The Kisipikamawi (Hayes) River is the longest naturally flowing river in Manitoba, with its headwaters in Lake Winnipeg to York Factory on Hudson Bay. Participants will paddle over 600km through northern boreal forests, muskeg lowlands and finally to the tundra as they reach Hudson Bay. York Factory, where you will end your trip, was a critical hub for the fur trade for over 200 years, highlighting the role that Kisipikamawi had, in connecting Hudson Bay to central Manitoba. Participants will be excited to possibly encounter caribou, eagles and seals! You can also look forward to lots of time on the train, as that is how you will be travelling to Winnipeg, and how you will travel through Northern Manitoba! Before trip, participants will spend a few days at camp preparing for their journey. When they return home, they will have a few days to work on their leadership skills, reflect on their beautiful trip, and show appreciation for all they have learned through their program. Please note this trip is an all-gendered program, accommodations both on trip and at camp will be all-gender.
Skill Level: Difficult, whitewater paddling experience and strong swimming abilities are required (If you do not have experience paddling whitewater, see WW Clinic). Participants should be able to understand scouting, follow paddling lines, complete eddy turns, and feel confident swimming in moving water.
What to expect: 7-8 hours of paddling each day, Class I-III whitewater, lining boats, portages that may be on rough terrain
