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!

[@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!

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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.

[@etoirelav]

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

[@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 ✌🏼

[@stevedavies1261]

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

[@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 :)

[@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

[@BrendanMcNamara]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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! 🛶 🌲

[@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.

[@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 💙💙💙

[@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

[@espooge]

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

[@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!

[@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 :)

[@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.

[@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!

[@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 🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@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.

[@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.

[@bobsimmons5710]

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

[@bdub1000]

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

[@deborahanderson5508]

A beautiful trip to watch, Thank you. ATB

[@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!

[@doneddy2204]

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

[@barbarawalberg1520]

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

[@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!!

[@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

[@Barret-paddles]

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

[@carpediemmementomori1984]

Thanks for the BOLD lettering!! Keep em coming!

[@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, !

[@DougRowan_photography]

this trip was one of the first of your videos i had watched and watching this one i keep thinking "this reminds me of that one" lol then i realized it was the same. thanks for all you do. i get asked (and told) why don't you film and do a channel, you do so many cool things ( not compared to you lol), and as someone that has done a ton of photography in my life and some videography, i know the time that's invested in just filming, and we won't even talk about the editing time, and i just want to enjoy my time out. I'm super thankful for those of you that do take the time to film! again, thanks for a great video.

[@LostLakes]

Much appreciated Doug! I think you're wise...with finite time to be out there, it may be best to just enjoy it. I treasure the memories at the same time, but if I didn't have such a burning passion for canoe tripping (and also a love for videography---originally photography), it would be hard to distract myself with cameras. But fortunately it's made for a beautiful line of work :)

[@chrismason7066]

@@LostLakes would it be possible for you to somewhat explain the backend process on how you design and make the videos? It's obvious how much time and forethought you use when filming. While I'm not artistic like yourself I am curious on how it works. You're absolutely brilliant at this. Dont stop!

[@MrFloris]

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

[@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! 💚💚

[@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.

[@bobsaysbobon]

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

[@JJTFishing]

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

[@robinmoore5181]

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

[@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!

[@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.

[@kelsohky28]

After watching about 12 or so videos of you with your now wife, (which are my favorite ones by the way, shes amazing) ive stumbled across this older video and seeing the comments that this was the video that brought many people to your channel has me very excited, settling in after a nice dinner and checking this one out, thank you Jon for all the great content, and Erin of course, shes freaking awesome.

[@LostLakes]

Greatly appreciate that!

[@roboutdoors8680]

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

[@benadams4942]

Wow, how did you stay warm!! This had me sitting on the edge of my chair the whole time. Can't imagine how to blazed trails is such thick coverage, cold and wet, and still had a smile on your face. Yes, i could see the challenge in your face especially when your canoe and you were in a bad situation and still you persevered. Hope I can sleep after this one. A fantastic adventure.

[@LostLakes]

Thanks Ben! Hahah I was cold a lot, the key is for me to know cold vs. too cold. Hypothermia is no joke

[@waltmoore3095]

Man those brook trout! Went up by Searchmont back in the early 90's. Robin and I caught some nice brook trout, beautiful colors.

[@jaxwagen4238]

New Lost Lakes video? The perfect way to nurse a sunday hangover

[@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!

[@stevenensminger5737]

John I love watching your outings I probably watched every episode you recorded you have a life I miss so much im 63 years young now and cant do a lot of the things I use to do I have done bushcraft survival for 40 some years and I still get out in the woods every weekend to do a overnight in the forest hopefully god will give another 30 years in the forest anyhow please keep making your videos I look forward to watching them stay ssfe.🌲

[@LostLakes]

Very much appreciated!

[@stecoms.a.6198]

Es como una película que te despeja la mente y sobre todo esa hazaña de remar en una corriente con lluvia de nieve y me imagino un lugar muy frío, mucha valentía para el actor del video los felicito...

[@charlieburns4612]

As a retired South Carolinian, my rapids running days are passed. Still paddling flat water and love your videos.

[@LostLakes]

Much appreciated Charlie! Cheers from Ontario

[@juanitafoster9834]

Thank you for another wonderful adventure. God bless you.

[@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!!

[@suezaple4950]

loved this , must say a very wild area it was , pretty river though with surprises of the waterfalls ,rapids ,rock and blow downs along it. , sure had it's challenges for sure , it is to bad you didn't have a satellite phone at the time you did this adventure. pretty cool to see the bear and moose my heart would have been racing as well though, the bear looked curious. Muskrat i don't like hate their tails lol. tree's were gorgeous what a wonderful canoe trip lots to see and quit a few obstacles' But on the bright side you succeeded . epic landscape views at the end that is gods country . we live in a beautiful country

[@stevend9960]

Fantastic! you faced the adversity and came through to the peace on the other side! What a view!

[@LostLakes]

Thanks Steven!

[@stanlukas1124]

Kayaking in the snow (that’s Canada baby!) first single on the upcoming album!

[@msmith6713]

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

[@gregsoto2679]

Thanks for the memory. I loved this video. Remember where you got the inspiration for “backcountry beat down”? 😉 I respect that you are patient enough to answer some of those questions. Especially when they are just plain bone headed. Have a great fall/winter. I’m recovering from shoulder surgery and hoping to be fit for spring tripping. Take care.

[@ericada9368]

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

[@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.

[@CreationDust777]

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

[@sunbunny1236]

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

[@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 ;)

[@marianfrances4959]

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

[@dukelacrosse8994]

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

[@kiwigecko1]

What a enjoyable film. Really appreciated it thank you.

[@jimsmedley234]

I've enjoyed both versions of this trip video. It was the "don't forget to kiss your guide" comment that twigged me to realize I'd seen a version of it before. It was well worth re-watching! On your comment about kneeling vs. sitting @46:20 - sit up on your seat! Lowering your centre of gravity is pointless and couldn't even be discernibly measured, especially with a loaded canoe. What keeps you in control is having better leverage, your paddle in the water and being able to apply strong paddle strokes or braces. Kneeling decreases this ability. I suggest you install thigh straps. I usually sit with one leg extended under a thigh strap and the other tucked under the seat so I can pull up on either side of the canoe. To each their own. It's important in class 3+ rapids, to be able to steer, to keep your canoe moving faster or slower than the water (otherwise you're 'spam in a can' to borrow a phrase from 'The Right Stuff'). I generally only back paddle (i.e. back ferry) when avoiding large haystacks on the outside of a turn on a big river. It's usually easier to spin the canoe, do a forward ferry and then spin back downstream. My kids cut their whitewater teeth running rivers like this.

[@frankmartin-adirondackcampcab]

I thought I was tough, but you are amazingly tough, and you never complain! My hat's off to you! I Love your adventures. Thank you.

[@LostLakes]

Thanks so much Frank!

[@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! 🇨🇦

[@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 !!!

[@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.

[@s.i.r.7832]

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

[@mr.fisher3973]

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

[@endlesscamp22]

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

[@TheJmagers1]

Thanks so much for posting this. I watched it with my ten year old son. We loved it. I used to canoe with the Boy Scouts and this brings back all those great memories. Good to see good wholesome content like this. Glad we can tune to this and tune out all the other. Btw my 80 yo Father is the one who told me about your channel. Keep em coming and be safe. Thanks!!!

[@mikeg3230]

This is the first video I ever watched of yours and ive been watching ever since.

[@bartrobertson8444]

The whole trip was great and snow at the end was the frosting.

[@jack333p]

enjoyed the video, it was a tough one for sure. The snow does add an incredible beauty to the area. liked the Q & A at the end, thank you.

[@campgrounddrivethrough6758]

Great Video. Makes me wish I was a younger man again. I live in southern Ontario and try to make it north every year. Stayed at Finlayson Point PP, Rene Brunell and Martin river this year. Maybe soon I'll retire up there. Love the Q&A's at the end of your videos.

[@ARI-wc6xd]

Ok, it was trip from 2019. I was thinking why you would leave your good hammock home, now I know why. That trip looked really challenging.

[@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!

[@alancall5113]

Nice work getting better and better every time Keep it coming bro

[@victorr2702]

This trip looks amazing! Watching you from Florida

[@benjibones]

Another great adventure! Thanks for sharing again!

[@LostLakes]

Thanks a lot Benjamin!

[@stevenvogel4525]

I'm so thankful to have found your channel. Your videos are beautiful, as is the scenery, but your attitude and honest throughout are absolutely inspiring. Thank you for sharing these experiences!

[@chrismason7066]

By far Jon is the best at documenting his adventures in an honest informative way. Haven't found anyone yet even close to the same quality and experience.

[@joannstiles2890]

Epileptic video,thank you!

[@jimfatyakmcgregor8867]

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

[@LostLakes]

Thanks so much Jim!

[@Mr_Solo_Dolo]

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

[@humanentity2214]

Hard work, passion and true grit make this channel.

[@LostLakes]

💚

[@rebeccadumbrow1213]

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

[@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!!