This was our last day in this wonderful national park. And what a day it was! After a quasi-tropical night (-35C), the sun was shining in the morning, ideal weather to complete our igloo, which we started yesterday. The participants were veryproud as you can see in the official photo, with the Foundation’s flag no less!
After one last look at our igloo, we’re headed to the Reception area, the starting point of our four-kilometre ride to our vantage point at 350 metres. As we get ready, Mehdi “Blade” Manda, the lucky dog, finds himself with four women at his feet to strap in his snowshoes. No trace left of the cold night; is it the warm weather or the steep climb that incites us to take off our parkas? The effort was worth it as we are rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view that brings a sparkle in the participants’ eyes. We get down in the snow to enjoy our lunch of smoked salmon pasta, oatmeal cookies and hot chocolate as we play ‘Who are you?’ a game where each participant is bombarded with questions for two minutes as we get to know the person better. After this rather instructive little game, we’re headed for the Courtepointecabin where the adventurers are treated to a surprise supper. Hamburgers, Cole slaw, chips and soft drinks make Jérémy and the others happy as they were(rather)fed up of their daily bowl of soup. The last day at Monts-Valin ends with an emotional discussion around a piece of cheesecake. At bedtime we’re in a mixed state of mind of melancholy and excitement, as tomorrow will mark the end of our expedition with the long awaited dogsled ride.
Hero of the day: Sara who impressed us with her stamina, her positive attitude and her determination to climb all the way to the vantage point, and also because she got to the top without her parka and her mittens! We’re quite proud of you!
Our emotional moment: Today, Maxime El Fuego and Michel left us to return to their families. Thank you for you great gastronomic international cuisine, your vivacious good humour and your unbeatable sense of logistics! We’ll miss you!