A very long day, indeed! It was a long day that started with a “very short night” for some of our participants. “Short night” for two reasons: first, we got up at 6:30 a.m. again, but a short night also because managing floor mats, sleeping bags and ventilation in a tent is an acquired skill! So, at breakfast time on the shores of the river, Mario shares a number of trade secrets so the next night will be more relaxing. He also takes this opportunity to give a pep talk to mentally prepare us for this second day of the expedition, a stretch of some 322 kilometers. (Sorry, typo: should be 32 kilometers…)
Again, we’re blessed with a wonderful sunny day, and a warm southwestern breeze to our backs! In the early kilometres, we had to face Cedar Rapids and Long Rapids, both class 1 rapids, but we’re pros now, so no sweat! As we go downriver, the good humour is obvious: giggles, water fights, and sign songs break the silence of the forest.
Early afternoon, we’re face with a major obstacle: Sun Rapids, Class 2, not really technical but the waves could flood our canoes. So we opt for our first portage, over 450 metres long to bypass the rushing waters and continue our descent towards Barrel Rapids, another Class 2 we navigate in our canoes. A river otter tells us in no uncertain terms that we are not welcome on her territory…
No matter the near perfect weather, it was a long day… A very long day. So we make a welcome pause under a railway bridge the only sign of human presence over our 9-day expedition.
We elected to stop on a lovely rocky headland overlooking Peterbell Marsh, a peat land with warm, nearly tropical, water, perfect for a swim. Also a quasi-miraculous fishing spot, the pikes just about line up to be caught; they are complemented by three juicy walleyes. And, we’re blessed with a front-row seat for the glorious sunset. The only down side to this paradise: the mosquitoes!!!! Matt, a ten-year veteran guide on the Missinaibi, says he’s never seen so many. The best way to prevent the mosquitoes, a dive in the river! It’s now 10:20 PM and I’m just about ready to join the others in the warm water, away from the muggy weather, under the setting rays of the northern sun…