NORTH to SOUTH - The French River Documentary 4k. The Canoe Trip and the History of the French River

In the deep autumn of 2020, we took on the challenge of canoeing the entire length of the beautiful and historic French River in northern Ontario, Canada. 170 kms of water was ahead of us, ever changing from wide, to narrow; from ambient, to violent. The season brought us many challenges with the fluctuating weather and temperatures, but also brought a beautiful display of fall colours for us to absorb as we paddled along. We'll bring you along with us, tell our story, and share highlights of the river's rich history in this documentary, which is the first of its kind.
0:00 - Introduction
4:08 - Chapter 1 "Initiation" - Canoeing Lake Nipissing to Canoe Pass
18:56 - Chapter 2 "Roots" - The History of the Fur Trade, Chaudiere Portage, Cradle Rapids
30:17 - Chapter 3 "Ebb & Flow" - Canoeing the Five Mile Rapids Section
45:14 - Chapter 4 "Mystery of the Cross" - The History of the Recollets and the Jesuit Missionaries, Recollet Falls and Recollet Portage
1:01:04 - Chapter 5 "The Push" - Canoeing the French River Delta, The Old Voyageur Channel, the History of the Voyageurs, Conclusion and Sources
Follow me on Instagram @latitudes.films
#novacraftcanoe #4kdocumentary #canoedocumentary

[@ThePursuitofPassion]

Pete, I watched this documentary twice before commenting, because there was so much to absorb. The visuals, the music, the sounds, and most of all the narration. This was a film at a different level, because it told a truly mesmerizing story. It wasn't just another canoe trip, it was a journey. A journey through the historic past, of the poignant present, and hints of the future. I've personally tripped on the French River countless times. Even heard, read, and seen much of this heritage river through the eyes and stories of others, but you have captured it differently - masterfully and captivating. This is NOT just a canoe route, and you have all shown us why. Thank you my friend. I know we have chatted a few times about this trip/film, and it was certainly worth the wait. I look forward to more of your stories in the near future. Cheers

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow David, thank you ever so much for these kind words 🙏 It's hard to know how to even respond, other than a genuine "thank you!" When I watch your videos and see the ambitious and difficult challenges that you take on, it inspires me to get to that level of skill and knowledge one day. Thanks for all the help you've been, for the support, and for the being the inspiration towards all my lofty goals for future adventures👍Cheers my friend! 🍻

[@sebastianjamison6299]

i dont mean to be so off topic but does someone know a tool to log back into an Instagram account..? I was stupid lost the account password. I appreciate any tips you can offer me!

[@omarelijah9754]

@Sebastian Jamison Instablaster :)

[@sebastianjamison6299]

@Omar Elijah thanks so much for your reply. I found the site through google and im waiting for the hacking stuff atm. I see it takes a while so I will reply here later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@sebastianjamison6299]

@Omar Elijah it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy! Thanks so much, you saved my ass !

[@johneveringham1497]

I lived at French River Lodge from 1041 to 1958.. My parents owned French River Lodge. Thanks for letting the World kow about the beauty of that region.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for your kind comment! That's amazing you got to spend some great time of your life there.

[@als1023]

I hope this inspires people to get out and travel this area. Have driven by on 69 so many times, to and from Northern Ontario. This part of southern Ontario is so accessible and stunningly beautiful ! Born and raised in canoes and boats, so many northerners take this for granted. Folks inthe south can get out and really get a break from the stresses of congestion in the corridor, and experiience the history of our beautiful land. One can see travel in the off season is very doable, and if you enjoy peace and serenity, this excellent piece will bring many to the point of action, I very much hope. Best wishes and thanks from Vancouver Ilsand

[@marymorrison3128]

Pete amazing journey thank you! I spent many years at our cottage on Bragdon Island at the narrows just below the previous Keystone Lodge. We came across Nippising on the original Chief Commanda arriving at the lodge then taking a boat called the Aletis to our island dropping off cottagers along the way. Living in nature catching minnows for fishing, shore dinners to eat the fish we caught eating fresh blueberries for dessert was an experience of a lifetime. It was truly my heart space. You two were so courageous to take this journey. Thank you again!

[@dannyp8035]

Very well done gentlemen. It's a prime example why Ontario is an amazing part of earth. Spent most of my 68yrs on Lake Nipissing and Georgian Bay. Your historic references are a valuable addition to your trip. 2,000 years ago the river ran the opposite direction all the way down the Ottawa River. Another amazing river for tripping. Be well fellow explorers. "lets go around one more corner"

[@sashad8204]

Mesmerizing!! I pity those who cannot feel nature, and therefore cannot be healed, soothed, and challenged by it. Thank you for so beautifully capturing our Canadian wilderness at its finest and taking us with you on this epic trip. ❤🙏

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow Sasha, your words are so kind and thoughtful! I truly appreciate each word you said. I agree that nature truly does have a healing power, and it has helped me (and is still helping me) to go through some of the darkest times in life. I'm so happy this documentary resonated with you and I truly appreciate your encouraging comment. All the best to you!

[@cshunters]

Wow.... well done. It's on my bucket list.

[@Themanwiththeplan85]

This area has some of the most beautiful landscapes Ontario has to offer. Thank you very much for sharing your journey and congratulations on completing the same amazing trip so many explorers and pioneers have made over the last few hundred years, it's something very special

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Marc thank you for your kind comment!

[@TheHappyCamper]

Really enjoyed it! The visuals, the history, the music choices, the time of year, and the story line. Amazing journey. Well done.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Kevin, thanks so much for sharing this and for supporting this project, it really means the world to me 👍I'm a huge lover of music and choosing the right tracks to include was one of my favourite parts of the process. I'm so happy you enjoyed this, all the best to you!

[@timhill1879]

Thanks Kevin for sharing this documentary I enjoyed it very much!

[@scottheywood6502]

Great stuff. I grew up spending summers on the French River Delta and working at most of the local marinas and lodges. The green-roofed, red sided building in Hartley Bay (visible from the marina and very near the railway tracks in your film) was originally home to CN railway workers until around 1910 when CN finished installing the tracks. They then sold the camp and land to a group of guys who formed The Hartley Bay Club in 1912. My grandfather and father were members. Then dad bought a place in Ox Bay where the French and Pickerel Rivers split. Many fond memories.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Scott, I love this historic information that you've shared, thank you so much for offering that! One of the best things that has come from this film has been hearing from folks such as yourself who have grown up in that area. I've learned so many historical tidbits from these folks that I could make a part 2 to this documentary! Thank you so much for the encouragement and support!

[@scottheywood6502]

​@@LatitudesWildernessFilms You probably paddled past "Kamp Kaintuck" (KK), a large camp at the mouth of the Wanapitei River and Wanapitei Bay maybe 2 km out of Hartley Bay. It's a fishing club owned by a group of about 25-30 elderly doctors, judges, lawyers, and business owners from Kentucky, USA. I worked there as a fishing guide in 1977 - I was 13. You were supposed to be 16 but I was almost 6' and back then, nobody really cared about your age as long as you could handle a boat. THAT I could do. The guys I worked with were all 16 to 24 and only 1 other local guy knew his way around a bit. Anyway, KK opens once a year for the first 3 weeks of August (at least it used to) and Hartley Bay Marina would make the camp turn-key ready for the group's arrival. It was a ton of work and I was on vacation but helping with the prep because I know the marina owners. They offered me a job guiding as they were short one. The times were different then as the group brought their own black cook and helper. Both men would "dress" to serve meals. Each week (Saturdays) they would select a a new Kamp Captain who would organize the list of who's fishing with who and where they were going fishing. Three days in I was selected to fish at the Bad River along with two other boats and guides. The two boats followed me 19km down through the Voyageur Channel, through the Crooked Rapids, and out to Georgian Bay. We had a great day and the guests loved the ride through the rapids. We caught lots of fish and even brought back a 24 lb. Northern Pike. After dinner I was summoned to the porch where the Kamp Captain stood in front of a 4ft x 6ft. wall map covered with clear plastic and said loudly, "Where in the HELL did you take these men today!?" Surrounded, I pointed to the map where it said Bad River Channel. Apparently that's not where they wanted us to go when they gave us the ticket that I quickly took from my pocket that said "Bad River Channel". Oops! He explained how dangerous it was... What if..." I explained it's not dangerous if you know where you're going. I explained that I've driven to the Bad River and back to Hartley Bay dozens of times and even at night. In the end he was smiling and for the next 10 days I was on Bad River detail so all the men got to experience the rapids and fish for big pike. A few years later I was vacationing and went to Hartley Bay and ran in to someone guiding at KK and they recognized me from a photo on a wall inside the camp. I have many indelible moments and stories from my time spent there that I should probably write down. I think you'd like the history of how the Tinnerman French Canoe Club came to exist.

[@mhiebendaal3836]

DEEPLY ROOTED

[@JasonIrwinTumblehome]

Awesome guys! Raising the bar. Really appreciate the time and effort here.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thanks very much Jason, so so appreciated! Hopefully one day I'll have half of the skill and talent that you have! 🙏🍻

[@JohnSteenhof]

Pete and Bill, we have seen this trip before and commented on it. And seeing it again, such an epic description. It so excited us both. What a poetic rendition of a journey on the French River. My wife and I, both Canadians are away from our children and grandchildren for a year in Canberra, Australia. We miss Ontario and lick our lips at the journey through the French River. As always your presentation makes the heart shudder both at the historic elements of the trip and the beauty of this river. We also praise God for this jewel of nature in His crown. I had to think of Haydn's creation oratorio. The heavens are telling the glory of God. We would like to thank you both for your most enjoyable work of art that you have produced. We also enjoyed the comments below which put into words our appreciation of your reflective most enticing saga. We are older but expressed our hope that we could do one more canoe trip in the rivers of Ontario. *******My last trip was on the Magnetewan River in a very grand spring flood in 1993 with two of my boys, at that time14 and 15. My heart almost fell out when I saw the first rapids. I was at that point a lake paddler with some experience on the rivers but no river paddling skills. Thankfully we met some experience river paddlers and we found that paddling the wild spring river rapids was almost the opposite of lake skills. They patiently taught us, but as usual we learned mainly from our mistakes. We were just thankful to survive as we had some hair-raising dunks under the water for fairly long periods of time.(I thought I had lost a son at one point.) By God's grace we survived. Yet...I enjoyed the adrenalin rush. ******** Thanks also for the history lesson. There is no more interesting history, than hearing stories from a person kneeling at the scene. All this happened....right here. So many levels of history are covered. Wow! Wow! Wow! PS We await an invention for the Go Pro that makes it unloseable in rapids. Our heart has sunk twice now, for you guys. We probably will view this again in a year or so.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi John, many thanks for another encouraging and meaningful comment! I'm glad you continue to appreciate this and that you take the time to let me know what it means to you. Bill and I have been blessed enough to see much more of God's creation via canoe over the last two years since this project came out. I hope to present another documentary similar to this one about the beautiful Missinaibi River one day. God bless, Pete

[@JohnSteenhof]

@@LatitudesWildernessFilms Shalom, Pete. We look forward to vicariously enjoy more of your adventures while living down under. I am now 74 so any adventures are now an unexpected bonus. Bless you and Bill My hope is that we meet some day on this side of glory just to personally express our thanks for all your work, which was such a blessing in our lives.

[@michaelschuetz2427]

John I really enjoyed reading your comment on Pete's amazing video of the lower French river.

[@bigdaddytreevo4120]

Wet, wet, wet is something I've never had to say since I started hammock camping. I set up my tarp first and then set up my hammock under it. Great video. I love paddling the French.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Right on, hammock camping interests me for sure. Since this trip I've upgraded tents and have never had to say "wet wet wet" again thankfully. All the best to you!

[@RichardCulpeper]

I think Toni Harting would approve. An inciteful and lovely film.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

That means a lot, thank you so much! Toni's book was a crucial resource through this project. I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed this, thank you for your kind words! 🙏

[@mattyinthesky9424]

Absolutely awe inspiring and masterfully put together. i cant believe i m just coming across this now.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow, thank you so much for those kind words!

[@TOOZECRUISE]

You've got the who's who of the canoe world commenting on your video Brother! Congratulations and bravo!! I am 100% doing this route! I'll probably pull out at HWY 69. The big water of Nipissing is now calling me...[Whispy wind sounds]... Bradley... [Sound of gusting wind]... Bradley I must answer! Thanks again for the inspiration my fellow paddler 👍

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thanks so much man!! I'm pretty blown away by all of the support 👍🙏 Yah man you have to do this route! That Nipissing paddle is beautiful, especially in the fall. You can plan your route around the wind conditions, and there's lots of spots for nice campsites both on shore and on islands. So glad you've been inspired to do the route, I hope you can make it happen brother! Cheers 🍻

[@carolwilson9341]

Living in Northern Ontario, where we have canoed and kayaked for years this video brought back so many memories of how beautiful it all is. I have done a couple of memorable kayaking trips in the French River Georgian Bay area. During the pandemic I have found a treasure trove of wonderful Canadian wilderness paddling trips and I long to get out again on the North Channel, where I live. Thanks for this and I look forward to more videos.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Carol, thanks so much your kind words! I'm very jealous of where you live 😂. I'm very happy that this brought back some good memories for you, and I hope can make more in the near future. All the best to you!

[@LostLakes]

So much work to create a superb production like this. I had high hopes for this and it exceeded expectations. Wonderful Pete. Awesome job on the satellite views. Don't even know where you got such high res imagery. And oh man, I was guessing either a camera or a wedding ring on the lost item. Totally relate to your heartbreak. But no one will know what's missing from the video but you. To the rest of us, this had it all. Curious about your main camera and your background in editing. Bravo sir!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thanks so much Jon, it means the world to hear this! Yup the loss of that footage was tough to swallow, actually I remember when you had a Panasonic camera tip into the lake out of the canoe a couple years back. It's part of the adventure I guess lol. I use a Lumix g85, this trip was my first time using it. I have lots to learn but thankfully it's pretty user friendly. I started playing with editing about a year and a half ago, and I learn something new every time I try. Many thanks for the encouraging words Jon, cheers! 🍻

[@TOOZECRUISE]

Hey Jon. Google maps just happens to have great satellite imagery in that area. I was just poking around. Can't wait to see more of the Province in this detail!

[@mhiebendaal3836]

SOOO BEAUTIFUL!

[@robgunn6667]

My friend and I did this 70 years ago as part of a project to canoe to James Bay from the Muskoka Lakes and we did most of it - I am 94 years of age. This was in a canvas-covered canoe that gained weight the longer we were out. Our tent was canvass, heavy when wet. One does not sit in the canoe but kneels on the bottom. There should be no seats in a canoe. We did the portages in one go. I took the canoe and a medium-sized pack and my friend the big pack. Our packs had tump lines. No life preservers, no phones, no Go-Pros only black and white photos. I enjoyed your documentary and wish I was young again, especially with all the modern equipment.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

This sounds like an epic journey Rob, I'm sure you made the some of the best memories of your life on that trip!

[@KatyAlmstrom]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I've been on the French every summer for nearly 40 years, missing this one due to Covid. You did an amazing job capturing how beautiful and tranquil life is there. Can't wait to get back!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Katy, thank you so very much for these encouraging words! I love hearing from people that have a connection to the river, and hearing if this film resonated with them. Thank you for watching and for commenting, all the best to you!

[@gregadams8685]

Pete please keep on doing what you do. Like the last post, you capture nature at it’s finest. Your commentary superb. I look forward to your next adventure. Keep up the good work and thank you for displaying nature and keeping it real.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Greg, wow thank you so much for taking the time to make such an encouraging comment, it means so much to me! Thanks for mentioning the commentary, I'm so glad to hear that it resonated with you as it was a new challenge for me. I have a lot of ideas for future projects like this one that I can't wait tackle..happy to have you along Greg, all the best to you!

[@donalddakota8069]

I have to say that you have put together one of the finest canoe trip video's I have ever watched! Your filming, narration, use of satellite maps and history of the river were excellent! Don't feel bad about portaging past rapids your not comfortable running, no one ever drowned on a portage trail. One hint for you, always tie off your boat at any portage landing or just checking out a camp site, I've seen random wind take peoples boats away in a second and over the falls. Any way, great job! Movie quality! Looking forward to more of your video's to come, take care!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Donald, wow I can't thank you enough for these kind and encouraging words! I'm blown away by the support from kind folks like you, so thank you so much! I hope to take some whitewater courses this year and start to gain more confidence in whitewater. Canoeing opens up a world of opportunities and I want to learn and explore as much as I can. Yes thanks for the tip on tying off! It's something that I think off but I'll admit I neglict it more often than not. I'd hate to have to swim after my boat! Thanks so much for the support and encouragement Donald, all the best to you!

[@camper69]

WOW! I must say I thoroughly enjoyed watching it tonight. I loved seeing the Recollect Falls area again. Thanks for all the work in filming your trip!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there, thank you ever so much! I had hoped to film a lot more of Recollect Falls but it was pouring rain and I could only have my camera out for a few seconds. I'm really glad you enjoyed the final product, cheers! 🍻

[@michaelschuetz2427]

Hi Pete I just rewatched your amazing trip on the French and, wanted to give a shout out, for taking us along. I got to spend a week on the headwaters of the French many years back and loved it. I had often wondered how beautiful the lower French must be, and thanks to you and your fantastic video, I now know what I've been missing. The ports seem quite manageable even for older guy like me. Thanks for this. Maybe if I'm really lucky, I can get back up there again 😮. Great story telling in addition the wonderful videography.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Michael! Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed comment. I apologize for not getting a response to you sooner than this. I hope you can explore a new section of the river in 2024. The 550m port is easy, and any carry that you would need to do in the Delta section is short. I wish you amazing paddling adventures in this new year!

[@michaelschuetz2427]

Thanks for getting back with me and, I'm excited to read that you're working a Missinaibi video. I'm really excited to see this one in the works. Some of my best friends were fortunate enough to run it as their Senoir HS class trip and, they never stop talking about it, haha!!! Sadly, I missed out as my family moved away in my junior year, so I wasn't eligible, drat. You vid will make up for it! CHEERS 🍻 👏

[@p.w.hanlon8335]

I find this a wonderful little humble film about plain folk having an adventure. I enjoy it for the admission of the humanity and self awareness of their personal limits; I enjoy it for the sheer magnitude of the scenery that the adventure traverses through. It inspires me to define my own adventure in my own backyard

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

This was very well, and beautifully written, and I thank you so much for commenting in such an encouraging way. I appreciate this more than you know!

[@GregStanton.]

I'm not a paddler or a camper or anything of the sort. But I love nature, especially in our lovely country. And even more so, I love watching people do things they're passionate about and love. Thank you for sharing the experience with us. The research, history and storytelling is matched by done. Too many tripping videos I find are just too vloggy and don't show anything of substance. I can only watch so many "paddle cook sleep" videos. you've made this video a lesson, a story and a tribute to our history and culture above all. I'm rambling now, so long story short...you have a new follower! thank you so much :)

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Greg! Wow, your comment is so kind and encouraging, I appreciate it so very much! I do agree on the repetitive tripping videos that KZbin is saturated with. The direction that I want to go is towards films and documentaries that consist of historical info, storytelling, and that hopefully have more intellectual and thought provoking content, rather than a vlog showing what I'm doing. I can't thank you enough for your kindness and support! Cheers my friend!

[@tedeast1180]

Well done, will become the benchmark guide, the gold-standard reference of the river.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow that is very encouraging to hear, I would love that! I had hoped people would find it useful towards planning a trip to the French. Thank you so very much for your support!

[@melonieredner4319]

this is the best exaple of why I moved to the french

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Such an amazing area, you are blessed to live right there!

[@melonieredner4319]

@@LatitudesWildernessFilms yes i know its so beautiful in the summer

[@seanmarcellus5573]

We did this back in September, unbelievable river to explore.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

I'm glad to hear that you paddled the whole route! It is an absolute gem. All the best to you!

[@looking4leasuretime]

Thank-you . If I didn't write it in times before, thanks again for this.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

You are most welcome, I'm so glad this resonated with you!

[@calliepieters3446]

Wow !! I am inspired to get out this season. Lots of wilderness exploration. thank you so much that was Awesome !!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Callie! Thank you so much for your encouraging comment! I love hearing that people can find inspiration to get out and explore the big beautiful wilderness that we are so richly blessed with. All the best to you!

[@cobierinsharpe2362]

More of this please! Loved it so much. I get tired of the docu-style day-to-day videos about canoe tripping. Loved the storyline and the shots of you talking about the journey. It's also SO INCREDIBLY REFRESHING TO SEE SOMEONE acting /BEING authentic. THANK YOU!!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow, such kind and encouraging words, I can't thank you enough!! I wanted this project to be different than the majority of tripping videos, and I'm so glad you could see that when you watched. Thank you for mentioning about the authenticity as well, I wanted to make sure that the emotions of the trip were captured, and the flaws that took place as well. None of us are perfect, and keeping the flaws included in the film was crucial to me. Many many thanks for the encouragement!!

[@BackcountryPaddler]

Fantastic documentary! Really captures the unmatched beauty and the unique feeling you get when canoe tripping. 👏 Great escape from winter for a few hours and especially great for my friends who are in a lockdown.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for the encouraging words! I really wanted to capture the various emotions that take place on a journey like this. So happy that this gave a little break from winter lol! Cheers

[@MrFriendlyp]

...the best parts of this documentary were too many to recount. Excellent

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for these kind words!

[@brucenorth3575]

Was looking for some videos to get the feel of the French river and boom! Found this amazing documentary. Really well put together. Not only informative in both history and challenges but very therapeutic, motivating and uplifting to watch. I also learned how campsites exist along the river. I would love to find someone to do this journey with some day. Thanks guys for an awesome production!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for your kind words Bruce! I hope you can paddle some or all of the French River one day 👍

[@BenA_9]

Absolutely remarkable work. Thank you for sharing.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you very much!

[@Voyageur314]

I've watched many Canadian canoe trip videos to get me through the gaps of my own trips up there over the past thirty-five years. Your video is by far the most informative and entertaining of them all. Great job!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow thank you ever so much! That is very high praise coming from someone who has over 35 years of tripping experience, and it means the world to me, thank you!

[@barrychisholm5177]

Thank you for capturing the many aspects of this truly magnificent river. I have paddled most of your route in different sections over the last 40 years. I could never express the feeling you captured and shared, but it resonates so much with my experiences. This is a gift. And while my hopes for some camping this winter are not 100% extinguished by covid, I am now dreaming of where to explore this summer! You have really done a beautiful job sharing the majesty of the river, the history, and the deep connections it can create. Thank you again.....

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Barry, wow this is such a thoughtful and encouraging comment to read! Thank you ever so much for taking the time to watch and to comment! I love hearing from people who know the river and have had experiences like ours. It's truly an amazing place that calls us all to go back over and over. Like you, I'm hoping to be able to get out winter camping shortly, but as soon as the ice is out I'll be paddling, and hopefully you will to. All the best Barry, thanks so much for the encouragement and support!

[@mhiebendaal3836]

Really cool, Thank You.

[@jackk5845]

What a wonderful video! I've paddled on the French River many times since 1995 and it's been my absolutely favourite destination.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Jack, I'm so happy you enjoyed the documentary. I'm jealous you've been paddling this beautiful river since 95! All the best to you 👍

[@jackk5845]

@@LatitudesWildernessFilms Thanks! By the way, I admire your videography skills. Could you tell me what kind of camera did you use? And I bet it took a lot of pos-production work to achieve this excellent final product.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

@@jackk5845 Hey Jack, again thank you so much for the encouragement! I use a Panasonic Lumix G85, and I film in 4k 24p and 1080 60p. It's an amazing camera for the value. I do hope to upgrade to a GH5 at some point. There was a PILE of work in post, between the editing and filming all the talking head stuff (3 months!) Thank you for noticing that and for appreciating it👍 I'm always happy to answer any questions people have so feel free to reach out anytime. Cheers Jack🍻

[@supergoodcamping]

What an amazing documentary! So much history. Gorgeous cinematography. Beautiful narration. A boatload of research & planning. Lost footage. Months of editing.... Such a beautiful film to share. I'm so thankful that you did. And thankful for the history lessons, in particular. I think we'll look at our French loop a little differently this summer. Thank you!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for your wonderful and encouraging comments! Your words have really brightened up my day. All the best to you my friend!

[@seattleboatguy]

A wonderful, well documented video of a canoe adventure through a magical place.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

That's so great to hear, thank you very much!

[@Joe-fc7yk]

Absolutely love your video

[@thelightinray]

It took a year for it come on my feed. Sure glad its did. Thanks.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you for your kind words!

[@MrAndyballard]

Beautiful country you have there. I enjoyed that hugely. Well filmed and edited with sympathetic choice of music, sublime! This understated film I prefer than some of the other more well known trippers vids on YT that tend to go overboard on vlogging into camera for too long and then yammering on about what they're cooking for supper... this was just right - quality! Some of those narrow channels towards the end were beautiful. Greetings from England.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Andy, wow I can't thank you enough for these words! In one comment, you have summed up everything that I'm trying to do with my content. I used to do more of a "traditional" style of video like you described, and I realized that I just wasn't enjoying it, and I wanted to do something different, and this documentary is the result of that. I'm so happy that you appreciated this style and that you took the time to comment in such an encouraging way. I hope you can travel here and paddle some of our Canadian waters soon enough. All the best to you Andy!

[@vickyleriche3800]

Hi Pete. I started watching this video to see how you did your work. I have to say that I was locked on to every word that you spoke. You are an amazing narrator and you know what you are talking about. I was very impressed and couldn’t stop watching until it was done. It’s strange how we live here in northern Ontario and I have never looked at the French River area quite like this. You also picked the most beautiful time of year for this trip. Great work and I look forward to seeing more.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Vicky! Wow thank you so much for this encouragement, I'm so happy you enjoyed watching this! You are so fortunate to live where you do, I'd move up there in a heartbeat. I'm happy you and Marc can both get out and enjoy the beautiful north together 👍 Thanks again for hospitality, it was so great to meet you both! 🍻👍

[@vickyleriche3800]

Pete you are welcome here anytime. Just let us know that you are coming and I’ll move the boxes for you! Lol. It’s always good cooking for someone else too. I always make too much anyway. And the happiest dogs always love a good visit!

[@jeremiahpapaya1260]

Very well done! Thank you for sharing.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

You're welcome Jeremiah, thanks for watching and for commenting!

[@Great4179]

Loved this video. So relaxing and made me feel like I was there with you. Thank you for your hard work!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

That's great to hear! I had hoped that people would feel like they were along with us for the journey. Thank you very much for watching!

[@silverpaddles2905]

Thank you!

[@imeldakennington1047]

Fantastic film. You did great. Derek

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much Derek, glad to hear you enjoyed it!

[@maydanlex]

Love the historical information you provide throughout the video. The voiceovers you offer touch on our connection to past. Just a pleasure to watch. Thanks.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

This is so encouraging to hear, many thanks! The voiceovers are enjoyable to create but also put me in a bit of a vulnerable place sharing my own thoughts...I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed them!

[@stevenensminger5737]

Thank you for taking us along on this beautiful trip. 🌲

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for coming along!

[@docriley7837]

Great job! Thanx for taking me along

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much!

[@steveverrill6935]

So what I want from a tripping film! Thank you!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Steve you are most welcome! So happy that you enjoyed it👍👍

[@Brentdarley]

I have been to the French once. This makes it necessary to go again. Thanks for the inspiration and the excellent story you have created!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so very much, I really hope you can get there to paddle again! The section towards Nipissing is very underrated and doesn't see much paddle traffic 👍

[@tracyhennessey4451]

This was absolutely spectacular with history lessons to go with. Thank you for sharing your adventure with us.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there Tracy, thank you so very much for that encouragement! All the best to you!

[@CedarhausFilms]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us and for the time, effort and expense you put into telling your story. Truly Inspiring!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

You are most welcome, and thank you for the kind and encouraging words!

[@greifi7283]

Wow, beautiful story beautifully told, thank you very much! :)

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you very much, so happy that you enjoyed it!

[@timhill1879]

Great job! My canoe buddy and I had our first white water experience on the French. We paddled our fourteen foot canoes up from hwy 69 to the Blue Chute and back over a long weekend. From then on river travel was a constant in our many canoeing adventures. I have to say that next only to the Petawawa in Algonquin Park, the French is our favourite river. Thanks for bringing those trips on the French back to mind.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there Tim! Sounds like an awesome trip. Blue Chute was pretty full when we were there, but looking back it may have been a better option than the Ladder which we took. I want to go back one day with more whitewater experience and take on the Blue Chute myself. Glad this doc brought some good memories back to you. All the best!

[@timhill1879]

You won’t be disappointed, the Blue Chute is huge but a great rush! We learned our white water skills fro Bill Mason, his books and films on paddling. I love the French and think it’s a perfect river for learning because the rapids in the 5 mile section are, for the most part, deep and obstruction free so while one can certainly end up swimming there is little chance of damage to body or canoe. In the many times we have been on the river we have never run Big Pine rapids. At any rate enjoy and be safe. Our favourite camping spot was at the upper right shore of the Ladder. Warm regards, Tim.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Awesome, I love all of the work from Bill Mason! His films were part of the inspiration to do this French River doc. No doubt I'll be back tackling these rapids again when the water is a little warmer and I won't mind the swim that might happen haha..thanks Tim!

[@timhill1879]

@@LatitudesWildernessFilms Interesting, as I was watching your documentary and listening to the voice over I was reminded of Bill Mason’s narrative style. Possibly another reason I enjoyed it so. I look forward to your next offering.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

@@timhill1879 very high praise, thank you Tim🙏

[@ganderbeaver77]

Wow! Yes a canoe trip with a story. Living away from Canada, lately I have had a hankering to see some of the country I explored when I was young. While I have never been on the French River, this is much like so much of Ontario's beautiful North. but yet-unique. And so I am reminded of so many of my younger days canoe trips. I praised God for His art in your pictures.. You also recalled the historical in such a way that I could almost imagine being in a 600 pound voyageur canoe or travelling with the Indians. Felt for you when you lost your camera. Such a hard thing take for a story teller like you. Anyhow, thank you so much. My last trip in Canada was on the Magnetewan River in full spring flood. I found out that I had only lake skills in canoeing but some young bucks showed me the basics of river canoeing. so enjoyed your video and commentary. I myself vicariously enjoyed this trip so much. thanks guys.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi John! Wow, your words are beautifully written and mean so much to me! You mentioned that you praised God for His art in my pictures, and I want to say that I feel so very blessed to hear that! Both Bill and I are born again Christians, but during the time we took this trip and filmed it all, I (Pete) was openly living a life away from God, having much bitterness and anger against Him for pain I've experienced in life. This past year, only a few months after this video was released, I asked for God's forgiveness and for Christ to come into my life once again! I'm so thankful for His forgiveness and grace! I enjoyed your words about your last trip on the Magnetewan, I'd love to paddle it one day. Where are you living now? I hope that my future films will resonate with you and bring back fond memories of canoeing in the great north of Ontario. All the best to you John!

[@ganderbeaver77]

Hi Pete and greetings to Bill as well. I suspected you just might be Christians. Showed in your beautiful commentary, good relations, non-potty mouths and awesome interaction with the Land. So glad you have got over the place of bitterness in your life, Pete. Been there and done that more than once. The primary victims of bitterness are ourselves. We can get a lot of jabs in the Christian life. We were warned by Christ that as he had sufferings in His humiliation, so would we. Bitterness is such a temptation and is pictured as a bait in a trap in scriptures. I know so well because it plagued me at times. Psalm 37 and 73, the "fretters" Psalms are great ones in this respect. Thus it is part of the Lord's prayer. God puts us through sufferings and sometimes through disobedient people. Actually a canoe trip is a good way to think away from the maddening crowd on our relationship with God and His people. The rhythm of the paddle, the hues of creation, all of it! Having been the father of six boys your trip intrigued me in terms of keeping good personal relations between you two . It seemed to me that you guys were matched well. It is not always so. We made a trip with five guys from Chapleau down the Chapleau River to Lake Kapuskasing and then right back up Kapuskasing River over Lake Nemegosenda and to the highway. We had to pursuade a guy in Chapleau to buy two canoes so we could rent them off him. I was the "get in there and attack the rapids" type guy and my very good friend was more the "careful and portage" type fellow. We did have some arguments which were exacerbated by the fact of what they call "bush neurosis". But we made it through still loving each other. I now live in Australia, but I do miss ice-hockey and canoeing and my family who mostly attend the United Reformed Churches sprinkled over Ontario. Most live between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. I am watching this reflective poetic journey of history again. You actually closely resemble our son Chris's best friend who was also a young man of kindness and reflection. And my question for you is, "What's next?" I'm gazing on a huge group of voyageurs paddling in Unison. But only in my mind as the last song is played on your journey. (Yeah ...I saw it a second time.)

[@philipeichmann7834]

Amazing. I enjoyed watching every minute

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so very much Philip, I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed it👍

[@michellemazerolle8304]

Awesome video they editing, the video quality and the music all came together so wonderfully! Definitely deserves a lot more likes! Can't wait to see the next adventure.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey there, thank you so very much! The encouragement and support are so appreciated...I can't wait for the next adventure either! All the best to you!

[@Adventure-Outdoors]

What a great video, thanks for taking the time to share it.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much!!

[@rosemarykaufman526]

Absolutely beautiful!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you very much 🙏

[@trevorfulton2541]

Spectacular !

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much Trevor!!

[@Lannie1948]

Wow, really enjoyed this! Exceptional.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there and thank you so very much!!

[@rebeccadees2300]

I wish I had learned to do this type of outdoor living when I was much younger. Hopefully your videos and a few others I enjoy following will inspire others to try this kind of outdoor life and activities. Thank you for sharing your experience and videos.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you very much for your comment, I hope so as well!

[@margparke6347]

Uncle Larry and I so loved this Pete!! So looking forward to the next trip!!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

That's awesome Aunt Marg, so happy that you both enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching and for the encouraging comments!!

[@user-zm5dw9vr5d]

I love the narration and story telling! Great job! I will subscribe and watch more!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much! I haven't posted anything since this one, but there's lots of work going on right now towards another big film that will come out in the future. Keep your eyes open! Thanks for the support!

[@canoedaddy9515]

This was amazing guys. Fantastic shots, commentary and editing...the whole nine yards. I felt like I was there on the journey with you. I absolutely love all of the extra information you researched and shared, as well. A one-of-a-kind river in a one-of-a-kind province. Thank you for this.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much for commenting in such an encouraging way, that means so much to me! Thanks for mentioning about the extra information that I researched, there was a lot of work that went into this film that people will never see. I appreciate the kind words friend, all the best to you!

[@billparke2796]

A beautifully composed, ambient, and stimulating documentary that inspires the adventurous soul. Well done

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Many thanks Bill, thanks for all you did to make this possible. Until our next adventure my brother 🍻

[@PinetreeLine]

Excellent job with this Pete! What an amazing adventure for you and Bill. Things that go sideways during a trip are what make the adventure. Losing that footage and the GoPro was painful but didn’t impact the amazing story of your journey. Appreciated the history of the French too. Thanks brother!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Doug thanks so much for checking this out and for the encouraging words! I appreciate hearing that you felt the lost footage didn't impact the final project. It was a heartbreak to us both but hey it's all part of being adventurers! Cheers!!

[@mdR041452]

Wow! Stunning ... great film.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much Mark, so happy that you enjoyed it!

[@rebelwithano4890]

Amazing! well done! Please keep up the good work.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there and thank you so much for the encouragement and support! Cheers🍻🍻

[@josephcarriere450]

Love your videos. We Binge watched them in the past 2 days. They are very informative and relaxing to watch. Hope you do more. We are in our 70s and it brings back memories of canoeing and hiking we did many years ago. Thanks

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi Joseph, thanks so much for the wonderful comment! I'm so happy that these videos have brought back some wonderful memories for you both, that means a lot to me 👍I certainly plan on putting out a lot more videos in the future. Thanks for the encouragement Joseph, all the best to you!

[@kaohtix420]

i grew up on the french river spent plenty of days camping and fishing these beautiful waters, ever at the age of 15 was a guide at a camp called kamp kentuck, was a huge highlight of my life thanks for making this great video

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Chris thanks so much, I'm sure you have some awesome memories from those experiences, thanks for sharing 👍

[@rmalmeida]

Awesome adventure, perfect photography. Kudos to you folks!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there, thank you so much for your encouraging words!

[@aliceherculson8645]

Stunning trip footage and educational documentary.. thank you for sharing! I love this stuff.. the history in our wilderness.. so beautiful!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey Alice thank you so much! I'm right there with you, the history and the stories of our vast wilderness are so amazing. Thank you so much for taking the time to watch and to comment, so very encouraging! Cheers!

[@ActuallyAndrewFishing]

Very relaxing watch. Learned a lot too. Well done Pete. Worth the wait for sure! Can’t wait to see what this year will bring for you.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thanks buddy, so happy you enjoyed it! Hopefully we can cross paths this year 🍻

[@kevinthewild]

I really enjoyed watching this. Very cool trip and a lovely boat! Good stuff! 👍

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so very much!

[@swhedge71]

Awesome documentary! Thank you for sharing your experience! Such a deep and rich history of the French River. You guys did well. Cheers! -Steve-

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there and thank you so much for the encouragement! I loved sharing the experience of the journey and shedding some light on the rich history of the French. I'm so glad it resonated with you! All the best to you!

[@gschwendinger]

Very very well done. Thank you for all the work. Excellent story and fantastic filming.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Many thanks for these encouraging words, means a lot to me. All the best!

[@MrEvanMorrison]

Just got back from my first multi-day solo kayak on the old Voyager route, partly inspired by this documentary so thank you. It was a majestic experience so much history following in the footsteps of Étienne Brûlé, The Jesuits and The Huron.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

That's amazing! I'm happy to hear that you got to experience this route for yourself.

[@rechuckg]

Excellent! Very, very good record of your trip. I am always blown away by the beauty of water of Canada. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much, I'm so happy you enjoyed this! I absolutely love the thousands of beautiful Canadian lakes, especially when I can explore them in a canoe. All the best to you!

[@sean4661]

Awesome....THANK YOU!!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thanks so much Shawn, so glad you enjoyed it!

[@jasonintheforest7936]

Loved the video. Incredible journey.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much!

[@yingwang9466]

I'm deeply touched by your story, your path, your journey. It is such a well documented film. I love the music, the scenes and they way you put it... Thank you for sharing your dream with us. Looking forward to your next trip.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Wow, thank you so very much for these kind words! I'm so happy that this resonated with you, thank you for taking the time to watch and to post such a kind comment. All the best to you!

[@ifonlyseethrumyeyes8957]

Wonderful!!! Thx so much

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

You're welcome, glad you enjoyed this 👍

[@getlostwithjay]

Terrific job guys! The entire French River region is just a special place to visit and paddle. Thanks for sharing your adventure along with the historical importance of this route. Absolutely stunning!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so very much for your kind words friend!

[@dougwaites869]

Well done, totally enjoyed this documentary.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you very much!

[@drbsmokelake5564]

Enjoyed completely..... beautiful river and country. Definitely will explore parts ourselves. Well done !

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hi there thank you so much! It is a spectacular system and I hope you can explore it one day. The Delta section is absolutely stunning, but can be very busy in the summer. The upper section from Nipissing down into Dokis is absolutely beautiful and doesn't see near the canoe traffic. You could put in at Lichty's Marina on Nipissing (where we did) and do a 2-3 day trip down to Dokis Marina, just an idea! Cheers!

[@pankratzrichard]

Wow, incredible doc. Thank you.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

You're most welcome Richard, thank you for your encouraging comment 👍

[@faisalrkhawaja]

Super awesome vid! Loved it.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Hey thanks so much!!

[@pierrerainville9957]

Très beau voyage. Merci d'avoir partagé.

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

De rien👍

[@paddlingdutchmen]

Beautiful!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much!

[@waynebayer3144]

great video had to watch again

[@lisac5287]

Wonderful!

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you Lisa!

[@j.lawrence125]

Amazing video guys....so good

[@LatitudesWildernessFilms]

Thank you so much!