What to bring
(...and what not to bring)
All of the outdoor equipment necessary for a comfortable and exciting adventure will be provided for you, including canoes, paddles, life jackets, a boat safety kit, tents, sleeping bags, air mattresses (pillows and extra blankets too!), kitchen items (firewood, filtered drinking water, stove & fuel, pots, dishes and cutlery, etc.) but there are some items that you will need to bring with you:
What to bring:
Food - If you choose a package that does not include food, then you must provide your own food. We are happy to consult on food choices and packing tips. We are happy to provide replacement ice blocks for your cooler if necessary.
Clothing – We suggest a set of wet clothes (what you would wear during a day on the water) and a set of dry clothes. Most people end up wearing the same clothes each day, with a change of underclothes only. Blue jeans and other cotton based fabrics are highly discouraged because they hold moisture, rob the body of warmth once damp, and take a very long time to dry. There is a saying among campers and canoers: "Cotton kills!"
Don't forget to bring your bathing suit for enjoying the lake.
Personal Linens (Sleeping Bag Liner, Pillowcase(s), Towel & Washcloth) - We provide you with your sleeping bag, pillow, extra blankets and mattresses, but we need you to pitch in on personal linens. A sheet can also be used to line your sleeping bag, if you don't have a pre-sewn liner. In our shower enclosure we provide you with the 2 soap options: unscented, gentle liquid castille soap and pure vegetable glycerine bar soap. Please bring your own washcloth.
A Note about Covid-19 - We are encouraging people who have their own sleeping bag to please bring it along. We are enhancing our cleaning practices and feel that this will help to mitigate risk. Let us know if you are bringing your own bag so that we can equip your tent accordingly.
Footwear – The trip requires a sturdy shoe with rubber soles and closed toes. We highly recommend hiking boots/shoes as the trails are rugged. Closed toe sport sandals are perfect for canoeing. Bring your old sneakers along for relaxing around the fire at night. You'll be glad to get out of your wet canoe shoes. There is a very good chance your flip-flops will break and become useless.
Rain Gear – waterproof jacket and pants, or a poncho. Avoid clothing that claims to be "water-resistant" in favour of clothing that states it is "water-proof".
Warm clothes – the weather is most often warm and dry during the summer canoe season, however you may experience temperatures as low as 3°C at night. High winds may also cool things down. Please remember to bring a wind proof jacket (your rain jacket is perfect), warm sweater (wool or fleece), warm wool socks, long pants, and long sleeved shirt. Synthetic long underwear like polypropylene, a hat/ toque and gloves are also a good idea for spring and fall trips.
Fishing Gear and License - If you plan to fish, please bring your own equipment and a valid Ontario fishing license
Sun and Insect protection – We encourage guests to bring items to help protect against insect bites and sunburn: sun hat, polarized sunglasses, long sleeved shirts and long pants, bug hat/jacket. Personally, we use sunscreen and insect repellent as a last resort, as these chemicals pollute the lake when people go swimming. We will consult with you at the time of booking regarding seasonal insect concerns.
Flashlight or headlamp - headlamps are our preferred light source, leaving both hands free for important tasks.
Camera and extra batteries - It is imperative that you have a case that will protect your camera and electronics from weather and impacts. A hard case, such as a "Pelican" or "Underwater Kinetics" brand product is ideal, and is what we swear by as seasoned paddlers. Remember to bring your charger along as we are able to plug your device into our solar power system if necessary.
What NOT to bring:
Scented toiletries and cosmetics - scented shampoos, soaps, body washes, deodorants, and cosmetics are a sure fire way to attract bugs and other pests. Please leave them behind. In an effort to maintain the pristine water quality of Clear Lake, we are happy to provide you with scent free, all-natural, biodegradable soap for all your washing needs. For more information about soaps in the wilderness and responsible use, CLICK HERE.
Excess luggage and clothing - As most transportation on your trip will be done using human propulsion, we encourage you to pack as lightly as possible. It is important to consider weight capacities of canoes, and also how much you can comfortably carry on a portage.
Disposable plastic items - We are committed to preserving our environment, so we encourage all of our guests to refrain from bringing excess disposable items. Please contact us if you have concerns, and we would be happy to help you with alternatives. We ask that guests pack out their garbage with them upon departure.
