Voyageur Quest

Voyageur Quest - final report

After six weeks, 1,400 km, and many frost days on the trail we've completed our winter journey. Our trip began in early February, following an old trail east from Cumberland House to The Pas, Man. From there, we wandered across northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan following trading routes that voyageurs had taken years ago.

Our team of seven dogs pulled the 600-pound toboggan loaded with camping supplies, food, Sally and me. The dogs worked with enthusiasm day after day, leaping with excitement every time we hooked them up. They particularly enjoyed the coldest days when temperatures dipped to ­35. We weren't quite as keen about the cold weather, but had memorable journey, settling into the rhythm of life on the trail, sitting by campfires, and sharing each day with our four-legged companions.

Like those before us, we wore moose-hide moccasins, wool clothes and colourful wool blanket coats. We slept in a canvas tent heated with a lantern, and cooked over open campfires each evening. Each night the dogs had a different bed, insulated with prickly spruce boughs, cane-like tall grass or on occasion, nothing at all.

When we started our journey, the dogs were familiar only with following well-traveled trails. When we arrived at lakes with no trail, the leader would imply stop because he didn't know what to do. Sally had to snowshoe ahead, making a path for him. By the end of our trip, the leader could cross lakes without a trail of any sort with only an occasional 'Gee' or 'Haw' from us.

As with previous adventures, we learned a great deal along the way. Teamwork helped us on those days when whiteouts, overflow, and deep snow slowed us down. Patience helped when the dogs were having a gad day. Although we'll miss our companions, we are happy to have found a good home for them with a family in Cumberland House.

All in all, it was a grand expedition: from building our canoe and paddling the voyageur waterways to dogsledding across the north.

- Ian and Sally Wilson