Bracebridge reveals name of Storybook Trail bear sculpture
BRACEBRIDGE, ON (October 23, 2025) – The Town of Bracebridge is excited to announce that the community has chosen a name for the new bear sculpture at the Woodchester Storybook Trail, introducing Chester.
Chester the bear, carved onsite by Precision Carvings during the Bracebridge 150 Community Celebration and Showcase and generously donated to the Town, received an overwhelming response in the “Name the Bear” contest. More than 60 creative submissions were received, highlighting the strong connection the community has to this new addition to the trail. Of all of the submissions, Chester proved to be a popular choice, with 10 people submitting that name for consideration. Each entrant that submitted the winning name will receive a Bracebridge 150 prize.
With the cooler months ahead, Chester is now hibernating at the Municipal Office but will return to the Storybook Trail when the seasons change and he emerges from his slumber next spring. Residents and visitors can still enjoy a seasonal stroll along the Storybook Trail at Woodchester to enjoy the new story and take in a scenic view from the observation deck.
Learn more about the Woodchester property and trail at bracebridge.ca/woodchester.
Quotes
“Thank you to everyone who participated in this fun anniversary contest. The community’s enthusiastic participation is a wonderful example of how engaged and creative our residents are. Chester now has a place of honour along the Storybook Trail, and we look forward to seeing families and visitors meet him as they visit historic Woodchester.”
- Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge
About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country. With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.
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Town of Bracebridge
1000 Taylor Court
Bracebridge, ON P1L 1R6
Phone: (705) 645 5264