A few members of the Coy of Select Marksman and the Quebec Indian Department participated in a two-day, 40 mile dog sledding trip from South River Ontario to Char Lake in Algonquin Park. The beaver gods were accomodating and provided beautiful weather.

The expedition was conducted by Chocpaw Expeditions and professionally guided by Derek Jean and Russel Warning. For more information, visit their website at http://www.chocpaw.com/.

The four intrepid travelers, kitted in 18th century clothing, enjoyed a pleasant learning experience taught by two very knowledgeable guides. This consisted of harnessing the dogs and packing a sled; learning to control the sled from the driver’s position, and learning how to best assist the driver from the passenger's position.

The Saturday evening camp was like any other winter camping experience except for the heated wall tents – provided by several cleverly located box stoves - and the delicious supper that was prepared by the guides.

The Sunday morning greeted us with a lightly falling snow, although this intermittently became pelting ice crystals. This was amazing until you had to travel down a narrow trail being pulled by six refreshed dogs, avoiding trees and branches, and keeping your eyes open while the snow bombarded your exposed flesh. It was exhilarating, if not a little anxiety-causing. Breakfast was quickly organized, the dogs fed and watered, and the sleds packed with the remaining kit. Trip back was characterized by beautiful scenery, narrow trails and softly falling snow (when it wasn’t pelting ice crystals).

All in all an excellent weekend and an experience worth repeating!!!

	Getting ready - Movie (6 MB)