Registration for this trip is through Black Feather - The Wilderness Adventure Company. Click here to register.
Beginning on the shores of Finlayson Lake in the Yukon, we will fly to Ǫtaa Tué Fehto (Divide Lake) and spend the next week paddling 150km of excellent Class I-II whitewater with a couple sections of Class III. The end of the trip will see us cross from Nááts’įhch’oh National Park into Nahanni National Park, ending at Gahnįhthah Mįe (Rabbitkettle Lake), where we will meet our flight back to Finlayson.
The Broken Skull Packraft Expedition is a chance to learn, build skills and paddle a stunning, remote wilderness river. Participants on this trip will develop skills to organize and lead packrafting trips and expeditions. We’ll cover topics including trip planning, permitting, logistics, shuttles, food planning and preparation, pack lists, Leave No Trace, group dynamics and much more.
Paddlers on the trip will be fully engaged members of the expedition team, carrying food and gear, helping with camp set-up and tear down, participating in daily planning meetings, setting river running strategy and much more. We will host a 1.5 hr zoom call ahead of the trip to help get this process rolling and bring you into the planning early.
On the river, average daily travel distance will vary. The goal is ample time on the water while also allowing time for instruction, side hikes and much more. Click here to register.
Note: Cancellations for this trip will adhere to Black Feather's policy. Click here to read more.
Some packrafting experience is an asset but not required. Participants in this course are able to join an Ascent packrafting course at 50% discount before this trip if interested.
Topics that we'll cover during the 10 day expedition include:
Participants can use their own gear or rentals can be arranged. A detailed packing list will be provided.
This trip is perfect for recreational packraft enthusiasts looking to take their skill to the next level and gain the knowledge necessary to comfortably take on and create their own packraft adventures! If you're a new or experienced packrafter looking to build skills and knowledge and an adventurous person willing to adjust to anything that nature may throw at us, this is the trip for you!
(Exact mileage and goals subject to change, but start/end are more established).
July 10 - Arrive in Whitehorse
July 11 - Fly from Finlayson Lake to Divide Lake. Possible side hike if time allows. Participants are responsible for their travel to Finlayson Lake, shuttle can be arranged for an additional fee.
July 12 - Morning safety review & paddle to Broken Skull confluence
July 13 - Paddle to Three Valley Confluence
July 14 - Hike Ridge & Paddle to Broken Skull Hot Springs
July 15 - Paddle to Grizzly Bear Creek
July 16 - Hot Springs hike, layover or short paddle day
July 17-20 - Paddle to Rabbit Kettle Lake & Fly Out
What is included: Guiding and instructional costs, group equipment (fire-pan, tarps, etc.), group first aid kit, communications devices, flights into and out of the park, food. For participants requiring them, we can provide drysuits, PFDs & helmets as well as shared tent accommodations.
What is not included: Packraft & paddle (rentals are available), personal snacks/drinks, park fees, gratuity, personal clothing and equipment, transportation from Whitehorse to Finlayson Lake.
A full gear list will be provided to trip participants.
