Expedition Log: Ojibway Dumoine (Session A)
Route: Dumoine River, Quebec
Duration: Four-Week Near North Circuit
Guides: Dave, Salomon, Juan, & Tavi
The Trip Recap: Massive Water and Tropical Skies
This session, the Ojibway section took on the Dumoine River, and it was a journey defined by the sheer power of the Quebec landscape. We found our rhythm early, but the true “this is why we’re here” moment came at Grande Chute. Camping beside that massive, thundering water was a humbling reminder of the Shield’s power.
The trip wasn’t all roar and spray, though. We were treated to sunsets so vibrant they felt almost tropical, making every bug bite and long portage worth it. The group developed a real “trail-hardened” efficiency, breaking camp with a precision that left plenty of time for fishing and exploring the back channels. Watching this crew navigate technical sets in the Prospectors, their J-strokes keeping them on perfect lines through the “V,” was a testament to their growth. By the time we reached the final swifts, the Ojibway section wasn’t just a group of campers—they were a synchronized expedition team.
To Marko
Marko, you were a standout in the whitewater this summer. Your focus in the stern during the bigger sets on the Dumoine was impressive; you have a natural intuition for the river’s flow. Your sense of humor, especially when we were out fishing, kept the boat light even when the paddling got heavy.
To Alex
Alex, watching your confidence build as a stern paddler was a highlight for the staff. You took on the responsibility of the camper boat with a serious focus, and it paid off in every rapid we scouted. Your resilience on the portage trail, especially during those humid Quebec afternoons, showed true grit.
To Nick
Nick, you brought an incredible “unique spark” to this section. Your passion for swimming and your sheer physical strength in the boat made you a powerhouse in our fleet. It was great to see you “gel” with the group and find your stride, proving that the best memories often come from the most unexpected crews.
To Leif
Leif, your growth as a portager this summer was something to be proud of. Stepping up to carry the camper boat at the end of the trip showed everyone exactly how much your “Canoeist’s Spirit” has grown. Your enthusiasm for fishing—even using fish skeletons as bait—provided some of our favorite campfire stories.
To Channing
Channing, you were a rock around the campsite. Your ability to get the fire going and stay on top of the “camp craft” skills made our lives so much easier. In the boat, your steady draw strokes helped navigate some of the trickiest sections of the Dumoine with total composure.
To Tatum
Tatum, your positive attitude was the glue of the Ojibway section. No matter how long the portage or how heavy the rain, you had a way of keeping spirits high. Your technical skills in the whitewater peaked at just the right time, and watching you scout those final sets was a proud moment for the guides.
