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 Cabin are located on the lower reaches of the river. The Nipigon River is the home of the world record brook trout. The "brookies" that reside part of the year in Lake Superior, known as Coasters, are trophy fish that cause excitement in 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 in 1937 to house company officials. Located high on the Lodge Mountain overlooks the Nipigon Bay and giving a spectacular view of Lake and the Island.
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 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.