Bass Lake to Killbear to Chutes: Northbound and Learning Fast
Despite persistent headwinds, our drive from Bass Lake to Killbear Provincial Park went smoothly. For the EV-curious: we started with a 95% State of Charge (SOC) and arrived at the Tesla Supercharger in Parry Sound with 13% remaining, averaging 451 Wh/km. For context, we normally average 160 Wh/km over 55,000 km without a trailer—so towing clearly makes a big difference! Fortunately, we didn’t need to unhook the trailer to charge and were able to enjoy lunch in the trailer while the car topped up. From Parry Sound, it was just a 40-minute drive to Killbear.
Killbear is massive—1,496 campsites, a stunning beach, and endless trails. We’re still honing our trailer-backing skills, but this time we tried using the two-way radios from our boating days. Fran guided me with a quiet voice and hand signals. We're getting there—experts soon, maybe!
Once settled, we reconnected with fellow Airstreamers John and Teresa (BRN 5885). They joined us aboard Tug’n for tea, cookies, and some great catch-up conversation. They're veterans at this—third summer with their Airstream—so we’re grateful to be travelling with them to Thunder Bay.
The sun finally broke through in the afternoon, just in time for a fabulous dinner at Gilly’s Snug Harbour Restaurant. It brought back memories—we used to anchor nearby at Regatta Bay and take the dinghy over for their famous fish. This time we’d prearranged dinner with my cousin Jane and her husband Larry, who summer on Rose Island. The six of us had a wonderful evening of stories, laughter, and great food.
That night, Fran turned in early while I joined John and Teresa around a campfire. It’s still unusually cold for June, but warmer weather is on the way.
The next day, I enjoyed a wonderful hike on one of the many Killbear Provincial Park trails.
Tuesday, June 3: Killbear to Chutes Provincial Park
We got an early start for Chutes, via Sudbury. Fully charged to 100%, we hoped to reach the Sudbury Supercharger 164 km away. A tailwind gave us hope, and the car estimated we’d arrive with 11% SOC. But Tesla’s range estimates while towing are, let’s just say, optimistic. So we made a short detour to top up at a Tesla Destination Charger at Desmasdons Boatworks in Pointe au Baril. They generously let us plug in at their 8kW chargers. We had to unhook the trailer, but the bonus was enjoying sunshine and hot coffee on their dock.
From there it was an uneventful drive to Sudbury and then west to Chutes Provincial Park in Massey. The park is named for the waterfalls on the River aux Sables, which once served the local logging industry. Logs cut during the winter were sent down the chutes during spring runoff and collected at the lake for milling.
Backing into our site brought another “learning opportunity.” A tight maneuver meant I accidentally swung the front of the car into a small stump—yes, a little damage (stuff happens, right?).
With just a single warm day, the mosquitoes and black flies arrived in force. By the time we were set up, my arms looked like a bug buffet. Luckily, the campground was quiet, so we could plug both the trailer and the car into 30-amp service—very convenient.
Exploring Massey
The next morning, we ventured into town for a few essentials: wood filler (a latch screw had pulled out of a cabinet), weather stripping glue (for the screen door), and—of course—After Bite. Right next to the pharmacy was the charming Massey Museum, which we couldn’t resist. It had thoughtful displays of life in the 1800s and early 1900s, and the three volunteers on duty were a joy to chat with. We ended up staying for over an hour.
Back at the trailer, we had lunch and then set off to explore the Chutes Waterfalls, which were more impressive than expected—both picturesque and powerful. That evening, John and Teresa joined us aboard Tug’n for a delicious dinner of Fran’s Honey Garlic Pork Tenderloin.
Each stop, each lesson, each connection deepens the adventure. We’re definitely on the learning curve—but loving the climb.
Stephen & Fran
Lighthouse at Killbear
Pics from our hike at Killbear
Wonderful beach at Killbear
Massey Museum
Great posts so far. Keep up the good work. We had lunch at ours in Niagara Falls with Frank & Eleanor Langley and Win Castle & Dorothy Wilson. You were the topic of conversation and they have both followed your blogs in the past, but were unaware of your new adventure. They would like to join the group. Keep up the good work. Frank & Lisa McGee
ReplyDeleteMany thanks. Best wishes
DeleteGreat pictures, love your blog. Jean from the JV 👍
ReplyDeleteThanks Jean. Stephen & Fran
DeleteEnjoying your blog, and in this post, its many references to places we've been by boat is bringing up many happy memories! Looking forward to reading more. Safe travels, Lynn & Mike
ReplyDelete