In Atikokan, the seasonal opening for Path of the Paddle's Trail took place! It involved a River paddle and a very large ribbon, cut by the Atikokan Highschool Outers Group. This group of incredible youth are ambassadors for Path of the Paddle and do regular trips and trail maintenance on the Path of the Paddle Route. May 27th marked the first of a numerous celebrations coming up for Canada's 150th Celebrations in Atikokan, ramping up to its Grand Opening on August 26th. However, all across the route, there will be celebrations as well in Kenora, Dryden and Thunderbay as well as Atikokan. The Atikokan Progress chronicled the event and touched on the Atikokan Path of the Paddle Committee events:
“We have a pretty strong committee,” said Braun. It is headed by Michelle Savoie of Voyageur Wilderness Programme. “We have our trail fully established, partnerships set up with a number of other groups, and an ongoing trail maintenance program.”
In July, the group plans to participate in the Canada Day canoe parade. And in August it is teaming up with Quetico Park to plan a paddle and shindig at Legion Point. They hope to host a Native drum and local musicians.
The Path of the Paddle and the heart of the Continent Partnership have teamed up to hire an intern, through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund, to work over the next year!
To see more, please click here for the link.