During 2019, the IATNL made significant strides in completing its Cabox Geopark basecamp at Stone Brook (aka Stowbridges) in North Arm, Bay of Islands. The two-storey former fisherman’s house will serve as a start/end point for 2-3 day treks across the North Arm Hills to/from Trout River. This year’s work included the installation of bunk beds, new vinyl flooring, indoor plumbing, and the reconstruction of the damaged seawall.
Due to the 10th Anniversary IAT Scotland visit and an Outdoor Economy Forum in Ulster Ireland in late May/early June, IATNL directors Arne Helgeland and Paul Wylezol’s first trip to the basecamp didn’t occur until June 27-29, still early enough to enjoy the last of lobster season!
During this and the July 20-24 visit, more pine boards and cupboards were installed on the downstairs walls,
sheeting was completed on the new sun porch,
and work continued on the storm-damaged seawall.
On July 23, Arne and Paul were joined by long-distance hiker Geoff Rose from Ontario who crossed over the North Arm Hills from Trout River, having completed the first two of 4 legs of the Cabox Geopark UltramaTrex hiking route across the four Bay of Islands Ophiolite Massifs. (Read more on Geoff’s UltramaTrex.)
During a September 16-19 trip to Stone Brook, a new 1″ water line was connected to a nearby brook with a 50ft vertical drop, providing plenty of water volume and pressure for indoor plumbing to the kitchen and bathroom. A short walk from the water intake provided a spectacular view of the cove and outer Bay of Islands beyond.
A new trail around Stowbridge Head was also started, which provides a new vantage point of the cove
and a terrific view of the sunset over the bay’s islands.
The last trip of the year occurred October 21-23 and saw the completion of upstairs and downstairs bunks and the installation of vinyl flooring.
Additional work was also done to the seawall to bring it up to sufficient height and strength for the winter.
And as with every trip to Stone Brook, there were tasty cook ups
followed by well-deserved “refreshments” around a cozy fire!
We’re already looking forward to next year!!
