Story: World Class Paddling

When choosing to paddle the Bowron Chain of Lakes Circuit you are committing your self to 70 miles of ever changing waters. You enter the circuit as part of societies rat race, hurrying to the next campsite, ready to stake your claim. However by the time you leave, Bowron has invited you to relax and be at peace with the beauty life has to offer.

Life is simple on the Bowron. All you need to do is paddle, set up your tent, eat, make a campfire and enjoy the company and surroundings. There are no distractions. Television, cell phones, computers have no purpose or need. The troubles of the world are left behind and replaced with calm and complete silence. The Bowron is definitely the place to go to get away from it all.

The simple rhythm of paddling a canoe or kayak calms oneself. During each stroke you watch the boat glide through the water knowing that your energy alone is taking you through this vast wilderness. You look forward to seeing what is around the next bend and are always watching the shore for the mighty grizzly bear. If you are lucky you may also spot a black bear or moose. However most of the time you just hear the calls of many varieties of birds: eagles, loons, ducks, geese and others.

There are many campsites throughout the circuit. Each has its own personality. Some are like rain forests where you set up you tent on a soggy sponge of moss and wet grass. Others provide the perfect spot to pitch your tent on the sandy beach. Each campsite has a fire pit for all to share. This creates the perfect environment for late night talks with new friends, as you keep warm. Conversations progress from one topic to another easily and usually end shortly after dark. Bedtime is early on the Bowron.

If you are lucky and you stay up until past dark, you may have the opportunity to experience the Northern Lights in all its glory. Watching the sky change and dance with color is an amazing sight.

Most meals eaten on the Bowron are the simple camping variety. Many bring dehydrated - just add boiling water meals. Others cook “crème filled” pancakes on a simple one burner stove. However, some paddlers treat themselves to T-bone steaks by campfire their 4th night out. It is up to you to choose what extras you are willing to carry and manage.

Each morning if different on the Bowron. Some days you wake to mist floating across the lake as the sky fills with ever-changing colors. Other mornings the sky is full of black and white contrasting clouds as the sun comes up. After breakfast you load your boat with all your belongings once again and continue paddling to your new destination.

As your trip nears the end you begin to reflect on what the Bowron has shown you. The combination of the beautiful scenery, the wildlife, the ever-changing weather and the people has changed your outlook on life ever so slightly. You have had a chance to clear your mind of your everyday worries and stresses. You return home knowing that there is a place in the world where you can relax and be at peace with yourself.