parmesan cheese. In a town known for minerals the restaurant was aptly named.
Our journey continued south west towards Ferris Provincial Park. Ranney Gorge suspension bridge is located on the western side of Ferris Provincial Park and offers some great views over the Trent River.
To the south you can see the river cutting through the gorge. To the north is a small waterfall.
The metal bridge hangs 30 feet over the river and is 300 feet long. As people walk on the bridge you can feel it moving beneath you.
After making it safely across the bridge we noticed several large birds circling above. Closer inspection revealed the markings of an osprey. The brown face mark that goes across their eyes and then curves up onto the back of their necks is the most obvious identifier. Osprey love to fish so the nearby river passing through the gorge is a great place to spot one.
We crossed back over the bridge once more to continue our trip home. We had tried our luck hunting for precious minerals, enjoyed a nice meal and swung over a gorge. All in all it was a beautiful day.
Map of Our World
Rockhound Gemboree
Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge
The Granite
Post # 259