About Moose River – Paddle to the North Program
Embark on a seven-day wilderness expedition through Canada's remote James Bay Lowlands on the historic Moose River. Your adventure begins with a scenic ride on the iconic Polar Bear Express train, which carries you north into the heart of the Boreal forest to Moose River Crossing. From there, you'll spend four days paddling through calm, pristine waters, exploring gypsum caves, navigating gentle swifts, and camping on gravel bars while immersed in one of North America's most significant northern estuaries.
This is far more than a paddling trip—it's a journey through Canadian history and Indigenous heritage. The Moose River region is tied to the fur trade, early European settlement, and the traditional territories of the Cree and Moose Cree Nations. Midway through your expedition, you'll camp at the confluence of the Abitibi and Moose Rivers, where you may meet Wayne, a local Moosonee resident and MHO friend, who shares extensive knowledge of the area. The trip culminates in Moose Factory, one of the historic James Bay towns, where local Indigenous friends will share their culture with you and may even arrange a motorboat excursion to Ship Sands Island at the mouth of James Bay.
You'll experience the complete wilderness lifestyle: all meals are provided (from dinner on Day 1 through dinner on Day 7), you'll sleep in comfortable tents with thermarests, and professional guides manage all group equipment and safety protocols, including SAT phones and comprehensive first aid and rescue kits. Hotel accommodations bookend your adventure on nights one and seven, ensuring comfort before and after your paddling days. On Night 1, you'll even enjoy dinner at a local establishment to begin building connections with the region.
The moderate skill level means this expedition is accessible to paddlers with basic experience, yet rewarding for those seeking authentic wilderness adventure. Weather permitting, you may witness the northern lights illuminating the night sky—a magical bonus to your journey. Throughout the trip, you'll paddle alongside professional guides who understand both the technical aspects of wilderness navigation and the cultural significance of the land you're exploring, offering context and stories that deepen your appreciation of this remarkable region.
This expedition combines stunning natural beauty, rich cultural immersion, and the adventure of a lifetime. You'll return home with new paddling skills, lasting friendships with fellow adventurers, unforgettable memories of pristine wilderness, and a profound connection to Canada's north and the Indigenous peoples whose home this is.