Kootenay River Trip 2014

After a full day of preparing and packing for the second Adventure Trip of the summer we were all ready to hit the road and head north.  We drove three and a half hours into British Columbia to arrive just an hour south of Banff National Park, in the Kootenay National Park.  We spent our first night on the banks of the river anticipating the next four days of freedom on the water.  

We put in at Mcleod Meadows on a perfect bluebird day reaching temperature upward of 90 degrees.  Needless to say, once the two oar frame rafts, single paddle raft, and two inflatable kayaks were rigged and we embarked on our marine journey, water wars abound!  Thanks to Natasha, one of our therapists, who brought several water guns for our drenching delight. 

Three nights and four days on the water later we have endless stories of instructors falling into the glacial water, girls working hard paddling "all forward", and each and every one of us getting way too much sun!  However, I am happy to boast that we had zero sunburns and did a great job to keep all group members hydrated and happy.  

Many girls' favorite moments included watching Tom, another therapist, take a plunge into the very cold Kootenay waters; they thoroughly enjoyed his surprised reaction.  Another favorite moment was arriving at the most beautiful oasis of a campsite on our last night on the river - filled with beautiful sandy beaches, cedar trees and a gorgeous limestone cliff face opposite our site on the river.  We were all in awe and very thankful for the inspiring beauty around us.  I speak for the group when I say that we all experienced a great deal of light hearted happiness, filled with good humor and a healthy dose of humility in our circles and conversations.  I could not be more delighted to have been a part of this great adventure!

~Ashton, Adventure Staff