On July 18-29, 2019, a team of local guides from Jackpine Paddle headed to the Barren Lands for a trip of a lifetime on the upper Thelon River. Very few people ever get a chance to take a Canadian Arctic Wilderness Trip and explore this part of the world as the route is accessed only by float plane air charter, and is over 300 miles away from the nearest town or road.
The route for this Canadian Wilderness Canoe Trip is Thelon River, the largest river in the Barren Lands. Our 120 mile (193km) long route is 80% river paddling. There are eight rapids along our route but no portages at all. Our entire route is on the tundra, and is one of the most remote places left in the world.
The Thelon River flows through the what is referred to as the Central Barrens, a huge area of the Arctic hundreds of miles inland from the nearest coast.
On this trip, we were blessed to spend 12 days with 10 wonderful clients. Typically, the routine is to get up and have hot water from the fire for tea and coffee in the “7’s” (7-8am), breakfast in the “8’s” (8-9am) and pack camp to get on the water in the “9’s” (9-10am) or “10’s” (10-11am). Our helpful client Mike was often the first one up the in the mornings at 5am – he had the fire started as the rest of us stirred awake from under the midnight sun.
During our canoe trip, we bonded as a team, 10 clients and 2 guides out there together in a vast, pristine wilderness. Everyone chipped in for camp chores such as collecting firewood or doing the dishes. The Jackpine Paddle guides preparing amazing dishes every meal, like a lasagna baked with coals in a dutch oven, or cinnamon buns for breakfast! We caught fresh lake trout several times on the trip, with the flesh a bright orange, similar to wild salmon.
The immensity of the barrens is difficult to capture in photos or in words. It feels like you are on top of a mountain, but at ground level. You look around a view a vast landscape in all directions, so binoculars are recommended. There are ample opportunities to spot wildlife, on our trip we spotted Arctic wolves on two occasions, one of them a close encounter!
Here are some highlights of canoe tripping on the Thelon River:
Spectacular Scenery
The Thelon River flows through the heart of the Barren Lands, a vast expanse of tundra, hills, and lakes that stretches from northern Manitoba to the Arctic Ocean. The landscape is breathtaking, with wide-open skies, rolling hills, and sparkling waters. Paddling down the Thelon River, you’ll see panoramic views of the surrounding landscape that few people ever get to experience.
Wildlife Encounters
The Thelon River is home to rare arctic wildlife, such as muskoxen, arctic wolves, and barrenland grizzlies. It’s also home to one of the largest bird sanctuaries in North America, with thousands of geese, ducks, and other birds nesting along the river. While paddling on the Thelon, you’ll have the opportunity to see these creatures up close and in their natural habitats.
Remote Camping
The Thelon River is located in a remote area of northern Canada, far from any towns or cities. This means that camping along the river is a truly wilderness experience. There are no campgrounds or facilities, so you’ll need to bring everything you need with you. However, the solitude and beauty of the river make the effort worthwhile.
Cultural Significance
The Thelon River has been a significant cultural site for the indigenous Dene *& Inuit people for thousands of years. Many of the rapids and landmarks along the river have traditional names and stories associated with them. It is also a designated Canadian Heritage River.
Below is a selection of our other Canadian Arctic Wilderness Trips, including the Thelon River. You can click on the links below to learn more about each trip!
Questions about our adventures? Give us a call at 1-867-445-4512!
