Expedition Log: Hudson Bay Company (6-Week)
Route: Otish Mountains & Siphre River Circuit
Landscape: Alpine Tundra, Mountain Vistas, & Braided Waterfalls
Guides: Gabby & Rachel
The Trip Recap: Across the Otish Range
The HBC six-week expedition was a journey of immense verticality and reward. Traveling through the Otish Mountains in Northern Quebec, the group spent the first half of the trip earning their views, culminating in a spectacular rest-day hike before our food drop. Standing atop the ridges, looking out over the expansive mountain vistas, the “glory” of the trek became undeniable.
A major highlight was our travel along the Siphre River. We woke up at a “beauty site” next to a thunderous waterfall and spent our morning portaging through the mist. After the work was done, we returned to the falls for a group photo shoot against the mountain backdrop—a moment of pure joy and shared accomplishment. The technical side of the trip was defined by “lining” and “wading” through rocky sections; what started as a new and daunting skill became second nature to this crew. Whether we were navigating the “Otish Uphill” or paddling through the crystal-clear waters of the plateau, these six girls transformed into a cohesive, unstoppable unit.
To Ingrid
Ingrid, your transition this summer was nothing short of legendary. Jumping from a two-week Temagami trip straight into a six-week expedition in Northern Quebec is a massive leap, and you took it in stride. You arrived not knowing what “lining” a canoe even meant, and by the end of the trip, you were a total pro, navigating the rocky sections of the Siphre with confidence. Your partnership with Emily was wonderful to watch; even when you drifted a bit off-trail, you two lifted each other up and kept the energy light.
To Emilie
Emilie, your leadership on the portage trail was a driving force for the HBC section. As Ingrid’s “Portage Buddy,” you set a fantastic example of resilience and kindness. Your prior tripping experience shone through in the way you handled the rugged terrain of the Otish Mountains, and your ability to maintain a positive attitude during the long “lining” days helped keep the whole group focused.
To Adriana
Adriana, you brought a steady and capable presence to every campsite. Your growth in camp-craft and your comfort in the technical sections of the river were evident to both guides. You handled the “grit” of the uphill sections with a quiet determination that inspired your teammates. Seeing you enjoy the mountain vistas after all that hard work was a highlight for us.
To Aili
Aili, your strength and endurance were essential to the success of this six-week circuit. You approached the challenges of the Siphre River with a “never-quit” attitude, and your contributions to the group’s morale were invaluable. Whether we were on a long paddle or a difficult portage, you remained a pillar of the group, always ready to tackle the next kilometer. There’s always a new route to scout.
To Ella
Ella, your technical precision in the boat and your focus on the trail made you a standout tripper. You developed a real “feel” for the water this summer, especially during our days on the Siphre. Your ability to find the “glory” in the most challenging parts of the trip showed a level of maturity and spirit that defines a true HBC canoeist.
To Linden
Linden, you were an integral part of the “solid family” dynamic we built this summer. Your energy around the campfire and your willingness to help with every task made our campsites feel like home. You mastered the technical skills of Northern tripping—from lining to reading complex currents—and did it all with a smile that kept the group’s spirits high. There are more sunsets to catch on the rocks.
