B.C. Canoe Tripping- Murtle Lake

After hearing that the largest canoe-only lake in North America was just eight hours away, a trip was planned and greatly anticipated. Paddling is a great passion of mine, but it has been put on the back-burner since moving west. With so many mountains to climb and valleys to explore, there hasn’t been time to plan an extended backcountry canoe trip. While we planned for this trip I found myself thinking back to the endless snaking lake systems of northern Ontario and the world-class canoe routes that are singular to the area. I was excited for the trip in BC, but I knew it wouldn't be the same.

However, after two days of paddling and taking in the endless views of British Columbia's lush, rolling mountains, it was exciting to turn a corner and come face-to-face with the steep, pyramid shaped peak that is Murtle Mountain. It almost seemed out of place, as if it was plucked from Canmore and set down in B.C. More stunning views came on our third day after paddling through a small marsh. I was astounded by the perfect reflection of the mountains and the vibrant colours of the forest. To say I was awestruck would be an understatement.

This trip combined two of my deepest passions; the physicality and calm of canoe tripping with the epic scenery and exploration of the Canadian Rockies. It has certainly sparked a craving for more Western Canada canoe trips, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada

E-M5MarkII

12.0-100.0 mm f/4.0

12mm, f4, 1/1600, ISO 200