2020 Trip 7: winding down

Well, another season is in the books, and it was a bit of a weird one.  

All things considered, meaning Covid, it remained great to get out in the Alto. As always.

It all started with a somewhat hasty retreat from Florida, followed by a disquieting period of quarantine and pandemic awareness, then a cautious yet welcomed return to camping, and finally ended with a string of fall jaunts made wonderful by the fabulous weather.

As Covid wormed its way into most aspects of our lives, we were determined to not allow it take the joys of camping away from us. Camping became more important than ever. It was the tonic that gave our minds and bodies a moment of respite from the continuous stream of information and concern. Soaking in fresh forest air, floating in warm lake water, conversation and banter with our fellow campers, and letting the hypnotic flames of a campfire fill your mind...all these moments became so very precious. 

The Bonnechere AltoGather, when the Parks first opened up post lockdown, made us truly realize that it was possible to get out camping. Seeing our Alto friends again, and meeting new ones over that weekend was invigorating. All it took was staying aware of the situation and guidelines, and then applying a little common sense. At no time did we feel compromised, and the benefits far outweighed the risks we were managing.

We spent the summer hanging out around Ontario. We had a great time at Sandbanks, with lots of socially distanced visiting with friends, and once again, a trip to “The County” remains a highlight of any camping season. We explored Rock Lake in Algonquin Park, where the paddling was fabulous, and then spent a few rather windy days at Driftwood...which we have come to expect.

a seriously cute little guy

Another trip to Bonnechere, where the fall foliage was getting spectacular, then we closed out the season at Cedar Cove with Chris & Jen. Through it all, with a little conscious effort, the summer was just fine...and certainly what was needed in these crazy times.

Chris & Jen

Soon Alto 80 will be tucked away, and we will begin to think about our plans for next season. Regardless of what Covid may throw at us, or where we will be able to travel, camping will remain a big part of our lives, and however we need to adapt, we will...