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Northern Tier Canoe Base ExpeditionJuly 10 - July 20, 2002
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Experiencing
the same problems as every other unit that has been trying unsuccessfully to reserve a
trek at Philmont, Troop 57 decided that for the Summer of 2002 we would take the advice
offered on the form letter and instead plan a high adventure outing through BSA's Northern
Tier. We spoke to a few veterans of the Northern Tier experience, did a little of our own
research, and chose from which of the available program bases we would begin our trek.
BSA's Northern Tier High Adventure program consists of three base facilities. The Charles
L. Sommers base in Ely, Minnesota is the largest of the three and the most active, with
about 150 staffers on duty during the summer. The next largest is the Donald Rogert base
in Atikokan, Ontario. The smallest is the base in Bissett, Manitoba with approximately 15
staffers on duty during the summer season. We learned that of the three bases, Bissett was
also the most remote. Getting to Bissett required driving (3) hours northeast from
Winnipeg to the termination point of Highway 304, the last 25 miles of which was unpaved.
We were also told that the treks based out of Bissett would offer the most spectacular
scenery, the most wildlife, and that it was very likely that the only humans we would
encounter during our nine days on the water would be members of our crew. All canoe treks
out of Bissett begin and end at the cache of canoes on Scout Lake. The only way to reach
Scout Lake is via float plane due north from Bissett. There are no roads. We chose
Bissett. We were to learn later that of the three bases, Bissett is also the most
physically demanding. We were blissful in our ignorance, for awhile. Scoutmasters Expedition Diary |
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