Fathom Five National Marine Park, Ontario
A league of its own
By James W. Coates
National ParksCanada's first marine conservation area truly is an aquatic adventure. Unlike any of Canada's other national parks, Fathom Five National Marine Park in Ontario is almost entirely submerged. Millions of years ago, the Niagara Escarpment drifted from within 10 degrees north of the equator to where it is now - a whopping 45 degrees north of the equator.
Cedar and maple forests and fragile ferns cling precariously to the dolomite cliffs.
Similar to the famous Great Barrier Reef of Cairns, Australia, limestone, dolomite and millions of years of marine life sediment form the unique biosphere found here today.
As well as being a geographical wonder, the park preserves a rich cultural history. Villages along the shores prospered, since they were busy passageways for ships delivering goods to the interior. The first lighthouses weren't built in the area until late into the 1800s though, and the corridor proved a lethal combination of rough shores and sudden storms. Twenty-two shipwrecks clearly visible from the surface remind visitors that this area was once shrouded in as much mystery and death as the Bermuda Triangle.
Dive In
For an up-close and personal experience of the marine life and eerie skeletal remains of ships, Fathom Five offers some of the best clear-water diving in the world. Cliffs, caves and even odd underwater waterfall formations are clearly visible from any of the 20 permitted diving spots.
If diving or snorkeling makes you skittish, a ferry to Flowerpot Island is a great way to see the geological formations. The island, named for its famous rock pillars, is the only one of 19 islands in the park with public facilities. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sounds of waves crashing against the cliffs, the campsites overlooking Beachy Cove are waiting. You'll need a permit first at the Fathom Five Diver Registration in the town of Tobermory.
Little Tub Harbour in Tobermory operates glass-bottom boat tours of the area where enthusiasts can clearly view the remains of the shipwrecks and the rocky bottom that caused them. But if you'd prefer to spend your days pursuing outdoor adventures, consider a sunset cruise where you can feast on fresh fish while cruising the park.
Hiking in the park isn't extreme, but it provides a great opportunity to view rare flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for calypso orchids, also known as Fairy Slippers. They bloom on Flowerpot Island's trails for several weeks at the end of May to the beginning of June. Often thought of as tropical plants, 60 species of orchids grow naturally in Ontario - the park is home to 43 varieties in total. Do them favor though, and stick to the trails. These delicate plants look no different than weeds when not in bloom and even a few missteps cut life short for these rare beauties.
Ontario's Fathom Five National Marine Park is a must for anyone who enjoys scenic beauty coupled with aquatic adventures. There is too much to do here, so we recommend taking your time. Go ahead, get your feet wet.
Talk to James about Fathom Five National Park.
