Oh, Canada! Exploring the North Shore of Lake Erie

Who knew Boston terriers loved Canadian beaches so much? And long-haired Chihuahuas are big fans too. Oscar and Gizmo’s Excellent Adventure took them north of the border to southern Ontario. Here are our top tips for exploring the north shore of Lake Erie.

As a life-long Ohioan I’ve visited the shores of Lake Erie countless times. Sandusky and Cedar Point and Put-in-Bay and Toledo and Cleveland. But those are the southern shores of that Great Lake. I’d never seen Erie looking down from the north. Until now.

Although it feels a world away, this part of Canada is just a four-hour drive from Columbus. We found a charming AirBnB right on the water near Leamington, Ontario. It had the total relaxey vibe and nautical themed decor you want on a beach town getaway. The dogs were mesmerized by the raging waves and crashing surf right in the backyard. The small local beach was a five minute walk…which Oscar insisted on twice a day. We told him it was the ocean and he seemed to buy it.

The Napa Valley of Canada

This southernmost region of Canada is excellent wine country. Apparently has to do with the soil and continental climate. There are wineries and vineyards everywhere. Good food too. We did flights at a few but look forward to even more next time. We especially liked Paglione Estate Winery and North 42 Degrees (the latitude of the area).

Canada’s Southernmost Point

The highlight of the trip was a visit to “the Tip of Canada,” Point Pelee National Park. Long-ago glaciers and the currents of Erie have created a triangular spit of land extending nine miles into the lake. It’s remarkable to walk out to this southern tip of the country as it narrows and eventually disappears in the waves. And what an effect that thin peninsula has: The eastern waters are quite choppy, while the water to the west is as calm as the Caribbean. There are miles of trails through forests and beaches and boardwalks and tons of cool local history to discover. All are worth hiking.

Exploring the north shores of Lake Erie is full of surprises. Can’t wait to go back and visit southern Ontario again soon. Although the border patrol guards who had to endure the dogs barking in the backseat may not be as happy to see us.