Lure of the North - Espanola, Ontario

Simon G.

Simply the best outdoor tripping company I’ve travelled with! Our guides Kie and Nero were really friendly and very experienced in wilderness travel and living. They made sure everyone on the ‘Winter Wonderland’ trip was included, tailoring the week to suit the participants experience levels and needs. Any specialist equipment required was either included or available for hire at reasonable rates. The food was fantastic, as was the emphasis on having fun; whatever type it may be!

Ayla L.

The slow and steady winter expedition opened my eyes to how incredible cold weather camping can be! I giggled to myself as I was introduced to all of the other participants who had at least two decades on me, as well as being the only female of the bunch. This was never a problem, in fact I really enjoyed getting to know all of these kind souls and they were a ton of fun! Kie, Nero and Hank the dog were amazing guides. It was the perfect intro because of the support from them as well as other participants in learning new skills in an environment that was comfortable and encouraging. If you’re looking to ditch the mindset that hibernation is necessary until the warm weather returns before enjoying camping again, go on this trip and let LOTN change your mind!

Sebastian V. D. L.

It has been an incredible privilege to travel with Lure of the North and to experience the Big Water under the expert guidance of Dave and Kie. The level of attention to detail throughout the process has been second-to-none - from in-depth kit-list and gear recommendations shortly after booking, to Kie labouring over a menu in advance to accommodate a kaleidoscope of dietary requirements in advance of the trip, it was immediately obvious we were in the safe hands of those who have worked hard to perfect their craft and share that experience with us. Starting the trip, we were welcomed into Dave and Kie's home to learn how they thrive in their remote environment, got familiar with kit and fell easily into conversation with like-minded participants whilst enjoying Kie's superb cooking - you will not leave this trip hungry!

Out on the ice with Dave and Nero leading, the days slipped by in meditative walking, with Dave always quick to point out the signs of nature around us or teach us how better to reading the shifting ice beneath our feet, leading us to feeling quickly at home in the harsh beauty of the frozen North Channel. Setting up the cosy hot-tents in the evening rapidly became second nature and evening meals felt well-earned! With a light touch Dave and Nero shared their knowledge and expertise to accommodate both my inexperience alongside veterans of winter travel in the group, helping to form a team morale which made saying goodbye harder than expected. All too soon we said goodbye to our toboggans and returned to civilisation - knowing already that we will be back for more!

Walt B.

I feel very fortunate to have been able to recently participate with a great group of people on the Winter Wonderland Slow and Steady Expedition. The trip was a great mix of challenging traveling days, leisurely rest days and hands on learning.
Thanks to our guides Kie and Nero who did an excellent job leading the group. I highly recommend this trip for anyone who's looking for a great winter camping experience!

Chloe A.

Vast Horizons Training Camp with Lure of the North was a bucket-list worthy experience. Dave and Kielyn are such passionate and hardworking people-you can't help but leave the trip inspired for life. The way that they impart their valuable knowledge and skills is kind and humble, and makes you feel right at home, like you are part of their team. That's the thing-you ARE part of the team. It is not a passive experience. Each camper/student works together to ensure the safety and comfort of the entire group and leaves with skills that they can immediately apply in their own lives. I had dabbled in winter camping prior to the trip but certainly left more confident and ready to tackle hot-tenting on my own. Thank you!

Julie W.

The 7 day Temagami trip (Laura Lake loop) was my first trip with Kie and Dave and also my first experience with winter travelling via snowshoe. I don’t even have the words to express how beautiful of an experience this trip was for me - between the amazing group of people it brought together, the perfect balance of hard work and playful moments, and the uniqueness of the wild in the winter months. The group setting makes winter camping a much more enjoyable feat, and it was so encouraging to see everyone come together, naturally collaborating and helping each other out along the way. Even with other participants on trip there was plenty of time for solitude and quiet enjoyment of the wilderness. I would 100% trip with Kie and Dave and absolutely encourage you to do the same if you are on the fence. I felt safe under their leadership and very much appreciated all the knowledge and skills they shared with us. Both of them have infectious smiles and are a true joy to be around!

V J.

I have participated in several (3) expedition and courses with Lure of the North so I guess I can give some opinion.

Kielyn and Dave are very knowledgeable and super competent regarding their field of expertise. They are friendly and humble, while always remaining effective and professional.

Activities are run in a positive atmosphere, they try to accommodate various skill/fitness levels with patience and pedagogy while giving some challenges to elevate everyone.

Locations chosen offer great opportunities to enjoy nature and practice freely outdoor skills. Logistics are very good.

Also guest leaders/instructors bring in broader perspectives.

Having had experience with other similar outfits, my experience with Lure of the North has been very positive and I would gladly recommend them.

George M.

Had an incredible time on LOTN's North Channel expedition. Dave and Kielyn are extremely experienced and were able to teach us so much about winter expedition skills whilst we all had a fantastic time. The scenery is beautiful and the kit/food is all excellent. Would highly recommend to anyone interested in getting outdoors