A unique way to celebrate Canada's 150th birthday

A nation emerged in the wake of birchbark canoes, the engines of the fur trade—Canada’s first industry. The canoe epitomizes our history. What better way to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary than to paddle the voyageur highway?

Naturally Superior Adventures’ Lake Superior Voyageur Canoe Brigade consists of six guided, all-inclusive wilderness adventures by 36-foot replicas of the North West Company’s “canots de maître.” These canoes are seaworthy and easy to paddle for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

Each leg of the journey will consist of up to 12 participants (“milieu” in voyageur speak) and experienced guides. Starting July 2 in Lake Superior Provincial Park, each brigade will travel five- to 10-day legs, finishing August 19 at Old Fort William Historical Park, near Thunder Bay.

The Lake Superior Voyageur Canoe Brigade commemorates Canada’s rich canoeing history on The Great Trail. The route follows the same rugged shoreline that mesmerized the French Canadian voyageurs two centuries ago. Artist Frances Anne Hopkins immortalized this unknown wilderness and hearty lifestyle; 200 years later, the land and water remain virtually unchanged.

Here are three highlights on the 2017 Lake Superior Voyageur Canoe Brigade:

#1: Paddle with the Happy Camper 

Celebrate Canada Day with a voyageur canoe trip on the wild coastline of Lake Superior Provincial Park—with popular canoeing personality and author Kevin Callan (aka The Happy Camper). This six-day trip has a little bit of everything: Stunning sand beaches, rugged headlands, great hiking, and camping in secluded coves.

#2: Becky Mason on the Pukaskwa

Join the daughter of legendary Canadian canoeist, filmmaker and artist Bill Mason on this 10-day journey into the heart of Lake Superior’s greatest wilderness. Becky is an acclaimed canoe instructor, painter, and environmentalist who carries on her father’s legacy.

#3: En Route to the Great Rendezvous

There’s no better guest than Thunder Bay-based singer-songwriter and historian Rodney Brown for the final leg of the journey, which ends at enchanting Fort William Historical Park—a recreated fur trade post where time stands still.

Each leg of the brigade has its own appeal. Group of Seven art historian Michael Burtch joins the voyage through the austere landscapes of Lawren Harris Country on the North Shore.

The trip then explores the mystical Rossport Islands; and author Darrell Makin of Lakehead University guides the journey to the lonely island lighthouses of the remote waters of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area.

Join us this summer—each trip promises to be an experience you’ll never forget. Learn more.

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