Coniston, Ontario: A Hidden Gem for Travel and Tourism
Coniston, Ontario is a small community located in the Greater Sudbury area of Ontario, Canada. Despite its size, Coniston offers a variety of attractions and natural wonders for tourists to explore. From parks and lakes to trails and festivals, there is something for everyone in Coniston.
Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Coniston is the Coniston Water Tower. Built in 1914, the tower stands at 154 feet tall and is a landmark in the community. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Another popular attraction is the Coniston Railway Station. Built in 1913, the station is now a museum that showcases the history of the railway in Coniston and the surrounding area.
For those interested in outdoor activities, the Coniston Trail System offers over 20 kilometers of trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The trails wind through forests and along lakeshores, providing stunning views of the natural beauty of the area.
Natural Wonders
Coniston is home to several lakes, including Lake Ramsey and Lake Nepahwin. These lakes offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Lake Nepahwin is also home to a popular beach, Nepahwin Beach, which is a great spot for picnics and sunbathing.
Another natural wonder in Coniston is the Coniston Gorge Lookout. This lookout provides a stunning view of the gorge and the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the lookout or drive to the nearby parking lot.
Festivals
Coniston is home to several festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Coniston Winter Carnival, which takes place in February. The carnival features ice sculptures, snowshoe races, and a polar bear dip in Lake Nepahwin.
Another popular festival is the Coniston Community Fair, which takes place in August. The fair features agricultural exhibits, live music, and a midway.
History
Coniston was established in 1916 as a company town for the International Nickel Company (INCO). The town was named after a village in England where INCO had a nickel refinery. The town was incorporated in 1929.
The person who started the community was Thomas Edison. Edison was a partner in the Edison Ore Milling Company, which was acquired by INCO in 1902. Edison was interested in the nickel industry and worked with INCO to develop new methods for extracting nickel from ore.
Conclusion
Coniston, Ontario may be a small community, but it offers a wealth of attractions and natural wonders for tourists to explore. From the Coniston Water Tower to the Coniston Trail System, there is something for everyone in Coniston. And with festivals like the Coniston Winter Carnival and the Coniston Community Fair, there is always something happening in this vibrant community.
Sources
- "Coniston Water Tower." Greater Sudbury Heritage Museums. https://www.sudburylivingmagazine.com/2015/06/17/coniston-water-tower/
- "Coniston Railway Station." Greater Sudbury Heritage Museums. https://www.sudburylivingmagazine.com/2015/06/17/coniston-railway-station/
- "Coniston Trail System." City of Greater Sudbury. https://www.greatersudbury.ca/play/recreational-facilities/trails/coniston-trail-system/
- "Lake Nepahwin." City of Greater Sudbury. https://www.greatersudbury.ca/play/recreational-facilities/beaches/lake-nepahwin/
- "Coniston Winter Carnival." City of Greater Sudbury. https://www.greatersudbury.ca/play/events-and-festivals/coniston-winter-carnival/
- "Coniston Community Fair." City of Greater Sudbury. https://www.greatersudbury.ca/play/events-and-festivals/coniston-community-fair/