Book Review - Waterfalls of Ontario

Unlike other geological features ,  a  waterfall will call out to you; sometimes in the softest of whispers and at other times in an undeniable roar of greatness.  Whether it cascades as a trickle or in a solid curtain of water, there is no denying the mesmerizing effect of the endless freefall of life’s most precious commodity. As one watches the reflective sunlight in the deep pools below, or the churn of froth where vertical meets horizontal once again and seemingly trips over itself to form eddies around obstacles and pillows over rocks, is it any wonder that people seek out waterfalls? Two such obsessed souls have created a book for those who want more of the experience, and you won’t find another with as much information as is packed in this one.

 

Waterfalls of Ontario by Mark Harris and George Fischer, is definitely authored with passion. Over 100 waterfalls are broken down into eight regions, each with a recommended tour mapped out in order to optimize your falls viewing pleasure.  In the pages that follow you will find precise directions  with parking information and how long of a walk you can expect to reach the falls and over what kind of terrain. The text is descriptive and lets you know what you can expect to see and if one vantage point is better over another.  Oftentimes they describe the best positioning for photo opportunities and what time of year presents the best flow. If there are viewing platforms, they will tell you that, too.

George Fischer is responsible for the beautiful full page photo of each waterfall featured in the book and the spirituality and peace he finds as he stands before them is reflected in every shot. He has even lost some equipment in his efforts to bring you the best view.

It is obvious to me that the author and photographer didn’t arbitrarily select the subject of “waterfalls” and then go on a marathon throughout the Province to tag each and every one they could find. A lot of time and care has gone into this book to not only provide you with what you need to find the locations of the falls, but also information that will further enhance your journey, such as whether there are gas stations nearby or accommodations, the nearest place and other points of interest you may want to take in.

My first book review has set the bar rather high. I know whether you are a hiker, photographer or just enjoy scenic drives, you are going to love this book. The only advice I could dare to add would be this; in the spirit of The Tao, go with the flow.