Grueling 6-Day Solo Camping Trip on a Forgotten River (FULL + Q&A)

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Backcountry Beatdown: A Grueling Late Season Camping Trip on a Forgotten River (FULL + Q&A)
This is a repost of the original two-part series from 2019, edited again from scratch.
My map of Little Pic River (free download if you want to try this route or just follow along): www.dropbox.com/sh/ecs0amwrcm...
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Audio Credits:
Audionautix - Autumn Sunset
Doug Maxwell - Lost in the Forest
Chris Zabriskie - Cylinder One

[@mighty_mulder4859]

Watching this now really shows how essential the Zoleo is. Basically all the concerns about not being on time and search and rescue being sent in just completely disappear with the Zoleo. The portages are still awful but there's probably not the same dread and anxiety hanging over them. Edit: just got to the Q&A haha funny to see this mentioned. Keep up the fantastic content!

[@LostLakes]

Absolutely. Thank you!!

[@liinap.9144]

The sound of raindrops on the tarp is one of the most soothing things I know.

[@Adam-xl3mo]

The eleven people who disliked this sleep with jeans on.

[@yukidaruma6988]

Or they’re tired of MORE reuploads with minimal new content? Seriously, second time this trip has been reuploaded.

[@Adam-xl3mo]

@@yukidaruma6988 this guy wears his in the shower.

[@LostLakes]

Adam...😂😂 Yuki, it's the first time it's been re-posted, two years later. A re-post doesn't hurt anyone...the notification is easy to dismiss if not wanted. No one paid anything for it, and at worst if they're so familiar with it I presume they would recognize it's a repost within 30 seconds and tune out if not interested. I edited this in spring when there was a camping ban and saved it for when I had no content. And te reason I have little content lately is because I've been out filming many trips, so there's so much to come this fall. Also, there are many reasons why I would repost: -Many old trips were edited with Windows Movie Maker which made for very unpolished work. Now using Resolve I can add a lot more polish, though of course it's still an amateur production. -The channel has over 10x the subscribers it did then. Most subs don't go into the back catalogue and haven't seen it. Some videos I've reposted have gotten 10x the views of the originals in a fraction of the time. Not just because of more subs but because of a more polished edit. -Ad revenue from a successful repost helps me continue to do this full-time. -There are often things I wish I could add in or edit out from original postings. -I used to do multi-part videos whereas now I prefer single part to allow for someone to get lost in the experience (if they want to) rather than have it be disjointed. -I only repost the most special trips. I often re-watch videos of great trips on my fav channels I could go on, but this is becoming an essay. Just FYI.

[@JVL1988]

I don't think anyone does it like you do man and it's exactly the kind of backcountry adventure video that I crave. You, Xander and perhaps only Joe are on another level.

[@LostLakes]

Thank you so much Jani!!

[@PocketKnivesBlog]

Sorry to keep commenting but that paddle, down the rapids in the snow.....with the perfect background music, unedited, best ever. Hands down best ever!! OMG Love it!

[@Condor987]

What a trip! I can’t imagine the mental strain you were under. I know you took a lot from this trip to improve your more recent ones! The snow on that last day was absolutely stunning and, at least seemingly, worth the struggle. I know you have more lakes and rivers to explore in that area than you could ever possibly get to, but the more I watch the more I would love to see you tackle new environments! But do what’s best for you ✌🏼

[@PeterCPRail8748]

The most physical and mental demanding treks are the most rewarding and memorable. You accomplished something by yourself that a small group would be challaged to do.

[@tonycotto8073]

Autumn Snows are truly epic, just like this video. When Mother Nature gives you lemons, make lemonade and this is the best lemonade I've ever seen.

[@ripplesandleaves]

The part with you paddling in the snow looked so magical, albeit chilly! This trip looked very ”character building” and especially risky solo. I'm so glad you're safe! Thank you for sharing the adventure.

[@espooge]

Loved the primal victory over adversity scream. As real as it gets.

[@stevedavies1261]

Deodorant on a solo trip... Now that gave a small chuckle...All the same, a great season ending trip!!

[@etoirelav]

50 minute mark on the rapids, when you were playing that foreboding music, I was half expecting a sudden unmapped waterfall.

[@mikerandle5713]

This trip was epic. You faced each challenge with pragmatic stoicism and returned to your precious Erin. I admire your bushcraft skill and I agree that the video is only a tiny percentage of the experience. I'd love to read your account of this adventure as your words would let me feel what you felt.

[@LostLakes]

Thanks a lot Mike :)

[@BentbrooksRambles]

The first half of this trip…wow. So brutal. And yet, what an absolutely gorgeous, wild, and powerful river! I’m glad you revisited this with the Q&A.

[@brendabinau1187]

The frozen socks cracked me up!! Dude! You are a badass! You should have more faith in yourself. This was a really exciting one!! Canada is so beautiful!! I love how you keep things real, please don’t change, it’s what makes your channel shine! Can’t wait for more adventures with Erin!!

[@bdub1000]

You complain all you want John. Props for getting through it. Takes a lot of guts to do this alone.

[@nicolasbellemare8958]

weirdly after a hard trip like this, a couple weeks or years later, you kind of forget how hard it was and want to make it again then you remember and regret hahaha the experience and the story behind it will be remembered tho and this is what makes it good

[@hopeeternal99]

I usually watch your videos for the relaxing canoeing. This one is definitely an adventure and I'm not all the way through yet. You're amazing! 🛶 🌲

[@BrendanMcNamara]

I think this is my favorite trip of yours. It's actually how I discovered your channel. Happy Thanksgiving 🦃!

[@darrellcaruk8880]

I couldn't take my eyes off the big screen the whole Video. Absolutely loved it. I admire you love and respect for the outdoors , Along with your wisdom and canoeing skills makes this channel my Favourite. Nicely Done. Great respect from Alberta 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@differentfins]

Nothing wrong with revisions and double sharing. Still worth a rewatch, also some new viewers might not have watched it before. I am sure you have new subscribers who were not around for the original release. Feel free to share old videos this winter when weather isnt always favourable to be outside. Cheers Jon!

[@anhatur]

I saw the original release, and wondered when I saw this: “ Why not give Erin a message on the satcom that he’s running late”? I had to check the description to see if it was a rerun, and sure enough. And I’m still quite convinced that I haven’t seen it like this before. Reruns can be useful, especially shortened versions for those without patience to see the long version. And I’m sure this could be used as an endorsement for both satcom devices and dry suits. For such trips as these, that’s actually not a bad thing to do.

[@differentfins]

@@anhatur I agree

[@desaraidorsky3321]

I loved the raw emotion at the beginning of your trip. I don't think you have have to feel a certain way about "complaining" sometimes you need to talk about what's bothering you and process those emotions to get to the next stage. Kinda like fishing.... Can't enjoy your catch before you process the fish. Love watching you and your fiance. Keep it up 💙💙💙

[@doug_errickson]

Since you saw my comment I want to mention. John your channel is just awesome. Since having discovered, it has been my favorite channel on TV. Every night when my kids go to bed I stay up and watch your videos. I'm currently watching all of them in reverse order from some of the oldest. The videos are a perfect combination of absolute beauty, adventure and relaxation. Your skills are amazing, from the camping and paddling, to the cooking, photography. Oh the video graphics is impeccable! I've learned so much. and I enjoy your mannerisms, personality and humor. I think you would be amazing to hang out and go on an adventure with you! I think we're around the same age, 39. Your videos have actually inspired me to take my kids camping I'd aspired to do but hadn't until now. We live in Pennsylvania and have some nice rivers and lakes but nothing quite like what you have up there. I'm always blown away by how many bodies of water there are on a square mile and just the raw expanse of wilderness is so impressive. A true paddlers paradise! I grew up going to the Adirondacks in upstate NY for our family vacation for over 25yrs and it's a lot like your geography. Oh and lake superior is absolutely incredible! That clear water, the rock cliffs, the fish, the everything! Wow! I'm sure I'm forgetting things I wanted to say bit in all I love the channel. Can't wait to see what you're up to next (and Erin, we love Erin too! ✌🏽 -Doug

[@LostLakes]

Truly appreciate that Doug! Hope you and the kids have a memorable trip!

[@np29deep]

The way you intersect these intense moments with this magical, serene music perfectly captures the feeling of challenges that one can have while being outdoors. Especially remembering these moments, instead of repeating drums, anxious and intense music these moments deserve the magical treatment, quiet moments when you are thinking back at your trip.

[@denisesarazin6753]

I shed some tears around the 53-56 minute mark. Such an emotional and glorious reward for your hard work. Thank you for your courage and for sharing your adventures in such a brilliant and moving way.

[@MrFloris]

Once it started snowing, that footage is amazing. What a world

[@deepwoodsengineering3763]

This is my favorite video of yours. I've watched this many times. Well, I mean the original upload. But if you're going to reupload a video, this is the one!

[@Barret-paddles]

Again thanks for putting yourself out there and taking us along!

[@EdwardGomillion]

My wife and I loved your video. You’re doing an amazing job. Your imprint on the environment is minimal and your respect for the land is evident. Ignore the negative.

[@LostLakes]

Thanks so much Edward! 💚💚

[@CampingwithSamBananas]

Wow that was a hell of a trip, but this is why we do it. Always very key to have a supportive woman behind you. Happy you came out unscathed. Happy trails!

[@joann1234]

Jon,,,appreciated this video so much...Brings back a slew of very good memories for me of back country canoeing trips i have taken,especially on Thanksgiving Wknd...I'm not gonna lie,you're ability 2 capture emotion and spirit brought a couple tears 2 my eyes . Watching your video felt sacred somehow and allowed me to draw back the curtain of memories past...🍁🍄🍂 Happy Thanksgiving to you and Erin,,,

[@MrYoko1969]

This was the first trip I watched you Jon. I had to watch it again because it's so intriguing and I'm getting old and forgot a lot lol. Great adventure look forward to the next one. Thank you taking us on this journey.

[@kitbirskovich1838]

Scared that bear alright! Thank you for what you do so well: Share your joy, respect, and challenges in rarely traveled parts of land and water. It does our hearts good!

[@doneddy2204]

Definitely you earned a tough and risky trip. Vicariously I did enjoy it though.

[@deborahanderson5508]

A beautiful trip to watch, Thank you. ATB

[@robertfallows1054]

I wasn’t going to rewatch but glad I did. Not that I enjoy seeing someone enduring so much hard work, but always worth watching or rewatching. Glad you now have the Zoleo so much can go wrong so quickly. It’s a testament to your wanting to be safe not sorry. Just walking on those wet slippery rocks is nerve wracking

[@JJTFishing]

Being on the water during first snow is so great. Great job!

[@jamoliverj]

Emotional regulation is one of the most important or the most important solo backcountry skill and one that doesn't get a lot of mention. Thank you for sharing your trip films.

[@LostLakes]

Very true. When you're out there alone you've gotta be able to rely on yourself in all ways including emotionally. Thanks for joining me Jason!

[@george-cann]

Awesome buddy - this was the first video of yours I ever watched and I've been a fan ever since! Keep it up :)

[@bobsimmons5710]

Another great video beautiful area. That first half was intense. Thanks for sharing

[@johnquillan4626]

John its me John again.. Great video.. Im sure you and Erin are set on your canoes. Take a look at the AlpackaPackrafts A friend of mine introduced them to me.. We use it on backwoods trips on creeks and rivers and they hold a LOT of gear! Anyway, just thought I'd send that out there for you to take a look at.. Much Muck easier on portages and inflate in no time and sharp sticks and rocks wont puncture them. They are used by explorers in the Amazon so they are " tested".. Again.. Enjoyed the suspenseful episode. Im sure you both carry at all times personal locator beacons? Its the most important thing you can carry.. Be safe and well!

[@BrunoPiccoli11]

Hi Jon. I'm from Brazil and i don't miss up any of your videos. This one had something special, due all the effort that you had to go through. Keep it up with the good work!

[@robinmoore5181]

Amazing trip. Amazing scenery. Amazing strength in you. Thank you for sharing your story. 🌸

[@CreationDust777]

Another great adventure. You canadians are blessed with endless paddling opportunities.

[@juanitafoster9834]

Thank you for another wonderful adventure. God bless you.

[@rebeccadumbrow1213]

With what you are going through you have the right to complain love your show

[@tairua1]

Spectacularly good, thanks.

[@bobsaysbobon]

The inner adventurer was certainly found on this trip, great video. 🛶👌

[@chrisfleming1064]

always enjoy your bushwhacking videos, you show how much work it is to really get back there and paddle the backcountry. Keep it up!

[@davidlaue8225]

I started watching your videos for the relaxation and shear beauty of them and was fully rewarded, once again. This one had me the edge of my seat but still awesomely beautiful. Thank you for having the patience and fortitude to film this for all of us. Oh! and thank you for keeping it G rated ;)

[@EudamoniaTrout]

Further proof of my theory that backcountry people are at least a little bit crazy. No way would I solo a trip like this, especially with all the unknowns. Despite your calm demeanor, you're a bit of a wildling. Good on ya, John!

[@anhatur]

Perhaps backcountry people would think the same of those who live in the cities. Why would you want to live like that? And I guess it has to do with the question “what do you live for?” For these people, it’s rarely money or fleeting fame, but perhaps rather to stretch yourself in an environment you feel at home with. And with enough experience in such an environment, you can learn to handle these things. It’s just that you earn the experience as you go, when nature can be unpredictable enough to give you quite some learning experiences once in a while. Remember, it wasn’t all that dangerous. The worst thing he worried about was his security backup calling search and rescue, not losing his life.

[@endlesscamp22]

Absolutely awesome trip...when the snow felled, wow amazing, thx for sharing!

[@randyrc58]

Fantastic, as usual

[@magdalenamartinez2273]

Good Work! Honestly, once you reached the end of the last Falls...what you worked so hard for, it was such a relief. The struggle you were feeling, can be seen and felt. I found myself saying, "Thank you John," and "it's ok, take a break!" and "Hell Yeah!" once you made it thru. It was so beautiful, I could not hold back the tears. Thanks for sharing honestly what it takes to Journey thru, create content, and how it affects you in your World. I must say, in watching you and Erin on this Channel, the emotions of joy, concern, fear, frustration, and bewilderment come thru and are genuinely shared. It sure helps to get 'round to the next challenge - what ever that may be! Sending Best for Safe Travels 🌎

[@LostLakes]

Truly appreciate that!

[@shugemery]

I had a tight jaw watching this past trip. More sawyer than paddle on this. Was wondering why you did not use the Zolio...until the end. Ahhhhh

[@youtube7076]

OMG Shug, !

[@luluwan5212]

Was scratching my head as to why you just didn't use the Zolio to call Erin! Such a slog at the start; breathtaking beauty at the end.

[@marcelc7135]

Great video Jon! I appreciate your genuine respect for the backcountry and drive to explore it. There is a continuous improvement on your videos in 2021, but you definitely don’t need my validation. Thanks!

[@mikemitchell84]

thank you Jon well done

[@msmith6713]

Beautiful view during those last few rapid runs with the snow gently falling. Good for you cheers!

[@barbarawalberg1520]

That was an intense trip.!!!!So glad you now have a Zoleo.

[@tahiti-girl]

I loved to see all the wildlife and the snow was absolutely beautiful. Thanks for sharing your adventure!!

[@catfury360]

Fantastic video. Jon, you are an absolute Legend ! Thanks for sharing your wild adventures. You rock so heavily !!!

[@scottrydings8579]

Great video , thank you !!!

[@martinvanoene7192]

Thanks so much!

[@s.i.r.7832]

The rapid run in the snow!! After all that work for 3-4 days. Absolutely beautiful and amazing to watch!

[@carpediemmementomori1984]

Thanks for the BOLD lettering!! Keep em coming!

[@robertmaloney567]

Great trip thank you!

[@Dailyartpallette]

Beautiful views, what a great journey.

[@Dennis-Olsson]

Awesome! Great and hard work.🙂

[@marianfrances4959]

Wild and crazy! Beautiful country. Thank you! 👍😎🇨🇦🌲🐾🛶

[@mr.fisher3973]

Two thumbs up!!!! I especially loved that old trapper's cabin!!! What a piece of history.

[@wonderingdonkey6758]

I give you mass kudos to hold yourself together on this one.Love the videos, keep up the good work man.As I watched this,I thought to myself this was an old video.

[@thagemizer]

44:34 I've actually had a mink do the exact same thing with me! It's like they're so absorbed in their routine that you're invisible to them, until they are very close!!

[@kiwigecko1]

What a enjoyable film. Really appreciated it thank you.

[@MrLangDog]

I had not gone back far enough to see this trip...WOW!! Harsh and awesome!!

[@bushcraft_crush2455]

AMAZING trip!!!

[@garth6665]

Thanks!

[@davemosher2740]

Thanks again good job

[@roboutdoors8680]

Awesome. Can't wait for the next parts. Thanks for taking me along. Beauty. Cheers

[@Mr_Solo_Dolo]

What a trip! I could feel the anxiety and stress sitting here.

[@joannstiles2890]

Epileptic video,thank you!

[@ronanpc]

Great to see new content!

[@BoyanBee]

That was an amazing trip. Being alone is quite the experience, this deep in the bush. Stay safe. Keep up the amazing videos.

[@steffrocknak]

So inspiring-loved the beautiful footage at the end (before the Q and A).

[@196813JSC]

WOW! You are a BEAST!! What an interesting and incredible journey! Terrific video, editing and music interlaying. Thanks for taking us along. I look forward to watching more of your adventures! Cheers from Nova Scotia! 🇨🇦

[@benjibones]

Another great adventure! Thanks for sharing again!

[@LostLakes]

Thanks a lot Benjamin!

[@rogueriverwild6904]

LOVE all your answers! You are so cool!

[@WyldeRoots]

Great video! Always enjoy the positive attitude and learning experience that come from obstacles. Thanks for the great videos.

[@jimfatyakmcgregor8867]

One word for this trip. EPIC ! Thanks for what you do and sharing it. Love it

[@LostLakes]

Thanks so much Jim!

[@tdalloutdoors4293]

At home with shingles... going back to watch vids I missed. Great video.. lots of suspense and emotions... and the sense of adventure and exploring... dude, thank you so much for sharing. I love paddling the streams and rivers in my area of NW Wisconsin... good times.

[@jannie690]

Incredible

[@johnhighstreet5199]

Probably my favorite video so far, just great, beginning to end. I think I've seen them all, but will now check.

[@LostLakes]

Thanks so much John!!

[@ericada9368]

Thanks Jon. Don’t worry about us...try to enjoy what’s remaining of the tripping season.

[@littlepony6762]

So Beautiful Thank you

[@huckfin9373]

Tough gig great to watch 👍

[@barbaragoodenough2442]

You are awesome. Love how you enjoy life. Keep it up.

[@amandakaye]

A great watch for Canadian Thanksgiving weekend! Thanks for posting!

[@dukelacrosse8994]

You are a real Trooper my friend. Great vid . Proud of you ,Congrats!!

[@sunbunny1236]

Thanks for the video my friend. It sure made my day… Keep em coming 👁🛶👁

[@TheExpendables4]

The pictures of you paddling in the snow and this magical landscape left and right ...just wow...could be a newest Hollywood Block Buster!!! GREAT👍👍

[@LostLakes]

Very much appreciated!!