My bucket list gained a couple of checkmarks last week as I headed out on my first ever side by side adventure AND I had the chance to do some exploring and fishing via the Elliot Lake ATV trail network! Through a partnership with the City of Elliot Lake this year, I’ve been exploring the wide variety of fishing opportunities found in this region. When I learned that the area has over 300 kilometers of maintained ATV trails with access to many lakes throughout, I was inspired to incorporate a fishing adventure while expanding on my powersports experiences.

Our Ride: The Yamaha 2023 Wolverine RMAX2 1000 LE Side-by-Side

Photo: Taking in the views at Gull Beak Lookout.

Although I have operated ATV’s throughout my life, I had not yet spent much time behind the wheel of a side by side. I got in touch with my friends at Yamaha Motor Canada, and they had a 2023 Wolverine RMAX2 1000 LE available for me to bring along on this trip. I knew I was in for a real treat getting a chance to run this awesome machine! The side by side that I ran for this adventure was equipped with a few add-on accessories, including: the Hard Cab Enclosure System, LED Light Bar, and the Front Brush Guard. I was especially excited for the Cab Enclosure with some rain in the forecast.

Joining me on this adventure was my good friend, Jenn Mulvihill. Some of my favourite fishing adventures with Jenn over the years have involved hiking and exploring secluded backwoods waters. She was the perfect person to join me for this trip!

The Elliot Lake ATV Club

Photo: Jenn (left) and myself (right) getting ready for departure from the Elliot Lake ATV Clubhouse.

Elliot Lake has a vast network of trails (as mentioned, over 300 kilometers) that are maintained by the Elliot Lake ATV Club. There are a variety of trail types here providing opportunities for riders of all skill levels. For all the details on acquiring a permit to access these trails, and to learn more about the Elliot Lake ATV Club, visit: https://www.elliotlakeatvclub.ca/

Jenn and I were very fortunate to spend a day on the trails with 2 members of the Elliot Lake ATV Club: Tony Morano (Club President), and Bob Wheelock (Recording Secretary). We met up with Tony and Bob on Sunday morning at the Clubhouse, fueled up our machines at the nearby Esso gas station, and hit the trails for a fun day of exploring. We stopped by a couple of lakes that Bob loves to fish, and of course, did a bit of fishing ourselves. There are year-round smallmouth bass and northern pike fishing opportunities on many of the lakes up in this area, but be sure to check out the Ontario Fishing Regulations for the latest information before planning a trip.

Photo: A smallmouth bass that I picked up from shore while fishing a Z-Man SlingBladeZ spinnerbait.

Photo: Jenn in her element casting a line.

Tony and Bob also kindly brought along everything we needed to cook up lunch over a fire, and Jenn brought along some yummy homemade baked goods. It was a delightful lunch! I was in awe of the views throughout this whole outing, and also really enjoyed riding through various types of terrain. The side by side was very comfortable! It was fun to spend a day with such avid ATV riders and learn more about the area. Tony mentioned that the ATV Club hosts organized outings every Wednesday and Saturday, as well as other events throughout the season. They welcome all experience levels to get involved with the club.

Photos: From left, Tony Morano, Bob Wheelock, and myself.

Dunlop Lake Lodge

Jenn and I stayed at Dunlop Lake Lodge for the duration of our trip. We enjoyed a tasty dinner at the onsite restaurant the evening we arrived. The lodge is located just over 13 kilometers north of the City of Elliot Lake. Upon arrival at the lodge, we saw plenty of ATVs and side by sides as it’s a very popular destination for riders, as well as snowmobilers during the wintertime. The trail network can be accessed right from Dunlop Lake Lodge which is where Jenn and I departed from for our second day on the trails.

Photos: (Left) We enjoyed a burger and chicken fingers with fries for dinner while soaking up the views of Dunlop Lake. (Right) Our cozy accommodations during our visit, also overlooking the lake.

Additional Dining Options in Elliot Lake

Photos: (Left) The Chicken Avocado Club Sandwich with French Onion Soup at Putter’s Restaurant. (Right) Fish Tacos, Garlic Bread, and Chicken Tetrazzini at Fireside Classic Grill. Our meals were delicious!

We Also Hiked the Horne Lake Trail!

Since my very first visit to Elliot Lake, I’ve wanted to hike the Horne Lake Trail which borders the entire perimeter of scenic Horne Lake. The lake is situated on the north side of the city. Jenn was immediately on board to hike this 6-kilometer trail with me, and we were both glad we did! The views were stunning from the cliffs overlooking the lake. From the side by side, to fishing, and hiking, this trip was incredibly adventurous all around! Learn more about hiking trails in Elliot Lake here.

Photo: Myself (left) and Jenn (right) from the top of the cliffs on the Horne Lake Trail.

Thank you to the City of Elliot Lake for partnering with me on another memorable adventure. I had an absolute blast! A big thank you to Tony and Bob at the Elliot Lake ATV Club for showing us around the beautiful trails!

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