Lake Superior's Slate Islands

A trip to the majestic Slate Islands in Terrace Bay was in the cards, but the one thing we couldn't have planned for was everything falling into place to make it the perfect trip. Lake Superior was like glass as we sit eagerly in the charter boat during the 20 minute ride to what locals simply refer to as "the Slates". Our expert guide tours us around one side of the islands to dock on the Southern side of Patterson Island.

From there we take a light hike up to Lake Superior’s tallest lighthouse at 224 feet above sea level. The view is amazing and provides for an awe-inspiring panorama of the rest of the islands and Lake Superior. From there, our captain takes us to one of the many sheltered beaches where we enjoy a light lunch and laughter. Being a group of islands, the center of the group is protected from any potential harsh weather and is known as a kayakers delight. It is difficult to imagine that the islands were formed from a meteorite collision millions of years ago and are home to the largest known shattercone, which is the center of an astronomical impact. When our adventure continues, we drift up to the shattercone, and feel small in the scope of things as our fingers feel its smooth sides.

The Slate Islands Lighthouse

Our day is coming to an end and the only wildlife we have seen so far is an adventurous rabbit at lunch. However, before our disappointment can take hold, we come around a corner and our jaws drop at seeing not 1, 2, or 3, but 4 of the island’s caribou, playing and grazing in the grass. We watch them eagerly as they go on with their business showing no signs of worry at our presence. The caribou are used to visitors and their friendly nature is built up from years of living on the predator free islands. They became stranded travelling across a frozen Lake Superior that no longer fully freezes. Our camera gets a workout at the numerous pictures we take, although the caribou play coy and turn away from the lens.

As we turn away to head back to the mainland, our Capitan explains how the islands were once an important part of the local forestry and mining industries as he points out signs of abandoned mines and forgotten lumber camps. The islands are a geological dream, but will have to stay that way due to its protected status from the provincial government. To end the day on the perfect note, a male bald eagle flies overhead as if to say goodbye and hope to see you again soon.

Nothing exemplifies the beauty of the North of Superior region better than the Slate Islands. With its pristine, secluded beauty and friendly caribou greeters, this trip was one to remember and one that I would definitely recommend to others.

For more information visit North of Superior Travel Region or Terrace Bay

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