Ever feel the call of the wild? Last year, Gordana and I recently experienced a place where nature roars, culture whispers ancient wisdom, and adventure pulses through every snowy trail. Get ready to discover Kanatha-Aki in Quebec!!
In this newsletter, I'll share my thrilling dog sledding adventure, practical tips for exploring Quebec's wilderness, the rising trend of immersive travel, fantastic getaway deals, and a review of gear that kept me warm on the trail.
Bucket List Item # 364: My Dog Sledding Dream Come True
Imagine the crisp air biting at your face, the exhilarating rush of wind through your dreads (hair), and the powerful team of Huskies surging forward. That was my reality at Kanatha-Aki! I've always dreamed of dog sledding, and this experience exceeded every expectation.
The dogs' energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and I felt an incredible connection with them. But the real connection was between our “musher” Brandon and his dogs! He knew each dog inside out. Specific connections that he can trace back through their lineage—traits, quirks, behaviour, personality.
During the breaks of rest along the trail, he told us about what goes into choosing the lead dogs! They possess intelligence, confidence, a strong work ethic, and leadership qualities. They understand commands, make independent decisions, and motivate the rest of the team.
Gliding through the snowy Quebec landscape, at times over frozen lakes, I felt a profound sense of freedom and a deep appreciation for nature's power and beauty. It was more than just a ride; it was an immersion into a world where the wild still reigns.
Travel Tips & Tricks for Exploring Quebec's Wilderness:
Embrace the Silence: Kanatha-Aki's founder, Stephane, emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from city stress and appreciating the silence of the wilderness. Take time to listen to nature truly – you'll be amazed at what you discover. As one of the hosts says, "We're here to reconnect people with nature, to teach them to listen again.”
Dress in Layers: Quebec winters are no joke! Pack thermal underwear, fleece jackets, and a waterproof outer layer to stay warm and comfortable during outdoor activities.
Respect Indigenous Culture: Although Kanatha-Aki is not indigenous-owned, it tries to incorporate Indigenous culture. Please take the opportunity to learn about their traditions, history, and connection to the land. Dog sledding, for example, has been crucial to Indigenous cultures for ages.
Travel Trends: Immersive & Transformative Travel
Today's travellers crave more than just sightseeing; they seek immersive experiences that connect them to nature and culture. Kanatha-Aki perfectly embodies this trend, offering opportunities to engage with indigenous traditions, explore the wilderness, and disconnect from the digital world. This type of transformative travel leaves a lasting impact, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world. Kanatha-Aki offers a wide range of activities, including:
Dog sledding adventures, Horse-Back Riding, Hanging out with Bison etc
Wildlife observation
Canoeing and kayaking
Overnight stays in traditional dwellings like tepees and prospector tents.
Fishing: (fly, ice, hand, traditional)
Travel Gear Review: Keeping Warm on the Trail
My absolute must-have gear for this trip included both a great parka and great pants.
First, the Arc'teryx Therme Parka. This parka was an absolute champion against the Quebec cold. It’s so ridiculously warm that when in Toronto, I can get away with wearing just a T-shirt. It has down insulation and keeps me dry with its Gore-Tex outer layer. It’s great for both outdoor adventures and city wear. The hood is adjustable and very warm. It is expensive but a very high-quality item, an investment that you’ll only ever buy once.
Secondly, I relied heavily on my MEC Synergy Gore-Tex Alpine Pants. These pants were a game-changer! Their Gore-Tex construction kept me completely dry and windproof, which was essential while dog sledding. The reinforced knees and seat added durability, and the side zips allowed for easy ventilation when I started to heat up. Which I always do. They are very comfortable and allow for plenty of layering underneath. I highly recommend these pants for any winter adventure.
Be sure to listen to or watch the entire episode. I hope this inspires you to try something new and embrace the thrill of wilderness adventure!
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