Custom Journeys
Adventures AwaitDesolation Sound: 4 & 5 Day Kayak Journey
We are excited to welcome you to the beautiful area known as Desolation Sound. Desolation Sound is part of the traditional territories of the Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Homalco. The stunning scenery offered here is of mammoth mountains that dive into the sea, long fjords, snow capped mountain tops and hidden swimming holes. There are groups of islands to explore with some open oceans to navigate. The waters here are warmer than other places as this is where the ocean wraps around Vancouver Island from either side to connect. Wildlife here includes all the classics from Humpbacks to Orcas, seals, sealions, birds galore, Black Bears, the occasional Grey Wolf, and our frolicking Black Tailed Deer. Of course, the brilliance is knowing that they all are thriving where we paddle. Seeing them in their element is that extra bonus that we invite, that always feels like a gift, as we really never know what will reveal itself. We hope that the experience with Wild Root is also a highlight and encourage you to book and see.
Where We Paddle
We will start either in Lund or Okeover Provincial Park. This will be determined closer to the start date with weather for the upcoming days as a decision maker. The paddling range will include the possibilities of the Copeland Islands to Martin Island, the Curme Islands, and Tenedos Bay. Have a look at this map.
First Day
We will start the trip either in Lunk or Okeover Provincial Park. This will be determined closer to the start date with the weather for the upcoming days as a decision-maker. Collectively, we will load our kayaks with all of our personal and group gear. A kayak instructional will be delivered to ensure the group has a good understanding of paddling techniques and group travel. We will then either get going or eat lunch depending on group needs and timing. Depending on the weather we may choose a route following the Copeland Islands or up the Okeover Inlet. The first day will include 2-3 hours of paddling in the afternoon, before making our way to our first camp. All your meals, snacks, appetizers, and desserts for the trip will be prepared by the guides. You will have time to set up your tent and relax by the campfire, read a book, sip a glass of wine, or stroll the beaches upon arrival to our camp. We will have 3 person tents available with 2 person occupancy.
Mid Days
These will be full paddling days unless the weather tells us otherwise. Our days will include 2-3 hours of paddling before lunch and another 2-3 hours of paddling post lunch. The routes will vary as the guide considers the group, weather, and water conditions. We will likely switch camps twice to give the group a greater chance to see more of the islands and area. We will also likely have the opportunity to take in a short walk to a lake on one of our days.
Last Day
The final day will include a full morning paddle. We will have lunch, sort our gear back at our starting point. The trip will wrap up at 2-3pm (or as needed), with time to enjoy the rest of your day in the local community or catch a ferry to Vancouver Island or the Lower Mainland.
When & Where We Meet
We will meet at in Powell River the night before at 7pm at a given location. This meeting will take about 1 hour.
At this time we will review all pre-trip information, including morning departure – meeting place and time, appropriate clothing, itinerary, etc. We will also distribute dry bags, paddle jackets and water bottles for personal packing.
It is important for all participants to be present for the meeting. We find it very beneficial to the organization of the trip. We will also at this time fill out waivers and review any other medical concerns.
What is Included
- All kayaking and safety equipment
- Paddling jacket
- Camp chair
- Three dry bags for your personal belongings
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping mat
- All kitchen and fire gear
- All meals and snacks
Please ask about any extra rentals if needed
What to Bring
Clothing should include:
- 1 pair of shoes that can get wet and most importantly have grip. They need to have ankle support. I recommend runners, water shoes, Keen or Croc sandals. Closed toed shoes help against stubbing toes on rocks.
- A pair of rubber boots are optional. Perks include your feet staying dry entering and exiting the kayaks. Downside they can flood if a wave fills them. They can also be bulky to wear in a kayak or to store.
- 1 pair of shoes for land, after kayaking.
- 2-4 warm socks
- 2 shorts
- 1-2 pants
- Underwear
- 1 thermal underwear – like the underlays you might wear skiing.
- 3-4 shirts, short and long
- 1-2 sweaters, at least one very warm sweater recommended
- Rain jacket and rain pants
- Gloves if you easily get cold fingers
- 2 wool hats
- Sun hat
- Swimsuit - optional
No cotton/jeans. They become heavy and cold when wet. Synthetics are a better option such as fleece or polyester. These will warm with your body if wet.
Other Items Include:
- Sun glasses
- Glasses and Contacts. Consider a back up if one becomes lost or breaks.
- Toiletries – biodegradable soaps please.
- Baby wipes and a few band aids
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Headlamp
- SPF Chapstick
- Personal medications. Bring extra doses medication if is critical to you. Separate and duplicate, storing one set with a partner or guide. A trip can be cut short if there is not enough medication to keep a client safe.
- Water bottle. It nice to have a clip attached.
- Book. Keep in a ziplock bag
- Spirits. Alcohol may be consumed after the days kayaking only.
- Camera. Small waterproof cameras are great. If you have a larger SL camera a pelican case is a great way to keep it protected. Alternatively, a camera can be wrapped in a sweater and kept in a dry bag for protection.
- Small towel
- Extra batteries
- Ziplock bags
- Sleeping bag and/or mat if you prefer your own over ours.
Leave your watches and phones behind
Please contact us with any further questions at info@nullwildrootjourneys.com
Desolation Sound
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