Nestled on the north shore of Lake Nipissing is North Bay. It is in the traditional territory of the Anishnaabeg people, and, specifically, the Nipissing First Nation. North Bay has been referred to as the “Gateway to the North.” The region was traditionally used as part of the fur trade due to its connection to the region’s various ports. The Ottawa and Mattawa Rivers and Trout Lake were connected through the portage of La Vase to Lake Nipissing, French River, and Georgian Bay. Wood and fur have continued to be major products of the region. In the late 1800s, North Bay achieved town status and subsequently followed a slow, steady growth. It was later incorporated as a city in 1925. For history buffs, be sure to visit the North Bay Heritage Train and Carousel. The popular sport of ringette was invented in this city (a sport similar to ice hockey, played primarily by women, with straight sticks and a rubber ring). The first game was played back in 1963! Other than ringette, there are many possibilities for outdoor recreation, including the Laurentian Ski Hill. The surrounding area contains breathtaking beauty, such as the Duchesnay Falls Trails and the Laurier Woods Conservation Area. If you want to see the “Great White North,” a trip to North Bay is a must!

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