MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Summer 2018

SUMMER 2018 ML BLUE 45 When the winds are up, the surf is up at Kincardine. For Great Lakes surfers, this is one of the true gems and people have been riding these Lake Huron waves since the late 1980s. Winds create swells that break along the pier at Station Beach giving surfers easy access to incredible rides; simply walk out to the end of the pier, jump in and catch a wave. While fall is the best time for surf here, if the waves do pick up in the summer, there is no place better. Combine warm water, easy access and one of the friendliest surf scenes in the country for a killer session. “Kincardine is great not only for its ability to produce one of the better waves in the region, but also for the vibe in and around the water,” says former ML cover boy Andrew Wyton. “Most surfers have to commute a minimum of a couple hours to get there, so when there are decent waves everyone is so excited and having genuine fun. Positive energy is contagious. If one or two guys are out there having a good time, everyone out there will be having a good time!” There are tons of online Great Lakes surf forums these days to help you predict waves. You need a strong northwest wind for a good six-to-eight hours for this spot to work. Sites like Surf the Greats are perfect for finding out more and the West Shore Surf Shoppe in Kincardine is a great place for local knowledge. “There are a few hazards to pay particular attention to,” says Ash Adams, owner of West Shore. “The shipwreck, the boulders that shore up the pier, and the heavy rip current when it’s wavy. We’ve got an amazing local surf crew here at Station Beach Kincardine with lots of local surf experience that are always more than happy to help. So don’t be afraid to start a conversation with someone if you’re unsure, as most surfers out here know the conditions really well and are more than happy to help.” The yearly Great Lakes surf comp, the West Shore Freshwater Classic, takes place here every fall, and surfers come from throughout Canada and the USA to try to win the title. – Colin Field DIY: check out Jack n Jill's Surf Shop in nearby Sauble Beach: jacknjillssurfshop.com HALF DAY TRIPS “Positive energy is contagious. If one or two guys are out there having a good time, everyone will be.” Freshwater Classic: Surfing Huron 18 American competitor getting some at the West Shore Freshwater Classic. COLIN FIELD