Why a guided paddling trip is the perfect way to #ExploreMB this summer

Posted June 08, 2020 | Author Tamara Soroka

I think it’s safe to say that we’re all more than ready to be free of the confines of our homes and get outside to enjoy some fresh lakeside air. And thanks to the fairly sedentary lifestyle we’ve been living over the last few months, many are looking for a bit of an active escape from what’s become a fairly ho-hum routine. If you’re looking to shake things up a bit this summer, maybe a private, guided paddling trip to the remote wilderness of Manitoba is just what you’ve been searching for. Here are a few great reasons to hop in a canoe this summer for an experience you won’t soon forget.

Private group with family or close friends

Usually, these types of trips see a combination of Canadian and international travellers along with local Manitobans on each of their departures, but as we all know, things are different this year and we won’t be seeing many visitors from outside our provincial borders this summer. This means that there will be more opportunity to take part in a private tour devoted to just your immediate family or close group of friends. By their very nature, these trips are the epitome of “physically distancing”! You likely won’t see anybody else the entire time (except maybe a distant wave to some passersby in a canoe across the lake).

Convenience

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, but high-return staycation, a guided trip is the best option out there. Your guide brings everything you need – canoes, paddles, life jackets, tents, sleeping bags, the food. You name it, they’ve got it. All you have to bring is a backpack with some clothes, maybe a good book or deck of cards and a desire to get out into nature.

Escape into the great outdoors

After the last couple of months spent primarily indoors, or at least within the perimeter of our own yards, the desire to get outdoors and active again is very strong. Many are tired of being cooped up and want to breathe in as much fresh air as their lungs can handle! A trip like this will get you right into the heart of our boreal forest and craggy Canadian Shield. The peaceful canoe routes and secluded island campsites are idyllic and will make you feel like you are truly at one with nature.

Stick close to home

You might be surprised to know you don’t have to stray too far from home to experience true Canadiana wilderness. Less than a two hour drive from Winnipeg, you’ll find yourself at the meeting place for your adventure. Once you arrive, your guide will share a safety briefing and you’ll be in your canoe and on your way before you know it!

Experience something new

Whether you’re an experienced paddler and camper or have never set foot in a canoe, your ideal itinerary can be catered to best suit your needs. If you’re an absolute newbie, check out this first-hand story that shares all the ins and outs of the journey. Either way, your guide is always there to walk you through the entire process, teaching you skills along the way that you’ll keep with you long after it’s over.

The food!

There aren’t many things that can outshine the beauty and pristine nature that makes up the southeast corner of our fine province, but I’m going to suggest that a few days of good food cooked for you over an open flame will come pretty darn close. If you’re thinking you’re going to be settling for foil-sealed camping ration packs, or hot dogs on a whittled tree branch, think again. You won’t go hungry and you probably won’t ever want to leave your little corner of wilderness heaven, I can promise you that!

Twin River Travel is a Winnipeg-based adventure company offering private guided paddling trips this summer. Head to their website to get more information and book a departure for your small group. Your summer paddling adventure awaits!

About The Author

I'm Tamara and I'm the media content specialist here at TMB. I love being able to show off our incredible province to visiting journalists from around the world. In my spare time, I can usually be found eating my way through my restaurant "to-do" list!

Media Content Specialist