You may have seen the original near Fort Saskatchewan, and you've paddled past the second, fourth and final installments in the pentalogy. Now is your chance to see Fort Edmonton, Part III: Blanche Terre! This is a trip for paddlers with historical interest (not to be confused with paddlers OF historical interest, but they are welcome as well). Here is some background on the Fort(s): https://www.historicplaces.ca/en/rep-reg/place-lieu.aspx?id=11576
IMPORTANT NOTE: I have not paddled this part of the North Saskatchewan, so it will be an exploratory trip. I'll do some research in advance, but we'll have to work as a team on final details such as campsite location and the take out. Also, there are still some logistical items to work out, and I'll be watching the weather for cold temperatures. Don't be surprised if details change, or the trip is delayed to next season. Updates will be provided to trip registrants.
You will need to be comfortable with wilderness camping, and be completely self-sufficient. Paddlers should have moving water experience.
Here is the plan:
October 2
· Start at or near Metis Crossing. I will be seeing if we can launch from their site, and potentially kick our weekend off with a brief interpretive session. There would be a fee associated with this.
· Paddle approximately 16 km to the site of Fort White Earth. I have conflicting information on if there are any remnants there, but there should be a cairn at least.
· Camp at one of two islands just downstream from the site of the Fort. Sun will set at 7 pm so we will want to be at the island no later than 5 pm. If the sky is clear, this should be a great star gazing opportunity.
October 3
· Paddle to Highway 857--the take out (approximately another 16 km)
· Unwind the shuttle and head for beers.
For more information and to register contact Tim Swanson by email at: t1swanson2@gmail.com
(All are welcome but reminder participants are required to be canoe club members)
