People inhabited the so-called New World for thousands of years before Europeans arrived; their legacy is told in the culture, language, and myths of today’s First Nations. This makes Petroglyphs Provincial Park, site of the largest concentration of Aboriginal rock art in Canada, all the more important. Nine hundred symbolic carvings of humans, objects, and animals were carved between 600 and 1,100 years ago into a single slab of marble, cherished and used like an ancient photo gallery. Elders would remove protective moss and use the rocks to introduce new generations to the story of the Ojibwa people.
The Teaching Rocks, as they are known, remain a hallowed and sacred site to this day. The park, a National Historic Site, is a 55-kilometre drive from Peterborough. From there, it’s a short walk from the visitor centre to the humidity-controlled glass building that protects the petroglyphs.
ON THE BUCKET LIST: Kevin Callan
Broadcaster and author of the bestselling series “The Happy Camper,” Kevin Callan (kevincallan.com) is one of Canada’s best-known canoeists and outdoorsmen.
“Hidden amongst the rugged Penokean Hills, north of Elliot Lake, is a cluster of aqua blue lakes and crystal-clear streams, all alive with trophy self-sustaining rainbow — a rarity that only occurs in 1 percent of Canada’s waterways. This is one of northern Ontario’s absolute gems. Once you explore it for the first time, you’ll be returning — guaranteed.”
Visitors often feel a peaceful energy and sense of calm inside the park, especially when hiking the surrounding trails. There are information boards and staff available to answer questions. You can also have a seat and watch a 20-minute video in the visitor centre in which some of the legends are revealed. Ontario’s Teaching Rocks are a very physical reminder that Canada’s cultural history stretches back farther, and is far richer, than it is often given credit for.
START HERE: canadianbucketlist.com/petroglyph