Tour S1C: Mica Bay - Alona Bay, Lake Superior
1 day, 16 km (10 mi)

Lake Superior from Mica Bay to Alona Bay is one of the most scenic coastal sections of eastern, Lake Superior (85 km from Sault Ste. Marie). We paddle north or south depending on wind direction, at a relaxing pace, along the open coast. There are a number of quite coves and granite islands along this section.No need to back-track as our van will be waiting at the take-out

Tour begins with basic sea kayak instruction, and offers a good introduction to sea kayaking.

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Itinerary

This day trip begins at the Voyageurs' Lodge (705-882-2504) on Batchawana Bay, Lake Superior, approximately 60 km. (36 miles) north of Sault Ste. Marie Ontario, where accommodations can be arranged the evening before the trip; campsites are available at Pancake Bay Provincial Park (705-882-2209).

• 9:00 a.m. Meet at Voyageurs' Lodge and drive to our put-in 4 km west of Mica Bay (20 minute drive) where we begin basic training (paddle strokes, turning, and safety procedures).
• 10:00 a.m.-12:00 Paddle north on Lake Superior to the beautiful beach at Mica Bay, or the next cove to the north.
• 12:00 -1:00 p.m. Lunch
• 1:00-5:00 p.m. As we kayak along the coast, we pass through a series of narrow channels and small granite islands, to reach a large headland at Mica Bay. Just beyound there are black sand beaches where we take a break then continue to the take-out at Alona Bay where you will be transported back to Voyageurs' Lodge

EQUIPMENT YOU SUPPLY

Clothing: It may appear from the following list that you will be preparing for an arctic adventure! However, these clothes should keep you comfortable under poor weather conditions: warm jacket (i.e., for fall conditions) or windbreaker with pile/fleece (e.g. Polartec) liner or wool sweater, long-sleeved shirt, t-shirt, warm wool or synthetic socks, one pair of pants, shorts, swim suit, undergarments, small towel.

Paddling gear: Cap, sun glasses, paddling jacket (synthetic windbreaker or rain-suit, preferably with elasticized cuffs), short pants of synthetic material, neoprene booties or water sandals (e.g. Tevas) or running shoes, synthetic long underwear (top and bottom), plastic water bottle, head strap for glasses. A "Farmer John/Jane" wet suit will be supplied by Caribou Expeditions; however, to guarantee a good fit, a wet-suit can be purchased at many outdoor stores.

Note: Paddling clothes should be synthetic, or with minimal cotton.

Personal Gear: Sunscreen, chap stick, bug dope, toilet paper, matches or lighter, soap, etc. On day trips, we will have enough "river" bags to accommodate most clothing, but bring ziplok bags for snacks and small articles.

EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES SUPPLIED BY CARIBOU EXPEDITIONS

Kayak and Accessories: Single person kayaks (Necky), and doubles (Current Designs Libra XT). Paddlers will be expected to trade-off singles for doubles throughout the trip. Each kayak comes with: sponge, paddle and spare, boat pump, whistle, spray skirt, poggies or neoprene gloves, personal flotation device (lifejacket). Wet suits are provided where water temperature falls below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Please indicate your lifejacket size and wet suit size when you send deposit or trip balance.

Accessories: Waterproof dry bags for clothing.

Safety Equipment: First aid kit, marine radio, compass, tow line.

Basic Training: A one hour training session, demonstrating basic paddle strokes, wet exit, and re-entry.

Experienced Guide:
One guide per six clients. Your guides are experienced sea kayakers with training from the B.C.U. (British Canoe Union), C.P.R. and Wilderness First Aid. As well, your guides are experienced outdoors people who will help identify and interpret the flora, fauna and geology around you.

Meals: Lunch is provided. Please notify us of dietary restrictions.