Eels Creek to High Falls, Peterborough ON

Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim

Al-Hamdu Lillah, it was nice to get on the road and take the long drive to Peterborough, Ontario. Along the way, there were many fluffy clouds creating so much depth in the calm blue sky. Reciting a prayer entitled Ratib al-Haddad with the scenic farmland views made the drive peaceful and spirituality uplifting.

At my destination, my long-time friend provided me with great hospitality. The afternoon commenced with the Zuhr prayer. It was special for me that this was my first time standing in prayer before God in this land (i.e. Peterborough).

After, we walked through some quiet neighborhoods and visited Jackson Creek. In the evening we had dinner at a wonderful Indian restaurant and strolled through downtown.

The next day, we took on the hike at Eels Creek. It was somewhat challenging and enduring. The loosely-marked trails are steep at parts, and at one point we shimmied across a log over running water. One can bypass these trails by canoeing through the water that runs all along the side. I had a wonderful time and our hike was filled with a lengthy dialogue about art, community and project work. The highlights were the stunning views of the lake and a small waterfall. Quite often, water seems to be the main attraction in an area - it has a sacred presence that is immediately felt and recognized. I was fortunate to perform a Sajdatu's Shukr (Prostration of Thankfulness to God) in this natural environment.

After our hike, we had some legendary fish and chips and performed the `Asr prayer before my nice long drive home, which contained the recitation of the Ratib and feelings of thankfulness and reflection. It was a chance to unwrap all of the weekend's enlightening conversation and natural beauty I had experienced. If I visit Peterborough again, I think I would like to see the petroglyphs.

Below are some photos from my trip. Thanks to another friend of mine who recently encouraged me to take panoramic photographs.

 

On the beautiful drive to Peterborough ON - July 2022

 

Jackson Creek (trail) - July 2022

 

 Jackson Creek (trail) - July 2022 

 

Tandoori Momos at the Indian restaurant.

 

A water fountain - downtown Peterborough during the evening - July 2022

 

Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022

 

 

Eels Creek to High Falls - July 2022