James Ryan

Blog (Since 2009)
Desolate Warrior (2011)
The Sportstender (2011/2014)
Sociopatriot (2015)
The Fallen Trail (2017)

SIDMEDIA Archive

Nothing Found

James Ryan Photography

thefallentrail

Beautiful day out on the water. 💙 #thefallentr

Beautiful day out on the water. 💙

#thefallentrail #kayaking #kayak #paddlingmixtape #lakeerie #seakayaking #feelinggrateful

Spent the afternoon hiking Ball's Falls with my co

Spent the afternoon hiking Ball's Falls with my cousin @matt_fyke and it was a perfect day out on the trails. Already looking forward to our next time out.

#hiking #hike #npca #thefallentrail #brucetrail #hikingadventures #ballsfalls #NiagaraRegion #hike #hikeNiagara

Had a fun night kayaking in Jordan Harbour with @m

Had a fun night kayaking in Jordan Harbour with @mattjovanovic ....

until we witnessed a young man on a dirtbike racing across the train bridge. Matt saw his bike flip multiple times through the air, after he failed to pull a wheelie. Matt immediately called 911 and we raced around the reeds and ran our way up the bank to help direct the emergency services to the site of the accident. By the time we got there, the fire department was already on the scene. Praying for the full recovery of this young man, who was undoubtedly in really bad shape.

#thefallentrail

"Punch, kick, block... it's all the same. It's who

"Punch, kick, block... it's all the same. It's who you train with that matters the most." - Hanshi Masaru Shintani, SWKKF

This week was my first time laying stone and I absolutely LOVED it. Proud to be on such an amazing team, learning from the best over at @_mv_masonry.

#stonemasonry #stonemason #masonry #thefallentrail

Spent my day laying 4-inch block for a customer's

Spent my day laying 4-inch block for a customer's outdoor BBQ in preparation for some beautiful stone work. Built some leads, corners and returns, then ran several courses to connect them all together. So far, so good 👍 😋

#masonry #stonemasonry #stonemason #thefallentrail

Pics from a house I've been working on this week.

Pics from a house I've been working on this week.

#bricklayer #bricklaying #masonry #thefallentrail #apprenticeship

15 Mile Creek is crazy shallow right now. Let's ho

15 Mile Creek is crazy shallow right now. Let's hope today's rain bumps it up a little bit.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #kayaking #paddlingmixtape

Paddling the Welland River with @mattjovanovic #

Paddling the Welland River with @mattjovanovic

#100DayPaddleChallenge #kayaking #thefallentrail #paddlingmixtape

Completed my training today, so now I'm officially

Completed my training today, so now I'm officially certified for Working at Heights.

#construction #bricklayer #bricklaying #masonry #stonemasonry #stonemason #thefallentrail #worksitesafety #safety #safetytraining #workingatheights

First day on the new job, building block firewalls

First day on the new job, building block firewalls. In total, myself and two other masons laid close to 800 blocks. Proud to say I kept the pace and recieved some really positive feedback afterwards.

#apprenticeship #masonry #mason #stonemasonry #stonemason #bricklayer #thefallentrail #residential #construction #newjob #firstday

Grateful for the opportunity to attend #ConestogaC

Grateful for the opportunity to attend #ConestogaCollege for my Level 1 Brick & Stone Masonry apprenticeship. Finished one year to the day from when everything got cancelled in 2020 due to the Covid outbreak.

This project was the toughest challenge yet, and included a rowlock along the top section with a finished corner, and an interior wall made up of smaller brick in an X pattern. Not bad for my first attempt - scored perfect on the project: plumb, level, straightness, dimensions... all were spot-on to within 1mm. Very satisfying to know how far I've come in this trade and how much I've improved with my overall skillset.

Like I said... grateful.

#stonemasonry #bricklayer #bricklaying #masonry #stonemason #thefallentrail #apprenticeship #ididit

Finished up this little block wall project today.

Finished up this little block wall project today. Hard to believe there's only a week left in my apprenticeship. Where does the time go?

#stonemasonry #stonemason #bricklayer #bricklaying #thefallentrail #apprenticeship #masonry #mason #redsealtrade #conestogacollege #westonfamilyscholarship

Here's a little brick wall that I recently built,

Here's a little brick wall that I recently built, complete with a short return (corner), a window sil opening, and a row of soldier course (vertical) bricks. I'm learning lots of cool stuff now. Only two more weeks to go until I successfully complete my Level 1 brick & stone mason apprenticeship.

Then what.. ??

#stonemasonry #bricklayer #bricklaying #masonry #thefallentrail #apprenticeship

Special birthday shoutout to my beautiful girlfrie

Special birthday shoutout to my beautiful girlfriend @laurenfast1. I am extremely grateful for our time together. Thank you for all that you do for me, and I hope today is an extra special awesome day because you definitely deserve it. You're a really great person and I love you tremendously.

Happy Birthday, LOML!!! 🍰🤟❤

What's not to love about operating heavy equipment

What's not to love about operating heavy equipment? 😜

#landscaping #hardscaping #iamahardscaper #thefallentrail #backhoe #dumptruck #jackhammer #skidsteer #miniexcavator #miniex

Here are a few more examples of some of the more d

Here are a few more examples of some of the more detailed and intricate work that I've done this past year in landscape construction:

- a precision cut I did for an unfinished outdoor staircase (Hamilton)

- a large, rectangular hole in the wall that I buttoned up after an old retaining wall was torn down (Niagara Falls)

- the replacement wall (dry-stack) with support beam cut-outs (Niagara Falls)

- cutting and adding brick to successfully match an uneven wall length (Grimsby)

- joining new and pre-existing bricks on an uneven ground surface (Grimsby)

- a tight cut around a gate post (Grimsby)

- an intricate brick pattern (Fontfill)

#masonry #stonemasonry #bricklayer #landscaping #hardscaping #construction #thefallentrail #iamahardscaper

Here's a jobsite I worked on last summer. It was m

Here's a jobsite I worked on last summer. It was my first experience working commercial in a unionized environment, exclusively with concrete block. It was fast-paced, physically challenging, and an incredible learning experience. Unfortunately for me, the union was no longer accepting first-year apprentices, but ultimately it didn't matter. It's all about learning at this stage of my career and I was still grateful for the opportunity.

As a first year mason, I was asked to split my time between the wall (laying block), the saw, and labouring, which meant lots of heavy lifting, lots of cleaning, and for the first time, I even learned how to properly build a tonne of scaffolding. Quite a different experience from landscape construction.

#masonry #bricklaying #bricklayer #concreteblock #thefallentrail #construction

Here's a repair job I did a few months ago. The jo

Here's a repair job I did a few months ago. The joints were cracked and one of the bricks was split in half. After unsuccessfully trying to find a matching replacement brick (time was a factor), I opted to switch-out the cracked brick with a whole brick from another section of the house that was hidden under a newly built deck in the backyard.

Without an oscillating handheld saw specifically used for removing old mortar joints, I had to improvise, so I used an angle grinder to dig out and clean as much of the old mortar joint that I could, and then used a drill bit to puncture the remaining mortar bed. After that, I simply used a bolster and hammer to knock away the remaining mortar without causing further damage to either the brick or the wall. A nice, clean removal.

In the end, the repair turned out well and I learned a few new skills along the way. But obviously having the right equipment from the start would have saved me a lot of time and energy.

#masonry #bricklayer #bricklaying #thefallentrail #brickrepair

Project number 3 started off by tearing down proje

Project number 3 started off by tearing down projects number 1 (block wall) and 2 (brick wall), and starting all over again from scratch. This time, instead of constructing a simple flat wall, the 8-course block job included a small return (corner) and a 4-course window opening... seemingly more complicated, but as long as you follow the exact dimensions that are on the plans, ensure that all of your corners are plumb (Plumb is King), your starting and finishing courses are both level, and both sides of the wall-face are straight in-line with each other, then it's really no more difficult than any basic design. The principles are exactly the same.

Here's the process, in reverse. Enjoy.

#masonry #stonemasonry #bricklayer #bricklaying #thefallentrail #apprenticeship

Once a block wall's been built, and the block rein

Once a block wall's been built, and the block reinforcement wire has been added to every second course, the brick wall can be built in front on it - usually with a 1-inch gap in between, and brick ties of some sort holding the block wall to the brick.

Here's the process (going backwards) of a build that I found a bit more challenging. I started off with slightly incorrect dimensions (the goal is to try to match the plans to within a millimetre), so after building close to half the wall, I made the executive decision to tear in down and start from scratch. I had the time, so why not do it right? To add to my challenge, I created this unique pattern using 2 different colored bricks. I got near the top, but noticed a slight curve in the upper corner. I was so fixated on getting the wall plumb and level, I forgot to check for straightness. So once again, for the second time on one build, I tore it apart to fix the problem and do it right. I learned a lot of valuable lessons on this build. It was worth every swear word 😄

#masonry #stonemasonry #bricklayer #thefallentrail #apprenticeship

Here's the process (going backwards) of building a

Here's the process (going backwards) of building a simple 6- course block wall, using deadmen to run a string line, and a level to build the leads. The string line in then used to join the leads together. The top course must be level, the corners must be plumb, and the face of the wall must be straight. The average joint size is 10mm, but they can fluctuate slightly (between 7 and 13mm) in order to achieve a certain height, but also to ensure that the wall is level. The floor is never perfectly level to start, so adjustments in the joint sizing need to be made to ensure that the top course is bang on.

#masonry #bricklaying #stonemasonry #thefallentrail

When my apprenticeship for brick & stone masonry g

When my apprenticeship for brick & stone masonry got cancelled last March due to the coronavirus outbreak, I have to admit, I was pretty bummed out. Lucky for me, the Ministry contacted me late last Fall and re-offered my seat for.. Now.

Masonry apprenticeship has three levels, each level lasting for 8 weeks. Once I'm done all of the in-school learning, I'll be able to write the exam for my Red Seal. My goal is to accomplish this by the time I turn 50.

Here are a few pics from some of the early practice projects. Pretty simple stuff; Build a block wall, tear it down. Build a brick wall, tear it down. Build leads. Use a string line only. Use a level only. And so on... The Basics.

#masonry #stonemasonry #bricklayer #thefallentrail #apprenticeship

Who doesn't ❤ a good ❄ day? #redsnowpants #h

Who doesn't ❤ a good ❄ day?

#redsnowpants #hotpants #snowdog #snowdogs #dogsofinstagram #goldenretriever #snowangel #snowangels #snowday

Happy Valentine's Day to.. my Love ❤

Happy Valentine's Day to.. my Love ❤

Cold day out by the Lake with Lovely @laurenfast1

Cold day out by the Lake with Lovely @laurenfast1 - the most thoughtful, giving, patient, selfless, supportive, caring, intelligent, funny, sexy, beautiful woman I know. I am grateful for her love and generosity, and I am thankful to have her in my life. I'm a very lucky man. ❤

Happy Valentine's Day / Family Day /
7 month Anniversary Weekend!!

Do things worth writing about or write about thing

Do things worth writing about or write about things worth doing. It's easy to feel inspired on a day like today.

It's easy to focus on the things that we've lost -

It's easy to focus on the things that we've lost - I know I'm guilty of it sometimes, but 2020 brought a lot more into my life than uncertainty, disappointment and sadness. It also brought tremendous joy and love, and I am grateful for all of the good things that have happened in my life over these past few months. I'm grateful for this beautiful woman and all of the love that she has provided me with. Thank you @laurenfast1 for making me feel alive again. Thank you for always being there for me, caring for me, and sharing your life with me. Happy 6-month Anniversary. I love you. 🤟 #LomL

Remember to be safe, keep others safe, and have fu

Remember to be safe, keep others safe, and have fun. There are no rules or laws that say you can't go outside to exercise, so dress warm, practice social distancing, and make the most out of your life while you still can. Water you waiting for?

Great day at the beach, watching the sunset with J

Great day at the beach, watching the sunset with Jasper (aka el Jasparito, aka the Jazz Bear, aka Guy Smiley, aka the Jaspman, aka Sir Pantsalot) and @laurenfast1 (aka LomL). ❤

Came across these really strange bubble patterns o

Came across these really strange bubble patterns on the surface of Lake Ontario the other day. Anyone know what could have caused/created them?

Hope everyone is having a happy and healthy Christ

Hope everyone is having a happy and healthy Christmas.

Even though the timestamp says 1987, this picture

Even though the timestamp says 1987, this picture with @colerfulton and his younger brother, Dylan, was actually taken around 1993/94, back when I was the manager of #WorldGym out in London, Ontario. Man, those were the days.

I started working in the fitness industry along with the Fulton Family (siblings - Robert, John, Dave, Glen, Kim and Cheryl) when I was only 14-years old, and in total, I probably spent well over 15 years of my life promoting healthy living and physical fitness in the weight room.

This beast of a Jeep was my old '82 Jeep CJ7. Only a 3-speed manual transmission connected to a 350 Chevy V8 engine. 12 inches of lift on 38.5 inch Super Swamper tires, set onto K5 Blazer axles. What was I thinking?? 🤣🤣👍

#flashbackfriday #throwbackthursday #sentimentalsaturday #jeep #itsajeepthing #jeeplife #CJ7 #JeepCJ7 #fitness #gym #gyms #exercise

Day 100: #16MilePond w/ @laurenfast1 @mattjovanovi

Day 100: #16MilePond w/ @laurenfast1 @mattjovanovic and Robert Fulton.

Thanks to everyone who joined me today on my special day, and thanks to anyone reading this who's been following along on my little adventure. It always feels good to finally reach a goal.

This hasn't exactly been an easy year. Lots of adversity and lots and lots of changes, but I am grateful for my current place in life, for good friends, good health, steady income, family, and most of all, love.

I am one fortunate dude.

Take care of yourselves, and thank you.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #paddleniagara #paddleontario #kayaking #kayak #seakayaking #seakayak #goalsetting

Day 99: #LakeOntario Cheers to number 99 #thegre

Day 99: #LakeOntario

Cheers to number 99 #thegreatone

Not gonna lie... my body hurt, I was mentally and physically exhausted, it was cold out, and I just didn't feel like paddling. After a long, tough week at work, I just wanted to relax with a cold beer and do absolutely nothing.

So naturally, I went paddling anyway and of course, I loved every second of it. ❤😅👍

One day left. Wish me luck. 🍀

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #waynegretzkyestates #waynegretsky

Day 98: #LakeOntario Such an incredible #sunset.

Day 98: #LakeOntario

Such an incredible #sunset. Feeling truly blessed.

Only 2 days to go. Thanks to everyone who's been following along. At this stage, even with my body rapidly falling apart, the challenge has been far more mental and emotional than it has been physical.

My motto in life: Never ever give up. I have my dad to thank for that one.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 97: #16MilePond w/ @laurenfast1 Can you beli

Day 97: #16MilePond w/ @laurenfast1

Can you believe that we're already into December and it's still warm enough outside that I can go paddling without gloves on? Crazy, eh!?

Had an amazing time paddling with Lauren today. We saw all kinds of feathery creatures, including: red-tailed hawks, shit hawks (seagulls), bird donkeys (cormorants), ducks, a giant cloud of sparrows, Canadian geese (yes, I got shit on), and the most incredible bald eagle encounters of my entire life.

With only 3 more days to go, today was easily one of my favourite paddles ever, let alone this year.

And have you seen the forecast for the upcoming week???

I am blessed ❤

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 96: #15MileCreek As promised, here's the vid

Day 96: #15MileCreek

As promised, here's the video of Daffy, the "short-tailed" long-tailed duck.

Special thanks to @laurenfast1, as well as the pros over at @outdoorsoriented for helping me to identify (and name) this cute little guy.

So cool!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #outdoorsoriented #duck #ducks

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 3 of 3) As a young boy

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 3 of 3)

As a young boy growing up in the bordertown of Fort Erie, there was nothing I loved more than a good old-fashioned snow day. It was a badly needed break from the boring hum-drum of school, and a great excuse to go outside and play in the snow. Whether we were tobogganing down the terraces of Douglas school, throwing snowballs at each other on Kenney's hill, or just hopping fences from backyard to backyard, my friends and I were always being active and always loving the cold, snowy weather.

Fast forward, and the kid in me still loves a good 'ol snow day, only this time, it's work that I'm missing, and kayaking is my number one activity of choice.

This particular day was filled with incredible scenery and a plethora of fine feathered creatures, such as: a great blue heron (my first sighting in weeks), a red-tailed hawk, a whole whack of mallard ducks, a long-tailed duck (with non-breeding plumage - VIDEO to follow), and last but not least, an awesome and majestic great horned owl. Such an amazing day!!

Please enjoy my photos. Only 4 more days remaining in my personal challenge. Thank you all for following along. Cheers. ❤

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #snowday

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 2 of 3) As a young boy

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 2 of 3)

As a young boy growing up in the bordertown of Fort Erie, there was nothing I loved more than a good old-fashioned snow day. It was a badly needed break from the boring hum-drum of school, and a great excuse to go outside and play in the snow. Whether we were tobogganing down the terraces of Douglas school, throwing snowballs at each other on Kenney's hill, or just hopping fences from backyard to backyard, my friends and I were always being active and always loving the cold, snowy weather.

Fast forward, and the kid in me still loves a good 'ol snow day, only this time, it's work that I'm missing, and kayaking is my number one activity of choice.

This particular day was filled with incredible scenery and a plethora of fine feathered creatures, such as: a great blue heron (my first sighting in weeks), a red-tailed hawk, a whole whack of mallard ducks, a long-tailed duck (with non-breeding plumage - VIDEO to follow), and last but not least, an awesome and majestic great horned owl. Such an amazing day!!

Please enjoy my photos. Only 4 more days remaining in my personal challenge. Thank you all for following along. Cheers. ❤

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #snowday

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 1 of 3) As a young boy

Day 96: #15MileCreek (Part 1 of 3)

As a young boy growing up in the bordertown of Fort Erie, there was nothing I loved more than a good old-fashioned snow day. It was a badly needed break from the boring hum-drum of school, and a great excuse to go outside and play in the snow. Whether we were tobogganing down the terraces of Douglas school, throwing snowballs at each other on Kenney's hill, or just hopping fences from backyard to backyard, my friends and I were always being active and always loving the cold, snowy weather.

Fast forward, and the kid in me still loves a good 'ol snow day, only this time, it's work that I'm missing, and kayaking is my number one activity of choice.

This particular day was filled with incredible scenery and a plethora of fine feathered creatures, such as: a great blue heron (my first sighting in weeks), a red-tailed hawk, a whole whack of mallard ducks, a long-tailed duck (with non-breeding plumage - VIDEO to follow), and last but not least, an awesome and majestic great horned owl. Such an amazing day!!

Please enjoy my photos. Only 4 more days remaining in my personal challenge. Thank you all for following along. Cheers. ❤

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #snowday

Day 95: #15MileCreek Heard that #kayaking is "of

Day 95: #15MileCreek

Heard that #kayaking is "officially" the most popular sport on the planet as of this year, and I can't say I'm all that surprised; it's an awesome way to spend your time - exercising, enjoying nature, relaxing - it's the best!

Since this pandemic's hit, people have been looking for all sorts of creative ways to spend their hard-earned money, and outdoor recreation seems to be the perfect outlet for many of them.

So... am I noticing a much larger than usual influx of new paddlers on the scene? No, not really.

Let's just say, I try to avoid the popular "hot spots" on warm sunny weekends, and I much prefer the days (or evenings) that the average fair-weather paddler would hope to avoid - cold temperatures, strong winds, rainy conditions, and not surprising... no other people.

With only 5 days remaining until I reach my goal of 100 days of paddling in a single calendar year, I must admit... I'm loving all of this late season solitude. What a November we've had. ❤

Enjoy the pics!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak

Day 94: #MartindalePond w/@laurenfast1 Life is g

Day 94: #MartindalePond w/@laurenfast1

Life is great, but being able to share it with someone you love makes it all that much better. 🤟❤

Only 6 more days to go.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #sunset

Day 93: #LakeOntario To me, this lighthouse repr

Day 93: #LakeOntario

To me, this lighthouse represents a guiding light in a time of personal darkness, and one of the more memorable and meaningful paddles of my entire life. A year and a half ago, I sat in this exact same spot, floating, and thinking about my life and what I wanted it to look like as I lived out my remaining days. Fast forward and I never could have imagined that I'd be where I am today. I no longer feel lost and helpless in the dark, but I'm certainly not done battling the waves or the adversity set before me. One day at a time. That's all anyone can do.

"Seven more days, all I gotta do is survive."
- Bob Dylan

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 92: #LyonsCreek After working outside all day

Day 92: #LyonsCreek

After working outside all day, I admit.. I wasn't really looking forward to paddling in the cold wind again, but it was actually a pretty gorgeous evening - comfortable temperatures and calm conditions. Unfortunately, the sunset wasn't exactly amazing, but it was a whole lot better than I figured it would be considering how grey and gloomy it was all day. Overall, another great day of kayaking.

Only 8 more days to go until I reach 100 days of paddling in a single calendar year. I got this!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #socialdistancing

Day 91: #LutherMarsh Wildlife Management Area w/ @

Day 91: #LutherMarsh Wildlife Management Area w/ @mattjovanovic

After planning and failing to visit the Luther Marsh for the past three weekends, we finally made it. Highlights included; numb fingers and toes, cold blustery winds, a lack-luster sunset, very little wildlife, drinking coffee from an old empty beer can, and incredible landscape as far as the eyes could see. I can't wait to go back again, preferably next August once they allow kayaks and before the hunters arrive in September. Despite the cold, this is easily one of my favourite spots to go paddling. I will be back!! ❤

Question: would you sooner go paddling on a warm, sunny day surrounded by lots of other people? Or would you prefer to go paddling on a cold, dreary day surrounded by practically no one?

I think you can guess which one I would prefer lol

Special Note: Check out the latest video by our good friend and paddling expert @kayakhipster

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #socialdistancing

Day 90: #15MileCreek All day today, I thought tod

Day 90: #15MileCreek

All day today, I thought today was paddling day #89, so I kinda feel like I gained an extra day tbh. 😅 Sweeeet!

Feeling pretty exhausted as I'm writing this..(I'm falling asleep on the couch). Basically.. I worked #sunrise to #sunset, operated a jackhammer for the majority of the afternoon, and still somehow found the energy to go night paddling with @laurenfast1 where we were blessed to run into several beaver along the way. Overall, a busy and challenging day for sure.

10 days to go until I reach 100, and oddly, I've never felt better than I do right now. Enjoy the pics. I'm off to bed.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 89: #16MilePond There're a lot of reasons not

Day 89: #16MilePond

There're a lot of reasons not to go paddling, but being tired isn't one of them. No excuses.

Pictures include: Tonight's #nightpaddle on the 16 with 'ol girl Delvia, this morning's spectacular #sunrise here in the #NiagaraRegion, and a perfectly groomed fox who decided to get all up-close and personal on the worksite. #nofucksgiven

Only 11 more days to go!!! I hope you're all reading this is good health and positive spirits. 🤟

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 88: #LakeOntario By my calculations, I've be

Day 88: #LakeOntario

By my calculations, I've been out paddling for 10 of the last 14 days. This is on top of working 50+hour work weeks in landscape construction. Truthfully, I've always been fit, but I don't remember the last time that I've felt this strong.

Only 12 more days to go before I reach my goal, and based on the upcoming weather forecast, I don't see things freezing over anytime soon. Fingers crossed, it's looking good.

Enjoy the pics!!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks #sunset

Day 87: #JordanHarbour Not much to say about toda

Day 87: #JordanHarbour

Not much to say about today...

Got done work early, so I slipped into Jordan Harbour for a quick one. I did venture out into Lake Ontario for a bit as well, but the wind and waves were picking up and my skeg had a rock stuck in it. Also, I wasn't wearing my drysuit, so I went back into the safety of JH for a nice leisurely paddle. Saw some cool hawks flying above the trees, and I even found a neat decoy owl which had floated up along the shoreline. #finderskeepers

Overall, another good day out on the water. 13 more days to go...

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks

Day 86: #LakeOntario It's not easy working all d

Day 86: #LakeOntario

It's not easy working all day in the construction trade, then paddling nearly every single night. I've learned that in order to achieve our goals, we must make the time for what we know is important. We must calculate our sacrifices, and overcome any physical and emotional challenges. And most of all, we must push our limits a little bit more each and every day. That's how things get done and that's how life gets lived.

Now it's time to rest my aching body. 😞 I'm tired and sore. Goodnight, everyone. Cheers.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #sunset

Day 85: #16MilePond It was around this time last

Day 85: #16MilePond

It was around this time last year that I was finishing up my challenge just as the local ponds and harbours were all starting to freeze over - it was close. With 15 more days to go until I finally reach my ultimate goal of 100 days of paddling in a single calendar year, I am extremely grateful for this unseasonably warm weather. Who knows...? I might actually pull this off 😂👍 Enjoy the pics of this gorgeous #sunset!!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #NiagaraRegion

Day 84: #LakeOntario with @laurenfast1 Gord Downi

Day 84: #LakeOntario with @laurenfast1

Gord Downie - "The Lake"

I always stood at the lake
Through my entire life
I saw something today
The love of my life

The lake has always been
between the sun and me
Rather than blocking it,
it brings it to me

Silvery gold trout
sparkles and dances
with all the warmth and calm
loving to my child

I realised today
You're Lake Ontario
The love of my life
You will O

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #sunset #nightpaddling

Day 83: #JordanHarbour It was a long time coming,

Day 83: #JordanHarbour

It was a long time coming, but I finally convinced @laurenfast1 to join me out on the water for a great day of kayaking. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, but unfortunately, I promised Lauren she would see some great blue herons (as the Harbour is usually teeming with them) but alas, there were none to be found. Very odd indeed.

We did see some killdeer though, as well as a bunch of turtles, and we even saw some rock climbers out on the old stone pillars next to the train bridge, so that was all pretty cool. Overall, we had an amazing time together, and I for one can't wait to do it again.

Great job, Lauren. Very impressive how quickly you were able to pick it up. You're a natural. ❤🤟

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Day 82: #LakeOntario Highlights from the day inc

Day 82: #LakeOntario

Highlights from the day included: an amazing sunrise, a beautiful day working outside along Lake Erie, and a cool night paddle out on the Big O. Overall, a great day.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks #paddling #NiagaraRegion #Niagara #sunrise

Day 81: #15MileCreek Such an incredibly insane #s

Day 81: #15MileCreek

Such an incredibly insane #sunset.

I was immediately reminded of two things I've said in the past that I still believe to be true...

1. 15 Mile Creek is the most beautiful spot in the entire Niagara Region.

And 2. Kayaks can go where canoes can't.

Enjoy the pics!!!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks #paddling #NiagaraRegion #Niagara

Day 80: #16MilePond It's easy to find an excuse n

Day 80: #16MilePond

It's easy to find an excuse not to do something if you really don't feel like doing it, especially when it comes to exercise. "I'm tired... I'm sore... my muscles hurt... it's too late/dark... it's too cold... it's too windy..." And so on.

After the day I had at work, I definitely didn't feel like paddling, but as always, I'm glad that I did. And not surprising, I was the only one out there.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #paddling #nightpaddling

Day 79: 16 Mile Pond / Creek Quick Tips for paddl

Day 79: 16 Mile Pond / Creek

Quick Tips for paddling in strong winds...

1. Head Wind - Cut resistance by dropping your head and shoulders slightly forward while paddling, don't use your skeg (it's unnecessary), and off-set your paddle blades by at least 45 degrees.

2. Side Wind - Alter your paddling technique by choking up on the windy side and using a high angle/ low angle alternating style to maintain a straight course, drop your skeg halfway only, and keep your paddle blade angle where it's most comfortable for you.

3. Tail Wind - Drop your skeg all the way down, keep your paddle blades positioned at zero degrees creating a sail effect, and pay attention to any sudden changes in the direction of the wind. Alter your skeg and paddle blades accordingly.

Any questions? Let me know.

Anything to add? Leave a comment.

Cheers!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks

Day 78: Welland River [First snowfall of the sea

Day 78: Welland River

[First snowfall of the season]

Mike at work - "How many more days of paddling do you have left until you reach your goal?"

Me - "Too many not to go out tonight."

Mike - [Laughs] "Okay, well... you do you, man."

Yes, it was freezing out, and YES I was tired, but a funny thing always happens when I start paddling in the cold... I feel warm, energized and soooo frigging relaxed. It was an awesome, albeit eerie evening out on the water, and despite my initial hesitations, I was really glad I went out. So worth it.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #zegulkayaks #zegul #halloween #happyhalloween

Day 77: Lake Ontario I realized something tonigh

Day 77: Lake Ontario

I realized something tonight... between work, losing an hour this weekend due to daylight savings time, and an inevitably cold winter, this could very well be the last gorgeous sunset that I'll get to see from my kayak this year.

So yes... you can bet your ass I enjoyed the hell out of it. ❤🤟

Cheers!

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking #sunset

Day 76: Lake Ontario What's better than paddling

Day 76: Lake Ontario

What's better than paddling in the rain?

Night paddling.

What's better than night paddling?

Night paddling in the rain, of course.

Here's a short video I made before my phone died. Minus the hum of the QEW, it was quite peaceful.

24 more days to reach 100. Mathematically, I'm still in it, and as such, I've decided to go for it. Unfortunately for me, I'm now at the mercy of the approaching winter. Wish me luck. I'm gonna need it.

#thefallentrail #100DayPaddleChallenge #paddleforever #paddlingmixtape #seakayak #seakayaking #kayak #kayaking

Load More... Follow on Instagram

Adventure Writing

Day 100 of my 100 Day Paddle Challenge (2019)
Kayaking Niagara: Always Be Prepared
How (and Where) to Buy a Sleeping Bag
VIDEO – The Fallen Trail Presents: MSR Product Review
Why Merino Wool is Superior to Synthetics
Canoeing in Killarney: Welcome to Bear Country
VIDEO – Jonathan’s Hike To Defeat Depression (featuring James Ryan)
VIDEO – The Fallen Trail: Hiking Sticks
How Hiking Benefits Your Mental Health
Jonathan’s Hike to Defeat Depression – Live at Five!
Jonathan’s Hike to Defeat Depression – Take Four!
Jonathan’s Hike to Defeat Depression: Week One Update
Interview with Jonathan Toews: Hiking to Defeat Depression
Hiking in Niagara: Twice the Effort, Twice the Reward
Advanced Hiking Skills: Know Your Limits, Hike Within Them
Hiking in Niagara: A Big ol’ Bowl of Mud Soup
Hiking in Niagara: Putting It All Into Perspective
Advanced Hiking Skills: Climbing and Descending a Steep Muddy Hill Without a Rope
Hiking in Niagara: Chipping Away at the Bucket List
Hiking in Niagara: The Search for Animal Chin Continues
Day Hiking in the Niagara Escarpment
Algonquin Park 2007: The Curse of Parkside Bay
Algonquin Park 2006: A Father-Son Journey Begins

Recent Articles

My Journey to Becoming a Stone Mason March 2, 2021
Day 100 of my 100 Day Paddle Challenge (2019) December 9, 2019
Shintani: The Legacy of a Master #SWKKF November 25, 2018
Ask the Senseis: What was Your First Meeting with Sensei Shintani like? #SWKKF November 25, 2018
Kayaking Niagara: Always Be Prepared September 16, 2018

James Ryan © Copyright 2009