Birchbark Expeditions is a Nationally Accredited week-long, fully guided high adventure canoe experience in Algonquin Provincial Park, steeped in the rich Age of Exploration history of Upper Canada.  Operated by volunteers from the Great Falls Scout Council, the program is open to Scouts BSA and Venture Scouts at least 13 years old by the time of deposit, and must be a "blue swimmer" according to the SBSA Swim Assessment. They should have also earned First Class scout rank by the time of their trip. Algonquin Adventure Expeditions take place in Ontario Canada's Algonquin Provincial Park and offers world-class canoe tripping among the thousands of lakes and unspoiled wilderness.   

Participants traveling to Canada will need a passport, passport card or Enhanced Drivers License. Youth will also need a permission slip, (a completed and signed Informed Consent and Health Form with parents signature(s), address and phone number)

Expeditions start on Saturday in Algonquin's Whitefish Group Campground. Here crews will meet their highly-trained Voyageur Guide for the duration of our trip. Sunday morning, crews will take the opportunity to visit the Algonquin Visitor Centre or Logging Museum.  Upon returning to base camp, crews will organize equipment, practice some water rescue techniques and get rested for an early launch on Monday morning. Crews are provisioned with all necessary back country food and crew equipment, including: canoes, paddles, PFDs, tents and cooking equipment.  Each participant must bring some basic high-adventure personal equipment.

Monday through Friday have crews following their custom pre-planned itinerary through the pristine lakes and forests of the Algonquin interior, enjoying the incredible views, wildlife and camaraderie.

Crews return to base camp on Friday afternoon, clean up their crew gear, visit one of the local outfitters to pick up some souvenirs, and get some rest for their drive home.  Crews depart early Saturday morning for home.

Crews from outside the Buffalo/Niagara area are encouraged to add a visit to Niagara Falls, Fort Niagara, or the Buffalo Naval & Military Park if they are staying in the Western New York Area on the way or back from their trip.   

Program:

In addition to the standard expedition outlined above, Birchbark Expeditions also offers optional enhanced program elements, including:

• Canoeing Merit Badge
• Paddlecraft Safety Certification
• ACA - American Canoe Association Training
• Leave No Trace

Sponsors & Supporters

Birchbark Expeditions would not be able to operate with the financial support and contributions from our sponsors and community of supporters.   Thanks to all of you for making the program possible!

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