FROM WINDING ROADS TO WINDING RIVERS. Forests broken by rivers instead roads, the only thing towering above you are the cliffs that rise on the far side of a lake and the only traffic you encounter is that of wildlife on a portage. Wilderness North’s lodge to lodge journey immerses you into the natural and wild spaces of Canada.
A whitewater adventure with Wilderness North is the ultimate way to escape and enjoy the pristine Canadian wilderness. The ultimate adventure for families, friends, partners, and groups. This journey is the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Challenge yourself on a guided canoe trip, fully immersing yourself in a wild and remote part of the world. Your first and last night are spent at our fly-in full services lodges while the majority of nights are sleeping in a tent next to rapids. Our experienced whitewater guides pair with local first nations to provide the ultimate in adventure, safety and connection to the land. This journey is welcome to participants of all skill levels. Paddling preparation takes place on the river and the journey can be adapted to novice or more experienced paddlers. Adventure also meets comfort, as our trips focus on luxury, whether you enjoy a cheese platter by the fire, or a glass of wine next to a rapid, we know how to make the wilderness that much more enjoyable.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrive in Armstrong where the true adventure begins with a flight providing you an aerial view of the Canadian wilderness before reaching your remote wilderness lodge. There you will be greeted by a local First Nation for a welcome ceremony and cleansing followed by a feast of local fish during our shore lunch. The afternoon will be spent exploring the property, getting out on the lake and enjoying the beautiful boreal forest. In the evening there will be a complimentary happy hour with cocktails and appetizers before dinner is served in the main lodge. A cozy start at Miminiska lodge embraces true Canadiana style; leisure during the day and relaxation at night. Spend your evening by the bonfire under the stars and then head to bed in our newly renovated cabins.
Day 2:
Wake up to a warm cup of coffee and spend you day enjoying Miminiska Lodge. The morning is yours to enjoy our lodge amenities and leisure activities. The afternoon is spent preparing for your paddling adventure! You will discover new strokes from our certified river guides! Our keen guides love adventuring and will ensure a safe and exciting journey!
Day 3-8:
Your senses are ignited during your journey through the boreal forest. Paddle to the Albany River and discover the beauty of a traditional way of travel. River travel is unique in that both sides of the shore are close enough to truly soak in the wonders of two shore lines. Paddle the traditional routes of Anishnaabe First Nations, exploring and learning the history from your local guide. By canoe and with the help of your guides you will navigate northern watersheds, overcome rapids and cruise along with the current.
A day with us on the river balances comfort and challenge. Wake up to a hot cup of coffee, warm cinnamon buns and the sun rising above a boreal forest. Then, a day of paddling begins! Our guides offer you all the skills needed to paddle down a remote river. Through flat and whitewater you get a truly Canadian adventure. The canoe is a quite way of traveling, providing the chance to see plenty of wildlife including the potential of moose, caribou and black bear!
The days are exciting and the evenings can be just as rewarding, as the night sky is often illuminated by the Aurora Borealis and the big dipper.
Meals on the river are cooked over a fire, but embody the gourmet style that our lodges are known for. Food just tastes better over the fire, from fresh baked pizza to fish from the bottom of a rapid you just paddled, our guides have perfected the art of outdoor cuisine.
Our guides are masters in what they do. They excel at luxury camping, outdoor cuisine, and paddling whitewater. Each also have unique skills including landscape art and yoga to traditional Anishnaabe crafts. Some specialize in ornithology while others in medicinal plant use. We pair guides who have lived on the land their whole life with experienced whitewater guides to ensure you are getting the most out of your wilderness experience.
Day 9:
Arrive at the Makokibatan Lodge and treat yourself to a hot shower as our lodge staff prepare you a delicious lunch to welcome you in for the day. Spend your afternoon SUPing, kayaking, hiking or simply relaxing on the beach. In the evening you will be treated to a 3-course dinner inspired by the boreal forest paired with a local craft beer.
Day 10:
Wake up to a warm cup of coffee or tea delivered right to your cabin! Breakfast is served and it is your last morning to enjoy the beauty of the lake from ground level before your private plane whisks you back on your journey to Thunder Bay!
Inclusions: Flights from Armstrong Station, ON to Miminiska Lodge and return to Armstrong Station, ON from Makokibatan Lodge; guiding and Instruction, meals, snacks and drinks (wine and beer with dinner), equipment (including fully outfitted canoes)
Not Included: International flights, rental vehicle, gratuities, fishing license, items of a personal nature.
Give us a call to plan you very own Wilderness North Adventure