Mexican Canoe?!!

Most people at work know me one way or another as the "canoe guy". When I am approached, its not "Hey, how's it going?", or "Did you see the latest movie?". Its usually follows along the lines of, "So where did you go on the latest trip?", or "Where are you planning on going next?". Yes, I admit I do talk a lot about canoeing, but that's not the only thing I talk about - really! (I know a bunch of you are already rolling your eyes.) Well, occasionally someone else actually initiates a conversation regarding canoeing as I'm innocently walking by. Such was the case at work not too long ago. So there!

A colleague I work with recently came back from a vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and saw something really interesting. She follows my blog and obviously knows my passion for all things canoeing, so she was keen on relaying her story to me. Apparently one day as she was walking along the beach (Los Muertos) with her partner, she came across a wooden canoe. It was nothing like she'd ever seen before. She said it looked very old and in rough shape, but even more surprising, she said it looked like it was made from one tree! (Much like the big ocean canoes from the west coast of Canada that were craved from a single large tree too.) Immediately she thought of moi, and pulled out her point-and-shoot camera a took a shot. She knew I would be thrilled to see the picture - evidently so, she was right!

Come on, isn't she a beauty? A Mexican beauty at that! I was

quite surprised to see such a close resemblance

to the canoes we have here!

Photo: Johanne Denis

Canoes are usually not found plying the oceans. Sure they are versatile enough to paddle in the swells and surf too, but they are usually not the best choice. So it was a surprise when she told me what she did, and even more so when I received the pictures. The canoe is actually gorgeous! It actually has beautiful symmetrical lines with a shallow V, prominent rocker, what seems like a bit of tumblehome and quite the depth. (Probably for hauling in fish!) What is missing is the usual thwarts, but there really isn't any need since the sides of the canoes are self supporting. What also is neat is that even the gunwales are part of the canoe! Talk about all-in-one construction! For propulsion, there seems to be a combination of paddles and oars, although seeing how thick the shafts are, they must weigh a ton! (Or the Mexican's have big forearms!)

Made from one tree - talk about craftsmanship! Although the

thick shafts on those paddles could double as bats!

Photo: Johanne Denis

The canoe does look old, with several patches evident, but my colleague did mention that she did eventually witness the canoe in the ocean, so despite how it looks, it's obviously still operational. The only thing that had me scratching my head was in regards to where they got a big enough tree to crave this canoe from?! Does Mexico have trees this big?!? I've always thought of Mexico being fairly dry, but maybe I'm wrong? Maybe someone can pipe in under the Comments section, but I asked my sister as well who recently vacationed there and mentioned all the tree trunks were fairly small diameter-wise. Either way, if this canoe was not made in Mexico, it could have been transported from somewhere else - like the rain forest area further south, or even north from Seattle/Vancouver area. Although it is a pretty long distance either way! I would love to know the history behind this canoe, but I'm afraid this will remain a mystery. Fascinating. I know if I was there, I would have definitely not only inquired about it, but would have asked to paddle it! What else would you expect from me?!

Thanks Johanne for sharing this with me and all the other readers!

Remando feliz! (Happy Paddling in Spanish),

tPP

PS. I'll be at the annual Outdoor Adventure Show this weekend, working from the Johnson Outdoors Eureka booth Sat and Sun. Please come by and visit if you are around. It's a great show to get some deals on outdoor equipment and jump start your canoe trip planning for this summer!

Happy Feet Means Happy Paddler

Our feet take a lot of abuse on portages, which is only fair to

treat them with the utmost respect. "Who wants to

massage my feet tonight? Hello!?!"

Photo: Marylou DiRienzo

Ever since I was a young kid, I always dreaded walking for long periods of time. Even the excitement of going to an amusement park was dampened by the thought that my feet would ache throughout the day and many times long after. My parents took the due diligence to have me checked out, but even the doctor at the time didn’t know what the problem was. My parents probably just assumed I didn’t have good feet for walking or I was a wuss, so nothing more was really done about it other than the odd foot/calf massage with Rub A535 (Remember that!). It was tough as a kid, since I always loved to tromp around all day in the fields, forest, rivers, and ponds, despite the discomfort.

This by comparison is much better to portage on then a lot of

the conditions we encounter, but it still helps to

have a good pair of feet, or support.

My ‘light bulb’ moment came in my mid-twenties when I heard about orthotics and how they help people with flat feet. As I began to inquire, I realized a lot of the symptoms people had with flat feet were very similar to my own. Funny thing was when I got checked out, I really didn’t have a severe case of flat feet. (Probably why the doctor back then didn’t think anything was wrong with my feet!) Regardless, I had the symptoms and I wanted anything that could help with managing the pain. Thus I soon became the very happy owner of my first pair of generic orthotics. I couldn’t say it eliminated my pain totally, but significantly enough that the dreaded thought of walking all day was a thing of the past.

Yeah, yeah, that is me during my backpacking era!

Good memories except the sore feet at

the end of the day!

Photo: Marylou DiRienzo

You’d think with someone with my condition prior to remedying the problem would abstain from any type of lost distance walking. Well, the lure of wandering the woods superseded the issues associated with my feet. The irony of the whole thing was I initially was a backpacker!! So not only did I walk long distances, but on uneven terrain and with a huge load on my back. Yes, the pull of the wilderness was far to strong to keep me home. By all accounts, I should have really been a paddler as I would have been off my feet most of the time. But no, off I went, trouncing around in the woods like a kid without a worry in the world, enduring the pain, but loving every moment of it.

Here's a novel option, if you don't want to walk/portage on

a canoe trip, have someone cart you across!

Guaranteed to save your feet!

Photo: Ben Albert

At some point, I made a fairly abrupt switch to canoeing when I realized the far greater potential for experiencing the Canadian wilderness, but ironically, it had nothing to do with my feet. Its pretty obvious where I now stand with canoeing, but even though it takes a big portion of walking out, it still involves walking, or better yet, portaging. Much like backpacking, when we do portage, its often with a much heavier load, the same uneven terrain, (except for Algonquin) but much shorter distances. Although, I distinctly remember a monumental trip in Temagami where I portaged roughly 33 kms. With 2 carries, that was approximately 100 kms of walking, not forgetting the paddling part!

Another way to save your feet on a canoe trip is to not only have

appropriate footwear, but to have support in the way

of orthotics such as Doc Walks.

Walking, portaging, bushwhacking, or hiking - they all still play a significant part on canoe trips. Well, if you have similar issues with your feet and walking, you know how important orthotics are, even more so when you head out on canoe trips. The problem is, those custom orthotics cost several hundreds of dollars, easily ranging from over $300 to $500! It’s a hard swallow to even get one (lucky if you have some insurance coverage), let alone another for things like canoe trips. Besides that, they are usually covered in some slick leather or comfortable piece of fabric, so it would not fair well on canoe trips where they would constantly be wet, muddied, and who knows what else. That’s where I want to share with you an amazing product that will not only make your feet much happier, but easier on your wallet as well.

Terrain such as this is guaranteed to strain and utilize every

single muscle in your foot and leg as you portage.

And who said 'walking' is easier on

canoe trips!!

Last year when I worked at the Eureka booth at the Sportsmen show, there was another booth in front of ours that sold ‘value orthotics’ called Doc Walks. I didn’t really pay much attention as I was already wearing my own custom ones, but also because I tried a few generic versions years ago that although they did help, they were never as good as the ones I was currently wearing. Well at the end of the weekend, I ended up chatting with them and met the president, Alex Ein of Comfort Corner Corp., who convinced me of getting one as a spare to my own custom ones. (Talk about good salesman!) He even gave me a better deal to try and convince me it was worth it. Yes I was skeptical, but I went for it, mainly because I saw an opportunity if these Doc Walks worked well - for canoe tripping.

"Another one bites the dust" - your foot is not the only

thing that is taking abuse on canoe trips!

After trying the Doc Walks out on a few smaller canoe trips and even around town, I found them to be very comfortable, almost rivaling my custom ones! With some follow-up discussion and phone calls, explaining to Alex how they may work well for canoe tripping - assuming they could hold up to the abuse they would be subjected to - he agreed to sponsor Lisa and I with Doc Walks for our canoe trips. I would use them like no other customer would, and he would either stand by the toughness and resiliency of the product, or realize they were better made for ‘domestic’ use. (I needed another pair because I unfortunately lost the original one at the MEC Paddlefest last year - sigh!) This could all help in his marketing campaign, and in return I could help endorse his product, especially to a different segment of people.

Orthotics such as Doc Walks support your arch and keep your

foot in the optimal shape to shoulder load.

To me it was a lifesaver!

The conclusion? Well after almost 70 days of canoe tripping through varying terrain that included rocks, boulders, sand, water, muck, bog, soil, and ice, they are as good as new. The Doc Walks still have its patented curve and no part of the mould or plastic is cracked, chipped or falling apart. Despite shouldering loads of over 100lbs, not including my own weight of 155lbs over the various terrain described above, they are still going strong. But most importantly, my feet/legs felt great! Never once did I have sore feet or achy calves that I was so familiar with in the early years. I am so impressed with them, I am now using them for work instead of the custom ones! (Shhh, my chiropractor will probably not take that well!) I can say without a doubt, I truly endorse this product because of how well they served me for my purposes. If you have the same issues with your feet AND you canoe trip as well, you will not go wrong with this product. And if for some reason they don’t work well for you, there is always the 100% guarantee. You just can’t lose. You owe it to yourself and your feet. Happy feet really does mean a happy paddler!

Doc Walks Ortho-Insoles are inexpensive, tough and most

importantly, they work. They will now accompany

me on every canoe trip hence forward.

Doc Walks is a preformed, ortho-insole that you put into your footwear that is made from some tough plastic. It also comes with a foam backing which I tore off due to the nature of canoe tripping. Since the foam would have held water and dirt that would compromise comfort, I took it off. (The remaining foam/adhesive can easily be removed with Goo Gone.) Alex explained that Doc Walks originally were sold without the backing, but it was subsequently added on due to customer feedback. (I definitely am not their typical customer!) Without the foam, they are easily cleaned and don’t hold any odour. Lastly, Doc Walks are very affordable compared to those custom orthotics. At $39.99, you can easily purchase several for all your footwear for less than the cost of a custom one! Check out their website at comfortcorner.ca, which also have the times and places where they will be hocking their ware. Tramping through tough portages or exploring the wilderness has never been more comfortable!

Cheers,

tPP

Let's not neglect our feet - they take us

where the canoe can't!

Icecapade in Algonquin

Frozen in time and place - ice does that.

Algonquin Provincial Park is a popular destination well known for its canoe routes, that's pretty much a given. Increasingly, (for better or worse) its popularity has made the feelings of solitude and wilderness in the park more and more elusive. Sure, you can still experience that wonderful feeling of being 'lost' in the wilderness, (That's why we go canoeing, isn't it?) but that entails more portages that takes you deeper into the interior. Not a bad thing, but that assumes you either have the time or the gumption.

So what if you don't have either and you want to experience the wilderness in Algonquin? Well if its during prime canoeing season and its near the Hwy 60 corridor, good luck! It just isn't going to happen. It's too bad because there are several nice routes close to the main artery that runs through the park, but quick access means its fair game to everyone else. Not left with much choices, the only other alternative is to go elsewhere, or go when no one else goes. I know, you probably think I have some well kept secret that I am going to spill out on this blog, but no, not really. But it does promise quick access and solitude, but with conditions.

Burnt Island Lake - dawn of a beautiful day, who would have

known what the rest of the day was going to be like.

Even though you most likely won't find me around Algonquin during the regular paddling season, it doesn't mean I don't like the park. I actually do like it a lot, but its the crowds I'm not fond of. My roots to canoe tripping started in Algonquin and its always like a home coming when I go back there. So even to this day, I make yearly plans to head there, the only difference is that its on my terms. If you don't mind some ice,....and oh yeah, cold, possibly freezing temperatures,....and did I mention the odd freezing rain, maybe numbing winds and possibly snow, (hmmm, sounds less and less enticing) then you will be guaranteed wilderness solitude in Algonquin's easily accessed routes. So when is this 'golden hour'? Just after the ice goes from the lakes, and just before it freezes over.

Okay, okay, so it might not be THAT enticing, nor is it some well kept secret, but it has its rewards - and headaches. As you might have already read my previous post about the moose encounter, this is a perfect example of what you can expect when you have the place to yourself. And trust me, I have had many more similar incidents. But of course, there is the flip side to it all - harsh conditions. You could luck out, but there is a greater chance you won't, so being prepared is pretty important. Despite knowing what to expect, there are times when you just don't luck out, like on my last solo trip of 2010.

Nope, its not snow or ice. It's actually frozen foam. This is even

a first for me! Who would have guessed?!

Wave action on Burnt Island Lake created shoreline foam

that froze in the morning. It was a sign!!

When I headed out in the third week of November, the yo-yo temperatures for the previous several weeks seemed to assure that the bodies of water would have a hard time freezing. In actual fact, the day I headed out, I still didn't believe any lakes were frozen over. Pushing off shore into to Canoe Lake, I was totally confident of ice-free paddling. Plus, based on the weather reports, the temperature was going to swing back up to double digits later in the weekend from its current below zero temperature. I didn't have any concern in the world, other than dealing with the wind and waves as I headed out.

My first sighting of ice came when I headed north into a small bay midway up Burnt Island Lake on day two. The take-out to the portage was partially obstructed by ice, but it was easy enough to break through. Thankfully, most of the ice was on the opposite shore so I was pretty lucky, but it now had me questioning my earlier prediction, especially considering most of the bodies of water I would soon encounter were fairly small. After the first portage, I was relived to find Jay Lake open with just a little bit of shore ice at the put-in to deal with. Feeling more confident, I figured if I had to deal with only the odd ice along the shore, I was laughing. Well, that was until I got to the next body of water.

An uncanny silence with not even a ripple meant only one

thing, it was completely frozen over.

When the rock made impact far from shore and didn't break through as it continued skidding wildly along the frozen surface, I knew I had a problem. Instead of the cold breeze rippling the surface of this lake, this body of water was eerily quiet and still - it was totally frozen over. I could see the other end of the lake, including the next portage. It wasn't too far across, maybe 200-300 metres. Most sane and prudent canoeist would have taken this as a sign to head back the way they came; I continued looking for a way across. The shoreline didn't offer much in the way of options, so I decided to venture forth. Sliding the canoe onto the frozen surface, it remained just there - above the ice. Oh boy.

When I walked into the canoe, the ice reluctantly gave. (there was still hope) Now I had to figure how to 'efficiently' move the canoe atop the ice while breaking it so that I could continue moving forward. It was awkward and tough at first, but after barely making 50 metres, I developed a method to my madness affectionately called the P3 Power Paddle. P3 defined as the 3 P's to Pick, Pull, and Push. This technique for ice travel on 'breakable' ice consisted of 'picking' the corner edge of my paddle (thank goodness for my tough Aqua-Bound whitewater paddle!) into the ice, than 'pulling' myself and the canoe up onto the ice (therefore breaking it) and then 'pushing' my way forward after passing the point in which the paddle passed my side.

'Pick' - the first 'P' in the P3 Power Paddle. The paddle literally

only needed to be jammed in approx a cm for me to

haul the canoe forward. Thank goodness

for the tough paddle!

It was a tough slog, but it actually worked well. It only took 3 P3 Power Paddles on one side to completely exhaust me, so I had to swap sides every three strokes to continue without stopping to rest. Adding the numbers up, I realized what I was putting my body through. The canoe was approx 80lbs, add the 2 barrels and camera case, approx 50lbs and then include myself at 155lbs. That gives you a total of 285lbs, which is probably closer to 300lbs when you factor in my boots, all my clothing, PFD, paddles, painters, etc. So I was literally taking 300lbs and using my arms, shoulders, and back to drag the canoe atop the ice (not forgetting friction) and then when the ice somewhat gave, continue using my arms to push the canoe forward. The downside to this method meant I was moving skewed from one side to the other, but ultimately, it got me where I wanted - to the other end.

It was rewarding to make it to the other end, even exhilarating to think I overcame this obstacle. As I peeled my hat and jacket off to cool down, I looked at the map and realized this body of water I just crossed was not actually a lake, but a pond. This explained why it froze over due to its lack of movement or current compared to a lake. Looking further ahead on the map, I realized after the next two lakes, I would be encountering another pond that was bigger - great. Well now that I was committed, I decided to continue forward, hoping and praying that this bigger pond that was even important enough to get a name, (Aster Pond) wasn't completely frozen over. Prayer fell on deaf ears and hope froze over. She was completely frozen.

Successfully making it across, you can see the

telltale zigzag path the canoe took

to get to this end.

Oddly enough, this time I didn't feel the same exhilaration when I finally crossed Aster Pond. It was actually more like the other 'e' word - exhaustion. It was easily double the length of the previous pond, but since I had completed a total of 2 kms of portaging (double carry) so far, as well as employing the effective but tough P3 paddling technique already, I was starting to tire out. Not only that, my canoe seat also broke while pushing through Aster Pond, so I was often on my knees using with my abs and thighs to stabilize the canoe to pull/push it along. I comtemplated creating a money-making venture with a new fat-burning exercise routine for the masses with a canoe-like apparatus.

After paddling through Willow Lake, I thought I would be scot-free of ice. All I needed to do was portage to Barlett Lake, where I planned to end the already long day. Maybe it was the waning light, my exhaustion, or the fact it was a small pond stuck between printed portages distances and lake names. In any case, this 'brilliant' paddler missed it and found himself staring at another frozen pond. My spirit sunk. I was exhausted, thirsty (having recently finished the last of my water), hungry, and now perplexed by what I saw. Looking intensely at the map in the twilight, I noted my oversight. I was in the right place after all.

The canoe at the put-in, or more appropriately the 'put-on-top',

of the very frozen Aster Pond - sigh!

I had considered setting up camp right on the portage, but I wondered if the falling temperatures would make the ice even more difficult to deal with the next morning. So an executive decision was made by me, myself and I to forge ahead. As previous, the P3 Power Paddle technique worked, just slower as the ice was noticeably thicker and I was obviously more tired. The only silver lining was that I could see the portage on the other side and the distance seemed a bit shorter than the first pond. All was going well until my collective experiences dealing with ice on canoe trips brought me to a halt. What I saw just beyond the bow of the canoe had me concerned. The colour and texture of the ice up ahead signalled a distinct change, and believe me, it wasn't softer ice. Driving the canoe onto the thicker and harder ice, it stayed firm, even with me directly on top of it.

It would be foolish to assume the ice was thick enough to support my weight. If I stepped out, all my weight would be centered over my feet. Being inside a canoe atop the ice did 2 things, distribute my weight along most of the canoe, but more importantly if the ice broke, I would safely still be in the canoe. This was not the time to take chances, especially being alone. I looked for an alternative route to the portage, but this thicker ice extended out from the entire opposite shore, so I had no choice but continue forward. I guess I could have turned back, but I wasn't planning on getting stuck here and being rescued. Any mistake could be fatal, so I had to be pretty certain of what I was doing.

Looking back at the put-in to Aster Pond, convincing myself I

made some distance. She made me work hard

for every single inch!

Since I couldn't break the ice anymore, I had to make sure that if I 'walked' atop the ice, I had to either be in or by the canoe in case the ice broke. At first, I straddled the bow of the canoe facing out and tried to use both legs to pull the canoe along. Unfortunately, this technique was too difficult since my boots wouldn't grip the ice. I then resorted to one foot in the canoe (in front of the bow seat) and the other one out while grabbing the gunwales and keeping my center of gravity low. With most of the weight on the foot in the canoe, I figured there was less chance of the ice breaking and if it did, I could immediately hop/fall/roll into the canoe. This method seemed to work better with my one foot (despite the lack of grip still) and my arms to force the canoe forward. Once I got momentum going, even the canoe started to slide easily.

Needless to say, I'm blogging about this because I obviously made it across. It was quite the relief when I could place my foot on solid ground, but at the same time, I could also positively say it was exhilarating too - since I made it across alive. (nothing like living on the edge!) In the fading light, I decided this event was worthy enough to take a photo, so I cranked my ISO on the camera and took a few shots to remember this moment. There was hardly any evidence of my passing after the last break in the ice. A bit eerie, since it looked as if someone never made it past that point. Well, I quickly put the camera including the gloomy thoughts away and focused my remaining energy for the rest of the carry.

Even my canoe had had enough - like it was expected to paddle

through ice? I will have to agree, this canoe has

been put through one hell of a life!

The last portage in near darkness had me thinking about the circumstances I found myself in. Despite the building thirst and the growling stomach trying to get my attention, I felt totally calm and relaxed. Sure the risk and challenges on this canoe trip had me shaking my head, but the rewards felt commensurate. It is hard to uphold risk if the circumstances don't fall in your favour, but when it does, life seems to feel - richer. I'm certainly not saying that that is the only way to enrich your life (and to purposely seek it), but incidents such as I've described when overcome, provides something really special, something that can not be adequately expressed in words. I can definitely tell you that if I was at home instead, I wouldn't have anything close to the same experience. We all get to chose what we want out of life.

Made it!! I lightened the photo so that you can see the trail the

canoe followed before I got out. Part of the frozen trail

I 'walked' is covered by a thin film of water,

but still fully intact.

It's funny how your mind works when circumstances change, rather than think twice about getting myself in this type of situation again, I started to think about getting some modified crampons to help me better deal with ice next time. Besides, it would have also helped when I wiped out scrambling up the steep icy embankment trying to get to my campsite!

Cheers,

tPP

2010 Year In Review

Getting close with Gravel Falls, Oxtongue River

So here I am, one week into the new year as I find myself in front of the computer wondering what to write. Its not for lack of ideas, as I have too many of them, rather it's just figuring out which one to write about. Also being a new year, I thought I'd write about something 'new' as well. Something I haven't wrote about before, but would be relevant this time of year, kind of like my new leather chair that I got for Christmas. I love my original faux leather computer chair, but the many hours it spent cushioning my puny rear end, it has succumbed to death through compression and tearing. (I don't want to hear it!) Sadly, its time to move on. Just as paddling in 2010 was amazing and memorable as well, its time to move on; so in this post, I like to touch on the past year's highlights and trips before starting the new paddling year. Its surprising to find out all the things you forgot when you have a chance to look back.

View from atop a cliff, Big East River

Canoeing in 2010 turned out to be a great year. First off, I was lucky enough to head out on a dozen different trips that started at the beginning of April and ended near the end of November. (8 months out of 12 is pretty good in our parts!) These trips ranged from lost crown land routes to ones in our most popular provincial parks, to re-experiencing routes previously travelled to paddling routes I hadn't canoed yet. It certainly ended up being a year of variety. Even more surprising was tallying the number of days I was away on these trips - 68 days! (not including any travel time or day trips) That was a bit of a surprise as I thought for sure it was less than that. Maybe I'm just getting "use to it"? No complaints here, as I would have easily opted for more. In any case, it's truly a blessing and privilege to get out so often to see, experience and share my travels on these liquid highways. Hopefully 2011 will bring just as many opportunities and time out on the water.

Portaging around Island Falls, Moon River

Canoe trips usually involve other participants, which I thoroughly enjoy having. I am truly thankful for those who joined me on my various excursions - despite being tough at times. Like the variety of trips, I was also able to experience the various trips with different partners/combinations, new paddlers and of course my girlfriend. Its always lots of fun with fellow paddlers and the memories created are truly for a lifetime. As much as I still head out on the odd solo trips, I do cherish company - something about having someone else to share in the experience. What does 2011 hold for me in terms of partners? Well, I know for certain I have the usual stalwart paddling friends that I can count on, but there is already several new friends I know I'll be paddling with this year. I even had a request at work to take my colleague's kids paddling! (hmmm, that could be interesting) Maybe I'll even venture so far as to take a person that has never been on a canoe trip before? (could be detrimental to my health) In any case, I know for a fact it will certainly be an exciting year of new paddlers and old ones! (relax!, I'm not talking about your age!)

Taking a moment in the morning, Phillip Edward Island

2010 started with the earliest canoe trip ever on the Big East River (Apr 1-4) - at least for me. In big part by our incredibly mild winter that included the earliest recorded ice-out on Canoe Lake (Apr 3). It was soon to be followed by a paddle down the Oxtongue River where I got to show my girlfriend Lisa (from Huntsville) that local rivers are worth paddling. It was my second time through there, which also gave me an opportunity to experience some things I missed out the first time through. The month of May was a mess due to the record low water levels (compliments of the lack of snow and hot temps), therefore several river trips were cancelled. Instead of giving up, I opted to go to Lake Superior with my friend Ben where we were assured lots of water and paddled her incredible shoreline. Lake Superior was just that - superior.

Whether it was its scenery and gorgeous waters, to its unrelenting winds and intimidating swells, we came away awed and inspired, knowing we would definitely go back for more.

Mesmerized in the canyon, Barron River

Surprisingly, June was a dud for canoe trips, but by July, they were back in full swing. It started with a trip to Kirkpatrick Lake (Blue Lakes system) where we were challenged by a long lost crown land route. It was a beautiful place to paddle through, but we had to work hard for it. First trying to get access to the put-in, then trying to locate some portages, as well as clearing and maintaining portage trails along the way. Was it worth it? Definitely. This trip was followed by a short getaway to the Magnetawan River where I was able to re-visit a small gem-of-a-lake where I told myself years ago I would come back to camp there. Then came the mad rush to prepare for the big trip of the year - the Bloodvein River. Unfortunately, we couldn't recruit our friends to join us, so Lisa and I took just under 3 weeks to paddle this Canadian Heritage River. What we didn't expect was a river totally flooded - even above spring-melt levels! We witnessed myriads of pictograph sites, ran challenging whitewater, and was hunted by the notorious Manitoba mosquitoes, but it was a wonderful trip, including being the second river trip to cross 2 provinces!

Scouting a large rapid, Bloodvein River

Since the Bloodvein trip finished midway into August, there was no other canoe trips that month, but by September a flurry of trips began in earnest again. First with a trip to the Kawarthas with a new paddling friend Becky, which allowed her to experience and enjoy a totally new paddling destination. Then came the crazy whitewater weekend on the Lower Madawaska, where the events before the trip over-shadowed the trip itself! This was followed by a trip to the Barron Canyon where I got to show Lisa another local paddling gem and re-experience the area again for myself. Then came October as I set off with Lisa to circumnavigate Phillip Edward Island. Similar to Lake Superior, I was left blown away at the beauty of the area and promised myself I would go back. The last trip of October found Lisa and I shuttling ourselves so that we could experience the Moon River. Knowing how popular this route is during the regular paddling season, we were lucky to have the whole river to ourselves.

Lost in the lilies, Magnetawan River

Finally to end the paddling season, I set off in the 3rd week of November on a solo trip to Algonquin. It was a fitting end due to my unique experience with wildlife, but also with ice. Looking back, it really was an amazing year of canoe trips. Of course I'm not even touching on canoe related events such as the multiple presentations I gave on the Romaine trip, MEC's annual Paddlefest, or even day paddles. 2010 can easily be summarized as not only a great year, but even more worthy as a fitting end to an incredible decade of paddling. I found myself thinking how even more privileged and honoured I am to live in a province/country with such a varied and beautiful landscape/waterscape. We are truly blessed to have such an abundance of freshwater and spectacular natural places to see, visit and experience. Hopefully it will stay that way for future generations.

Route-finding to the next lake, Kirkpatrick Lake Loop

What's the trip plans for 2011? Too early to say, but the cogs are slowly turning and ideas are pouring forth. Our group of paddling friends recently met and the topic of canoe trips quickly emerged. Now its just a matter of deciding who, when, and where to go. The canoe - an effective and efficient water craft that conjures up our wanderlust that takes us to places we want to go, places we want to see, and places we can only dream about. It all starts in that mass of grey matter atop our head, and hopefully becomes an experience that's permanently imprinted in our hearts - yes, all because of that simple humble canoe. What a truly amazing invention. 2011, here we come with a canoe and a paddle in hand! A toast to not only this year, but to another decade of amazing canoe trips! Cheers everyone!

tPP

Marveling at the magnificent shoreline, Lake Superior

2011 - Happy New Paddling Year!

So here we are, finally arriving once more on the last day of another year. Its been one hectic holiday season and not only am I pooped, I haven't had the time to reflect back on the previous year, yet. I've been working back to back and I barely had time to post this blog as I have to head right back out to our friend's place for New Year's celebration. You know what I need? Darn right, a canoe trip! Considering that we are going to be 10 degrees above normal temperatures in Toronto tomorrow, (11c and raining!) if the lakes were opened, I just might entertain that idea! I'm sure some of the local rivers are open too, but with fast moving water and iced-over sections, its a risky proposition.

Am I happy to close out 2010 and start 2011? Not really, doesn't phase me much - its just another day, another year. (other than coming to grips that I'll be a year older!) However, what I do look forward to at the start of the new year is dreaming and planning about all the possible and upcoming canoe trips. Its kind of like sugar fairies dancing around my head. (I know, I know, Christmas has past, but I'm still in the mood, so deal with it!) The winter solstice has passed, so has Christmas, and now the new year is approaching. We are almost there, but not before I get out for one last party in 2010! It's soon time to make new paddling dreams come true, what do you say to that? Cheers everyone! Can't wait!

Wishing you all a wonderful and happy New Year filled with lots of opportunities to paddle a canoe - whether on day outings, multi-day trips, or expeditions! Be safe, have fun and lets ring in the new year with big expectations!

Happy New Year's, paddlers!

Cheers,

tPP

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Ho, ho, ho! Its that time of year! The mad rush, shopping madness, no parking spots, long lines, work parties, endless treats, cooking marathons, stuffed bellies and sugar highs - all the hallmarks that mark the approach of Christmas. And let's not even talk about Christmas day itself! Why do we do it? Did the spirit of Christmas create this, or the marketing campaigns of retailers? I am in no way innocent to all this madness, as frankly I get caught up in it too! Despite all this, there is positive lining to it all. Its time for family to get together, reaching out to those less fortunate and to celebrate its religious significance. That's what makes Christmas worth having, despite it all.

Well, I don't care much about receiving gifts this time of year. That is the least of my concern, but what's not to like if there is an odd 'canoe-shaped' present under the tree? Or one that is long and narrow? I'm sure any paddler would be,....let's say, ecstatic! Anyhow, I was really impressed with a recent glossy coloured Christmas flyer from The Bay. I couldn't help resist scanning the photo to post here. I think, no, I'm actually positive that this is an amazing scenario for the perfect gift! See the image below.

I couldn't scan the entire image due the size limitation of my scanner, but I got most of it. Tell me you aren't impressed! First off, there is a cedar canvas canoe in the traditional Bay (or formerly known as the The Hudson's Bay Company) colours wrapped in a huge red bow. Of course to match the canoe, there is the same coloured hardwood paddle wrapped in a somewhat similar bow, albeit significantly smaller. Now, the gift giving is extremely mismatched, going just by size. But whose counting, although I've heard the saying, "size matters", whatever that means?! ;) Anyhow, I'd certainly say based on this scenario, this is one lucky guy. Not only is he getting a beautiful canoe, there is the hot female in the equally appealing flannel shirt! Yes of course she is getting a beautiful hardwood paddle with the assumption the guy is a hunk in his flannel jammy. But why the hell does the paddle blade have "Up The Creek" printed on it?!! Talk about ruining a nice gift! (he just might get the paddle 'up the head'!) I know, i know, its just an ad - I'm just getting too much into the scene. (maybe I'm jealous?) Anyhow, hopefully with the paddle, there is an envelope with a plane ticket to the far north - something to give justice to this beautiful canoe and paddle. And of course if he should be so lucky, (considering the setting) maybe sex in the new canoe?!? Tis the season for giving, isn't it? What? What?! Did I say something wrong?!

(Hmm, I wonder if I can squeeze my canoe through the front door? ;))

Well, my wish this season is for all of you, including your family and loved one to have the most wonderful Christmas! One filled with lots of love, happiness and joy!I'm certainly looking forward to it as well, although my sister's first attempt at the turkey this year has me a bit worried. Anyhow, all the best to you this festive season!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

tPP

(How about we try the side door??)

A Fitting Gift to End the Paddling Season

All it took was a brief reprieve from the strong wind to convince

myself to head out on Canoe Lake. The problem

being it was just that - brief!

Ahh, it feels good to finally put a post on my blog! I actually start to feel bad when lots of time passes and I haven't posted anything. In actual fact, I have been quite busy with writing commitments and deadlines, so I didn't have much time for my blog. But now that's over, the only other pressure is the Christmas holidays heading our way. It shouldn't be a stressful time, but there is always things to do, stuff to buy, places to be, weight to be gained, etc, etc, etc,...you get the idea.

Well unfortunately this year, I didn't get the opportunity to close out the canoe season with the white stuff. Despite the fact there is lots of it now causing many people, places, and countries lots of grief. Hearing about how some travellers stranded in airports may not get to their homes for Christmas this year is just terrible. Stick me in the bush in the middle of a bizarre any day! Anyhow, my last trip of the year did provide a nice parting gift, (Christmas present if you wish) and no, it was a frozen water! That story is for later.

The way my solo trip started near the end of November had me wondering what the rest of the trip was going to be like. Of course at this time of year, you have to expect both bad weather and tough conditions, but it doesn't hurt to cross your fingers and hope for the best. I was initially relieved when I got my permit from the park office without problems, unlike last year. (Yes, I know, there was snow outside and it was Dec then!) This time the young lady gladly issued me the permit and even remarked about another party that headed out earlier in the same direction. I then made my way to the Canoe lake put-in, only to be duly unimpressed. Waiting for me was waves, whitecaps, and lots of headwind - great!

After unloading the car, I waited out the howling wind. As much as I needed to get going, I would literally be wasting energy trying to make any forward progress in these conditions. Luckily, only after 15-20 mins, the wind seemed to peter out. Well not totally, the gusts were now just intermittent. This was the break I needed, so off I went. (at least that is what I thought) Of course when I shoved off, didn't the wind gods sneeze?!! Yes, I was paddling the canoe in reverse, had all the weight possible in the front, and even moved myself to the middle of the canoe, but it still took me like a twig and twirled me funny! If ever I looked like I didn't know what I was doing in a canoe, it would have been now. What eventually did help was changing my paddle. I was using a short 52" bent shaft that I found just didn't have enough reach or power for these conditions. Thanks to the waves soaking my gloves, did it eventually dawn on me to switch paddles!

Forward progress was still slow and tiring even with the longer whitewater paddle, but at least I was making distance. It was a tough go with frozen hands and wet pants, but somehow, even with the wind biting at my skin, I was starting to appreciate being out there alone. After a couple portages through the chain of Joe Lakes, I began the 435m portage that bypasses Lost Joe Lake and ends at Baby Joe Lake. I decided to carry the heavy barrel, the paddles and the Pelican case with all the camera gear first. The trail was pretty with pine needles and dried leaves scattered generously throughout the forest floor. Throw in the soothing gurgle of the stream nearby, it was the ideal tonic for the urban soul. On my way back, while picking up some birch bark for a fire, random thoughts entered my head. For some reason, (I still don't know why?) I started to wonder what I'd do if I encountered a bear. First off, I figured the chances were slim. With temperatures below zero, even bears wouldn't avail themselves to trouncing around the forest at this time of year, unlike some seemingly-intellectual human. I didn't have bear spray, a stick (as my head turns to look for one), or even a whistle - although I did have a folding knife with a 1.5 inch blade. (stop laughing!)

Cresting a small knoll, as I looked up, did I not see a big mass of black fur that stopped me in my tracks! I think I even stopped breathing. It seemed like eternity as I stood there trying to re-focus my eyes from looking at the ground to now 20 meters in front of me. Breathing a sigh of relief, I made out the figure of a moose in the shadow of the sparse canopy. Surprisingly, the brown spindly legs and its honking schnoz blended with the forest background and all I initially saw was the black mass of fur in the middle of the trail. Relieved it wasn't a bear, my thoughts turned to picture taking, but my camera was at the other end - crap! I knew for certain if I went back for it, the moose would be gone, so I took the opportunity to just enjoy the moment.

I should have known, based on the grand staircase that started

the 435m portage to Baby Joe Lake. It was to portend

an equally grand experience!

We had a stare down for some time, sizing each other up. (Not that my 'hulking' 150lbs impressed this ungulate by any means!) It was kind of neat when it decided I wasn't a threat anymore and turned its head away from me to look towards Lost Joe Lake. Eventually I decided I needed to get going, but the moose seemed a bit reluctant to move. It looked back at me, and off towards the lake again. I was starting to wonder why it was standing its ground, until I started to hear some shuffling coming from my left. It was hard to see what was there, but I slowly made out several other large dark figures through the dense shoreline vegetation. Alarm bells started to go off in my head - wasn't it rutting season for moose?!

I had no clue when the rutting season started and ended, all I knew was that bull moose are particularly dangerous then, much more than a bear. For the next several minutes panic set in again as I wondered if I could climb any trees nearby. Slowly backing away, not one but three vague hulks appeared slightly behind and to my left! I could hear my heart starting to pound as I looked for an escape route. Bears all of a sudden didn't seem scary, nor did the usefulness of my small pocketknife. Keeping my eyes locked beside me, 3 moose slowly emerged from the dense brush. Surprisingly, none had any impressive rack to display and send me packing! Phew! But why was there so many moose together?!!

Feeling more confident after insuring my bladder hadn't inadvertently emptied, I now strutted back down the path towards the lone moose on the trail. It dawned on me that the three moose beside me were the off-springs of the moose that stood in my way. (although they were practically as big as the mom) That was why the mother moose didn't move and kept looking towards the lake. I guess she was somehow letting them know I was around, and until she determined I wasn't a threat, stopped her off-springs from emerging from cover. Relieved yet again, I slowly approached the mother moose, speaking calmly and asking for passage. Thankfully she obliged and made her way towards her young.

The roller coaster of emotions had me pumped full of adrenalin, giving me that extra shot of energy to carry the canoe and remaining barrel. I've never had the privilege of being so close to 4 moose alone. As much as the incident nearly gave me a coronary, it was truly amazing. As I approached the same area, they were unexpectedly all still there! Now I was steaming that I didn't have my camera! I decided the opportunity was too unique to pass off, so I put my canoe down and walked down towards the river where I sat down to watch them.

The mother moose again stared at me from the other side of the river before she gave me the "oh, its you again" look and continued foraging before moving off into the forest. Then the 3 young emerged from my side of the river and slowly crossed single file. It was hard to believe, but when they were all in view, all in the river, they all stopped and turned their heads to look at me! Where was my camera!!! Argh!!!! It was the picture perfect moment! I'm positive these younglings were perplexed by my display of contorted faces at that time. It was an opportunity lost, but another gained - trying to console myself this way. As they walked one by one into the forest, the last moose decided it wasn't done with me. It turned and continued looking at me for quite some time. During which I rationalized that there was no way I knew what the moose was thinking, but in some sense I thought I did. That span of time, space and distance felt like some communication of sorts. An acknowledgement, a curiosity, an acceptance, and ultimately a level of comfort. Whichever the case, it was a rare connection that left us parting ways with a higher level of respect for each other.

A most fitting ornament, not only for this time of year,

but also for my end-of-the-year trip!

Carrying the canoe down the rest of the portage, I was thankful at the chance encounter, even more grateful that it wasn't a bear or a enraged bull moose. It felt like a fitting gift, especially after having to deal with the miserable conditions at the start of the trip. It even was an epiphany of sorts, helping me to further understand and respect animals like the moose and acknowledge that co-existence doesn't have to only be in fleeting (or fleeing) moments. Although I didn't get to end the season paddling under lightly falling snow, this special encounter more than made up for it. An amazing gift to end the paddling season for sure, just unfortunate that I couldn't share that scene with all of you!

tPP

PS. Being Christmas and all, the scene of the 3 moose in the river reminded me of the nativity scene of the 3 wise men on their camels. With a Canadian twist to it, it could have easily been the 3 wise moose!

PPS. I'm planning to invest in a P&S camera to carry with me at all times. Live and learn!