An Introduction to Canoe Tripping
Growing up, I went to an overnight summer camp that took us on canoe trips to Algonquin Park (along with some other parks in Ontario). I only went on two of these canoe trips, and I absolutely hated them.
Yes, as a camper I didn’t enjoy the canoe tripping experience or appreciate the beauty of Algonquin Park. You’re telling me I have to sleep on the forest ground, wake up super early, carry heavy packs for several kilometers, paddle in the rain, and get eaten by mosquitos all day? Where’s the enjoyment in that? Can’t I just stay inside with my game boy and walkman?
Fast forward a few years… I no longer go to camp, and my canoe tripping days are behind me. Or so I thought. One day, my friends suggested we do a canoe trip. Four guys, two nights, one campsite. I decided I would give canoe tripping one more chance, so I tagged along. And to my surprise, I realized it’s not all that bad.
I continued going to Algonquin Park and Killarney with different groups of friends, but with each passing year I realized that I enjoyed tripping much more when I was with a smaller group. In 2014, I decided to do something way out of my comfort zone and go on a trip by myself. My first solo canoe trip. But that’s a story for another time (or you can just read my trip report).
Now, with each passing year I try and spend more time in the backcountry, more time exploring Algonquin Park, and more time immersed in this beautiful park that we’re so privileged to have in Ontario’s backyard.