Expedition Log: Grey Owl (Session A)
Route: Wabakimi River System
Duration: 24 Days | Landscape: Boreal Forest & Burn Areas
Guides: Leah & Gerry
The Trip Recap: 24 Days in the Boreal Wild
The Grey Owl section didn’t just paddle the Wabakimi River; they became part of it. Over 24 days, this co-ed crew traversed some of the most stunning and demanding terrain in Northern Ontario. We moved through ghost-white burn areas standing thick with Fireweed and paddled under the watchful gaze of Tamarack and Spruce.
This trip was defined by its “Big Water” energy. We saw everything from glass-calm sunrises to the roar of white-capped sets that tested every J-stroke and draw in the group. The “Wabakimi shuffle” was in full effect as we hauled Prospectors through rugged portages, often emerging from the bush covered in mud but grinning.
Around the campfire, the “wood crew” became a well-oiled machine, and the culinary skills reached new heights—nothing beats the smell of fresh bannock baking while the sun sinks into a Shield sunset. From bear sightings to the quiet majesty of swans on the back lakes, the wildlife was our only constant companion. This group achieved a rare level of synergy, proving that the hardest trails yield the tightest bonds.
To Sergei
Sergei, you brought a lightness to the trail that we truly needed. Whether you were “pranking” the group about five extra portages or losing a Croc during some high-energy swimming, your enthusiasm never wavered. Your growth in the whitewater sets was massive—you read the lines with a calm focus that was impressive to watch. The river is always calling; we can’t wait to see Sergei back on the gunnels to tackle the big sets next summer.
To Lillian
Lillian, your leadership in the “wood crew” and your eye for campsite organization kept us moving efficiently. You have a way of seeing what needs to be done before anyone else. That grit you showed during the long, hot carries through the burn areas proved you’re a true Headwaters tripper. The Shield stays with you. We hope to see Lillian back in the stern next season.
To Daniella
Daniella, your resilience was a quiet force on this trip. You handled the technical challenges of the Wabakimi River with such poise. Watching you master the heavy Wannigan carries and keep your paddle moving through the whitecaps showed us exactly what you’re made of. There’s always a new route to scout. We hope to see Daniella back on the water with us next year.
To Coco
Coco, you were the spirit of the group. Your ability to maintain deep connections and keep the “vibe” positive during 24 days of rugged tripping was a gift to this section. You stepped up in the rapids, showing a technical precision that made your boat one of the smoothest in the fleet. The North is in your blood now. We hope to see Coco back on the trail next summer.
To Kathryn
Kathryn, your camp-craft skills are becoming legendary. You’ve got a “trail-hardened” approach to every task, from knot-work to navigating the bogs. You stayed steady when the weather turned, proving that a little rain can’t dampen a true canoeist’s spirit. The Makkobe is waiting for you; we can’t wait to see Kathryn back to lead the way next season.
To Sam
Sam, the way you and Sergei worked as a team was a highlight for us. Your deep conversations on the water showed a maturity that elevated the whole group. On the portage trail, you were a powerhouse, always looking for the next load to carry to ensure the group’s success. There are more sunsets to catch on the rocks. We hope to see Sam back at the gunnels next summer.
To Julian
Julian, you showed incredible growth in your technical paddling this summer. You started to “read” the river rather than just reacting to it. Your willingness to put in the hard work on the wood crew made our evenings at the site so much better. The river is never the same twice. We hope to see Julian back in the boat next July.
To Matts
Matts, you brought a steady, reliable energy to every single day. You’re the kind of tripper who does the heavy lifting without needing the spotlight. Your strength on the 24-day circuit was a pillar for the Grey Owl section, especially during those long hauls through the spruce thickets. The portage trails are waiting. We hope to see Matts back on the gunnels with us next year.
To Colson
Colson, your sense of humor was our best defense against the blackflies. But beyond the jokes, you showed real “big water” grit. Watching you handle the heavy Prospector in the wind showed us how much your strength and technique have peaked this summer.
To Oliver
Oliver, your transition into a veteran tripper was complete this summer. You handled the gear, the boats, and the route with a level of professional warmth that helped the whole group succeed. Your sense of accomplishment after 283km is well-earned.
