Are you a parent, teacher, instructor or facilitator looking for a Vancouver Island adventure travel experience or special location for a group? Look no further – our Wilderness Retreat options are flexible, diverse, and alarmingly comfortable for even the “non-campers” in your group!

Our comfortable Wilderness Retreat on Spring Island offers the perfect base for daily kayak explorations amidst picturesque islets, or multi-day expeditions to the rugged Bunsby Islands and Brooks Peninsula. WCE uses highly experienced professionally certified guides. Customize your experience for individual needs, groups, and families of all ages, with diverse opportunities for novice to more advanced paddlers.

For more information, check out these links to West Coast Expeditions:

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You can study for and obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card online in about four hours. BOATERexam.com has worked with Transport Canada since 2001 to provide Canadian boaters with an approved and convenient way to make sure they’re prepared when they hit the water.

Using BOATERexam.com, there is an easy 3-step process for getting a Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

1. Sign up and complete the online course at BOATERexam.com.
2. Pass the Transport Canada online exam.
3. Print out your temporary Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

You are then legally allowed to operate a powered watercraft. BOATERexam.com will mail you a permanent card in 3-5 weeks. Your card is good for life.

So, if you’re operating a boat with a motor in Canada this summer, make sure you’ve got your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board. Not only will you avoid a fine if stopped, you’ll be better prepared for a safe summer on the water.

Black Bear Hunting Canada BC

BC Black Bear Hunting – British Columbia – Canada

Coastal British Columbia (BC) of Canada is largely regarded as the best hunting area for Black Bears in North America. Our website contains detailed BC (British Columbia) Canadian Black Bear Resources to help you in planning your next hunt. All our hunts are exciting spot and stalk with either rifle or bow. The average Black Bear squares over six feet although every year seven footers are taken with a high percentage of their skulls making the record book.

Canadian BC Roosevelt Elk Hunting

BC Roosevelt Elk Hunting British Columbia – Canada

BC Roosevelt Elk were reintroduced to Coastal British Columbia in 1986 and have flourished ever since. We have many more details About Canadian BC Roosevelt Elk Hunting on our website. Access to many of our Roosevelt Elk hunting areas is by boat only extending from the landing points by four by fours, ATVs and on foot. We plan your hunt with your physical condition in mind so you can thoroughly enjoy the experience. Black Bear, Black Tailed Deer, Cougar and Mountain Goat hunting can be added to your Roosevelt Elk hunt.

From Mountain Hunter Magazine

Dear Editor,
I had the adventure of a lifetime with Coastal Inlet Adventures.The outfitter Brad Lister and guide Drew Rutherford were by far the most knowledgeable, courteous and hard working individuals I have personally had the pleasure to hunt with. While on this five day hunt,my guide and I spotted many bears (blacks & grizzlies), Blacktail deer, Elk, and Mountain Goats from some of the most breathtaking mountainous vantage points I have ever witnessed.The beauty of this country was worth the trip itself.The high snow-capped mountains, glaciers, avalanche shoots, grassy meadows, crystal clear streams and the large numbers of waterfalls will keep you spellbound for the entire trip. After every day in the field we always came back to a large feast,which was prepared by Eric the camp cook. I personally enjoyed the fresh fish and the jumbo prawns smothered in garlic butter.On the fourth day of the trip I was fortunate enough to take the largest bear of my life,which still allowed me an additional day to fish and take in all the beautiful scenery that this spectacular place has to offer. I would highly recommend Coastal Inlet Adventures for one of the most exciting and memorable adventures that you’ll ever have.

Sincerely,
Darren Maser

Black Bear Hunting Canada BC

Roosevelt Elk Hunting Canada BC

BC Black Bear & Rooosevelt Elk Hunting Area

Devastation caused by Whitepine blister rust

The commercial value of Eastern White Pine was one of the contributing factors to the American Revolution in 1776. The Royal Navy claimed many of the trees as property of the crown and imposed fines and floggings on anyone caught chopping them down. Just like the Boston Tea Party, colonists often disguised themselves as Indians to avoid being identified when cutting the trees for their own use.

Eastern White Pine seedlings were taken to Europe in the 1700’s to see if they could be grown closer to the British shipyards and over-harvesting of the trees in North America continued right into the 1900’s. After the clearing of almost all the Eastern White Pine here, the U.S. government decided it needed to replenish the forests. With not enough local seedlings, in the early 1900’s it imported seedlings from Europe unaware that these were infected with whitepine blister rust. A massive reforestation project spread these infected seedlings throughout the eastern U.S.A. In 1910, similar infected seedlings were imported through Vancouver, BC and the disease started its spread through the Western White Pine forests.

Whitepine blister rust is a disease that attacks pine trees through their needles. Five needle pines like the Eastern White Pine, Limber Pine and Western White Pine are particularly susceptible to this disease. The spread of the disease is complex and requires two hosts. It does not spread from pine to pine but instead spreads from pine to currant plants in the spring then from currant plants to pines in the fall. The airborne spores can travel many kilometers so the disease is not confined to areas where currants and pines grow in close proximity.

Once the disease and its connection to currant plants was discovered around 1920, the U.S. government decided to fight it by exterminating currant plants. There was a ban on cultivating currants and many men were employed during the depression in a futile effort to try and exterminate wild currants. In Canada, the currant was often valued more than the pine and similar bans and extermination efforts were not put in place.

When the disease enters the pine needle, it starts to work its way back through the branches to the trunk where it will eventually cut of the flow of nutrients to the rest of the tree. If caught early, it is possible to prune the infected branches and save the tree but this is not practical in the wilderness. Younger, smaller trees can be quickly killed by the disease.

Today, white pine blister rust has spread throughout Canada and the U.S.A. It evens threatens the Bristlecone Pine of California, some of which have thrived for over 3,000 years. Much research is going into developing disease resistant white pine with some limited success but not without its own controversy.

The fascinating story of the Eastern White Pine is woven throughout the history of North America and demonstrates the massive impact our actions can have on our environment.

(Courtesy of Backcountry Navigator)

Typically, smartphones are only useful useful if you are in range of the nearest cell tower. However, the Backcountry Navigator app provides offline GPS mapping. Even if you are outside of cell phone service range, the GPS on your Android (in theory) will continue to work anywhere you have a wide, clear view of the sky. With a bit of pre-planning, Backcountry Navigator lets you download maps and aerial photos of the areas you plan to explore while you are still in cell range and then use your Android’s GPS to find your position on these maps when you are in the wilderness.

(Courtesy of Backcountry Navigator)

Map sizes can get very large and the GPS can be a drain on your phone’s battery. Backcountry Navigator allows you to turn off the GPS when it is not in use to conserve your battery. Depending on the length of your trip you should consider taking a spare battery, or a solar/hand-crank battery charger.

Get more information about Backcountry Navigator at http://www.backcountrynavigator.com/.

If you are planning a fishing trip in Ontario, you should check out Fish ON-Line – an online tool that let’s you easily examine detailed fishing data collected by Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) on thousands of lakes throughout the province. Find out which species are found in each lake, specifics on fishing regulations in each area of the province, government stocking records and more.

Fish ON-Line - MNR Ontario

You may want to check out the lakes in the area you are planning to visit. Use the “Water Body Name” option, enter the name of the lake and/or town to zoom in and then click on the map pin for the lake. An information window will pop-up that allows you to review the information collected by MNR for that lake. You can even get driving directions to the lake and find out where you can buy your fishing license. Give it a try to check out your favourite fishing spots.

There is a massive amount of fishing data available in Fish ON-Line and you may find that it is not always as complete or as accurate as your own local knowledge. Remember that the information reflects the details collected by the MNR who are continously conducting their research studies. Often the study for a particular lake may have been completed years ago so its data may be out of date. If you find some inaccuracies, be sure to share them with the rest of us by leaving a comment at the end of this article.

• Introduction to Stubbs Island Whale Watching
• Whale Watching Rates & Dates
• Stubbs Island’s Vessels
• Telegraph Cove, Vancouver Island, BC
• Stubbs Island’s Specialty Tours

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Sea To Sky Sea Kayaking Expeditions:

• Sea Kayaking With Pacific Sea Otters – Photo Essay
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• Sea Kayaking in the Wake of Captain Cook – Photo Essay

Sea To Sky BC Canoeing Expeditions:

• Canoeing The Bowron Lakes Circuit – Photo Essay

Sea To Sky BC Hiking Expeditions:

• North Coast Trail – Remote Coastal Hiking
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Sea To Sky Arctic Hiking Expeditions:

• Chilkoot Trail – Klondike Goldrush Backpacking – Photo Essay
• Hiking Canada’s Patagonia – Tombstone Range – Photo Essay
• Tuktut Nogait -Hiking in the Home of the Young Caribou

Sea To Sky Arctic Canoeing Expeditions:

• Canoeing Nahanni River
• Canoeing Yukon’s Wind River – Photo Essay
• Canoeing Yukon’s Rivers – Photo Essay

Geography
Natural Heritage
Human Heritage
Recreation
Visitor Information
Map

Story and photos courtesy of Canadian Heritage Rivers System

An American writer called it “the river out of Eden”, the Mi’kmaq called it “he who disobey’s his father”, the French explorers called it “Ristigouche” and legions of avid fishing enthusiasts have called it “the best darned salmon river in the world.” It is New Brunswick’s famed Restigouche River.

The section of this historic waterway which was designated a Canadian Heritage River in 1998, is 55 kilometres long and runs between Jardine Brook and the Million Dollar Pool at its junction with the Patapedia River. This section of the Restigouche is accessible by public highway at only one point, the community of Kedgwick River located at the end of Highway 265. The bridge at Kedgwick River, built to provide access to the logging roads that serve the interior forested area, is the only bridge crossing the Restigouche River within the designated section.

Because of its relative inaccessibility by road, the region is completely unspoiled. The river winds peacefully through dense forests. There are few breaks in the trees except for small clearings where intrepid settlers built their homes and raised their families. The rough terrain has limited development and, for the most part, the river has remained the domain of the majestic Atlantic salmon.

Many of the world’s wealthy people, including titled aristocrats and even a former king (The Duke of Windsor), were drawn to the Restigouche because of the fishing. Men and women, who were used to giving orders, obediently followed the instructions of local guides who told them where to cast their lines in deep, mysterious pools with names such as Devil’s Half Acre, Snake Rock and Trotting Ground. Then, as they canoed down the gently moving stream, these same people experienced the sense of peace that comes from being at one with nature in surroundings that have changed very little in 200 years.

While anglers still head for the Restigouche between June and August, the river now attracts canoeists as well as other nature lovers. In the spring, the banks become lush and green; in the summer, salmon leap out of water, their silver bodies glinting in the sun; in the fall the area is turned into a panoply of riotous colour; in the winter, it sleeps quietly under a blanket of snow, its peace barely disturbed by snow-shoers and cross-country ski enthusiasts.

The Restigouche River has touched the lives of many people, from the Mi’kmaq, for whom it was a major transportation route, to poor Irish immigrants seeking a better life, to sports fishermen, and to the children who play along its banks.

Breathtakingly beautiful and historically significant, the Restigouche River also provides exceptional recreational opportunities. For all these reasons, nomination of the Restigouche as an official “candidate Canadian Heritage River” was accepted by the Canadian Heritage Rivers Board in January 1995. In February, 1998, the Province of New Brunswick tabled a management plan for the river and its surrounding watershed with the Board at which time it received full status as a Canadian Heritage River.

Geography

Located in the north of New Brunswick, the Restigouche river flows in a northeasterly direction to the Baie des Chaleurs and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Its principle tributaries are the Kedgwick, Gounamitz, Patapedia and Upsalquitch Rivers.

Salmon angling camps are located at four sites within the designated section and are only operated during the salmon angling season. The land adjacent to this section of the Restigouche River is mainly Crown land. The area is characterized by a rolling topography with elevations ranging from approximately 50 metres at the mouths of the rivers to approximately 400 metres along an escarpment that slopes Northwest into the Restigouche from the Upsalquitch. The river channel has been influenced by the geology and ice flow of the area, resulting in a gently meandering waterway with areas of natural erosion. Features include floodplains, terraces, islands, dykes, rock outcrops and deep pools.

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Natural Heritage

New Brunswick is renowned for its forests. The banks of the Restigouche are densely wooded with predominantly eastern white cedar, balsam fir and white spruce. There is also the occasional white pine plus hardwood species including white and yellow birch, trembling aspen and balsam poplar. Fire and logging operations have affected the vegetation pattern of the area, especially the ground vegetation. The forest floor is covered with a wide variety of vascular plants, mosses and lichens. Some of them, such as crawe’s sedge and green spleenwort, are rare in other Canadian provinces.

The combination of forest cover and associated ground vegetation supports an abundance of wildlife. Those who hike along the forest trails might come across white tailed deer, moose, red fox, black bear or coyote, while canoeists will see beaver, ruffed grouse and mallards. And, if they are exceptionally fortunate, these outdoor enthusiasts may catch sight of a lynx padding quietly through the trees or an osprey diving swiftly into the water. Both the Canada lynx and the osprey are provincially endangered species.

Of course, the Restigouche is famous for its salmon some of which have been reported to weigh more than 50 lbs.

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Human Heritage

According to legend, the river was named by a distraught Mi’kmaq chief whose son was killed while leading an expedition against the Mohawks who were poaching salmon. The chief opposed the battle plan and when the entire Mi’kmaq party was massacred on the banks of the river, he named it “he who disobeys his father”.

Both the Restigouche branch of the Mi’kmaq nation whose emblem was, naturally, a salmon, and the Maliseet people who lived on the banks of the Saint John River used the Restigouche corridor for transportation and relied upon the rich natural resources of the area for their survival. The Mi’kmaq travelled from their headquarters on the Baie des Chaleurs at Tjigog (Atholville) down the Restigouche to the Saint John River as well as up to the Matapedia and then on to the St. Lawrence.

When French explorer Samuel de Champlain sailed from Gaspe to Miscou, he learned from the Restigouche Mi’kmaq that there was a passage to the Gulf of St. Lawrence by way of the Matapedia River through a short portage. Champlain was followed by French missionaries and fur traders who depended on the natives for guidance.

The Restigouche was also the site, in 1760, of one of the most important battles between the French and English. The French Fleet was destroyed on its way to Quebec City. After the defeat, British fur traders settled in the area as did officers posted to the region to defend the Crown’s territory. These men, who had time on their hands, discovered the joys of salmon fishing. So did a number of Scotsmen who worked as pilots on English ships. They sent word back to Scotland and, in 1773, eight men, including Robert Ferguson and Samuel Lee came to the Restigouche area from Aberdeen to establish a fishing industry. Scottish settlers were also among the first to clear land for agricultural purposes on the banks of the river but because of the rough terrain and harsh weather, agriculture was a difficult way of life and many of the farmers turned to other methods of earning a livelihood, such as fishing. At that time, salmon were so plentiful in the river that it was considered the most productive in North America. Huge quantities of fish (four million pounds a year) were shipped across the Atlantic. An Anglican archdeacon travelling in the region in the early 1800’s complained that he had difficulty crossing the river because of the salmon nets.

Overfishing on such a massive scale soon resulted in severely depleted salmon stocks. This led to an 1824 law forbidding all fishing after August 1st and abolishing night fishing. But, although this was one of the first conservation laws in North America, it was not enough. In 1857, a Crown lands officer reported that harvests had continued to drop and asked the government to bring in more effective legislation. This legislation, the Fisheries Act, was passed in 1858. It opened the door for private hunting and fishing clubs by granting them fishing leases. While the forests represented a valuable asset for logging companies, the acquisition of riparian rights (exclusive rights for fishing) became an even more prized possession and they were sold to the highest bidder.

Millionaires such as railroad magnate William Vanderbilt purchased land with riparian rights on the Restigouche. Not content with the existing housing facilities, which consisted mostly of small log cabins, the millionaire owners constructed stately fishing camps and lodges. One of these camps, which is along the nominated section, is Kedgwick Lodge. It was designed for Vanderbilt by the renowned American architect Stanford White. He was noted for developing the “shingle” style of architecture typically associated with larger mansions on the Eastern seaboard of the United States.

Logging was the most important winter activity in the area from the latter part of the 18th century to the early 1900’s. In the spring when melting ice from tributaries greatly increased water levels,massive numbers of logs were floated downstream to mills on the Baie des Chaleurs. Matthew and Bella Broderick, caretakers of theVanderbilt property, often reported housing and feeding up to 70 men en route to the log drive. After a hearty lumberman’s breakfast of baked beans and homemade bread, the men headed off on the 23 mile trek from the junction of the Restigouche and Kedgwick rivers to the Rapids Depot to begin their downstream drive on the floating logs.

High profile guests also visited the river. They included the Duke and Duchess of Windsor who, for a week, lived the simple life at the Restigouche camp of Canadian businessman Izaak Walton Killam. Like many other anglers, the former king spent his days fishing. However, the Duchess encountered a problem when the local man assigned to be her guide, Duncan Myles, was so overcome by emotion at the sight of this famous woman that he fainted while handing her into the canoe.

Today a broad highway takes the traveller from the Baie des Chaleurs to the Saint John. In recent years, transportation on the river has come full circle. Just as the natives did centuries ago, modern travellers are once again exploring the Restigouche by canoe.

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Recreation

The designated section of river is unique in that, while it can be considered remote, it is close to civilization. It offers excellent opportunities for recreational canoeing, kayaking. sightseeing, nature interpretation, cultural and historical interpretation, camping and sport fishing. Salmon angling accounts for over ninety percent of the fishing activity on the river system with the remainder focusing on trout. There are four salmon angling camps on the designated section – Downs Gulch, Larry’s Gulch, Kedgwick Lodge and Cater Hall Lodge. Larry’s Gulch is operated by the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources but space there is always at a premium. The three others are owned by private families.

To accommodate more users, public access to salmon angling is permitted on the “Crown Open Stretch” from Montgomery Bridge to the mouth of Jardine Brook and on two “Crown Reserve” sections.

Recreational canoeing and camping in the area have increased steadily over the past decade. The river offers a variety of canoeing experiences. In total, approximately 340 kilometres of canoeable waters are directly accessible from the designated section. Through a recreational management initiative under the Environment Trust Fund of the Province of New Brunswick, campsites are being developed and maintained by the Department of Natural Resources and Energy to accommodate canoeists. Four primitive campsites have been established within the designated section along the river. Eco-tourism is also being introduced in the region.

A campground, Echo Restigouche has been developed on the river bend at the end of the highway leading from Kedgwick. Here canoeing packages, which include instruction and guide books for all levels of expertise are provided. Experienced canoeists, who want to plan their own river excursions, can be provided with transportation as well as overnight accommodation. Hiking tours and nature observation packages can also be arranged. Because Echo Restigouche operates all year round, hunting parties are welcomed in the fall while snowmobilers, snow-shoers and cross country skiers are encouraged in the winter. There are a number of groomed trails but not on the river itself because of rough ice as well as sections of open water.

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Visitor Information

Accommodation and Services: The only public accommodation actually on the river is at Echo Restigouche. The camp has seven large log cabins, each of which sleeps eight, two four person cabins and 17 trailer sites. Tents can be set up anywhere on the Echo Restigouche property.

Motel accommodation is available in the City of Campbellton and the villages of Kedgwick and St.Quentin.

Access: Highway 17, running north from St. Leonard on the Trans Canada Highway to Campbellton on the Baie des Chaleurs, provides the major road access to the area. It is approximately one hour’s drive from St. Leonard to the Village of Kedgwick and the junction of Highway 265. There are several small villages on Highway 17 north of St. Quentin and the road is well maintained all year round. Those travelling from the Gaspe region of Quebec can cross bridges at Campbellton and Matapedia which are approximately an hour’s drive from the river. The nearest major airport is at Fredericton, approximately 200 miles (333 km) from Kedgwick.

Reprinted courtesy of the Canadian Heritage Rivers System

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Skiing By Helicopter in British Columbia

For those who want to experience heights that a ski-lift can never reach, heli-skiing can let you ski among the clouds.

The premise is simple. A helicopter takes you up to the ski run, drops you off, and you ski down to the pick-up point farther down the slope. This gives you unprecedented access to the highest runs and a more varied mix of terrain.

Besides the amazing views from these heights, one of the best features of heli-skiing is that far fewer people are doing it. That means you can often get runs with pure untouched snow.

Photo courtesy of Crescent Spur Heliskiing

There are many locations that offer heli-skiing throughout British Columbia so you should have no problem finding the right spot. In fact, British Columbia is where most of the world’s heli-skiing takes place. You can find hundreds of runs that will take you over glaciers, steep drops, through forests, and more. These aren’t groomed runs, so be prepared for a more wilderness experience while you ski down the mountainside.

Revelstoke, BC has the reputation of having the best heli-skiing terrain and conditions on the planet. You can also find heli-skiing opportunities in the Cariboo, Monashee, Selkirk and Purcell Mountain regions.

It may seem extreme, but being higher in the mountains doesn’t necessarily mean the runs are more difficult than on traditional ski hills. That means that anyone with at least a moderate level of skiing experience can enjoy the thrills of heli-skiing.

All heli-skiing operators who are members of Heli-Cat Canada must have at least one professional guide that joins every group of skiers that heads up the mountain, because you are going to be way out of reach should anything unforeseen happens.

Avalanches are not common, but are always a possibility when skiing at such high altitudes on natural snow packs. Your tour operator will know the current conditions, and shouldn’t let you ski if there is a serious risk of avalanche. Even so, it’s mandatory to wear transceivers that would help rescuers locate you should an avalanche strike.

For equipment, all you really need is the right pair of skis. If you already have skis for powder conditions, or “all-mountain” skis, you should be just fine with what you have. Most tour operators will give you the chance to rent their skis if you prefer. And of course, snow boarding is another option.

To get the best conditions, not only for skiing, but for safe helicopter flights as well, heli-skiing trips are booked from December through April.

Sound tempting? Heli-skiing is extremely popular in British Columbia but its not a sport for the budget-conscious. Because you are riding in a helicopter with each run, no more than 10 to 12 people can be accommodated at a time. This means high costs, so expect to pay a few thousand for 2-day package. Longer packages and more vertical feet will increase the price.

Exploring the Rockies By Helicopter

Want to enjoy the views from up in the mountains, without actually having to climb the mountain? Heli-hiking is a great option for anyone wanting to hike away from the beaten path, and enjoy the amazing landscapes up in the Rockies.

Heli-hiking is no different from regular hiking, except that you get to see more remote areas by taking a helicopter to your destination. Depending on the specifics of your trip, the helicopter portion may only be 10 to 15 minutes long, or you may be in the air for more than half an hour to reach your final hiking spot.

The Rockies range for hundreds of kilometers, offering a multitude of environments for you to explore. You don’t necessarily have to go rock climbing just because you are in the mountains. Though you often can choose mountaineering or rock climbing trips if you want that extra adventure.

Photo Courtesy of CMH Summer Adventures

Take a peaceful walk through rolling alpine meadows filled with wildflowers, enjoy the scenery at a mountain lake, or hike along high stony ridges. Certain areas may give you access to snow packs or glaciers for a little change of scenery.

You’ll find the most opportunities for heli-hiking in areas such as Banff, Canmore, Revelstoke, Jasper and Golden. From these starting points, you can fly to the peaks within the Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park, Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park, the Kootenay National Park and of course the Banff and Jasper parks.

Though the areas are more remote than your typical national park, there will be established trails to follow and you will have a professional guide with you. You don’t just hop off the helicopter to go fend for yourself.

Because you can usually choose the terrain for your hike, heli-hiking is an activity that is suitable for almost any age (children included) and any fitness levels. All you need is appropriate clothing and good hiking shoes. Some tour operators may even supply shoes or boots for you. Just remember that it will be much cooler up in the mountains, so pack accordingly.

Hike for a few hours, or arrange for a longer trek with a little camping thrown in too. Larger tour groups may have established lodges for camping, so you don’t have to rough it too harshly if you don’t want to.

Heli-hiking isn’t typically offered during the winter months due to snow and unpredictable weather, but some tour operators then offer heli-skiing or or even snowshoeing as a winter alternative to hiking in the mountains.

Just because you are hiking at higher altitudes, doesn’t mean you are above some of the usual risks of the Canadian Rockies. It may be thrilling to catch a glimpse of a bear while out walking, but don’t deliberately search them out or approach a wild bear. Take a picture and move on.

Heli-hiking of course costs more then regular hiking since you have to pay for the chopper-ride up into the hills. However, heli-hiking gives you a unique opportunity to see the Rockies in a whole new light.

Exploring the Rockies On Foot

To say that there are hiking opportunities in the Canadian Rockies is an unbelievable understatement.

The Canadian portion of range stretches for nearly 1,500 km from the border with the USA up into northern British Columbia. In total, the Rockies cover approximately 180,000 square kilometers and you can find nearly any terrain or landscape you could want. There are river canyons, rolling foothills, craggy peaks, glaciers, forests, lakes, wetlands and more.

Some of the best places to go hiking and backpacking in the Rockies are in any of the National and Provincial Parks that run along the length of the mountain chain. Some of the larger ones are the Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Glacier National Park, Wells Gray Provincial Park, Northern Rocky Mountains Provincial Park and the Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Provincial Park. This is by no means a full list of parks, as there are literally several dozen in the region.

Outside the parks, areas such as Canmore, Golden, Kimberly and Kootenay Lake offer even more wilderness to explore.

Abbotts Ridge, Glacier National Park of Canada - Photo courtesy of Parks Canada

You can choose whatever hiking trail you wish, and tailor your wilderness time to just a few hours or all day long. Most parks will provide a rough idea the time it will take on their trails so you can plan your day.

If you are looking for a longer adventure in the Rockies, there are many places where you can camp but the specific details will vary from park to park. You usually have to pitch your tent in a designated camping area, rather than just any place by the trail. There are parks that permit “backcountry camping” in some areas, where you can just settle down wherever you wish. Either way, there may be fees associated with overnight stays.

You don’t necessarily have to tackle the Rockies on your own either. Many tour operators offer guided treks that can range from a short nature walk, to a full day of hiking.

There aren’t that many dangers when out on a trail, but when you are spending time away from civilization, you should always take care to be safe. Depending on where you are hiking, there may be bears and the danger they pose should need to explanation. Any bears you see while hiking are wild animals and should never be approached for a photo op.

Moose and caribou may not seem too threatening, but they have been known to charge if provoked. Again, keep your distance if you should see any.

Given the size and scale of the Rockies, there is no easy way to summarize the climate or weather. Snow is expected during the winter months, and longer if you are at higher altitudes. There have been reports of summer snow. Nights can be cold in spring and fall, and rainfall can sweep in without much warning. If you plan on being on a trail for more than an hour or two, it’s a good idea to plan for a possible change in weather.

With a solid pair of broken-in hiking shoes, a backpack with some basic supplies and a bottle or two of water is all you need to see the Rockies firsthand.

ATVing in the Rockies - Photo courtesy of Toby Creek Adventures

ATVing in British Columbia has grown dramatically as a sport in recent years as more outdoor enthusiasts discover the areas unspoiled beauty. Because of this increase in popularity, many local businesses now cater to the ATV crowd and offer special lodging packages to make it easy to enjoy ATVing in British Columbia on your next vacation. Some of these lodging packages are focused on specific events in the area and others are designed to provide that special private getaway.

Since the sport of ATV riding can involve many different types of styles, there are a great collection of websites that cater to ATVing in British Columbia and list a complete schedule of events for the area. These events cover all types of ATV activities from organized races to off-road tours that will allow you to see some of the famous local landmarks while ATVing in British Columbia. By joining one of these tours you can usually visit locations that you might have missed otherwise. Many of these organized tours will also include a bit of history and local color about the areas you are visiting.

If ATV racing is your passion, there is a current schedule of racing events for the area, which includes both conventional races and off-road endurance courses. Some of these races are sponsored events and may require a registration beforehand when ATVing in British Columbia. All off these races are hosted events and provide the perfect venue to test your ATV riding abilities for both the amateur and professional alike.

Many of the websites that focus on ATVing in British Columbia will also provide ride guides that list the various trails in the area. These ride guides are often times written by other ATV riders and include all the details you’ll need to have a great day out ATVing in British Columbia. They usually detail the location of the trail, its length and difficulty as well as any interesting sites along the way. Using one of these ride guides to plan your next ATVing in British Columbia trip can save you a lot of time and ensure you find the perfect trails for your outdoor adventure.

If you have any problems with your ATV while you are out ATVing in British Columbia, there are a number of shops in the area that can repair any problems you may have with your ATV and sell parts and accessories as well to trick out your ride. Some of these shops also rent ATV’s if you’d rather travel light and offer guided tours of the area if you want someone to personally lead you through the backcountry when you plan your next ATVing in British Columbia vacation.

Overview

The Bowron Lake Provincial Park in the Cariboo region of British Columbia is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The park started as a game reserve under the protection of the British Columbia provincial government, was re-categorized as a provincial park in 1961 and has grown over this time to encompass over 300,000 acres of land. The park is named after a local gold rush explorer and gold commissioner, John Bowron. Participants of the canoe circuit are required to register. Only 25 canoes are allowed on the circuit each day.

The Circuit

Travel the 72 mile circuit in a clockwise direction so you are traveling with the flow of the water. The first Lake is Kibbee Lake than you will go on to Indianpoint Lake and Isaac Lake. Take a hike on either side of Issac River to view a 36 foot waterfall. At Issac River there is an opportunity to experience some white water. It is a stretch of less than half a mile but if you prefer you can portage past this area. Continue through Lanezi, Sandy, and Spectacle Lakes to the home stretch on Bowron Lake. There are several smaller lakes and rivers that you will experience. One of these lakes is Rum Lake and its warm water great for swimming.

Photo courtesy of BC Government

Skill Testing

The Bowron Lake is a great place to test you endurance, stamina and will power. Everyone has to be self sufficient and pack in all the gear they will need for the duration of their trip. Although the circuit is suitable for all experience levels it would be wise to practice building a fire, know basic water safety, and be moderately physically fit. The Caribou region is known for its variable weather and its quick changes. Be prepared to wait out a storm in your campsite for a couple hours or a couple days. During rainfall many of the portages can become slick and challenge your endurance and your patience.

Wildlife

Bears and moose are plentiful in this region. It is imperative to be respectful of these animals and realize that, although they are accustomed to people in their territories, they can still be very protective of their young and their territories. Black bears are more predominate in the area but there are regular grizzly sightings too. You will see and hear many of the birds in the area including the haunting sound of the loons. Occasionally, you may even hear wolves. Keep a lookout for deer, mountain goats and caribou. Fishing is permitted throughout the circuit for trout, whitefish and salmon as long as you have the proper permits.

RV Camping

There are beautiful sites along the shore on the Bowron Lake to park your motor home, set up your tent or rent a cabin. You can rent a canoe or even a small motorized boat to sight see in the immediate area. Although dogs are permitted in the campsite on the Bowron Lake they are prohibited from the canoeing circuit. Dogs and bears are not a good mix.

Short Circuit

From the Bowron Lake to Una Lake is a short circuit called the West Side Trip. It is a less strenuous and a shorter trip than the entire Bowron Lake Circuit. However, it provides many of the same opportunities and pitfalls that the longer journey does. Registration is still required.

All the thrills of a roller coaster, paired up with the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountain river canyons makes whitewater rafting a fantastic opportunity for holiday adventure.

The Banff area has some of the best spots for rafting. The Kananaskis and Kicking Horse Rivers and Bow River Horseshoe Canyon are a few examples where you’ll find plenty of tour operators to choose from. A little farther north is the Mount Robson and Jasper areas, where you can get some rafting along the Fraser River. The Kootenay River is farther south, towards the border with the USA and there are several great rapid runs there.

One of the great things about these rivers is that they offer different levels of difficulty depending on where along the river you are rafting. When you book a tour, you’ll see that runs are given grade ratings so you can get a sense of how wild the white water is going to be. Grades 1 and 2 are the easiest, with a little rough water and you’ll want to have some paddling skills though even a total novice could raft a Grade 1 run.

Photo Courtesy of Kumsheen Rafting

Grade 3 is more strenuous and will have some rocks and a few drops along the route. You should have some intermediate paddling experience for these areas. Grades 4 and 5 are really only for folks who have advanced skills maneuvering in white water. Rivers that are classed as a Grade 6 are considered to be too dangerous to raft.

The higher grades (4 and 5) are only for adults, but you can definitely take the kids on any trips that are classed in the 1 and 2 range. Grade 3 rivers are better for older kids, though it can vary.

Rafting tours come in many shapes and sizes. You can arrange for a few hours of rafting for just an afternoon, or book a longer trip that will include overnight camping as you take several rafting runs over the course of a few days. Add in some hiking or horse-back riding when you are on dry land for a little change of pace.

You won’t need to bring any equipment or supplies with you except possibly a bathing suit. Tour operators will provide all the safety equipment you’ll need, such as helmets, life jackets and wetsuits. Any trips that involve camping as well as rafting, you might be require to provide more of your own supplies.

Most whitewater rafts hold 8 to 10 people, and are usually inflatable which gives them lots of rubbery bounce as you hit the rapids. Depending on your skill level, you’ll be expected to help out with the paddling though you can just sit and enjoy the ride if you prefer.

While you don’t necessarily have to have paddling experience to go whitewater rafting, it is a good idea to know how to swim. On the rougher water, people do get dumped out of the rafts occasionally and you should be prepared for anything. The life jackets make a world of difference, but it’s prudent to be able to take care of yourself while in the water.

Whether you want to kayak out on the open ocean, or prefer a quiet inlet for your paddling, the Pacific coast has it all. Nearly 26,000 km long, there are more than 40,000 islands along the coast, giving you an almost limitless number of kayaking spots. Jervis Inlet, Queen Charlotte Islands, Sunshine Coast, Indian Arm and Clayoquot Sound are just a few popular locations.

Not only will you enjoy the beauty of the ocean, but the coastline is spectacular. You can see the heavy forests, rocky shores, and the distant mountains. And for a little added excitement, you could plan your trip to one of the known whale habitats and do a little whale-watching too. The Vancouver Island area is known for its pods of Orca, or Killer Whales.

Some places such as Knight Inlet and Glendale Cove offer opportunities to see wild grizzly or black bears that are on the shores. If whales and bears aren’t enough, you are also likely to see sea otters and possibly bald eagles and great Chinook salmon.

Photo Courtesy of Fran Solar - Guest of West Coast Expeditions

If you’re not familiar with kayaking, it’s a little different than going out on the water in a canoe. With most kayaks, your legs are enclosed, and you paddle with a single paddle with blades at both ends. They are much more maneuverable than a canoe, and great for more exciting travel.

You can go kayaking for a few hours, or join a group that will take you up the coast for several days. It’s not uncommon to find packages for 5 to 7 days of boating and camping. Some of the more remote stretches of coastline may require you to fly to your destination before you hit the water. Not as convenient but you can see some of the most beautiful and untouched wilderness in Canada when you travel beyond the roads. It is particularly peaceful to go paddling in uninhabited areas.

Tour operators provide the kayaks, and usually all the equipment that goes along with them (life jackets etc.). They should also provide a lesson on how to paddle in a kayak, which allows even the newest of novices to enjoy one of these boating treks. The most important thing to learn is how not to flip your kayak! Guided tours offer coaching in how to stay upright, and what to do in the unlikely scenario of your kayak flipping – the guides will work with you to re-enter your kayak and get going again!

Some of the coastal inlets are pretty narrow, and can create as much rough white water as any of the inland rivers and waterfalls. Not all kayaking trips are suitable for first-time boaters, so you should always let your tour operator know what your experience level is before planning a route. Some of the more peaceful spots would be suitable for a trip with children as well.

Given the length of the coast, the conditions climate vary from place to place. Generally, the best times for kayaking trips is summer starting in June. Some places may be available year-round. The weather can be unpredictable, and rainfall is very common especially around the Great Bear Rainforest area.

Overview

Algonquin Provincial Park is the first park the Ontario province set aside to be protected. It was established in 1893 and covers an incredible 7,725 square kilometers (2,983 square miles). This Algonquin wilderness protects many natural ecosystems like bogs, beaches and forests. The landscape can change from rocky ridges to maple forests or flowing rivers in a couple of kilometers. Wildlife is as variable as the landscape. Keep a look out for a moose in the water, his antlers covered in underwater plants, dripping, as he raises his head from eating beneath the surface.

Backpacking and Hiking Trails

Hiking trails are available in all the sections of the park. Along the Highway 60 Corridor there are several hiking routes to choose from including an easy one hour hike on the Spruce Bog Boardwalk, a moderate two hour hike on the Hemlock Bluff Trail to see Jack Lake or the strenuous three to four hour hike on the Centennial Ridges Trail with breathtaking views from towering ridges.

The eastern and northern sections of the park offer fewer trails but some of them have guides including the one on the Barron Canyon Trail who will explain the history of the canyon to you. On the Brent Crater Trail you can read the posted information about how the crater was formed thousands of years ago when a meteorite smashed into the earth.

Algonquin Park - Photo courtesy Jason Irwin, www.parksreport.com

Take your time really enjoying this incredible wilderness of the northern section of the park. Take your backpack and spend a couple days exploring the 140 km of backpack trails and spend your nights in one of the provided campsites.

On the Water

Pass some time in one of Algonquin’s lakes swimming or fishing. Canoeing is the favored mode of water transportation in the park. With over 2,000 km of canoeing routes you are bound to find the one that suits you the best. Motorized boats are permitted in specific lakes of Algonquin park. The size of the motor dictates which lake it will be allowed in and when. Check the regulations on the Algonquin Park website. Keep in mind that water-skiing and jet-skiing are prohibited throughout the park.

Picnics and Camping

You are welcome to stay in the Algonquin Provincial Park for a day, a week or even longer. There are picnic sites set up throughout the area and many include facilities with showers and flushing toilets. These facilities are also open to campers, as well as the facilities sprinkled throughout the park for your convenience. Laundry facilities are also available. Some campsites are set up with electricity.
Most campsites are located near the different lakes, except for backpacking campsites which are located on the trails. For groups of 10 to 40 people the Whitefish Lake Group Campground has basic amenities.

Winter Fun

Algonquin Park is an amazing place to spend some time in a winter wonderland. There are trails throughout the park that provide snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities and a chance to see either tracks of wildlife or the animals themselves. Try your hand at dog sledding in the park with a third party provider. There are different winter camping alternatives available, primitive camping off the main trails, campsites in the Lake Mew Campground that includes electrical hookup and convenient facilities as well as the opportunity to rent a yurt. The yurts have furniture and electric heat and you will need to make reservations in advance.

Overview

Jasper National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Rocky Mountain Range of Alberta and is spread out over 10, 000 square kilometers (4,200 square miles). Set against the Rocky Mountain Range is the Athabasca Glacier, Miette Hot springs, gorgeous waterfalls, pristine forests and sparkling lakes. Visit the wonders of the park by road or be whisked away on the Jasper Tramway to enjoy any of the wonderful sites and activities this incredible park have to offer.

Water Trips

White water rafting is possibly the most popular summer sport in the park. Many companies offer you a chance to plunge through the foamy water in exhilarating day trips or longer overnight trips. There are trips available for all experience levels and on site lessons for beginners. Swim in a secluded lake after a day of trekking around the foothills or just bask on one of the beaches for nap before dinner.

Whitewater Rafting in Jasper Park - Photo courtesy of Jasper Raft Tours

Motorized Tours

Van and van-assisted or motorcycle tours are available for sightseeing in the park. They offer you a chance to get out and closely explore areas you may not have seen otherwise. A helicopter can be hired for incredible sight seeing above the park or to deposit you in a private spot for a heart pounding heli-hiking experience. Choose a local company to take you on a guided tour of the Athabasca Glacier in one of their Ice Explorers.

Muscle Power

Guides can be hired for many of the activities you want to experience however, self guided tours are also popular. Spend some time walking, hiking or backpacking over some of the 1,200 kilometers of trails available. Many of these routes were used by Indigenous people and later by explorers as they traveled through these areas. There are climbing and mountaineering options, cycling and mountain biking expeditions and horse back riding tours available everywhere. Be sure to register or get any of the permits required for your chosen activity.

Mount Edith Cavell, Jasper National Park - Photo courtesy of Jasper Adventure Centre

Spend The Night

Whether you prefer the comfort of a lodge or hut, a tent amongst the trees or a primitive site off the beaten track, there is something for everyone. Spend a couple nights in one of over 1000 sites campsites to choose from. If you wish to have a fire to brighten up your campsite be aware that they are not allowed at all sites and pay attention to any fire bans that may be in place in your area.

Historical Sites

When it became clear, in 1907, that two railroads would be built through the Athabasca Valley the Canadian Parliament declared valley as a forest reserve. In time the reserve became known as the Jasper National Park and besides the scenery and wildlife the park also holds four National Historic Sites. The Jasper Information Centre was built in 1914 and showcases the value of building with local resources. This was the first substantial building built in Jasper and is the first to greet visitors arriving by train. The Athabasca Pass, Yellowhead Pass and Jasper House are also National Historic Sites within the park.

“Truly it may be said that the outside of a mountain is good for the inside of a man.”  This quote by author George Wherry sums up what many people have felt while trail riding on horseback.  Experiencing nature by taking a horse pack trip through the stunning scenery of the Canadian mountains can be a soul-searching, fun, and unique experience.

Horse pack riding adventure trips vary in what they offer to vacationers in regard to comfort level and daily activities. A typical horse pack trip includes daily trail rides that are led by an experienced guide but some may offer the freedom for some independent riding. Guests may take day trips and return the same camp each night; others may move from location to location during the vacation utilizing teams of horses and covered wagons. A common element of horse pack trips is mixing the trail rides with other nature activities such as fishing, canoeing, or hiking on foot. Guests may get the opportunity to learn how First Nations lived by introducing them to the ways natives gathered food, constructed living quarters, and the philosophies they lived by. There are even some horse pack trips that allow guests to hunt wild game and are led by a seasoned hunter and riding guide.

Accommodations on horse pack trips can range from the very rugged to the posh. To get the real essence of an outdoor ranching or riding adventure, visitors may want to sleep in primitive tents in a sleeping bag on a cot. Visitors are often required to bring their own sleeping gear and personal essentials while the stable hands and organizers supply the rest. Most packages include all meals made with ingredients reflective of the old west.

Horse pack trip in the Canadian Rockies - Photo courtesy of Anchor D Outfitting

The climate in Alberta, Canada, ranges from pleasant and warm in the spring and summer months to cold but still sunny in the autumn and winter months, so make sure to pack according to the season. As the winter snow melts, the terrain will be wet, so a good pair of boots is essential. Bring enough clothes to layer and do not forget sunglasses or a brimmed hat.

Vacationers will find numerous areas in Alberta that offer a variety of fantastic horse pack, trail riding, and dude ranch vacation options. The Canadian Rocky Mountains run through several locales and national parks and are the setting for many to most of these holiday outings. Jasper and Banff in Alberta both have national parks that are home to some of the world’s rarest animals as well as boasting some of the best water rafting and scenery in the world. The rolling mountainsides of Cochrane to the more rugged terrain of Bragg Creek offer novice and experienced riders a pleasurable and exceptional riding experience. There are countless horse pack and trail riding adventures available in Alberta; decide what kind of accommodations and degree of ruggedness you want and you will find an appropriate holiday.

Vacations spent on a dude ranch or a horse pack trail ride allow visitors to live and play like the cowboys did. These vacations offer time away from the hustle and bustle of our modernized lives. Alberta, Canada, is one the most beautiful places in the world and getting intimate with its natural wonders through the experience of a horse pack trail ride is one of the coolest adventures a person can have.

With almost 100,000 black bears, Ontario is a great place to combine fishing, canoeing, hiking and black bear viewing. Algonquin Park, within three hours of Toronto, has over 2,000 bears, one for every three kilometers giving you a great chance at the terrific adrenalin rush of photographing them up close. Chapleau, about 120 miles (190 km) northeast of Sault Ste. Marie and about 525 miles (850 km) north of Toronto, is recognized as “The Bear Capital of Ontario”.

June to September is the ideal time to view black bears. Many lodge operators have tracked the bears for years and their guides can easily lead you to a place where you have a 90 percent chance of photographing a 100 pound to 200 pound bear up close in the wild with her cubs. Black bears are quite intelligent with well developed short and long term memory so once they find a berry patch or food source they will return regularly and teach their cubs where to return. In fact Black bears have the heaviest brain, relative to body length, of any land carnivore. However they are not always black. Their body fur can be almost any combination of black, brown, cinnamon, blonde, and on a rare occasion even white. A white chest is fairly common in Ontario. Their muzzle is brown and their eyes are blue at birth then quickly turn brown. They are also daytime gatherers and only become nocturnal if they need to in order to avoid human contact.

Black bear cub with mother

Bears do not roam far. Mothers with cubs rarely range more than 1-2 miles, adult females double this on their own and males range 8-15 miles. Although they have been known to undertake Excursions over 200 125 miles, this is rare and usually only as a result of a desperate need to relocate for a better hunting and gathering locale.

It is always best to hike or canoe in pairs and ideally with a well trained and experienced guide especially when you intend to encounter a black bear. A lean black bear may exceed 30 miles/hour and can run well both up and down hills. Their climbing speed in trees is also very fast. Some guides carry a club and a loud fog horn or alarm for emergencies and it is always wise to carry pepper spray even though the chances of an attack are next to none. Usually bears are more curious than aggressive. They may approach, but will usually run if they sense that you are aware of their presence. It is not unusual to see bears on the trail in daylight hours, especially when that is your objective.  Be particularly careful if you are travelling in an area where bears have been baited and NEVER feed a bear you see on any trail or park. If you are confronted by a bear and it is going to attack, pepper spray can be your saviour. Be sure to check the direction of the wind even if you are in a panic. You wouldn’t want it to back blow right into your eyes.  This powerful spray can down a bear and give you ample time to remove yourself from the dangerous situation.  If you are in a crisis situation, the worst thing you can do is panic and run. Never try to outrun a bear. A human doesn’t have that capability especially with a pack and you want to keep your pack on for its protective qualities and roll into a fetal position  in case the bear gets serious.

Do not move until you are positive the bear is out of the area. Bears can and will re-attack if you decide to show signs of life or make noises. Be still and wait it out.

Directions

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

Directions

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

A properly sighted-in rifle ensures enough accuracy with the bullet’s trajectory that a hunter can centre his cross hairs on a target and not fear a miss, or, Heaven forbid, a crippling shot.

The general rule of thumb for sighting in is to set up your rifle and scope to shoot two inches high at 100 yards. These means a 100-yard shot aimed accurately at the centre of a deer’s vitals will strike two inches high at the peak of its trajectory — still well within the vital area.

The shooter then determines the range at which the shot strikes three inches low. That is the maximum range at which the hunter can fire without holding over his target.

It’s important to simulate as many of your hunting trip’s variables as possible to sight-in accurately. Use the same round you will be using on the hunt, and, if possible, the same manufacturing lot. Sight-in your rifle near the time of year you plan to hunt. The temperature of your gun’s barrel affects its accuracy. Try to sight-in on a windless day.

Begin the process by bore-sighting your rifle. Make sure the bore and the cross hairs of your scope are aligned on the same point at 100 yards. This is not difficult with a bolt-action rifle. Simply remove the bolt so you can peer down the bore. With other actions, a mirror arrangement may be necessary and these can be bought inexpensively from a sporting goods store.

Clamp the rifle in place, or position it solidly, so that the bull’s eye of the target at 100 yards is centred in the bore. Then adjust the scope to place the cross hairs in the same position. Check the centering of the bore again. It may require four or five adjustments to finish the job.

Position your self carefully when you begin to shoot. Make sure nothing but you is touching the rifle. Find a comfortable firing position, and support your forearm and elbows firmly.

Centre your cross hairs on the bull’s eye at 100 yards. Fire at least three and no more than five shots, about a minute apart (you don’t want the barrel to overheat and throw off your shot). Correct your sights and fire another group after your gun barrel has cooled. Repeat the process until the average point of impact in the group is over the bullseye and two inches high.

Let your barrel cool completely, then repeat the group of shots at least once to confirm you are hitting two inches high and directly over the target centre. Shoot groups at intervals longer than 100 yards until you determine the ranges at which you are striking three inches below the bullseye. That would be your maximum range for firing at a target without holding over. Depending on the cartridge and firearm, this will likely be between 200 and 250 yards.

Shoot groups at longer intervals to determine where the bullet strikes six inches below the bullseye. This is a reference for shooters who are experienced not only with shooting, but with estimating range. This is the maximum range at which an expert marksman should try a shot, holding over the target by six inches.

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

To make sure you are ready for the bow hunting season here’s a list of bow hunting tips from Daniel Legault of Browning Canada:

• Proper preseason maintenance of your equipment is vital. Before shooting practice begins, make sure all cables; strings and accessories are in tip-top shape. Don’t wait until opening day to replace worn cables, frayed strings or squeaky arrow rests.
• Try to simulate actual hunting scenarios during preseason practice. If possible, spend some time at your local 3-D range. If you don’t have 3-D facilities available, practice shooting from standing, kneeling and elevated positions.
• Accurate range estimation is critical to bowhunting success. Test your skill by guessing distances to landmarks in and around your yard or local shooting club, then pace it off to see if your estimates are close.
• Remember, field points and broadheads rarely shoot the same from any given bow. Be sure to sight in the broadheads you plan to hunt with.
• Make sure your broadheads are razor sharp. From a pack of six heads, two should be used for practice and the remainder should remain unused until you’re actually hunting.
• Most successful bowhunters spend time prescouting a hunting area prior to opening day. By identifying such features as scrapes and rubs or bedding and feeding areas, your chances of a successful hunt will dramatically increase.
• If you choose to hunt with a crossbow, check that all accessories, such as scopes and quivers, are snug and secure on the bow. A rattle from a loose scope can send your trophy running for cover.
• Responsible bowhunters who hunt from treestands always ensure that they wear a safety harness, in addition to using a strong cord to raise and lower their bow from the stand. Never climb into your stand with your bow and arrows in hand.
• Human scent control is very important to the bowhunter. Preseason washing of hunting clothes with water and baking soda, as well as careful use of odor control or masking products, will help you see more deer.
• Practice, practice, practice. Shoot in the clothes you will hunt in. Opening day is not the time to discover that your bowstring “hangs up” on your hunting jacket.

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

Special Free Hunting Offer: Test Free Hunting Gear…And Keep It!

An ethical hunter is not just a sportsman or sportswoman.

The hunter is also a naturalist whose interest lies in all animals. The ethical hunter is as thrilled by the site of an osprey as a bull moose. The true hunter knows and studies nature’s ways.

The hunter’s pursuit of game is always governed by the “fair chase” principal. This principal demands that a hunter always gives his or her quarry a “fair” chance to escape. In fact, hunters acknowledge that most of the time, their quarry should get away.

When hunting big game, an ethical hunter will always attempt to get close enough to the quarry to ensure a quick, clean harvest. Never will an ethical hunter shoot indiscriminately at a flock of game birds in the hope of hitting one. The ethical hunter always selects a single target — a single bird, or a single spot on a big game animal.

The ethical hunter will go to extreme lengths to retrieve and humanely dispatch wounded game, and to ensure game that appeared to be missed wasn’t injured. Of course, the ethical hunter will pass on the long-range shot that might cripple instead of killing.

Hunters owe it to the game they pursue to take considerable practice before a hunt. They will learn the distance at which they can shoot effectively. They will ensure their firearms are properly sighted in, and they will use the most effective ammunition for the game they seek. And the ethical hunter will always retrieve all game and ensure full use of their harvest.

Ethical hunters do more than just ask permission to hunt on private property. They discuss concerns with the landowner, offer to help out with chores, and care for the land, buildings, stock and crops as if it were their own.
Ethical hunters obey game and fish laws — all of them — and insist their hunting companions do the same. They report lawbreakers without hesitation, and cooperate fully with conservation officers.

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters

• Arctic Char
• Atlantic Salmon
• Brook Trout or Speckled Trout
• Lake Trout
• Largemouth Bass
• Northern Pike
• Rainbow Trout
• Smallmouth Bass
• Walleye

Canada is a sport fishing paradise. From coast to coast to coast, Canada boasts the greatest number of freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams of any country. Anglers are provided with a wide variety of species to satisfy any challenge. Pictured here is Larry Wilson from CanadaWilderness.com holding a 20lb., 40 inch Northern Pike caught near the Attawapiskat River in Northern Ontario. This beauty was hooked with a silver/gold Williams spoon on 10lb. test line with spinning gear. A single cast into the edge of the weedbeds at the side of the river resulted in the strike that produced twenty minutes of furious action as the fish continually attempted to pull the canoe into the weedbed. This is only a sample of the type of action awaiting you. Check the outfitters listed in the Fishing section of the site and start planning your adventure.

Arctic Char The Arctic Char is native to the lakes and rivers of northern Canada from Alaska to Labrador. Average size for the freshwater variety is approximately 4 pounds yet some saltwater Char may grow to 33 pounds. Colour in non-spawning fish is generally silver with deep green shading on the upper sides and back with a white belly. Spawning males are a red/ orange combination as shown in the photo. The best time to fish for Arctic Char is in the late summer and early fall. Technique: Frequently caught in rapids and swift water as it runs into calmer pools using spoons, flies, and spinners with medium spinning or fly gear. The Arctic Char may congregate in small schools and feed primarily on small fish, mollusks, and insects.

Atlantic Salmon The atlantic salmon is well known for its long runs and acrobatics when hooked.The primary habitat are eastern Canada costal rivers. They usually return to the rivers where they were born in the spring, May through September. Atlantic Salmon begin to spawn in early October and unlike their west coast cousins they do not die after spawning. Most winter under the river ice and are fished in the spring. Technique: Summer and early fall are the best times to catch sea-run bright salmon. They are usually found in deep runs and fast pools.They are caught by fly fishing only. In the spring the equipment is slightly different because of the heavy water runoff when sinking lines and 2/0 to 5/0 flies are the norm. Outfitters: Atlantic Salmon Fishing in Canada

Brook Trout or Speckled Trout Also known as a Speckled Trout, the Brook Trout is actually a member of the Charr family as is the Lake Trout. They are found in eastern Canada from northern Ontario to Newfoundland. Brook Trout generally do not exceed 2 pounds, however, larger fish up to 6 pounds do occur in larger northern rivers. The best time is late spring and summer. Technique: Extremely strong fighters for their size, Brook Trout are found in streams, rivers, and ponds and are often caught in the whitewater at the base of falls. Spinners, spoons, and flies produce good results on spinning and fly gear. Specks feed on small fish and aquatic insects. Outfitters: Speckled Trout Fishing in Canada

Lake Trout The Lake Trout is found in deep lakes throughout Canada. Its preference for cold water makes the northern lakes prime habitat to grow the huge Lakers. Catches of over 70 pounds have been recorded and the fish may grow as old as sixty years. Average size, however, is much smaller between four to ten pounds. Prime fishing for Lake Trout occurs in the spring and fall when water temperatures are lower. Technique: Lakers are generally found in deeper water where water temperature is lower. The best location is often near reefs or rocky islands that are home to the smaller fish they feed on. Although jigging with minnows can bring results, the primary method of catching Lake Trout is trolling with baited spoons on medium to heavy baitcasting and spinning gear. These fish are popular in the winter where jigging through the ice can bring good results. Outfitters: Lake Trout Fishing in Canada

Largemouth Bass The Largemouth Bass is one of the most popular game fish due to the fact that it is very aggressive and responds to many lures and techniques. They are located in lakes, ponds and large rivers through southern Canada. Their preference for warmer water allow them to grow as large as 15 pounds. The average in most Canadian lakes is between 5 to 8 pounds. They are distinguished from Smallmouth Bass by the mouth lines which extend behind the eyes, and Largemouth are much larger in size on average. Summer and early fall are ideal times to catch these fish. Technique: Largemouth Bass like to work from cover and dart out quickly to hit their prey. They feed on various small fish species and their favourite food is crayfish. The type of cover that attracts this species includes weedbeds, fallen trees, and structures in the water such as docks. Largemouth Bass respond well to most live bait, especially crayfish and a variety of lures including spinners, plugs, and jigs. Dusk and early evening can bring the best results with surface lures using spinning and baitcasting gear.

Northern Pike Also known as the Freshwater Barracuda, the Northern Pike is a ferocious predator. These fish are found in lakes and rivers throughout Canada from the Yukon Territory to Labrador and respond well to many different lures and live bait. Although the record Northern is 46 pounds and 15 to 20 pounders are not uncommon, the average catch is more in the 6 to 9 pound range. Best results occur in late spring and early summer. Technique: Northerns utilize cover to ambush their prey which is primarily other fish such as yellow perch, walleye, whitefish and other pike. They will attack large fish and can consume a fish that is up to one-third of their own size. Weedbeds are a favourite habitat. Northern Pike will hit spinners, spoons, plugs, spinner baits, jigs and most anything that is presented resembling food. Medium spinning and baitcasting gear works well. Outfitters: Pike Fishing in Canada

Rainbow Trout The Rainbow Trout is cultivated for recreation and commercial purposes. Found in the lakes, rivers and streams in western and southern Canada, the Rainbow Trout is actually a member of the Pacific Salmon family. Average size is from two to four pounds in streams and seven to ten pounds in lakes where they can grow up to thirty pounds. Summer is the best time to fish for Rainbow Trout in waters that are twelve to eighteen degrees celcius. Technique: Rainbow Trout are very acrobatic when hooked and angling methods differ from lakes to streams with fly casting being the prefered method for the latter. The best habitat for this species is moderately flowing streams providing abundant cover and some deeper pools. Angling methods used in lake habitat are similar to those used for Lake Trout. Rainbows feed on aquatic insects and small fish. Outfitters: Rainbow Trout Fishing in Canada

Smallmouth Bass Smallmouth Bass have tremendous fighting ability and their trademark is the leap out of the water when hooked and the vigourous thrashing to free themselves. Their range in Canada is limited to lakes, ponds and streams in the southern regions. Smallmouth Bass grow on average to a size of two to three pounds and anything over five pounds is a real catch – both in size and challenge. The best time to catch this species is from late spring through fall. Technique: The ideal habitat for Smallmouth Bass is a rock bottom especially near rocky points and reefs in six to ten feet of water. They feed on smaller fish such as yellow perch and a favourite meal is the crayfish. They are receptive to both lures and live bait with crayfish and leeches being a good bet spincasting and jigging across the bottom during retrieval. Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, spinners, plugs, and spoons can be effective with light to medium spinning and baitcasting gear. Using ultra-light tackle can add to the experience. Outfitters: Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Canada

Walleye The Walleye, also known as Pickerel, is not an aggresive feeder and often requires great patience to catch but the reward according to many is the tastiest game fish in Canada. It is found in lakes and rivers throughout the southern part of the country and is fished from spring to fall. They are a member of the perch family, and like the perch they are found in schools. Average size is three to five pounds. Technique: Walleye have eyes that appear apaque and are very light-sensitive. They feed on smaller fish such as yellow perch and prefer the cover of heavy weeds, often congregating at the edge of weedbeds near schools of baitfish. Many methods are used to catch Walleye including still-fishing with jigs baited with leeches, minnows or worms and casting crankbaits. Drifting or trolling with bait rigs is another option on spinning and baitcasting gear. Outfitters: Walleye Fishing in Canada

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Table of Contents

• Black Bear
• Caribou
• Cougar
• Deer
• Elk
• Grizzly Bear
• Moose

Black Bear

The Black Bear inhabits heavily forested areas across Canada. They grow to between 1.5 – 1.8 meters (5 – 6 ft.) long and may weigh from 90 – 150 kg. (200 – 330 lb.) When meat or grubs are not available Black Bears will eat berries, fruit, and other plant material. Although they tend to shy away from humans, lack of readily available food can cause them to be scavengers. The range is not large, generally roaming a territory of no more than 36 sq. km. (14 sq. mi.)

Black Bear Hunting Trips in Canada

Caribou

The woodland Caribou frequent the northern swampy forested habitats of Canada while the northern Caribou wander the Arctic tundra. These large animals move continuously and migrate in very large herds. Both male and female Caribou have large branching antlers that are irregular in shape with the females being smaller and more slender. Males can exceed 320 kg. (700 lb.) in weight and stand up to 1.4 meters (4.6 ft.) at the shoulder. Colours vary by season from brown in the summer to almost white in the northern reaches. Caribou eat grasses and low lying vegetation. They are known for consuming large quantities of lichen called reindeer moss that grows in the tundra region. Their large spreading hooves are well suited for stability on the soft mucky summer surface and the winter snow.

Caribou Hunting Trips in Canada

Cougar

The Cougar, also known as mountain lion or puma, may grow to 1.8 meters (6 ft.) long and weigh more than 91 kg. (200 lb.) They inhabit western Canada near higher elevations of forest. Cougars hunt at night and are typical of the cat family being excellent climbers and jumpers. Litters with one to five young are born two years apart.

Deer

Through intensive game management, the White-tailed Deer have become the most numerous large game animal in the country. A buck may weigh up to 213 kg. (470 lb.) and stand taller than 1.1 meters (3.5 ft.) at the shoulders. Bucks develop a pair of spiked antlers in the fall of their second year. The antlers are shed after the autumn mating ritual, usually between January and April, and a larger set is grown. The doe is antlerless and smaller. They give birth to fawns that are identifiable by the white spots on their reddish – brown coat. Deer have a very keen sense of smell and generally travel into the wind unless pushed. A smaller member of the species, the Mule Deer, is found in western Canada.

White Tailed Deer Hunting Trips in Canada

Mule Deer Hunting Trips in Canada

Elk

The Elk or wapiti, is a member of the deer family found primarily in the lower Canadian Rockies. Bulls have massive antlers that may span more than 1.5 meters (5 ft.) They grow to 1.5 meters (5 ft.) at the shoulders and may weigh up to 350 kg. (770 lb.) Elk roam in herds moving from their summer habitat in the mountains to the valleys in the winter. During the fall mating season bulls often challenge each other and battle by locking horns until one falls and is forced to leave the herd. Occasionally both animals will permanently lock horns during the violent duel and perish.

Elk Hunting Trips in Canada

Grizzly Bear

The Grizzly Bear is found in regions of western Canada where the mountain rivers provide them the salmon that form part of their diet. These large bears grow to 2.8 meters (9 ft.) in length in may weigh up to 410 kg. (900 lb.) In spite of their size and apparent clumsiness, bears can run up to 40 km (25 mi) per hour. The name Grizzly derives from the white tips on the brown fur. Except during mating season, bears are solitary animals roaming their own territory.

Grizzly Bear Hunting Trips in Canada

Moose

The Moose is the largest member of the deer family. It is a massive animal standing as tall as 2.3 meters (7.5 ft.) at the shoulders. Large bulls may weigh up to 825 kg. (1,820 lb.) with racks known to reach 2 meters (6.6 ft.) across. Hunting season generally begins after the rut in September when bulls may still answer a call. They are found primarily in moist woods and may wade into lakes to feed on aquatic plants, especially water lilies. It is unlawful to hunt moose while they are swimming. The cow gives birth to one, possibly two, and occasionally three calves in the spring.

Moose Hunting Trips in Canada

Polar Bear Hunting Trips in Canada

Musk Oxen Hunting Trips in Canada

Wolf Hunting Trips in Canada

Walrus Hunting Trips in Canada

Waterfowl Hunting Trips in Canada

Trail hiking in Canada’s BC Mountains is the exercise of the gods. There’s something particularly magnificent about a craggy mountain top, a painted cliff or an iceberg filled lake that you have discovered for the first time. It is spectacularly inspiring to reach the great divide and have a view that stretches a thousand miles without another person in sight or to photograph a Dall sheep on a steep outcrop of granite. What could be more fascinating than to discover a mother grizzly teaching her cub to fish for salmon or arctic char at a crystal clear waterfall?

It is hard to choose between the panoramic mountain top views, tranquil lakes, thick west coast rain forests, spectacular waterfalls, and breath taking alpine scenery you will find along the hiking trails of British Columbia or the migrating herds of Caribou, arctic fox and soaring Peregrine falcons you will find hiking in the arctic tundra of the Yukon and Northwest Territories.

Odegaard Falls - Photo courtesy of Mike Wigle

As long as there have been hiking trails, people have felt compelled to explore them whether it’s to test themselves or to be awed and inspired, to be with friends or to be alone. For years I thought there is nothing better than challenging days of hiking culminating in relaxing evenings around the campfire sharing gourmet backcountry fare and great stories with like-minded adventurers.

I once thought that nothing could match the sense of accomplishment of being able to carry on your back everything you need to enjoy a full week in the wilderness and finding your way with an old fashioned map and compass. Then I was introduced to Michael Wigle.

Michael Wigle (http://mwigle.zenfolio.com) is one of the most respected nature writers and photographers in British Columbia.  His photos have appeared in BC Outdoors magazine and the book “British Columbia”. He also co- wrote Bella Coola, Life in the Heart of the Coast Mountains so when he offered to take me into the Great Bear Rainforest, the most pristine and beautiful  2.7 million acres of old growth forest on Canada’s west coast  to photograph Grizzlies and Black Bears up close, I was absolutely hooked.

Michael is an amazing photographer that believes the only way to save our wilderness is to have more people love it. He says people protect what they love and if you experience the Great Bear Forest even once during the salmon spawning season you will never let anything happen to the rivers that flow through it or the animals that call it home.

The forest is a temperate rain forest and is home to an estimated 6,000 to 14,000 grizzlies. British Columbia has some of the highest bear concentrations in North America. Its floor is covered with giant sword ferns, devil’s club and tangles of huckleberries, blueberries, raspberries, salmonberries and thimbleberries.

Grizzly and Salmon - Photo courtesy of Mike Wigle

Bears love berries and salmon so he was confident that since it was the fall spawning season we could find some spectacular opportunities to get very close and photograph the Grizzlies and Black bears when they were intent on their fishing and getting fat for the coming winter.  Whenever the rivers are full with spawning salmon the bears and bald eagles are not far behind and in addition the forest itself would provide some spectacular shots with waterfalls cascading from the glaciers and the Coast Mountain Ranges rising all around .

We will drift down the river in a non motorized Mackenzie river boat and not disturb the bears to safely get up close and personal. Then we will disembark and literally walk the trails in the footsteps of the bears and investigate their day beds, claw marks on trees, tufts of bear fur, and of course lots of bear scat.

There are more than 20,000km/12,000mi of coastlines, 25,000 lakes and tens of thousands of miles of rivers and streams in the BC area.  In the Bella Coola Valley the rivers are teaming with all five species of salmon.  Tweedsmuir Provincial Park is the largest provincial park in British Columbia. The scenery is stunning and encompasses the Coast Mountains, pristine river valleys and the remote Chilcotin Plateau.

There are plenty of Grizzlies, Brown bears, Black bears, Wolves, Mountain Goats, Moose,  Cougar, Moose, Mule Deer, Mountain Goats, Cougars, Wolves, Coyote, Red fox, and River Otter. The Atnarko river has a multitude of small rapids and falls where we could watch the bears scooping salmon from the river. It flows from Charlotte Lake to its junction with the Telchako River where the Bella Coola River begins. The Atnarko is approximately 100 kilometres long and flows through the southern end of Tweedsmuir Provincial Park. The river has cut a fairly steep-sided valley through a landscape characterized by a complex geology of volcanic activity, sedimentary folding and granite intrusions. .

If you want adrenalin pumping awe inspiring vacation you couldn’t do any better.

Situated in northeastern Ontario, the Missinaibi River flows northeasterly for 426 kilometres from the Abitibi Uplands north of Chapleau to its confluence with the Moose River in the James Bay Lowlands. It offers one of the longest, unimpeded stretches of wilderness river environments found in Ontario. Although this part of Ontario may be reached quite easily by road, rail and air from major population centres in southern Ontario and neighboring U. S. states, the Missinaibi River itself has more limited access, a factor which has contributed to preserving its unspoiled nature.

The Missinaibi waterway provides fine opportunities for recreational activities such as lake and white-water canoeing, camping, wildlife viewing, and photography. Fishing for walleye and northern pike, lake sturgeon, smallmouth bass and brook trout is excellent on Missinaibi Lake and along the river.

Missinaibi River - Courtesy of Sunrise Locations

Most of these activities may be enjoyed by those using the provincial park campground at Missinaibi Lake, which is accessible by way of an 88 km gravel road from Chapleau. The Missinaibi River itself, however, has only limited access and lacks facilities and services. These characteristics enhance the river’s wilderness appeal, but make it best suited to experienced travelers looking for a challenging, yet reasonably safe, wilderness canoe and camping trip.

Access: Several starting points are possible, depending upon the length of trip desired. Missinaibi Provincial Park campgrounds, at the head of the river, may be reached from Chapleau on Highway 101. The village of Missanabie may be reached via Highway 651 north from Highway 101. Via Rail passenger trains run three times weekly northwest from Capreol, crossing the river at Peterbell and the Ontario Northland Railway runs daily service from Moosonee to Cochrane, crossing the Moose River just below its confluence with the Missinaibi. The lowest possible starting point downriver – accessible by means other than float plane – is at Mattice, on the Trans-Canada Highway.

Accommodation and Services: Since this area is relatively remote, accommodation and services are limited. The village of Missanabie offers hotel accommodation and supplies. Camping facilities are available at Barclay Bay on Missinaibi Lake. Mattice has limited services and some overnight accommodation. No established campground or other facilities are available for canoeists leaving the Missinaibi at Moose River Crossing while waiting for the southbound train from Moosonee. However, fly-in and fly-out services are available, permitting shorter trips.

Canoeing: While the entire Missinaibi may be tackled by experienced canoeists, most approach it in two major sections. The upper Missinaibi River, from Missanabie village or Missinaibi Lake to Mattice is a 236 km route with 28 portages requiring 10–12 days. The longer Missinaibi, from Mattice to the Moose River rail crossing and on to Moosonee, is a 320 km route with 7–10 portages requiring 7–9 days. Detailed descriptions of these routes are available from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.

Canoeing is good from June to September. Portages, which are clearly marked, vary in length and difficulty, and their locatians change with seasonally fluctuating water levels. The average gradient along the river is less than 1 m/km; however, canoeists wishing to tackle the Missinaibi should be experienced because the river has many difficult sections and numerous, changing portages. Camping spots are limited on some portions of the river. The lower waters of late summer provide additional camping sites on exposed river banks and sandbars, but also expose rocky shallows which must be portaged or lined. For the experienced to expert canoeist, the Missinaibi provides a challenging test of skill and endurance, particularly in June when water levels are higher.

Courtesty of Canadian Heritage River Systems

Canoeing in Canada

The Nahanni, the Tatshenshini, the Bowron Lake Circuit, and the Mackenzie River that connects Great Bear Lake and Great Slave Lake offer the best northern wilderness canoeing in the world whether your love is seeing  see a grizzly roaming freely, thousands of caribou on the move, or watching a bald eagle or Peregrine Falcon soaring high in the sky. Each of them offers unique opportunities to fall in love with the wilderness and some of the most experienced outfitters and guides in the world! These devoted wilderness enthusiasts have well learned canoeing, kayaking and rafting skills, emergency first aid training and  wilderness survival knowledge They know the folklore and history of the area. They can tell you where to catch a fish at every cast while watching a moose go by, or drift by a fishing hole frequented by grizzlies They can show you which fishing fly will work best in a given location or give you the adrenalin rush of facing down a giant brown bear with only a camera in your hands and a stun gun on your belt in case something goes wrong. Whether you want to kayak among the glaciers, photograph Dall sheep or white water raft down heart pounding rapids as they swirl through painted canyons you can find the perfect trip on the great rivers and lakes of Canada.

Saint Elias Lake, Kluane National Park - Photo courtesy of Adventure Tours Yukon Wild Ltd.

The Nahanni and Tatshenshini are two of the most breathlessly beautiful wilderness paddling and kayaking rivers in all of Canada. Whether you are inspired by the spectacular and ever changing northern lights, giant glaciers wrapped around alpine peaks or you want to stand on top of a mountain at the great divide and not see another soul for hundreds of miles, you can find the perfect trip for you.

The Nahanni was one of the world’s first four natural UNESCO World Heritage sites named in 1979 for the spectacular glacier and icefield landscapes as well as for the importance of grizzly bears, caribou and Dall Sheep habitat. It is also a Canadian Heritage river and was also a favourite of Pierre Elliot Trudeau, an accomplished wilderness paddler, an early environmentalist, and one of Canada’s most loved prime ministers.

Tatshenshini River, Alsek/Tatshenshini Provincial Park - Photo courtesy of Canadian River Expeditions

The Tatshenshini is rated as one of the top ten paddling and rafting rivers in the world and is  located in the largest contiguous preserve in the world (and we thought they were all in Africa)  which consists of Glacier Bay National Park,  Tatshenshini Provincial Park, Kluane National Park and the Yukon Game Preserve. It is also part of the largest non- polar ice field in the world and runs through an iceberg filled lake with spectacular calving glacier photo opportunities Alsek Lake. As recently as 1852, Alsek lake was 100 kilometres long and about 100 metres deep as a result of a giant glacier blocking it runoff, making it larger than Kluane Lake. When the ice dam finally broke, it sent a gigantic wall of water down the Alsek River drowning the communities along its shore. The glaciers last major surge was in 1997 and 1998

The Great Mackenzie River is Canada’s longest river from the headwaters of the Peace and Athabasca, through Great Slave lake and north to Great Bear lake at the edge of the arctic circle then on to the Arctic Ocean which flows into the Beaufort Sea. Along the way, it scrapes the rocks and then deposits its heavy load of sand and silt into the channels further north. Millions of migrating birds swoop down its valleys where it starts in the south and many follow its comparatively warm waters to the north where seals, otters and porpoises abound and it feeds its nutrients into the ocean to support the flora and fauna that supports the arctic char, salmon and krill eaten by the Orcas, grey whales and humpback whales.  Its watershed is1.8 million square kilometres in size and drains one-fifth of Canada’s land mass yet few Canadians have ever seen the Mackenzie. Even today, as its inhabitants, the Dene, Métis, Inuvialuit (Inuit) and non-aboriginal inhabitants contemplate their river’s future, the Mackenzie remains one of the most undeveloped, sparsely populated, and intriguing rivers.

In contrast the Bowron river circuit in northern BC is famous for its challenging canoe circuit, which encompasses a 116-km chain of lakes, waterways and connecting portages where you can test your white water skills and endurance. from mid-May to early October, depending on ice and snow conditions.

Wilderness and fishing lodges can be found throughout British Columbia, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories and offer great canoeing, kayaking and white water rafting excursions with plenty of salmon, arctic char and wildlife everywhere. It is hard to communicate the thrill of paddling pods of Grey whales, Orcas, porpoises, seals and countless sea birds and viewing some of the most spectacular glaciers in the world. There is something for every level of expertise with the relatively easy paddling of the Mackenzie where the water is wide, flat and protected, to the class five white water channels where there is also no shortage of adrenalin rushes for even the  most experienced paddler to experience a once in a lifetime memory.

Generally, lakes in the region are ice-free from May through November. From May through June, the water is high, fast and travel is easy. Mountains are usually still snow capped, making for beautiful photo opportunities. Daylight hours are long. July can be the wettest month of the paddling season and is usually the buggiest. In August, the bugs are usually gone and the water is low, revealing lakeside beaches and good swimming opportunities. Daytime temperatures remain warm, but evenings are cooler.

By September, most canoe routes are quiet. There is less traffic, no bugs, and the fall colours are a spectacular sight. The Northern lights are best at the spring and fall equinox.

Resources

Complete listings of canoeing and kayaking  outfitters across Canada:

Canoeing in Northern Canada, Canoeing in Western Canada, Canoeing in Central Canada, Canoeing in Eastern Canada, Kayaking in Northern Canada, Kayaking in Western Canada, Kayaking in Central Canada, Kayaking in Eastern Canada, Canoeing & Kayaking in Canada

Are you a parent, teacher, instructor or facilitator looking for a Vancouver Island adventure travel experience or special location for a group? Look no further – our Wilderness Retreat options are flexible, diverse, and alarmingly comfortable for even the “non-campers” in your group!

Our comfortable Wilderness Retreat on Spring Island offers the perfect base for daily kayak explorations amidst picturesque islets, or multi-day expeditions to the rugged Bunsby Islands and Brooks Peninsula. WCE uses highly experienced professionally certified guides. Customize your experience for individual needs, groups, and families of all ages, with diverse opportunities for novice to more advanced paddlers.

For more information, check out these links to West Coast Expeditions:

• Greenland-style Kayaking Workshop
• Workshops & Retreats
• Photograph, Write, or Paint
• Weddings and Special Events
• Custom Family Adventures
• Booking Details
• Getting To Kyuquot and our Spring Island Wilderness Retreat
• Photo Gallery
• Video Gallery

• Introduction to Stubbs Island Whale Watching
• Whale Watching Rates & Dates
• Stubbs Island’s Vessels
• Telegraph Cove, Vancouver Island, BC
• Stubbs Island’s Specialty Tours

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The little known Nunavut Territory offers some of the most prestigious and unique North American big-game trophy animals.


For more information, check out these links to Henik Lake Adventures:

• Hunting With Henik Lake Adventures
• Specializing in Trophy Central Barren Ground Caribou Hunting
• Barren Ground Muskox & Arctic Wolf Combo Hunt
• Polar Bear Hunt in Canada’s Arctic
• Arctic Wolf Hunt in Canada’s North
• Travelling to the Arctic
• Our Camps & Outposts
• Contacting Us at Henik Lake Adventures
• Hunting Stories

Moose hunting in the remote parts of Northern Ontario allows you to truly be in the animal’s territory in it’s entirety. To have the ability to stalk, call, track and kill such a magnificent animal is quite an experience. These areas are unattainable through roads, rail or any other man made ways. You have the advantage of being in locations where moose have no fear of regular traffic. Most of our camps/lakes are only hunted once per year. A great way to make sure there are no other distractions before or after your hunt.

Click here for more information on Hearst Air Service’s Moose Hunting Packages.

To view some “GREAT” 2010 fish photos go to http://www.firesidelodgefishing.com/pages/fishing-photos-2010.php or to learn about specific fishing techniques & locations for fishing at Fireside Lodge go to http://www.firesidelodgefishing.com. Enjoy

Truly get away – off the beaten path! Experience the joy, wonder, and discovery of a remote west coast Vancouver Island adventure kayaking destination rich in marine biology. And like many of our guests, keep returning to Kyuquot for idyllic kayaking options and a refreshing eco tourism vacation with professional guides!

Relax with the unmatched comforts of our Base Camp Kayaking tours, savour the remote and rugged beauty while on one of our Expedition Kayaking trips, or connect on a Wilderness Retreat that is customized for you and your group.

From family vacation packages with Aboriginal tourism experiences, to more focused instructional kayaking tours, our dynamic wilderness adventures are tailored to satisfy diverse ages, interests, and abilities. Come sea kayak with the sea otters in Kyuquot and the Bunsby Islands – some of Canada’s finest adventure travel with West Coast Expeditions!


For more information, check out these links to West Coast Expeditions:

• West Coast Expeditions’ Team & Story
• Kyuquot Base Camp Kayaking
• Expedition Kayaking on Vancouver Island
• Booking Details
• Getting To Kyuquot and our Spring Island Wilderness Retreat
• Photo Gallery
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We offer the following outfitting services so you can enjoy your canoe trip to Quetico Park and the most beautiful watersheds imagineable. Complete or partial trip outfitting; Route planning; Shuttle service; Canoe rentals; Food kits; Accommodations in the Quetico Park area; and more. Just get yourself to Thunder Bay and leave the rest to us.

Doug and Ruth Chapman have been canoeing in Quetico Park and area for over 30 years and have been serving thousands of happy customers since 1998.


For more information, check out these links to Canadian Quetico Outfitters:

• Our Quetico Canoeing & Outfitting Services
• Our Commitment to You – The Canadian Quetico Outfitters Advantage
• We Provide Only Top Quality Canoes and Equipment
• Some of Our Quetico Canoeing Photos

Experiencing the Nahanni is like passing into heaven.

Its beauty leaves you breathless. I would get up in the morning and just stand there listening to the water and soaking in the unbelievably magnificent views. It inspires me. It lifts my heart and leaves me in awe of its sheer magnificence. It makes me passionate to share its beauty with my family and those friends I’ve paddled and hiked with in other wilderness settings. I have hardly ever been on a trip that makes me appreciate my life as much as the Nahanni with its spectacular Virginia Falls which are taller than the more well known Niagara falls located a thousand miles south in the urban heart of Ontario’s wine country.

Nahanni River - Virginia Falls (Photo Credit: Neil Hartling)

Nahanni River - Tufa Mounds (Photo Credit: Canadian River Expeditions)

I have travelled the world and seen many beautiful landscapes but the high terraces of soft calcium known as “Tufa Mounds” are uniquely special formed by sulphurous hot springs that gurgle to the surface both summer and winter and leave large, delicately featured calcium deposits as large as a meadow and as intricate as a Japanese garden, that have built up over millenniums.

The Nahanni is a life altering adventure that everyone should experience. It makes you think differently and find peace in your soul and courage in your heart.  It inspired Pierre Burton and launched his career as a writer and so affected Canada’s favourite Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau that he convinced Canada’s parliament to protect it by having it named a National Heritage site and a National Park Reserve. Subsequent leaders have expanded the Park to cover the entire watershed, increasing Nahanni to the sixth largest park in the world!

The Nahanni is unique. It has an unforgettable magic. It is incredibly powerful yet inviting with an abundance of nimble footed Dall Sheep, spectacular Grizzlies, Black Bears, and Caribou.

Fortunately with digital photography you can snap and snap and snap and not worry whether you take fifty or a hundred photos each day. Just when you think you have taken your best photo, your viewfinder discovers another one even more beautiful.  The experience reminds me of my favourite niece, she and I would go out into the woods near our home and spend hours snapping pictures. She would take three for every one that I took, some weren’t terrific but many were just plain better, more artfully composed and more insightful.

I was now experiencing this all over again. There was no shortage of great views and more fascinating subject matter than I ever thought possible, so I merrily snapped away experiencing one great view after the next thinking no one could capture the beauty better than I could. Then I met Neil Hartling, he has been travelling these rivers for more than thirty years and has seen more of the nooks and crannies, the eddies and islands than anyone I know.  He is intimately familiar with the wild life and the history.

Although to my eye it is uninhibited wilderness, humans have dwelt in these regions for thousands of years and they captured and shared their experiences with the animals and the river through stories shared at the campfire. The story tellers of the North can recite their stories for hours talking about the layers of meaning each one has. The First Nations people that heard these stories generations ago carefully passed them down from generation to generation and Neil has heard more of them than most. He gave me an appreciation of the area the camera alone could not capture.  He added history and humanity giving my understanding a depth and nuance the pictures alone could not capture with details picked up over thirty years of careful listening.

Nahanni River - Musk Ox (Photo Credit: Terry Parker)

Neil has a good friend that has been photographing the rivers in Canada’s northwest for over thirty years, his name is Terry Parker and like my niece his photographs of Dall Sheep, caribou herds, Peregrine Falcons and Musk Ox put mine to shame.   The link above will take you to some of his best work.

Painted canyon begins at the base of Virginia falls. This is where the raft expeditions begin, enjoying the rapids and taking advantage of the fast water and avoiding the slower sections above. This is one of the four canyons that add to the visual drama. The final canyon is one of the deepest river canyons on the continent with arguably one of the most spectacular campsites in the world. The canyon is over 3,400 feet tall and at one point there is a beautiful sandy beach almost a mile long. This area also boasts the largest, most complex “Karst system” in the world with an amazing number of linked sinkholes, caves, and underground streams

If you haven’t rafted, canoed or kayaked in Alaska and northern Canada, seen the Northern Lights or paddled under a midnight sun, then put this region on your list of “must do” trips in your lifetime.  With migrating herds of caribou and birds, waterfalls twice the height of Niagara, and Canada’s deepest river canyons, hot springs and glaciers, a rich history of Klondike pioneers, and a thriving First Nation culture, this is a vibrant world which will fascinate you. Of the many spectacular northern rivers, Nahanni is the most diverse and celebrated.

If my description of the Nahanni or Terry’s pictures  have sparked your imagination you couldn’t go wrong by contacting Neil Hartling. He operates Nahanni River Adventures out of Whitehorse. He is a keen ambassador for the Yukon and the acclaimed author of Alaska to Nunavut. Terry Parker can be reached at www.terryparkerphoto.com

Live well and if you have a minute let me know of some of the spectacular places you have visited.

Nahanni Resources

Northwest Territories Tourism

Explorer and vacation guides, hotel and B&B listings, local communities.

Website: www.spectacularnwt.com

An important first step is to admit that you are lost. Stay calm, look and listen — you might spot a landmark, or hear traffic on a nearby road. If you can easily get to high ground, that can help – the farther you can see, the more likely it is you’ll see something familiar. But resist the urge to travel further seeking safety.

If you are lost, and accept that it might be some time before you’re found, it’s time to put your survival plan into effect.

First on the list is treating yourself for any injuries you might have received. A good first-aid handbook — few are better than the St. John Ambulance Official Wilderness First-Aid Guide by Kevin Merry — is a handy reference to have.

Since exposure is your worst enemy, the next step is to build a fire. Long, wooden “strike- anywhere” matches are the best for starting a fire. Keep them in a waterproof container, and dip them in paraffin wax. You’ll need two types of fuel to get your fire started — tinder and kindling. Dead, dry twigs, shredded layers of birch bark, dry leaves, and abandoned hornet’s nests all make excellent tinder. For kindling, choose dry, standing dead wood.

Choose the location of your fire pit carefully. Don’t build a fire under a tree — the tree could catch. If you’re building a fire on snow, make a platform of green logs or stones. If the ground is dry, scrape away all the grass to avoid starting a grass fire. Build your fire near a rock or log wall to reflect heat back to you.

Building a shelter is your next task. Cutting away some branches from the underside, and thatching them into a crude roof can quickly convert a fallen tree with some space between the trunk and the ground. A lean-to is an easy-to-make shelter. Build a snow cave only as a last resort — it’s impossible to build one without getting wet. The cave should be shallow enough, and the roof
thin enough, that you need only stand up to break through should it collapse.

Now it’s time to attract some attention to your predicament. Flares, if you’re carrying them, are great for alerting searching aircraft. A smoky fire by day is a good signal, as is a bright one at night. Mirror signals can be seen ten miles away on the ground, farther in the sky. Carry a shrill whistle as a signal. Unless you’re seriously injured, think hard before using a firearm to signal – you might need the ammunition to hunt game if your unplanned stay lasts longer than a few days. But, if you’re seriously injured, and you have a firearm, fire your gun in groups of three shots, with ten seconds between shots. Wait ten to fifteen minutes, and then fire off another group of three shots.

Finding water is the next item on the agenda. Filter dirty water through several layers of cloth, and boil it to purify it. Don’t melt ice or snow in your mouth — it costs more energy than it supplies. Finding food is the last task on the list and probably unnecessary since most people can live off body fat for up to a month. A field guide to plants comes in handy to help you avoid species like water hemlock and poisonous berries (as a rule of thumb, avoid berries growing in clusters). UNLESS YOU ARE AN EXPERT, AVOID MUSHROOMS. Many are poisonous, and difficult to identify. Snares for small animals and birds can be fashioned from tree branches and rope or wire. Set lines for fishing.

The person who plans well — and sticks to the plan — isn’t in any danger. He or she has left an itinerary with a responsible friend or relative, outlining travel plans and estimated times of return.

He or she has packed a small amount of emergency food and water and has a well-stocked emergency kit and first aid kit. Proper clothing, a map and compass, and knowledge of basic survival skills are all packed as well.

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters

Special Free Hunting Offer: Test Free Hunting Gear…And Keep It!

Many hunters claim black bear is nature’s forgotten delicacy. The following is a time-tested and delicious recipe for you to try. With a main ingredient of black bear, successful meals are virtually guaranteed. Don’t forget to share your harvest and recipes with family, friends and needy people.

Ingredients

Directions

Reprinted courtesy of the Ontario Federation of Anglers & Hunters