Camping in the boreal forest in remote areas was a challenge for many participants. But, after only six days of expedition, some of them don’t even need a tent! Having developed an impressive comfort zone, it was, however, time to return to civilization.
The sun is not up yet, but the camp is active. Around the fire, Jean-Christophe, Diego, Madison, Gabrielle and Mario are lying comfortably in their sleeping bags, although the ground was soaked. “We have wanted to sleep in the open for several days. So, we took advantage of our last evening to do it, ‘says Jean-Christophe, recharged by the experience. On the last expedition day, we had to make an “Alpine” start, which means we had to leave very early to be able to reach Sept-Îles in the evening.
At 6:30 am, we get aboard our rafts to form a “megaraft” to travel the last section in of calm water as a team. The rising sun reflects on the long marsh grass that we must cross both feet in the mud to get to a portaging trail. After this little effort, we will have breakfast on the banks of the majestic Magpie gorges (also called the fourth fall).
That’s when we said goodbye to the rafts because the equipment is too heavy to be carried on a distance of 800 m! We must still carry the rest of the equipment, including six inflatable kayaks, to get to the nearest lake where six canoes are awaiting. Another first for many people! During the expedition, we will have been introduced to rafting, kayaking, rowing the board (stand-up paddle) and canoeing. An interesting array of crafts!
Nearly two hours later, we reach another obstacle: the Magpie Fall. To avoid this fall, we need to portage in rather difficult conditions since we must now carry the canoes. The hard work is worth it; the view is fantastic. “This is a world-class panorama” said Dany, the leader of the expedition. And he is absolutely right. We then take this opportunity for a light lunch before returning to face the final section of the expedition.
We finally arrive at our final destination, nearby a mini dam. Despite the pride of having descended the majestic Magpie, all participants seem to have a tug at the heart after experiencing emotions this strong. It will be difficult to part tomorrow in the late afternoon.
Mario Bilodeau, Co-Founder of the Foundation, being sad is not an option. “We made lots of new friends that we did not have just 10 days. We must take advantage of these new friendships and celebrate.”Celebrate friendship, that’s a good plan for our evening in Sept-Iles!