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We explore eight spectacular hiking trails across North and South America, from Panama's bird-filled cloud forests to Chile's iconic Patagonian peaks. Each trail offers unique experiences during winter months when Canadians are seeking warmer destinations for outdoor adventures.

• Sendero Los Quetzales in Panama - a moderate 9km one-way trail through lush cloud forest with stunning volcano views
• Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala - experience nighttime eruptions from a neighboring active volcano
• Pico Duarte in Dominican Republic - the Caribbean's highest peak featuring diverse ecosystems from tropical to alpine forests
• Torres del Paine West Trek in Chile - iconic Patagonian 80km loop with granite peaks and glaciers
• Huayna Potosí in Bolivia - one of the "easiest" 6,000-meter peaks requiring basic mountaineering skills
• Laguna 69 in Peru - trek to a stunning turquoise glacial lake at 4,500m elevation
• Roraima Trek in Venezuela - climb one of the world's oldest tabletop mountains with bizarre rock formations
• The O Circuit in Chile - a challenging 130km alternative to the West Trek with more remote landscapes

Please reach out to us anytime at [email protected]. Like, subscribe, share and we will talk to you again soon.

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Rob Spence, known to many as "Rob in the Outside," shares his profound journey of finding salvation through nature after hitting rock bottom. Following his mother's passing and a difficult divorce, Rob discovered that kayaking, fishing, and wilderness exploration quite literally saved his life – transforming his darkest moments into a passionate outdoor lifestyle that now defines him.

The conversation takes us through Rob's evolution as an outdoorsman, from his early days spending dawn to dusk on the water fishing for bass and pike, to his more recent obsession with fly fishing. "Until you get into it and get into a river and hook a big one and fight – it's hard to explain where the passion comes from," Rob explains, his enthusiasm palpable as he describes the thrill of battling brook trout on a fly rod.

We explore Rob's deeply thoughtful approach to hunting, which stems from a desire for self-sufficiency and ethically-sourced food. Unlike trophy hunting, Rob ensures every part of his harvested animals serves a purpose – from feeding his family and his dog Kiva to using hides for crafting and fly-tying materials. He candidly shares his three-year journey of learning deer behavior before successfully harvesting his first one, showing the depth of respect and knowledge that guides his practice.

Perhaps most compelling is Rob's raw honesty about the psychological impact of wilderness immersion. He describes the almost depressive state he experiences when returning from extended backcountry trips – a testament to nature's profound effect on his wellbeing. "I love coming back to my family, to the dog, everything else. I hate coming back to everything that's outside of this house," he admits, capturing the sentiment many wilderness enthusiasts feel but rarely articulate.

Whether you're an experienced outdoorsperson or someone curious about the healing potential of nature, Rob's story offers both practical knowledge and emotional insight into how the wilderness can transform lives. Follow Rob's adventures on Instagram @Rob_in_the_outside and YouTube as "Rob in the Outside" – and discover how connecting with nature might change your own perspective.

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Ever wondered what makes wildlife photography truly ethical? Jesse Villemaire takes us deep into the heart of this question, revealing how respecting wildlife comes before capturing the perfect shot. As co-founder of Follow Me North with his wife Susan, Jesse shares captivating stories from Algonquin Park's wilderness and South African safaris while unveiling the philosophy that guides their intimate photography workshops.

"The wildlife comes first, the photo comes next," Jesse emphasizes, explaining how maintaining proper distance and understanding animal behavior creates not just better photographs, but more meaningful encounters. Through heartfelt examples—including a devastating story about a habituated wolf—he illustrates why "baiting" wildlife causes harm that far outweighs any photographic benefit.

Jesse's personal journey from tattoo studio owner in Cambridge to wildlife photographer in Muskoka reveals how nature became his essential reset button. The story of meeting his wife through Instagram's Algonquin Park hashtag (culminating in their wedding on an island in Lake of Two Rivers) demonstrates how shared passion for wilderness can forge life's most meaningful connections. Their volunteer work with Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary further showcases their commitment to conservation beyond the lens.

From their viral "Santa in a Red Canoe" series to their humorous "Sorry Algonquin" Instagram project pairing stunning images with one-star park reviews, Jesse's creative approach invites others into nature's beauty with both reverence and playfulness. His South African photo tours—where participants might find themselves surrounded by 21 lions—offer transformative experiences that "change you" on a fundamental level.

Ready to experience wildlife photography through a more mindful lens? Listen now and discover how connecting with nature might just help you connect more deeply with yourself and others along the way.

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Lace up your hiking boots and join us as we trek across the breathtaking landscapes of Canada! From the misty coastal paths of British Columbia to the craggy eastern shores of Newfoundland, we're exploring ten of Canada's most spectacular hiking trails that belong on every outdoor enthusiast's bucket list.

Our journey begins with the legendary West Coast Trail in BC, where we share insights from friends who conquered this challenging 75km adventure featuring cable cars, ladders, and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. The trail's lottery system makes it exclusive, but we'll tell you why it's worth trying your luck. We then head east to Alberta's mountain wonderland, exploring both the glacier-studded Berg Lake Trail beneath towering Mount Robson and the ridge-walking paradise of Jasper's Skyline Trail, where snow lingers into June but rewards summer hikers with breathtaking alpine vistas.

Not every remarkable Canadian trail requires expert-level skills. We highlight the accessible Plain of Six Glaciers near Lake Louise with its historic tea house, the culturally significant Grey Owl's Cabin Trail in Manitoba, and the moderate Les Loops Trail offering spectacular views near Quebec City. For those seeking true wilderness challenges, we venture into the remote Arctic landscape of Akshayuk Pass in Nunavut, where towering peaks and extreme conditions create an unforgettable 97km adventure available only during the brief summer window. The maritime provinces shine with New Brunswick's Fundy Footpath tracing the world's highest tides and Newfoundland's extensive East Coast Trail showcasing puffin colonies, icebergs, and the easternmost point in North America.

Whether you're planning your next backpacking expedition or simply dreaming of Canada's natural wonders, these trails showcase the remarkable diversity of our outdoor playground. Each path offers unique experiences, from wildlife encounters to historical connections like the La Cloche trail that inspired Group of Seven painters. Have you hiked any of these Canadian gems? Email us at [email protected] to share your own trail tales or questions about exploring the great Canadian wilderness.

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Jeff McMurtrie returns to our podcast with exciting news about his meticulously crafted wilderness maps that have transformed how paddlers experience Ontario's backcountry. Having spent over 700 days exploring these waterways, Jeff brings unparalleled expertise to his cartography – revealing hidden gems that most travelers miss and preventing potentially frustrating navigational errors.

The newest additions to his collection include updated Killarney and French River maps with 50% more detail, innovative portage elevation profiles, and an extensive catalog of points of interest. Perhaps most exciting is the announcement of a refreshed Temagami map coming this summer and a new East French River map that completes the coverage from Georgian Bay to Lake Nipissing when combined with his other maps.

What makes these maps special goes beyond their accuracy. Jeff's thoughtful design elements – like showing creek width proportional to reality and using distinctive "penciled in" styling for extremely challenging routes – reflect his deep understanding of what paddlers actually need on the water. The maps document everything from waterfalls and swimming holes to historic sites and spring water sources, creating what Jeff calls "that extra dimension" that transforms a good trip into an unforgettable one.

Each physical map purchase includes digital versions in five different formats (high-resolution JPEG, Avenza Maps with GPS functionality, Garmin GPS, Google Earth 3D, and GeoTIFF), ensuring paddlers can use them however best suits their style. Jeff shares that user feedback has been invaluable in refining these resources – from identifying changed conditions to suggesting new features that improve usability.

Whether you're planning your first backcountry trip or your fiftieth, these maps provide both essential navigation tools and unexpected discoveries. Check out mapsbyjeff.com or visit your local outdoor retailer to get your hands on these game-changing wilderness guides before your next paddling adventure.

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Kevin Callan, the Happy Camper, returns to share the remarkable journey of publishing his 20th book – a children's story called "A Spark of Courage." After multiple rejections from major publishers who couldn't see the market for a book about nature helping anxiety in youth, Kevin took matters into his own hands with passionate determination.

The book follows Paul, an anxious pre-teen reluctant to embark on a canoe trip with his Uncle Roy. Through beautifully illustrated pages created by Cliff McArdle, we witness Paul's transformation from a nervous, screen-dependent kid to someone who embraces wilderness experiences. What makes the story unique is how woodland creatures secretly guide and teach both Paul and his uncle throughout their adventure.

Kevin's decision to self-publish reveals the changing landscape of publishing and the obstacles authors face when trying to share meaningful messages. From navigating print-on-demand services to dealing with third-party sellers attempting to list his unreleased book at inflated prices, the journey demonstrates how passion can overcome traditional gatekeepers. Though self-publishing means taking on all marketing and distribution responsibilities, it provides significantly higher royalties and creative control.

Throughout our conversation, Kevin shares insights from his decades teaching youth in outdoor settings: "We just have to take them in the woods for a long period of time and they become who they are. It's magical." This firsthand experience of nature's transformative power drives his mission to reach young readers struggling with anxiety in our increasingly digital world.

Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's mental health, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone curious about publishing alternatives, this episode offers wisdom, humor, and inspiration. Grab a copy of "A Spark of Courage" at Canadian Outdoor Equipment or your favorite retailer, and follow Kevin's upcoming adventures as he balances book tours with his beloved wilderness trips.

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Curtis LaFleche's life changed dramatically at age 16 when he was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis – a condition that causes spinal fusion and threatened his athletic pursuits. Rather than surrendering to limitations, this diagnosis sparked an unexpected journey into the wilderness that transformed his life.

"I just started walking down the ski trails," Curtis recalls, "and then I fell in love with hiking... seeing birds for the first time I didn't know existed and these plants." What began as rehabilitation became a profound connection with nature that would shape his future career in forestry and conservation, where he made conscious decisions to protect wildlife habitats and riparian zones while managing logging operations.

Now 46, Curtis embraces outdoor adventures with a wisdom born from decades managing chronic pain. His upcoming 15-day solo canoe expedition through Ontario's Temagami region represents both a physical challenge and a deeply meaningful journey. Beginning on Gamble Lake, where he planted trees 25 years ago, and ending at Emerald Lake, where his partner's family has scattered ashes of loved ones, the 160-kilometer route creates a perfect circle in his life story.

Curtis shares his meticulous planning process – from creating detailed spreadsheets tracking gear weight to dehydrating trail meals and calculating necessary daily calories. His "nothing but time" philosophy prioritizes enjoyment and safety over covering distance. "If I have to triple carry, I don't care," he explains. "I'm going to pull out my camera and watch birds and take three carries and spend two hours on the trail."

Beyond his personal adventures, Curtis finds joy in introducing his teenage daughters to the backcountry, carefully balancing challenge with comfort. "I think someday they're going to find solace in the forest," he reflects, recognizing how his own wilderness connection began during life's challenges.

Ready to embark on your own wilderness journey? Follow Curtis (@notsoepicdventurers) on Instagram and YouTube to witness his upcoming Temagami adventure and discover how nature can transform challenge into opportunity.

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We're on a mission to inspire others to get outside and enjoy camping adventures, and today we're exploring some of Ontario's favorite hiking spots that range from easy day trips to challenging wilderness experiences.

• The Crack Trail in Killarney Provincial Park features spectacular views over the La Cloche Mountains with white granite outcroppings
• Bruce Trail near Lion's Head offers views of turquoise water that looks almost tropical, with its own dedicated hiking community
• Centennial Ridges and Mizzy Lake trails in Algonquin Provincial Park provide multiple viewpoints and wildlife sighting opportunities
• Cup and Saucer Trail on Manitoulin Island features some of the best cliff top views overlooking Lake Huron's North Channel
• Sleeping Giant Provincial Park's Top of the Giant trail is challenging but rewards with spectacular views 250 meters above Lake Superior
• Barren Canyon Trail offers dramatic views of a 100-meter deep canyon in a short, easy 1.5km loop
• Hardy Lake Loop in Muskoka provides a peaceful wilderness experience without crowds
• Silver Peak in Killarney requires canoeing to access but offers 360-degree views from the highest point in the park
• Devil's Punch Bowl near Hamilton features a dramatic waterfall and millions of years of geological history in an easy hike

If you would like to talk to us, feel free to reach out on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Blue Sky, Twitter, or email us at [email protected].

Note: The Algonquin kilometer markers run along Highway 60 from the West Gate to the East Gate.

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Tyler Chilabecki's love affair with the Saskatchewan wilderness began with a fishing rod in his hand at just three years old. Now, as the creator behind the YouTube channel Puddle Jumper, he's on a mission to shatter stereotypes about his home province one paddle stroke at a time.

"Everyone thinks of Saskatchewan as flat prairies and wheat," Tyler explains with the weariness of someone who's heard it once too often. "But half our province is boreal forest and Canadian Shield." This northern wilderness forms the backdrop for his solo paddling adventures, which range from weekend trips to epic three-week journeys through some of Canada's most untouched waterways.

What makes Saskatchewan's backcountry uniquely appealing is the profound solitude it offers. While popular parks like Algonquin might have portage trails "like superhighways" with paddlers carrying coolers and boxes of wine, Tyler describes paddling for 12 days in Northern Saskatchewan without seeing another soul. Even in the province's "busier" paddling areas around Missinipi on the Churchill River, traffic is minimal compared to other Canadian paddling destinations.

The geological diversity adds another layer of fascination. In the "Pelican Window" area, paddlers can find three-billion-year-old Precambrian rock formations that create dramatic landscapes unlike anything you'd expect from Saskatchewan. Tyler's eyes light up describing the Athabasca Sand Dunes, Hunt Falls (the province's largest waterfall), and ancient pictographs along historic voyageur routes that connect the province's vast network of lakes and rivers.

For those inspired to explore Saskatchewan's hidden waterways, Tyler recommends connecting with local outfitters and using resources like GoTrekker maps. Many routes remain undocumented, requiring paddlers to study satellite imagery and topographic maps – adding an element of genuine exploration to each trip. As Tyler puts it: "There's so much to explore here and so much that's undocumented. That's where I keep my focus – trying to document these different routes that no one really knows about."

Ready for a paddling adventure that defies expectations? Follow Tyler's journeys on the Puddle Jumper YouTube channel and discover the Saskatchewan that tourists never see.

https://www.youtube.com/@puddlejumper-sk

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Do you know how to build a campfire?

Can you make some shelter?

Can you patch yourself up if you get hurt?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you will have a better chance to survive a natural disaster or outdoor activity gone wrong.

If you answered no, get out and camp more ;)

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