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Workshops / Choose Your Own Adventure / Algonquin Backcountry Adventure
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This is a "solo" version of the popular small group workshop I offer in June!

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Start the day with an exhilarating ride in Algonquin Outfitter's water taxi, as we travel up Algonquin Park's largest lake, Opeongo. Take in the beautiful vistas, feel the wind on your face, wave to people at the campsites along the shoreline, and maybe even spot a bald eagle in one of the trees. After the 20 minute ride, we'll be dropped off at the mouth of a creek, and then load our gear into our canoe. From here, we paddle along a wide, winding creek that's best known for wildlife viewing. We'll glide past beaver lodges, watch loons fish for breakfast, and go in search of wildlife, such as moose feeding at the creek's edge. 

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This adventure is about experiencing the tranquility and beauty of Algonquin's backcountry from a canoe. We'll be spending all our time on the water, with bathroom stops ashore. You'll be amazed at how quickly the time goes by, as you experience Algonquin at its finest. At the end of our adventure, we'll be picked up by the water taxi at a prearranged time.

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Choose from a 4 hour or 8 hour adventure.

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What's included:​

  • Guiding and in-field photography instruction by Helen

  • Algonquin Outfitters' water taxi to the mouth of the creek

  • Canoe, PFD (life jacket), paddle & boat safety kit - you may bring your own equipment if you have it

  • Day use vehicle permit (required for parking)

  • 8 hour trip only: complimentary lunch

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What's Not Included:

  • Transportation to/from Algonquin Outfitter's Opeongo Store

  • Accommodations

  • Photography Gear

  • Items for your personal comfort, including snacks, hydration & personal protective equipment (PPE)

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Cost:

  • 4 Hour Adventure: $595+hst

  • 8 Hour Adventure: $945+hst

If you'd like to book this adventure and do not require in-field photography instruction, subtract $100 from the cost.

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Payment Details:

A 50% +HST non-refundable payment is required to secure your adventure date, with the balance due 7 days before your adventure starts. Payments may be made by eTransfer, or credit.

 

Can I bring my husband/wife/friend?

Absolutely! Bring a friend or family member for an additional $200+hst per person. You must be travelling in the same vehicle together. Maximum 4 people per group. For larger groups, please contact Helen to discuss booking a private workshop.

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Will we be hiking?

No. We will be spending the day on the water in a canoe. When we arrive at the mouth of the creek, we will be unloading onto a small island. You will be required to hop off the boat onto a large rock face. Flip flops or crocks are not appropriate footwear for disembarking. 

 

You can either: take off your socks & shoes, and roll up your pants, or wear waterproof footwear. The depth of the water can vary from ankle deep to knee deep. We'd advise you to bring a small towel to dry your feet, wear wool socks, and bring a spare pair of socks. We will stop and head ashore for bathroom breaks, but will spend as much time on the water as possible. There are no "washroom facilities", so please be prepared (mentally & physically) to go "al fresco" and use a tree -- and pack out all garbage, including used toilet paper. 

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What time of year do you recommend I book? And what about weather?

The best time of year for wildlife sightings here is May and June, but it is beautiful right through to the fall. In May and early June, we are mostly-likely to see moose gorging on aquatic plants. Summer is gorgeous and lush, but the heat can keep animals away and seeking shade, and it tends to be busier with people. Fall can be hit or miss with the weather, as well as the wildlife, but if timed right, you can experience some beautiful fall colours. Adventures take place rain, snow, or shine!

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When do you offer this adventure?

This adventure is offered June through early October. Weekend bookings in September, and October and on long weekends incur an additional fee of $100 for each weekend day. Fridays and Mondays are counted as weekend days on long weekends. My preference is to schedule lessons in the park on weekdays, as those are often less busy with people. I'm busiest in the spring and fall, so I'd advise you to book early to avoid disappointment.

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Please note: all participants are required to sign a release, indemnity & non-disclosure agreement. Participants will not disclose, or take others to, the locations we visit, nor may they offer lessons, workshops, tours, or similar activities in the area. Participants may not engage in behaviour that disturbs or harasses wildlife, such as baiting, luring, or flushing. Any such behaviour will result in the lesson ending immediately, with no refund. Part of nature and wildlife photography means respecting our subjects, and the environment in which they live.

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While every effort is made to find wildlife to photograph, there are many factors outside of our control and, therefore, no guarantees are made.

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Please contact Helen​ today book your private Algonquin Backcountry Adventure!

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