Calabogie and the Eagles Nest – Eastern Ontario’s Favorite Retreat
Located in the hear of Renfrew Country, Callabogie “Peaks” as it is called may not be the most impressive ski hill but its calm lake waters and enjoyable hiking tail make up for it!
Table of Contents
- Hiking the Ski Hill
- Calabogie Rigeline and Logging Road
- The Eagles Nest
- Barnet Park & Beach
- Time For Some Beers!
- Conclusion
Hiking the Ski Hill
I started my day at Calabogie by climbing up the ski hill. Although there is no clear trail you can just walk up the length of the hill itself. I recommend parking at the roundabout on Mary Joanne Drive at the start of the Manitou Mountain – Calabogie Peaks Trailhead.
Apart from getting great view of the countryside, you will have the chance to observe plenty of wildflowers and snack on wild berries.
The Ski hill is a bit of a steep slog up, but when you make it you wont regret the view of the thick surrounding forests that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The hill itself tops out at a modest 232 making this portion of the journey a fairly short hike. When you reach the top of the ski hill you will find the chairlift.
From the lift you will have a fantastic view of the plump Calabogie Lake below.
Calabogie Rigeline and Logging Road
In behind the chairlift, a hidden pathway extends along the mountain rigeline giving you more viewpoints of the region.
On the rocks you will likely observe a lot of moss like vegetation.
Once you complete the rigeline the path will pull you back into the woods, somewhat downhill, where the bugs will most likely eat you alive. You will eventually reach an old, clear cut, logging road. Here you will most likly be able to escape the bugs somewhat but it is a bit of a boring walk from here to the eagles nest.
The Eagles Nest
Exiting the logging round, you will come across a large hoard of people looking over a treacherous precipice.
Welcome to the eagles nest! Where many instagramers try to get action poses on this iconic rock jutting out over the wilderness below!
Really there’s not that much to say… its a rock… a very cool rock but the pictures don’t really do it justice!
Enjoy the walk along the rigeline and check out the Juniper berry shrubs along its length.
Or just take in the moment and realize just how steep the rockface is (for eastern Ontario that is)!
Barnet Park & Beach
After hiking back to your car, take the road into town but first stop at Barnet beach for a quick swim.
From the sandy volleyball courts you will get a great view of the ski resort.
And on the lakefront you can see the resort condos often used for Ottawa Valley radio station parties.
Time For Some Beers!
Back in the town of Callabogie you have the choice of two good watering holes. The first is the Calabogie Brewing Company and the second Redneck Brewing Company.
Although the Brewing Company’s beer is good, and the outdoor patio is by a pretty stream, I enjoyed the atmophere across the road at Redneck’s better.
Enjoy responsibly and sucker some pour sap into being your designated driver!
Conclusion
Callabogie is a great summer escape for the whole family. Get out of the house, get some sun and get to see the amazing view from the eagles nest. It s nothing fancy but it makes for a great day trip from Ottawa.
