How we Got Started
The Nipigon River has long had a reputation for rushing water, big fish and spectacular views. In the fall of 2006, Ray and Ginger had a dream of operating a Lodge and bringing guests from far and wide to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Unfortunately for the residents of Nipigon and Red Rock, the paper mill in Red Rock announced it was closing its doors. The Company owned the Quebec Lodge which was used by the Company Executives and their Corporate customers as a retreat. For Ray and Ginger this unfortunate situation became an opportunity. They purchased the lodge under the name of Nipigon River Adventures and converted it into a facility for their guests.
In the spring of 2007, a parcel of land became available on the lower reaches of the Nipigon River. Ginger and Ray are building housekeeping cabins on the River Property for the fishing and hunting enthusiasts.
The Beauty of the Nipigon River
The Nipigon River flows out of Lake Nipigon and races to Lake Superior. There are a series of hydro dams on the river. Alexander Dam is the last dam in the series before the River reaches the Big Lake. Our Cabins are located on the lower reaches of the river. The Nipigon River is the home of the world record speckled trout. The "specks" that reside part of the year in Lake Superior, known as Coasters, are trophy fish that cause excitement if the hearts of fishermen.
There is also an excellent run of salmon that will entertain you with their leaps and rolls as they move upstream. Along with the salmon come the eagles and the breath taking views.
History of Lodge
In the same year, the Quebec Lodge was built to house company officials. Located high on the Lodge Mountain overlooking the railroad tracks and giving a spectacular view of Lake Superior, the Lodge is still used by visiting mill executives.
Built at a cost of $50 000, the building was constructed of logs cut in the area. The Lodge has remained much the same as it was in 1937, only the kitchen has been modernized. The huge stone fireplace still dominates the living room and provides a cozy atmosphere.
Ray Rivard
Ray, along with Ginger Randle, own and operate Nipigon River adventures. Ray is no stranger to the tourism and hospitality industry. As a Area Manager for the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Recreation, Ray was involved with a variety of tourism initiatives including marketing, product development and liaison between the industry,government and other private sector interests.
Ray’s more recent experience in operating two ski hills in the local area rounded out his skills in dealing with customers and staff. The fact that visitor visits and revenues increased during this time are a testament to his success. Ray and Ginger have developed a diverse tourism program, in a unique setting, that will provide their guests with an unforgettable experience – from ecotourism/themed weekends to fishing for trophy speckled trout.
Ginger Randle
Ginger's first trip up the Nipigon River opened a door to another world. The beauty of the river, the wildlife on the river, the many moods of the river, is now background to something much more. Through this journey, Ginger has discovered many things about herself as well as those around her. She has met enthusiastic people who also enjoy the river.
As a result, Ginger shares this with her identical twin daughters, who also enjoy being on the river. One likes to fish(first time on river caught a rainbow trout), the other just relaxes and follows the birds on their journey above, so much the same yet so different. Knowing the importance of keeping her family together, away from the pressures of society, the Nipigon River has become a place of security and strength.
Associates
Chef Bill Gregorash and Chef Shane Warwick
Chef Bill and Chef Shane have a vast experience in the culinary field. Both Chef are teaching Chefs at Confederation College in Thunder Bay. They have been involved for leading groups to Europe to work with area Chefs to experience first hand the "tricks of the trade".
Brian Ratcliff
Brian is an expert naturalist who has lead tours with Quest Nature Tours for over 20 years. Brian is a member the the Federation of Field Naturalists and a regular contributor to the Thunder Bay newspaper the Chronicle Journal with weekly articles regarding birding.
Nancy Hall of Sanctuary Yoga and Wellness
Nancy moved to Red Rock two years ago. Nancy has been a yogo instructor for a number of years and since moving to Red Rock has conducted a number of workshops in the area. She is a Certified Yoga Instructor and a Reflexologist/holistic Healer.
Dave Crawford
Dave is a long time resident of Nipigon. He has been leading hiking groups in the area for a number of years and has an extensive knowledge of the area’s hidden treasures. Dave is also renowned for his landscape photography. He has an extensive library of his personal best that he enjoys sharing.
Bilijana Baker
Bilijana currently resides in Thunder Bay and has been an active member of the City’s cultural community. Bilijana has lead a number of workshops and works with Confederation College to introduce techniques to the new artists as well as the most experienced.
Sandy Buck RN
Sandy recently moved from Sioux Hall to Red Rock. Sandy will collaborate with Nancy in providing wellness workshops. Sandy is a Reiki Master Teacher, shamanic traditional and an alternative wellness facilitator. Come out and learn from the best.