A Little History about Owen Sound

Owen Sound has a rich history that dates back to the early days of European settlement in the region. The area was first surveyed in the 1830s, and the first settlers arrived in the 1840s. The city was officially established in 1857 and was named after William Fitzwilliam Owen, who was a British naval officer and explorer.

Throughout its history, Owen Sound has been a major center for transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture. Today, the city is a center for culture, arts, and tourism. It is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival, the Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular, and the Owen Sound Attack Hockey.

Owen Sound is also home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Owen Sound Marine and Rail Museum, the Grey County Historical Society and Museum, and the Tom Thomson Art Gallery.

The city is also home to a number of parks and natural areas, such as Harrison Park, which offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking, and Kelso Beach Park, which offers swimming and a playground.

The downtown of Owen Sound is a vibrant shopping district with a mix of locally owned businesses and chain stores, that offer a variety of items from clothing, jewelry, and gifts.

Owen Sound is also known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and skiing.

Best Outdoor Activities in Owen Sound

Owen Sound offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Some popular outdoor activities in the city include:

1. Hiking and nature trails: Owen Sound is home to a number of parks and nature areas, such as Harrison Park and Inglis Falls Conservation Area, which offer hiking and nature trails. These trails offer beautiful views of the Georgian Bay and the Niagara Escarpment and opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.
2. Water activities: Owen Sound is situated on an inlet of Georgian Bay, which is part of Lake Huron, and offers a variety of water activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and scuba diving. The city also has a number of beaches, such as Kelso Beach Park, which is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
3. Skiing and snowshoeing: Owen Sound is home to the Craigleith Ski Club, which is a family-friendly ski resort that offers a variety of ski and snowboarding runs for all skill levels. The area also offers opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
4. Fishing: Georgian Bay is home to a variety of fish species, such as salmon, trout, and bass, which makes it a popular destination for sport fishing. The city also has a number of fishing charters available, which can take you out on the water to experience the best fishing spots.
5. Rock Climbing: Owen Sound is home to the Lion's Head and Tobermory, which are popular rock climbing destinations that offer a variety of routes for climbers of all skill levels.
6. Camping: The area around Owen Sound offers a variety of camping options, including backcountry camping, car camping, and RV camping. Some popular campgrounds include the Inglis Falls Tent and Trailer Park and the Harrison Park Campground.
7. Biking: The city has a number of bike trails that run through the city and the surrounding area, such as the Tom Thomson Trail and the Georgian Trail, which offer scenic views and challenging terrain for both road and mountain biking.