THE MACLACHLANS

Our Story

Our story began over sixty years ago when Ivan, “Mac”, and Barb MacLachlan stepped off a Canadian Pacific train at Mile 88, West of Chapleau, with camping equipment and a canoe.  They paddled less than a mile up from “the tracks” to discover the perfect hilltop location for a new Canadian wilderness lodge, now known as Lodge Eighty Eight, on twenty-seven mile Esnagi Lake, famous for its incredible pristine waters, fantastic sport fishing, clean air and beautiful rugged scenery.

Grandad was able to purchase the land from the Ontario Department of Lands and Forests and with the help of Barb, his two sons Don and David, and local labourers began construction the following year.

The lodge opened for its first customers in 1959 a year before the Trans Canada Highway was completed around the Lake Superior coast.  Since the very first days and throughout our long family history Lodge Eighty Eight has been known for being different; going further and more than an extra mile to exceed guest expectations.

As children we were lucky to spend part of summers at the lodge and it was always exciting towards the end of the school year to see the trunks come out and packed with clothing, games and of course fishing gear for the annual trek ‘up north’.  Many family memories were made over those years with great-grandparents, grand parents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins either working or just relaxing at camp.

2003 saw the beginning of another significant period of building as we replaced all the original guest cabins with new log cabins and suites.  Extensive renovations were carried out on the main lodge.  New docks, fish house, and other facilities were built and this renewal continues to today.  Upgrades to new Lund boats and electric start motors.  Maybe even a couple of new cabins!

So while we have seen change over the years what has not changed is our remote location.  The only way to reach us is still by train or float plane.  Our commitment continues; doing our utmost to ensure our guests have a most successful and enjoyable wilderness holiday experience.

Our family is blessed to work in such incredible beauty and to form friendships that span generations.

In memory of my grandfather Ivan, his wife Barb, my father Don and my Uncle David.

David MacLachlan.

 

 

IVAN MACLACHLAN DON MACLACHLAN

Ivan Maclachlan

1923 - 2009

Donald Maclachlan

1943 - 2013

David Maclachlan

1963 - present