08/16/2026
We were moved by the unique beauty of Nelly Lake.
Sarah Earley and I embarked on the day trek with anticipation!
We instantly both felt at home on the northern Ontario wilderness with the rugged rocky landscape and windswept pines.
The first part of the journey we relaxed and took in the beauty as Widgawa Lodge staff drove us on boat.
The forest welcomed us as we then embarked on foot towards Grace Lake. We noticed big old pines and valleys holding pathways for water flow. We breathed in the calm as we trekked along to the canoe waiting for us on the shores.
As we entered onto the waters of Grace Lake, the loons welcomed us with their mournful, serene call.
Stroke by stroke we paddled through Grace Lake passing by granite islands and sheer cliffs in the distance.
We sang, on repeat, "water heal my body. Water heal my soul. When I go on down to the water, by the water i feel whole,"
It became our chant. Our rhythm.
Back, on land, a little weary, we kept going onward to the last hike of the trek to Nelly.
We paused and yelled in the wilderness, hearing our echoes back.
What are we getting back on this voyage? What is crossing our path? We stayed open and curious as we ventured the next hike.
And then, when it all started to feel too long, we saw it: the shores of Nelly!
NEELLYYY we yelled in relief and excitement!!
And from there we hopped on a clear canoe and was immersed within a turquoise blue that I thought could only be from a filter. But, no, this Lake was really that turquoise.
Wonder filled our beings as we swam and explored the waters. Feeling welcomed and celebrated after a long voyage.
Seeing clearly through the turquoise waters had as curious what we see clearly in our own lives after such a trek.
Feeling grateful, we returned back and journeyed back through the trails and paddles, letting the experience sink in deeper.
A voyage in the wilderness changes us.
Do you yearn for this kind of journey, that is not only an adventure in the wilderness, but an opportunity to reflect on your life?
We are trekking again to Nelly Lake and this time you are invited!
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