A Journey through Pays D’en Haut to Centre Falls
Reflections on an Epic Canoe Adventure: A Journey through Pays D’en Haut
Hello, fellow adventurers and Camp Temagami enthusiasts!
It’s Oriana here, Head Guide for the Pays D’en Haut (PDH) section. As I sit down to recount our recent trip to Centre Falls, I am filled with a sense of pride and nostalgia. This was more than just a canoe trip; it was a journey filled with unforgettable experiences and bonding moments that I’m thrilled to share with you.
Our group of intrepid campers consisted of ten amazing young explorers: Amelia, Shaila, Mabel, Addi, Abby, Alice, Nikita, Yvette, Dalia, and Layla. Alongside them, Chelsea and I had the privilege of guiding them through the majestic landscapes and challenges of the backcountry.
Our adventure began with a bit of a challenge: headwinds that tested our endurance and teamwork. These strong winds pushed us to our limits, but they also offered a chance to demonstrate our resilience and adaptability. Each paddle stroke became a testament to our collective strength and determination, and certainly felt like the best kind of workout – no gyms required!
For those of you that already know me, you’ll know that blueberry picking is always one of my favorites. As we navigated our way through the serene waters, we stumbled upon patches of these sweet, juicy berries. We paused to fill our containers and our bellies, turning what could have been a simple break into a delightful and tasty adventure. Our breakfasts each morning were thankful for the pauses we took to collect! Oatmeal tastes WAY better with a little bit of nature’s help.
Centre Falls was undoubtedly the crown jewel of our trip. The excitement of riding the bum chutes is always a joy. For those unfamiliar with this thrill, imagine sliding down natural water slides carved by nature itself. The laughter and cheers as we took turns sliding down were a nice break from our paddling. It was moments like these that reminded us of the sheer fun and exhilaration that canoeing in the traditional style can bring.
Another aspect of our trip that deserves a special mention was our campsite selection. Each evening, we searched for the perfect spot to set up camp. We found ourselves in awe of the stunning views and tranquil surroundings that each campsite offered. These locations provided not just a place to rest but a backdrop for many shared stories, games, and reflections on the day’s adventures. You can see where we stopped in the map below, and if you want to stay at some of these sites yourselves, remember that we lead family trips too!
Throughout our journey, it was the laughter and camaraderie that truly defined our trip. Whether we were battling headwinds, enjoying blueberry treats, or navigating the bum chutes, the spirit of teamwork and friendship was ever-present. The bonds formed during this trip will undoubtedly be cherished by each of us for years to come.
As we wrap up this adventure and prepare to head back, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for each camper’s enthusiasm and positive spirit. Their energy and willingness to embrace the challenges and joys of this journey made it a memorable experience for all of us. I’d like to thank each of you for putting down the phones, and picking up the paddle. It was truly an honor to share my boat with you.
I am already looking forward to seeing everyone again next summer and embarking on new adventures together. Until then, keep the spirit of exploration alive and cherish the memories we’ve created.
Happy paddling, and see you soon!
Warm regards,
Oriana
