Review of our Pack Trip with Wilderness Trails
In July, my 9-year-old granddaughter and I embarked on a four-day adventure at Wilderness Trails in the South Chilcotin Mountains of British Columbia. Months of anticipation led to this moment, and as we arrived, we were filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Our journey began with an introduction to our horses and preparation for the trip ahead. As reality set in, some doubts crept into my mind. Could an aging grandfather and his young granddaughter handle the challenges of this wilderness expedition? Sensing our concerns, the staff, led by owner Kevan, quickly stepped in to address them.
Kevan spent an hour with my granddaughter, carefully selecting a horse that better suited her abilities and temperament. This personalized attention made all the difference, boosting our confidence and setting a positive tone for the adventure ahead. With our worries eased, we set off into the wilderness, ready to embrace whatever lay ahead.
The high alpine scenery that greeted us was nothing short of breathtaking. Majestic peaks stretched towards the sky, their snow-capped summits glistening in the sunlight. Lush meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers painted the landscape in a riot of colours. The crisp mountain air filled our lungs, invigorating us with each breath. We found ourselves constantly pausing to take in the awe-inspiring views, our cameras barely able to capture the true beauty surrounding us.
Weather can make or break a wilderness experience, and we were fortunate to have fantastic conditions throughout our trip. Clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures allowed us to fully enjoy our outdoor activities without the hindrance of rain or extreme heat.
The undisputed highlight of our adventure came when we encountered a herd of mountain goats. We stood in hushed amazement, just 150 yards away from these magnificent creatures. Watching them navigate the steep, rocky terrain with effortless grace was a sight we’ll never forget. This close encounter with wildlife in its natural habitat left us with a profound sense of connection to the natural world.
Our experience at Wilderness Trails went far beyond mere sightseeing. We were active participants in every aspect of the journey, learning valuable skills along the way. Under the patient guidance of our instructors, we learned how to saddle and bridle our horses properly. This hands-on approach not only taught us practical skills but also deepened our bond with these magnificent animals.
The guides encouraged us to take the lead on trails, fostering our sense of independence and leadership. My granddaughter took to this responsibility with enthusiasm, her confidence growing with each passing day. I’ll never forget the pride in her voice as she called out “Feet out!” when we crossed creeks, so we wouldn’t be injured if the horses tripped and fell on the uneven ground of the creek bed.
Daily camp life became a series of rewarding challenges and learning opportunities. We learned to cut trees to make stakes, hammering them into the ground with determination. The intricate process of tying ropes to secure our equine companions became second nature. These tasks, while simple in nature, instilled in us a sense of self-reliance and accomplishment.
Working alongside our fellow travellers and guides, we formed a tight-knit community. Age differences faded away as we all pitched in, sharing the workload and celebrating our collective achievements. The wilderness had a way of bringing people together, creating bonds that would last long after we returned to civilization.
The natural world became our classroom, with every plant, animal, and geological formation offering a lesson. We learned to identify various species of wildflowers, each with its own unique beauty and ecological role. Our guides shared knowledge about wild edibles, connecting us to the land’s rich history and the wisdom of the First Nations people who had lived in harmony with this environment for thousands of years.
Evenings around the campfire were a time for reflection, storytelling, and camaraderie. As the flames danced and the stars emerged in the clear mountain sky, we shared our experiences of the day. My granddaughter’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she recounted her adventures, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to connect with her in such a meaningful way.
Our journey also had a purpose beyond our personal growth. We contributed to ongoing conservation efforts by recording wildlife sightings and collecting data for research projects. This aspect of the trip taught us about the delicate balance of the ecosystem and our responsibility to protect it for future generations.
As our four days in the wilderness came to an end, we realized how much we had changed. We had arrived as city dwellers, somewhat disconnected from nature and unsure of our abilities. We left as confident outdoors people, with a deep appreciation for the natural world and our place within it.
The experience wasn’t just about observing nature from a distance; it was about becoming a part of it. We learned to move through the landscape with respect and awareness, understanding our impact and striving to leave no trace. This newfound connection to the environment is something we’ve carried back into our daily lives, influencing our choices and perspectives.
To the entire team at Wilderness Trails, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your expertise, patience, and passion for the outdoors made this trip truly exceptional. You’ve given us more than just a vacation; you’ve provided us with life lessons, unforgettable memories, and a deeper bond between grandfather and granddaughter.
The South Chilcotin Mountains now hold a special place in our hearts. The memories we’ve created here – the sight of mountain goats on a distant ridge, the feeling of accomplishment after a challenging ride, the taste of meals cooked over an open fire – these will stay with us forever.
As we look back on our adventure, we’re already dreaming of our next visit. The wilderness has a way of calling you back, and we know that someday soon, we’ll answer that call. Until then, we’ll cherish the memories, the lessons learned, and the connection we’ve forged with nature and each other.
Thank you, Wilderness Trails, for an experience that exceeded all our expectations. You’ve given us a gift that will continue to enrich our lives for years to come.
Gordon, Canada
