These Paddling Images Turned Heads At The Red Bull Illume Image Quest

For photographers in the adventure-sports world, perhaps no stage is more regarded as an artist’s potential “breakthrough” as the annual Red Bull Illume Image Quest. Consider the Illume a Cannes Film Festival, if you will, of adrenaline-inducing imagery. It is an opportunity for photographers to make their work known worldwide. The 2023 awards were no exception, and at this year’s Red Bull Illume, photographers were turning heads with some stunning paddling imagery.

Through the vast number of entries, 52 judges cull selections across ten categories. Much of the contest takes place online. The Red Bull Illume Image Quest then culminates to the final award ceremony in Sölden, Austria, at the end of November. Australian photographer Krystle Wright took the Grand Prize for her shot of athlete Angela Vanwiemeersch climbing a Utah canyon in a sliver of light like a lightning bolt.

Paddlers had cause for celebration, too. The Emerging With Canon Award went to Gonzalo Robert Parraguez for his shot of Kilian Ivelic Astorga running a rumbling waterfall in Chile.

On the image submission, Robert Parraguez shared what it took to capture the shot.

“To get to the waterfall, you had to drive two hours, walk 10 minutes, and then to take this photo, I had to do a 15-meter rappel as the waterfall is in a deep canyon. To get in the position I wanted the only way to get there was to rappel in. With Kilian, we have been filming and looking for places for a couple of years now and continuing to do these missions with him is one of my favourite things to do.”

Photograph of a kayaker paddling glacier runoff.

Pro Tips From Photographer Jan Kasl On Getting Your Shots Noticed

If Robert Parraguez’s name sounds familiar, the photographer’s work is catching fire lately. The award winner was part of the media team capturing Aniol Serrasolses’ recent descent of a glacial waterfall.

The Chilean wasn’t the only paddling image creator to get a nod from the venerable judges of the annual Red Bull awards. A number were also shortlisted as semi-finalists.

Here are a few stunning paddling shots that stood out from the Illume crowd at the 2023 Red Bull contest:

Packrafters Robert Kozakiewicz and Kylee Lambert, Palmer, Alaska. Image: Janessa Anderson
// Red Bull Illume 2023

Janessa Anderson—RAW Semi-Finalist

“Supraglacial lakes are a place of absolute wonder. Formed as meltwater accumulates on the surface of the ice, these fleeting lakes can drain at any time, adding to the allure of experiencing them. I had been scouting the area for a few months, watching as the glacial landscape began to change, waiting for a blue pool that would be ideal for a packraft exploration.”

Seán Mc Ternan on the Elk River, BC, Canada. Image: Tim Retzik// Red Bull Illume 2023

Tim Retzik—Innovation by MPB Semi-Finalist 2023

“I found a way to wedge myself so I could get close enough for the angle I wanted. Because of the way I was set up to take the shot, I couldn’t see the paddlers until they were hitting the rock. Sean nailed the line, and through a 14mm lens, it looked like I was going to take a boat to the face. I had a feeling we nailed it. The image reminds me of photos in Thrasher magazine from the big air contests of the 80s.”

Aniol Serrasolses paddles 65-foot waterfall off a glacier.

Aniol Serrasolses Runs 65-Foot Waterfall Off A Glacier (Video)

Adrian Mattern on the Rio Santo Domingo, Chiapas, Mexico. Image: David Sodomka // Red Bull Illume 2023

David Sodomka—Energy Semi-Finalist

“Santo Domingo River is the steepest section of whitewater kayaking in the world. It’s short, but extremely steep, linked up and consequential. We went there as a group of five kayakers. We spent five days on this section, and paddled it four times.”

Dennis Werden paddling with salmon on the Eagle River, Revelstoke, BC, Canada. Image: Daniel Stewart // Red Bull Illume 2023

Daniel Stewart—Lifestyle by COOPH Semi-Finalist

“Ever since I’ve seen my first salmon run, I’ve been addicted at getting some good photos of them. It’s one of the most challenging things I’ve ever really taken on. I am naturally not a wildlife photographer, so when I first got in the water, the only thing I’d ever capture was them running away from me.”

[Daniel Stewart’s salmon shot appeared in the pages of Paddling Magazine Issue 67]

Jemma Bowles kayaking at the mouth of a braided river. Sandvatn Lake, Iceland. Image: Anthony Pearson // Red Bull Illume 2023

Anthony Pearson—Playground by Radiant Photo Semi-Finalist

“With a walkie-talkie in hand, Jemma sets off in a kayak, and paddles across the river. Having kayaked to the foot of the braids, there are many shallow sand banks which she cannot easily see. So, with a bit of guidance from above, Jemma finds her line, and gets into position whilst I snap away. High winds and two depleted batteries later, it’s time to retrieve the drone and move on.”

Inside Adam Shoalts’ 3,400-km Journey From Lake Erie To Ungava Bay

man paddles a canoe on a solo expedition in cold weather — Shoalts followed the peregrine falcon’s migratory route for his book, Where the Falcon Flies. | Feature photo: Adam Shoalts

On a foggy day in July 2022, adventurer Adam Shoalts found himself clinging to a moss-covered granite crag in the Torngat Mountains in Labrador. It was an unlikely climax to a three-month, 3,400-kilometer canoe expedition from Lake Erie to Ungava Bay, yet it was exactly where Shoalts intended to be. His arduous journey had traced the path of peregrine falcons, from their migrational stopovers on Lake Erie’s shores to nesting sites in coastal Labrador. Now, Shoalts had left his canoe on the shores of the George River and trekked far inland in search of a falcon nest, the ultimate objective of his journey.

beautiful view of a northern BC mountain and river landscape, perfect for the canoe trip of a lifetime

13 Northern River Trips Of A Lifetime

Inside Adam Shoalts’ 3,400-km journey from Lake Erie to Ungava Bay

Shoalts has garnered a reputation roaming the wilderness and spinning yarns about his sometimes esoteric quests. The British newspaper The Guardian called him “Canada’s Indiana Jones” for a project to document an unmapped waterfall on an obscure river flowing into James Bay, which yielded his first bestseller, Alone Against the North. He followed that up with many more adventures and several books, including Beyond the Trees, Shoalts’ account of his 4,000-kilometer west to east canoe expedition from the Yukon to Nunavut’s Hudson Bay coast in the summer of 2017.

Where the Falcon Flies is Shoalts’ latest title, which documents the trip that led him to that moss-covered granite crag in the Torngat Mountains.

map of Adam Shoalts' canoe expedition from Where The Falcon Flies — From Long Point to Kangiqsualujjuaq. | Image: Courtesy Adam Shoalts

Inspiration for the peregrine epic came on an “ordinary April day” at his home in St. Williams, Ontario, near Lake Erie. Shoalts glanced out the window and “spotted a peregrine falcon flying over the neighboring field.”

“The area near our place is a major birding hot spot, so spotting falcons isn’t that uncommon,” Shoalts recalls. “But living in Southern Ontario, there are times when the Arctic feels unconnected to anything local. The falcon made me realize that isn’t really the case. Each spring, falcons migrate from Southern Ontario to the Arctic. So I thought, why not grab my canoe and backpack, and follow that falcon from our doorstep to the Arctic?”

[ Plan your next northern canoe trip with the Paddling Trip Guide ]

Shoalts’ motivation was also practical: starting from home would save on travel costs.

“Plus, I really liked the idea of exploring the connections between wild places, from the local woods right in my backyard to Arctic mountains, and everywhere in between,” he adds.

Adam Shoalts' canoe rig in front of Niagara Falls — Portaging around the Falls. | Photo: Adam Shoalts

Under bridges and along urban shorelines

Setting off, he immediately encountered what could’ve been the expedition’s greatest challenge: portaging around Niagara Falls. But other than crowds of gawkers and a couple of concerned police officers who “thought [he] might be doing something dangerous,” Shoalts says the 13-kilometer portage followed an easy paved trail and took only five hours to complete.

Another problem came in navigating urban shorelines along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. But even near Toronto, Shoalts says he was able to find secluded copses of trees in which to camp. He also slept a night under the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Montreal and pitched his tent adjacent to Quebec City’s Old Town.

bow shot of a canoe paddling in the Toronto Islands with CN Tower and skyline in background — Paddling past the downtown Toronto skyline… | Photo: Adam Shoalts

canoe on shore at dusk near a large bridge in Montreal — …and under the Jacques Cartier Bridge. | Photo: Adam Shoalts

The tone of the expedition shifted dramatically when he veered north, ascending wild waterways draining into the St. Lawrence to the height of land on the Labrador Plateau. Here he accessed the George River, which flows into Ungava Bay at the Inuit community of Kangiqsualujjuaq.

“I was relieved to get to a wilder section after more than a month of paddling through Southern Ontario and Quebec,” he says. “I just studied maps and traced my finger between places to work out what seemed like the easiest and most straightforward route from point A to point B. Labrador’s interior is so laced with lakes, rivers and ponds, that so long as you don’t get lost, it’s possible to go from pretty much any point to any other.”

Where the falcon flies

Shoalts admits he saw only three peregrine falcons on the three-month journey, perhaps owing to the vast speed difference between a solo paddler and the planet’s fastest animal. He made up for that near journey’s end, when he finally found a falcon’s nest high among the misty ridges of the Torngats.

man paddles canoe aggressively on a northern river — The tone of the expedition shifted dramatically when Shoalts veered north. | Photo: Adam Shoalts

canoe and tent on rocky beach in Canada's north — The expedition paddler says the greatest hardship he faced was loneliness. | Photo: Adam Shoalts

“Peregrine falcons nest all across Canada’s Arctic, wherever they can find suitable nesting sites,” he says. “But the sheer cliffs and high peaks of the Torngat Mountains are especially a hot spot for peregrines, and many of the Lake Erie falcons are known to migrate there in particular.”

a solo person paddles while canoe tripping through the dusk light

8 Simple Rules For Solo Canoe Tripping

Unlike his previous expeditions, Shoalts says the greatest hardship he faced was loneliness. Arriving at journey’s end was a huge relief, in stark contrast to the bittersweet emotions he felt at the terminus of his 2017 expedition across Canada’s far north.

“When I did that trip, I wasn’t a parent. Now I am,” he says. “My son was only 14 months when I embarked on this journey, so missing him was definitely the hardest part. I was happy to have finished it and reached the end, but even happier to be going home to my family.”

Shoalts followed the peregrine falcon’s migratory route for his book, Where the Falcon Flies. | Feature photo: Adam Shoalts

The 9 Best Paddling Films Of 2023

Videos

From the wild icescapes of Baffin Island to the mighty Mississippi River, Paddling Magazine’s top picks for the best paddling films of the year promise to awe and inspire viewers of all ages and abilities. These films celebrate the spirit of adventure and our connection to water through exceptional storytelling and stunning visuals.

The following nine films are currently screening as part of the Paddling Film Festival, which is the largest paddling film festival in the world and has been showcasing the best canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding and whitewater films every year since 2006. Watch the films here.

2023 Paddling Film Festival Winners Announced At Premiere

A Baffin Vacation

Winner of Best Adventure Travel Film 2023

Erik Boomer and Sarah McNair-Landry set off on a bold multisport 45-day expedition—traveling through the remote landscape of Baffin Island in search of stunning cliffs to climb and unexplored rivers to whitewater kayak.

Directors: Sarah McNair-Landry, Erik Boomer

Producers: Rush Sturges, Erik Boomer, Sarah McNair-Landry

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adventure Program 2023.

Georgie

Winner of Best Rafting Film 2023

Georgie, a forgotten raft rediscovered at a yard sale, narrates her story of running rivers. From her wild days with legendary Georgie White in the Grand Canyon to leisurely weekend floats, Georgie’s wisdom rings true to every generation of river traveler.

Directors & Producers: Dale Wright, Isaac Wright

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Voices Program 2023.

Wild Waters

Winner of Best Paddling Documentary 2023

Adventurer, competitor, daughter, friend, pioneer, hero and badass human are all words used to describe French kayaker, Nouria Newman. In Wild Waters, we watch Nouria grow from a young Olympic hopeful to one of the greatest kayakers of all time, and follow her as she prepares to become the first female to run a 100-foot waterfall. Running the world’s hardest whitewater isn’t Nouria’s biggest challenge, though. Realizing the expectations placed upon her as an athlete and as a woman weigh heavily as she pushes back to make her own path.

Director: David Arnaud

Producer: Red Bull Media House

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adrenaline Program 2023.

Icelands Most Remote Peninsula: Hornstrandir By Kayak

Winner of Best Sea Kayaking Film 2023

Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Hornstrandir is damn fresh even in summer, and this northern coast is hardly protected. In paddling Iceland’s most remote peninsula, this group of kayakers learns how to fail beautifully.

Director & Producer: Eike Köhler

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adventure Program 2023.

Circumnavigate

Winner of Best SUP Film 2023

Tragedies in former lifeguard Brendon Prince’s past forced a change in his life to pursue water safety education. In the pursuit of raising awareness for this cause, he must put his own life at risk, pushing his limits and attempting something no one has accomplished before.

Circumnavigate follows the South Devon-based father of three as he attempts to become the first person to standup paddleboard around mainland Britain in hopes of breaking five world records—a challenge many have tried, but none have achieved.

Director & Producer: Will Reddaway

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adventure Program 2023.

Greybeard: The Man, The Myth, The Mississippi

Winner of Best Canoeing Film 2023

Dale “Greybeard” Sanders challenges himself to set another world record, trying to reclaim his title as the oldest person to paddle the full source to sea on the Mississippi River. At 87 years old, it takes perseverance and an attitude that says, “One of these days I’ll get old.”

Director: Zak Rivers

Producers: Zak Rivers, Alex Maier, Kyle Johnson, Amy Robin

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adventure Program 2023.

On The Edge

Winner of Best Kayak Fishing Film 2023

Five women set out on an eight-day, 65-mile pack rafting journey deep in the wilderness of Montana. A trip inspired by self-growth, adventure and world-class westslope cutthroat trout fishing quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of how we are on the edge of a new climate era. The group begins to question what the future of conservation and ethical wilderness recreation will look like in a rapidly changing climate.

Director & Producer: Katie Falkenberg

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adrenaline Program 2023.

On, In & Under The Sava

Winner of Best Paddling Short Film 2023

Armed with a raft, snorkels and flippers, four friends drift down Slovenia’s Sava River. Their one mission: find the elusive finned monsters that dwell in the deep, in order to help protect the Sava from the construction of dams.

Directors: Rožle Bregar, Carmen Kuntz

Producers: Balkan River Defence, Leeway Collective

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Voices Program 2023.

Stakeout

Winner of Best Whitewater Film 2023

For decades, Eastern Canada has brought people from all over the world to paddle its huge variety of whitewater. There is one aspect in particular that continues to bring the world’s best paddlers—big waves. As the rivers rise with the spring melt, each of these unique waves takes form. Every year, a small group of whitewater athletes dedicate their time to the chase. Those who started this tradition gave it a name: Stakeout.

Director & Producer: Dane Jackson

Watch this film in the Paddling Film Festival’s Adrenaline Program 2023.

10 Best Gifts For Paddlers Who Love To Travel

Who doesn’t like to travel? Since we often travel to paddle, our list includes gift suggestions that work on the way to your destination and when you hit the water. From stylish and practical apparel to a bargain road-tripping tent, accessories to keep you (and your coffee) warm and the perfect rec kayak for snowbirds, there’s something here for everyone.

three people carry Christmas gifts and canoes along a snowy sidewalk

17 Best Budget Gifts For Paddlers

Teva

Universal Originals

$54.95 USD | tevaonline.com

Love a vintage look? What’s old is new again with Teva’s Original sandal, complete with 90s color options and classic hook-and-loop closures to round out the vintage style. Underneath it all, an updated sole increases grip on wet rock. It’s no wonder Teva remains a favorite among raft guides around the world; these sandals are a great choice for paddling and casual hot weather wear.

Buy from:

AL’S AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S CAMPSAVER FAMOUS FOOTWEAR MEC REI SCHEELS SPORT CHEK WALMART

Branwyn

Essential Undergarments

$36–48 USD | branwyn.com

Branwyn specializes in merino wool bras and underwear, offering extended comfort, warmth, moisture-wicking and durability for adventurous applications. The Essential Bralette is best for smaller cup sizes and the Essential Bikini bottoms offer modest coverage. Bonus for paddlers: the quick-drying fabric is great for watery environments. Our tester agreed with Branwyn’s suggestion to size up for the best fit.

Buy from:

BUY DIRECT

Ignik

Multi-Use Foot Warmers

$21 USD | ignik.com

About the only thing worse than cold feet while paddling in frigid environments is the frustration of tossing a set of toe warmers after a single use. Ignik’s foot, toe and hand warmers can be reused multiple times within 72 hours of opening, making them a more sustainable choice. Ignik foot warmers line the entire sole of your footwear (or drysuit sock) for ultimate comfort.

Buy from:

AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY CAMPSAVERS EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS REI

Pirani

Insulated Stackable Tumbler

$25.95 USD | pirani.life

What would a road trip be without a great travel mug? The Pirani tumbler looks like a classic SOLO cup made from durable stainless steel, complete with an easy sipping lid and enough insulation to keep your coffee hot for up to six hours. It’s free of nasty chemicals, dishwasher safe and stackable for easy storage, as its name suggests.

Buy from:

AMAZON
BUY DIRECT

Opinel

No.08 Stainless Steel Folding Knife

$40 | opinel-usa.com

The understated, beechwood handled Opinel folding knife is an icon, but its wood components tend to swell, making it a poor choice for use around water. The Opinel No.08 outdoor knife features the same timeless craftsmanship but with a Sandvik stainless steel blade and plastic handle. The slender, partially serrated blade is just as perfect for slicing your lunch salami, cheese, cucumber and tomatoes as the Opinel original.

Buy from:

ALTITUDE SPORTS AMAZON HOUSE OF KNIVES MEC

Oru Kayak

Lake+

$499 USD | orukayak.com

Oru Kayak’s nine-foot Lake+ is not only one of the best performing rec boats on the market, it’s also a perfect travel companion for snowbird paddlers heading south for the winter. Inspired by origami, Oru’s boats are literally folding sit-inside kayaks. The paddling performance of the compact Lake+ benefits from a distinct keel line for improved tracking and hard chines that enhance maneuverability and edge control just like a longer touring kayak. The Lake+ features an open cockpit for comfort in hot weather and an adjustable footrest for paddling efficiency. The optional, wedge-shaped Gel Seat ($69 USD)is a great upgrade for ergonomics, as is the Kayak Pack ($199 USD)for hauling this 18-pound kayak to the beach. Setup and takedown require less than five minutes.

Buy from:

AMAZON BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S CAMPSAVER OUTDOORPLAY WALMART
LEARN MORE VIEW ORU KAYAK PRODUCTS

Weatherman

Travel Umbrella

$69 USD | weathermanumbrella.com

An umbrella is the type of thing you chuckle about bringing on a trip the first time and then never forget to pack again. It’s especially perfect for sea kayak touring in wet destinations, affording rain protection when you venture from the tarp or tent to your boat to retrieve gear. Weatherman umbrellas are designed by a meteorologist and built strong enough to withstand 55-mph winds. The Travel model weighs less than a pound and telescopes down to only a foot in length.

Buy from:

AMAZON
BUY DIRECT

Maps By Jeff

Algonquin Series

$25 CAD | mapsbyjeff.com

Mapmaker Jeff McMurtrie is a legend among Ontario paddlers seeking the most detailed information to plan their next trip. McMurtrie’s long-awaited latest venture returns to Algonquin Provincial Park, the place where his mapmaking career began. The Maps by Jeff Algonquin series is made up of five double-sided maps, providing lavish detail and convenient, paddler-friendly features to improve your adventures. Each waterproof paper map comes with digital versions for a variety of platforms, including Avenza and Garmin, with a 20-percent discount if you order the full set.

Buy from:

BUY DIRECT

Front Runner

Flip Pop Tent

$119 USD | frontrunneroutfitters.com

It’s easy to deride the Front Runner Flip Pop Tent as a throwback to a camping fad of the 1980s and 90s—until you’re running hours late and forced to make camp in the dark. For barely the price of a budget motel room, you get a two-person shelter that sets up the second you unzip its slim, sofa-cushion-sized storage envelope. Don’t expect luxurious space or backcountry performance, but the Flip Pop is dry, remarkably breathable and serviceable for two average-sized adults. Practice is key to make it fold up in seconds when you’re ready to hit the road again.

Buy from:

AMAZON

Outdoor Research

Ferrosi Pants

$99 USD | outdoorresearch.com

A longtime staple in the Outdoor Research lineup, the Ferrosi is a lightweight travel pant made from a slimmed down softshell material that stands up to the rigors of canoe tripping and trekking in hot and buggy locations. There’s a slight stretch in the quick-drying fabric for improved mobility and just the right number of pockets. Men’s and women’s styles are available.

Buy from:

AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY CAMPSAVER GEAR COOP MEC REI SPORT CHEK
BUY DIRECT

Feature photo: iStock

Perks Of The Job: This Minnesota Police Department Is Giving Recruits Free Canoes

Ely Police Department giving recruits free canoes — Featured Image: Chad Houde/Ely Police Department via AP

In a small town at the edge of the fabled Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a police department is incentivizing recruits with a pretty sweet sign-on bonus—free Kevlar Wenonah Canoes.

Ely, Minnesota, has a population of just over 3,000 residents in a remote corner of the state. Like many police departments in recent years, the small outfit serving Ely is struggling to hire new officers. Utilizing what the town has access to and what Minnesotans value, Police Chief Chad Houde came up with a creative and fitting benefit to joining his force. Houde is giving new (and current) police officers free Kevlar Wenonah Canoes valued at $3800 for committing to three years of duty.

[ Check out finely crafted Wenonah Canoes in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

“You can get done with a shift, maybe it was a stressful shift. … The best way to decompress is go out canoeing, hunting or fishing,” Houde shared with the Associated Press.

Talk about a quality of living bonus. The bordering Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness comprises one million acres of forests and connecting waterways, with over 1200 miles of canoe routes.

To give the offer more state pride, Wenonah Canoes were founded in Minnesota 50 years ago and are still made there today.

For paddlers pursuing a career in law enforcement, one could do worse than scoring free canoe and joining a police department serving a community at the edge of one of the most treasured natural areas in North America. The Ely police department has one slot currently open and another soon to come. But we imagine those won’t last long once word spreads through the canoeing ranks.

wide shot of two people paddling a canoe through Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area

8 Best Canoe Routes in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

A canoe rests a the edge of a rocky lake in the Boundary Waters at sunrise

The Ultimate Guide To Canoeing The Boundary Waters

The Fight To Save The Boundary Waters

What paddlers and campers can do to help reduce their environmental impact

Canadians are going outside in record numbers. That’s a good thing: spending time in nature improves mental and physical health. But all those extra boots on the ground is leaving an impact. Now there’s a new way Canadians can play a part in preserving natural spaces.

“Land managers and trail groups across the country tell us they are struggling to keep up with the influx of people,” says Richard Vinson, the Chair for Leave No Trace Canada, a non-profit that promotes the sustainable use of parks and natural spaces. “With more people sharing these outdoor places, the more it matters how we all behave when we’re out there. But there are simple things we can do that make a big difference.”

One of them is taking the new Leave No Trace Pledge, a joint project between Leave No Trace Canada and Subaru Canada. By visiting LeaveNoTrace.ca people can learn about the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace and then commit to adopting them by taking the Pledge. For everyone who shares their Pledge on social media Subaru Canada will plant a tree in the spring 2024.

“This is a real win-win-win,” says Vinson. “We’re planting trees in Canada, educating people and protecting parks, natural spaces and wildlife all at the same time. The Pledge is something anyone can do to show that they care.”

Subaru Canada thinks the Pledge is a good way to mitigate environmental impacts.

“We are excited to partner with Leave No Trace Canada and help promote their Seven Principles,” said Tomohiro Kubota, Chair, President and CEO of Subaru Canada Inc. “We look forward to challenging Canadians to take The Pledge as we believe these guidelines provide the basis of responsible exploration.”

Outdoor recreation and park use were both increasing across the country before 2020 and then shot up significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. A Park People report found that 66 percent of Canadians increased their park visits since 2019, while a Leger Opinion study for the Trans Canada Trail found 40 percent of Canadians increased their trail use in 2021. In addition, Parks Canada experienced its busiest camping years ever with more than 500,000 camping nights in 2022.

Research shows that more people using parks and natural spaces means more people caring about these important places, says Vinson. But visitors and trail managers tell Leave No Trace this increase is leading to more negative impacts: more waste left behind, more off-trail damage, more campfire scars, more wildlife disturbance and more user conflicts.

“I think most of the impacts are from people who don’t know there is a better way,” says Vinson. “This is where the Leave No Trace principles come in. They aren’t rules. They’re guidelines to help people be gentler users of our natural spaces.”

Research by Brock University’s Garett Hutson backs this up. “Leave No Trace principles and practices give people the tools to experience natural areas responsibly and sustainably,” Hutson says.

The Seven Principles are:

Plan ahead and prepare
Travel and camp on durable surfaces
Dispose of waste properly
Leave what you find
Minimize campfire impacts
Respect wildlife
Be considerate of others.

“Practicing the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and taking the Pledge present an opportunity to make an investment in the future of our natural spaces,” says Vinson.

Learn more about the Seven Principles and take the Leave No Trace Pledge at https://takethepledge.leavenotrace.ca/

British Canoeing Awarding Body Podcast Wins Coaching Podcast Of The Year Award

British Canoeing’s British Canoeing Awarding Body Podcast (BCAB) has been awarded the Coaching Podcast of the Year Award at this year’s UK Coaching Awards. The award acknowledges the British Canoeing Awarding Body Coaching Podcast (BCAB), which has facilitated the development of others in coaching and encourages the delivery of broader social impact through sports and physical activity.

The UK Coaching Awards is a national celebration event, regarded as the most prestigious within the coaching community and created to honour the remarkable contributions coaches make – from delivering high quality and technical coaching, to supporting participants both physically and mentally.

The BCAB Podcast is released monthly, exploring different topics around coaching with a range of guests from within the paddling and sports community, now helping coaches far and wide progress their professional development. Nearing 100 episodes, the podcast is a free resource for any coaches to use – praised most recently by the RNLI for detailing specific advice from a leading researcher on the significant danger of winds to stand up paddleboarders, helping to raise awareness for those heading out to sea.

Conducting distinctive and forward-thinking conversations accessible to everyone, the podcast has been acknowledged for notable efforts across multiple topics, including Neurodiversity Celebration Week. In one instance, it engaged in conversations with a marathon and sprint athlete, as well as an Olympic rower, both diagnosed with ADHD and high-functioning autism. By offering an open and secure platform for them to share their experiences, the podcast has ensured a space for the neurodiverse community and praised for exemplifying the broader impact of exceptional coaching.

Overwhelmed to be announced as an award winner, the team reflected:

“We are a bit starstruck, it is an honour, there is a lot of work that goes behind the scenes that go into this and with every episode we feel really proud and happy to be recognised.

“It is incredibly important to celebrate coaches, because they are often there in the background with people mainly focusing on the athletes and the physical participation of people doing the sport.

“Coaches need support as they are giving so much of themselves and so the idea of a coaching podcast is that support for the coaches who are then supporting their participants. It also celebrates lot of different coaches and something we have tried to do in recent series of the podcast is to represent lots of different coaches from different backgrounds, disciplines and experiences.”

With previous award winners including Sarina Wiegman, Jane Figueiredo, Judy Murray, and Ben Stokes’ coaching chain, the awards are seen as one of the most prestigious within the coaching community, recognising the contributions coaches make to their participants lives and their impact within the wider coaching world – including outstanding podcasts that continue to play a vital role in supporting the well-being of the nation.

UK Coaching’s CEO Mark Gannon congratulated BCAB on their award, and for the profound coaching contribution that saw it honoured as part of the annual celebration:

“I would like to extend a huge congratulations to them on their fantastic work which we are very proud to recognise by presenting him with a UK Coaching award. British Canoeing’s Awarding Body Podcast, and all our winners and finalists should be extremely proud of what they have been able to achieve. Great coaches change lives, tackle inequalities, and help build communities, and continue to be the essential conduit to getting our nation more active.

“It is so important that we celebrate great coaching and acknowledge the tireless work our amazing coaching community deliver to support individuals on their own unique sporting journey. The podcast helps our nation’s outstanding coaches, who chang so many lives through their dedication and creativity in making sport and physical activity accessible for even more people.

Find out more about this year’s winners and the awards by heading to www.ukcoaching.org/uk-coaching-awards.

10 Best Gifts For Rafters

There’s more to rafting than just a raft. In fact, the size and volume of a whitewater raft means there’s plenty of options to accessorize, which makes rafters easy to shop for in the Christmas rush. We’ve curated a list of gift options for traditional whitewater rafters along with specialized, lighter weight selections for packraft explorers.

10 Best Gifts For Paddlers Who Love To Travel

Astral

Rassler 2.0

$150 USD | astraldesigns.com

The Astral Rassler has enjoyed years of success as a burly, portage-ready aquatic hiker for whitewater paddlers. The 2.0 model features a mid-rise cuff along with an incredibly grippy GSS rubber sole that clings to wet and slimy rock. The Rassler tends to fit a bit small so consider going up a half-size. The no-rise sole design is ergonomic and allows for natural toe splay.

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NRS

Ether HydroLock Dry Sack

$27.75–54.75 USD | nrs.com

Just in time for the holidays, enjoy closeout pricing on NRS’ flagship drybag, which is available in a range of sizes from two to 35 liters. The Ether HydroLock features a combo zip seal and roll top for added waterproofness. Welded seams and laminated fabric increase durability.

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Tear-Aid

Original Patch

$13.95 CDN | tear-aid.com

Looking for the best stocking stuffer for rafters or packrafters? Give peace of mind with a simple peel-and-stick patch kit that will get your favorite boater back on the water in no time in the event of a minor puncture or tear. Tear-Aid stretches 600 percent before tearing and features a long-lasting adhesive that can be applied in difficult environments. Options are available to patch vinyl and PVC or all other materials; the kit includes a three- by 12-inch strip as well as two circular patches.

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AMAZON MEC WALMART

Paddling Film Festival Gift Card

$18.50 | paddlingfilmfestival.com

Perfect for loved ones both near and far, adventure awaits at the click of a button. The Paddling Film Festival collects the best rafting, whitewater, SUP, canoeing and ocean paddling films from 2023 and years past. Seamlessly forward the gift card email or print it out to tuck into their Christmas card, bringing the joy of aquatic exploration directly to them.

Purchase a gift card today at an exclusive holiday price and get 20% off with the code: PFF2023KAPM2

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Sea To Summit

Ikos TR3

$529 USD | seatosummit.com

The Sea to Summit Ikos TR3 tent is truly a game changer, offering incredible space for three adults and durable fabrics in a ridiculously light packed size. This three-season, sub-seven-pound shelter provides 49 square feet of floor space and a peak height of 48 inches. Sea to Summit’s unique Tension Ridge architecture creates a modified dome with head room spanning the entire width of the tent, further enhancing the spacious feel. This is a great choice for rafters and anyone who prioritizes having a big family-friendly tent with a modest weight.

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AMAZON REI
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Watershed

Chattooga

$154 USD | drybags.com

You can’t go wrong giving guaranteed dry protection to the rafter or packrafter on your Christmas list. Watershed defined its own niche of bombproof, 100 percent dry duffel bags to protect the most moisture sensitive gear and equipment. The 22-liter Chattooga is a versatile size with a host of applications for day trips and multiday adventures alike.

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AQ OUTDOORS

[ Find more great rafting gear in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

Level Six

Gritstone Neoprene Mitt

$55 USD | levelsix.com

Neoprene mitts are the only option for cold-water boating for paddlers with poor circulation. The Level Six Gritstone Mitts are made of three-millimeter neoprene, pre-curved for an ergonomic grip on the paddle. The seams are liquid-sealed to keep out water and a terry cloth thumb covering makes a handy nose wipe.

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AMAZON AQ OUTDOORS

Costa Del Mar

Fantail PRO

$284 USD | costadelmar.com

The Costa Del Mar Fantail PRO will prove that you truly get what you pay for in optics in terms of performance, comfort and style. Purpose-made for watersports, the Fantail PRO features drain holes in the eyewires and arms, along with unique frame materials that become grippier when wet. Durable, premium polarized glass lenses are available in 12 colors for variable light conditions.

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Big Agnes

Big Six Armchair

$249.95 USD | bigagnes.com

Up your camping comfort with Big Agnes’ extra cushy Big Six Armchair. It offers a stately riverside perch, 20 inches off the ground for easy ins and outs. Additional features include a high back, neck support and armrests (with cup holders—essential for rafters), with a takedown aluminum frame capable of supporting 300 pounds. All this weighs in at less than four pounds and packs down in a compact cylinder.

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AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY MEC REI

Kokatat

WoolCore Long Sleeve Shirt

$95 USD | kokatat.com

Legendary manufacturer Kokatat has applied its mastery of watersports apparel to create the perfect base layers for wearing under a drysuit. The WoolCore top is cut to mirror the body movements of paddlers, and feature a 50-50 wool-synthetic blend for durability, wicking and odor-proofness. Long underwear bottoms are also available.

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AMAZON BACKCOUNTRY
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[ Give the gift of excitement with the Paddling Film Festival’s Adrenaline Program ]

Solo Stove

Ranger 2.0

$229.99 USD | solostove.com

The Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 is a portable firepit that lowers your environmental footprint by eliminating scars on the landscape and containing the flames of a campfire. The 15-inch-diameter, 12.5-inch-tall stainless steel, double-wall chamber weighs 15 pounds and comes with a removable ash pan and travel bag. Best of all is its super-efficient performance, which eliminates smoke, casts bright flames and burns wood to a fine ash.

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AMAZON HOME DEPOT SCHEELS WALMART
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Paddling Magazine Subscription

$30 | paddlingmag.com

Give a gift that is sure to inspire your loved one to get out and paddle. For a limited time, you can get (or give) a print subscription to Paddling Magazine and save 50% off the cover price! Order now to receive 6 print issues of Paddling Magazine for only $30!

Award-winning editorial features
Print issues delivered to your doorstep
Every page of every issue in our digital archive
First access to digital issues
Download our app to read stories anywhere, online or offline

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Feature photo: Midjourney

10 Best Gifts For Paddleboarders

christmas tree on a paddleboard — Feature photo: Midjourney

There’s more to SUPing than just a board and a paddle. The dedicated paddleboarder can never have enough accessories to enhance a day on the water. Our list of best Christmas gifts for paddleboarders includes sleek sunglasses, water-ready apparel, skin protection, high-energy snacks and more. Get tried and tested inspiration for a great gift or find a special treat for yourself—it’s all here.

10 Best Gifts For Rafters

Tifosi

Rivet Sunglasses

$79.95 USD | tifosioptics.com

Searching for shades that offer excellent coverage and excel in a variety of applications yet don’t look too intense or break the bank? The Tifosi Rivet features polycarbonate lenses with a glare-shielding cut that works as well on a paddleboard as it does on a bike. Changeable lenses offer multiple options for different conditions, or choose the variable Fototec version.

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AMAZON
BUY DIRECT

NRS

Women’s Guide Shirt

$84.95 USD | nrs.com

This classic long-sleeve travel shirt from NRS boasts comfortable, casual style with high-performance fabrics. The stretchy material is comfortable while paddling and includes ventilation panels to keep you cool, with a flattering cut that works on the water and at the coffee shop. UPF 50 protection is a must for full-sun days on the water.

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Saxx

Betawave Boardshorts

$80 USD | saxxunderwear.com

The Betawave includes shorts and a liner, the latter featuring Saxx’s trademark BallPark Pouch, which offers outstanding support and minimal chafing, on and off the water. The combination of flashy style and comfortable fit makes for the perfect trunks for paddleboard surfing, touring or a day at the beach.

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AMAZON MEC SCHEELS SPORT CHEK SPORTING LIFE WALMART
BUY DIRECT

Exped

Typhoon 15 Pack

$84.95 USD | expedusa.com

Check out the Exped Typhoon for a multipurpose, drybag-style backpack that keeps your essentials sheltered from spray on a paddleboard day trip. The 15-litre Typhoon has enough space for a water bottle, lunch and spare change of clothes. Bonus: It doubles as a bombproof urban backpack for wet-weather bicycle commuting.

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WALMART
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Sea To Summit

DryLite Towel

$14.95–41.95 USD | seatosummit.com

A packable, quick-drying towel makes for a practical gift for the paddleboarder on your list. Sea to Summit blends polyester and nylon microfiber in an ultralight towel that fits into a pocket and weighs only 3.5 ounces for the medium 20-by-39-inch size.

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AMAZON ATMOSPHERE BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S MEC SCHEELS SPORT CHEK
BUY DIRECT VIEW SEA TO SUMMIT PRODUCTS

[ Find more great paddleboarding gift ideas in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

Arc’Teryx

Norvan Tank

$80 USD | arcteryx.com

Designed for trail runners, the Arc’Teryx Norvan Tank is a minimalist, gossamer-light top that’s supremely comfortable in hot weather—ideal for wearing over a bathing suit while paddleboarding. The front is made of a soft fabric that’s comfortable next to the skin while the back is a micromesh for excellent breathability.

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BUY DIRECT

Crocs

Classic Flip

$29.99 USD | crocs.com

Paddleboarding in barefeet is great, but when you need a bit of foot protection to move from the board to the beach, a basic flip flop does the trick. Built around Crocs’ trademark foam, the Classic Flip is destined to become your go-to minimalist footwear for every day of the summer.

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AMAZON BASS PRO SHOP CABELA’S FAMOUS FOOTWEAR SCHEELS WALMART
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Mustang Survival

MIT 70 Manual Inflatable PFD

$119.99 USD | mustangsurvival.com

This inflatable PFD offers essential safety for paddleboarders. The minimalist design is lightweight and barely noticeable on your body—a key feature that ensures you’ll actually wear it on the water. The Mustang Survival MIT 70 Manual Inflatable PFD is Coast Guard-approved in the United States and Canada. The manual inflation design instantly offers 15.7 pounds of buoyancy with the pull of a tab; a rearming kit is available and a mouth inflation valve is built into the design.

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WALMART
LEARN MORE VIEW MUSTANG SURVIVAL PRODUCTS

Dermatone

Reef Safe Sunscreen Travel Pack

$30.99 USD | dermatone.com

Anyone who spends time in sunny outdoor spaces will recognize the iconic blue and gold of Dermatone skin products. This travel pack makes a great stocking stuffer, with mineral-based lip balm and sunscreen that’s skin-friendly and ocean safe. Includes a tube of SPF 30 sunscreen, a stick of SPF 50 sunscreen and two SPF 30 lip balms.

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BUY DIRECT

[ Give the gift of awe with the Paddling Film Festival’s Adventure Program ]

Honey Stinger

Prepare, Perform and Recover Variety Pack

$29.99 USD | honeystinger.com

This 12-pack of natural energy snacks includes options tailored for pre-, during- and post- exercise nutrition. As its name suggests, Honey Stinger uses natural sweeteners in its tasty bars, waffles, gels and chews—perfect for powering through a day on the water.

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AMAZON WALMART
BUY DIRECT

Paddling Magazine Subscription

$30 | paddlingmag.com

Give a gift that is sure to inspire your loved one to get out and paddle. For a limited time, you can get (or give) a print subscription to Paddling Magazine and save 50% off the cover price! Order now to receive 6 print issues of Paddling Magazine for only $30!

Award-winning editorial features
Print issues delivered to your doorstep
Every page of every issue in our digital archive
First access to digital issues
Download our app to read stories anywhere, online or offline

SUBSCRIBE GIVE A GIFT

Feature photo: Midjourney

Paddleboarders Who Crossed The Great Lakes Donate Big Check For Sustainability

Traverse City, MI – A check for $25,200 was presented to the Center for Great Lakes (CIGLR) by Stand Up for Great Lakes. The presenters were the three men who have now crossed all five of the Great Lakes by Stand Up paddleboards.

The funds raised were from their most recent trip crossing Lake Ontario in June of this year. The trio paddled from Toronto to Fort Niagara in a 13 hour, 35-mile journey. They faced waves up to 5 feet with steady winds of 16 knots for several hours and gusts upwards of 30 knots, rain and lingering smoke from the wildfires directly upwind from the group.

Jeff Guy, Joe Lorenz and Kwin Morris successfully paddled Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario all in an effort to raise awareness for Great Lakes issues.

They founded a non-profit called Stand Up for Great Lakes whose mission is to preserve and protect all Great Lakes by inspiration, education, awareness and action. They have now raised more than $105,000 for various Great Lakes non-profit organizations and have captured the imagination of many who have been inspired by their mission and support their cause. The Lake Ontario goal was to raise $25,000 and they surpassed it.

Jeff Guy, Kwin Morris and Joe Lorenz on the shores of Lake Ontario by Fort Niagara after 35 mile 13 hour paddle from Toronto on Friday June 9, 2023

In accepting the check, Dr. David Cannon, Assistant Research Scientist of CIGLR said, “Thank you very much for the donation. It’s obvious how passionate everybody is for the Great Lakes on the Stand Up for Great Lakes team. It’s a good reminder of the privilege we have in doing this research and we appreciate the awareness you bring to the issues.”

Asked what they will do with the money, Mary Ogdahl of CIGLR said, “The funds will help expand Lake Ontario flood control and shoreline restoration work as well as train the next generation of Great Lakes scientists!”

For more information or to make a donation, visit StandUpForGreatLakes.com and follow the team on Facebook.com/StandUpForGreatLakes and on Instagram.com/StandUpForGreatLakes

Watch the award-winning documentary about their Lake Superior Crossing here and Crossing Lake Erie here.

Joe Lorenz, Jeff Guy, Kwin Morris after departing from Toronto on Lake Ontario heading for Fort Niagara. The paddle was a 35 mile 13 hour journey on Friday, June 9, 2023.

Background: Their first crossing was Lake Michigan in 2015, a 60 mile and just under 25-hour journey in 38-degree water. They raised $10,000 for the Great Lakes Alliance. In June 2017 they crossed Lake Huron and raised $7,000 for Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Their 90-mile paddle journey took over 28 hours to complete. In 2018 they paddled across Lake Superior in 21 hours. Their 60-mile trip began at Sinclair Cove, Ontario and ended at Whitefish Point, Michigan and raised $15,000 for the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. The trip across Lake Erie began in downtown Detroit’s Belle Isle and ended on the shores of Catawba Island, Ohio and raised $16,000 for the Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research. (CIGLR)

About Jeff Guy: Guy, 37, is a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch. He also enjoys golf, hockey and fishing. He lives in downtown Traverse City, MI.

About Joe Lorenz: Lorenz, 37, is a personal trainer in Traverse City. When he’s not helping people achieve their fitness goals, he’s up for almost anything involving water, travel, sailing, adventure and fitness.

About Kwin Morris: Morris, 36, was born and raised in northern Michigan, making him a keen waterman, traveler, and adventurer. He is a middle school science teacher in the Elk Rapids School District and the owner of Twin Birch Golf Club.

About Corey Adkins: Adkins, 52, is the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Societies Communication and Content Director. Though he doesn’t stand-up paddleboard, he has captured the guys’ adventures across 4 of the 5 Great Lakes and 2 rivers, producing a series of 5 documentaries garnering him multiple awards including 2 Emmy’s. Adkins lives in McBain with his wonderful wife, Stephanie who also helps produce these stories!

Stand Up For Great Lakes is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserve and protect all Great Lakes by inspiration, education, awareness and action. It began with a love of water, over a beer. The group has crossed all five Great Lakes by stand-up paddleboard and has now raised more than $105,000 to help raise awareness of the issues facing the Great Lakes. The lakes are under threat: Oil pipelines of questionable integrity, invasive species, sewage leakage, pharmaceutical pollution, agricultural runoff, and those who choose to throw beer cans and cigarette butts wherever they please.

The list of threats to these majestic and vital bodies of water is endless. We’re asking others to Stand Up for Great Lakes and provide support and encourage us on this important mission.

The route on Lake Ontario from Toronto to Fort Niagara. For more information or to make a donation, visit http://www.StandUpForGreatLakes.com

CIGLR is hosted by the School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) at the University of Michigan. CIGLR consists of a Research Institute and a Regional Consortium that is a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), universities, non-governmental organizations, and businesses. Together, we work to achieve environmental, economic, and social sustainability in the Great Lakes. https://ciglr.seas.umich.edu/

To donate visit: https://standupforgreatlakes.com/ and click ‘donate.’