Paddling Yusezyu River

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Did you ever dream of canoeing in pristine wilderness? Have you ever considered spending unforgettable days at a remote wilderness lodge in the Canadian North? If you have, then you will want to be part of this unique experience! Spend your days under the open sky on a lake as smooth as glass. Enjoy paddling the waters of an untouched river which flows into Frances Lake. Afterwards enjoy the comfort of a rustic but cozy wilderness lodge: comfortable beds, shower, sauna and great meals are a welcome change to the days in the bush.

River Difficulty: Easy, WW-Class I
Paddling Experience: None required

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Individual journey to Frances Lake. Meeting point is at the boat ramp near the campground. Here we will pick you up by motorboat and bring you to the lodge, what takes about 30 minutes. At the lodge you stay in your private cozy log cabin. Professionally prepared meals are served in the main building which boasts an awesome view of the Logan Mountains. In the same building we also have a bright and comfortable living room with a small library.

Day 2 - 3: Early in the morning we will pack up and prepare for the exciting 30-minute flight by floatplane to McPherson Lake. Here we will camp for two nights on a sandy beach where we will explore our surroundings and practice the paddling strokes you will need to know on the river. From this camp we can often watch moose, caribou, trumpeter swans and bald eagles.

Day 4 - 5: Well versed in the use of our canoes, we will begin our trip down the Yusezyu River. This river is exciting, but without the dangers of a large and fast flowing river. Nevertheless, we'll have to look out for sweepers, rocks and shallow spots. On a gravel bar along the river we will pitch our tents for the night and try our luck in angling. The river gets easier in the lower section which is also home to moose, beaver, otter and waterfowl. The last night we will camp on a Riviera-style beach at the north end of Frances Lake.

Day 6: A short two hour paddle down the most northern part of the lake will bring us to the prearranged meeting point, from where we will be picked up by the lodge boat. In about an hour we will arrive back at Frances Lake Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy the comforts of your cabin as well as take advantage of the shower, sauna and a soft bed - not to mention our great home-cooked meals!

Day 7: Today you can relax at the lodge or participate in a guided excursion, go fishing, paddle in the sheltered bay or stroll along the lake's beach.

Day 8: After breakfast you will leave the lodge and we bring you back to the boat ramp, from where you continue your individual travels.

THINGS TO KNOW:

• Upon request and for a surcharge we come to pick you up in Whitehorse or Watson Lake or you can fly in by floatplane. We will gladly help you organise your arrival. Ask us for a quote!
• No prior wilderness experience is necessary. The canoe trip is well suited for novices and there is plenty of time to practice paddling skills. This is a class I rated river.
• Bring sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothes (jackets and pants)! Details see Equipment List Lodge and Equipment List Tours.
• All luggage you don’t need on the canoe trip can be left at the lodge.
• This trip is part of the program Wild Yukon (combined canoe and hiking trip).
• Frances Lake Wilderness Lodge & Tours is member of the Tourism Industry Association of the Yukon (TIA) and the Yukon Wilderness Tourism Association (WTAY).
• Canadian legislation requires you to sign a release of liability and waiver of claims form prior to the commencement of the arrangement.
• Our guides are well trained in wilderness travel and first aid.

DATES AND RATES:

Terms of Participation

RATES INCLUDE:

• All accommodation (3 nights at lodge, 4 nights camping)
• All meals
• Flight to McPherson Lake by floatplane
• Equipment: canoe, paddles, life vests, waterproof bags/containers, camping gear (except sleeping bags and pads)
• Guided day trips at the lodge
• Use of lodge amenities such as sauna, library, canoes, kayaks and angling equipment
• Professional guide service by licensed wilderness guide

NOT INCLUDED:

• Transfer to Frances Lake
• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (the lodge is licensed and has a selection in stock)
• Angling licence (can be purchased at lodge)
• Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
• Personal insurance (trip cancellation, medical insurance): We strongly recommend to arrange for sufficient coverage before the start of your trip.