River Roots Junior is an intensive 29-day expedition program designed for dedicated young paddlers aged 15–17 who want to take their skills and leadership to the next level. You'll paddle over 530 kilometers down the legendary Missinaibi River, a Canadian Heritage River, navigating thrilling rapids, pristine wilderness, and breathtaking waterfalls. This is not a traditional camp experience—there's no in-camp downtime, meaning you'll maximize your time on the water growing as both a paddler and team leader. Throughout the journey, you'll earn three professional certifications: ORCKA Basic Canoeing Level 3, ORCKA Canoe Tripping Level 2, and Paddle Canada Intro to Moving Water Canoeing (Tandem), giving you recognized credentials in advanced paddling and expedition skills. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and meaningful leadership challenges that build confidence, resilience, and teamwork in real expedition conditions.

Beyond paddling, this program offers a rich cultural component that sets it apart. As your journey concludes in Moose Factory, you'll engage directly with local Cree and Moose Cree community members, learning about their culture, northern history, and life along James Bay. This immersive cultural experience provides a powerful perspective on the land and its people, deepening your connection to the wilderness and the communities that call it home. You'll stay at a hotel on the final night and participate in a banquet BBQ celebration with your family, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure.

The program is fully equipped and supported by professional guides who provide all necessary safety measures, including SAT phones, first aid kits, and rescue equipment. All meals from dinner on Day 1 through dinner on Day 29 are included, along with transportation to and from the river, group canoeing equipment, tents, and thermarests. Cultural programs with local guides in Moosonee and Moose Factory are integrated into the itinerary, and your journey includes train tickets on the iconic Polar Bear Express. By the end of this 29-day expedition, you'll leave with advanced paddling skills, leadership confidence, professional certifications, and memories from one of Canada's most iconic rivers. The program acknowledges that the Missinaibi and Moose Rivers flow through the traditional territories of the Cree and Moose Cree Nations, and participants are invited to experience this land as respectful visitors.