Wilderness-Inspired Ways to Reset and Refocus This Fall
As the season shifts and routines return, it’s time to set new intentions. Your time in nature can be more than just a break—use it to reflect on your goals, reassess priorities, and take steps toward achieving what you want for the rest of the year.
In this guide, we’ll explore experiences and activities that will help you make the most of your cabin getaway, using the power of nature to realign and carry those goals with you long after your stay.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
One of the true perks of going off-grid is the chance to experience wildlife right from your cabin door. Whether it’s spotting a curious squirrel, a fluttering bird, or even a fox passing by, the wilderness offers these moments that remind us to slow down and be present. Wildlife watching isn’t just a peaceful pastime; it’s also a way to cultivate patience and connect with nature on a deeper level.
Just a 10-minute drive from our Kawarthas cabins, you’ll find Carden Alvar Provincial Park–a bird-watcher’s dream. With its open grasslands and sparse trees, it’s home to diverse and rare bird species like Eastern Bluebirds and Loggerhead Shrikes. The park’s landscape also makes it easy to spot butterflies and wildflowers, providing a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Directly on-site at our Haliburton location you’ll find Haliburton Forest Wolf Centre, which offers an up-close view of wolves through one-way glass. Enjoy unique experiences like “Dinner with the Wolves,” where you can learn about their behavior and conservation efforts while dining. The center is dedicated to preserving and understanding these majestic animals, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
A short 25-35 minute drive from our Juniper, Mica, Rhya, Ember, and Joni cabins, Rosetta Hills Alpacas offers a hands-on experience. Tour the farm, meet friendly alpacas, and shop for unique alpaca wool products. Pre-bookings are required, ensuring a personalized visit. It’s a charming destination for animal lovers and those seeking a unique adventure.
GUIDED EXPERIENCES
Guided experiences aren’t just about adventure—they’re a great way to deepen your connection with nature and challenge yourself in meaningful ways. They offer chances for personal growth, inspiration, and reflection, making them perfect for setting and achieving your goals.
When staying at our Calabogie cabins don’t miss out on the Fall Colors Chairlift Ride at Calabogie Peaks Resort. This experience offers breathtaking views, helping you reconnect and realign your goals while immersing yourself in nature. *Additional fee required
Wheeler’s Maple Farm is the perfect place to embrace the changing season, offering vibrant maple forests, seasonal treats, and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. Located just a 20-40 minute drive from our Juniper, Mason, Ember, Rhya, and Mica cabins in Lanark County, it’s a great way to inspire curiosity and a sense of adventure.
In Haliburton, Yours Outdoors offers a variety of guided experiences that elevate your getaway, from foraging workshops to clay target shooting. The Canopy Tour is a standout, taking you high above the treetops for breathtaking views of fall foliage. This adventure challenges you and provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, community and self. Pre-booking is required, and all activities are conveniently located on-site with our Haliburton cabins.
MINDFUL HIKING
Hiking isn’t just about reaching the summit; it’s a journey that allows you to connect with nature, find peace, and be present in the moment. Whether you’re looking to clear your mind, reflect on your goals, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness, these hikes in our cabin regions offer the perfect setting for mindful exploration.
- Kawarthas – Balsam Lake Provincial Park
Just 10 minutes from our Kawarthas cabins, this park’s serene trails wind through forests and along the lake, ideal for a peaceful nature walk. - Lanark – Tay Havelock Trail System
Explore Lanark’s diverse Tay Havelock Trail System, with easy to moderate trails showcasing scenic countryside and local wildlife.
Pro Tip: Our Ember, Mica & Rhya cabins are located within this trail system! - Calabogie – Eagle’s Nest
Nearby to our Calabogie cabins, the Eagle’s Nest trail offers a moderate hike with stunning lookout views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for reflection. - Haliburton – Haliburton Forest
With 400km of trails directly on-site with our Haliburton cabins, Haliburton Forest offers a variety of paths through beautiful forests, suited for any level of hiker.
FUELLING YOUR FALL
As fall settles in, there’s no better time to nourish yourself from the inside out. The harvest season brings a bounty of fresh, local produce that can help you feel grounded and refreshed—perfect for setting the tone for the rest of the year. Whether it’s crisp apples, hearty root vegetables, or rich squash, local farmers’ markets are brimming with everything you need to eat well and feel well.
When staying with us, you’ll find convenient access to several farmers’ markets:
- Perth Farmers Market: Open Saturdays until Thanksgiving weekend, it’s the ideal spot to pick up fresh produce while exploring Lanark County cabins.
- Fenelon Falls Farmers Market: Located close to our Kawarthas cabins, this market runs Fridays until Thanksgiving weekend, offering a wide range of seasonal goodies.
- Haliburton Regional Farmers Markets: In Haliburton, you can catch the market on Tuesdays until October 8th, and in Minden (a 40-minute drive from our Haliburton cabins) on Saturdays until Thanksgiving.
For a cozy, delicious treat, try this Campfire Apple Crumble recipe using apples you can pick up at these local markets:
Campfire Apple Crumble
- 4 fresh apples (preferably local)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
- Core and slice the apples, then layer them in a foil packet.
- In a bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumble mixture over the apples.
- Wrap the foil packet tightly and place it on a campfire grill or over hot coals for about 20 minutes, until the apples are tender and the topping is golden.
- Unwrap and enjoy this warm, comforting dessert by the fire.
So, if you’re ready to realign, set new goals, and reconnect with nature, now’s the perfect time to plan your cabin escape. Let the beauty of the wilderness inspire your next adventure—book your stay with us and make this fall a season of growth and transformation!
