A 13-Day Descent into a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Bloodvein
Bloodvein River Expedition: 13 Days of UNESCO Wilderness & Whitewater
Dates: 4th – 19th July 2026 (16 Days Total) | Paddling Days: 13 | 8 places available
This is the ultimate open canoe journey for the Grade 2 paddler: a truly remote, 225km descent of the rugged Bloodvein River. Experience the exhilaration of over 100 rapids, the solitude of a fly-in/ paddle out expedition, and the profound cultural significance of the Pimachiowin Aki UNESCO World Heritage Site—"The Land That Gives Life."
Working in collaboration with Dave Janes of Paddle International and Liam Green of Greenwave Guiding, this expedition is built upon expert preparation, professional guidance, and years of international expedition experience. The comprehensive package includes a 5-day pre-expedition course in the Scottish Highlands to build your skills and forge a strong, collaborative team before we embark for Canada.
UNESCO World Heritage- The river flows through Pimachiowin Aki, a protected site recognized for both its immense natural value and the deep cultural heritage of the Anishinaabeg people. You are traveling through a truly sacred and untouched landscape.
A True Wilderness Challenge- The river carves through the ancient Canadian Shield, offering a continuous 225km descent with over 100 rapids (Grade 2/3). This is a true wilderness whitewater journey.
Total Isolation- The Bloodvein is a definitive fly-in destination with no road access until the end. This guarantees unparalleled solitude, prime opportunities to spot wildlife (Caribou, Wolverine, Eagles), and a landscape untouched by modern industrial scars like dams or logging.
Historical Significance- This route has been used by First Nation peoples for centuries, with petroglyphs and rock paintings still visible on some shoreline cliffs.
The Itinerary
The Preparation
March 9th – 13th: Scottish Highlands, 5-Day Pre-Expedition Trip (2 days coaching on River Tay, 3-day expedition on River Spey).
Online Sessions Pre-Trip Series of 4 online sessions (Route Planning, Equipment, Campcraft, Final Prep).
Arrival in Canada
July 4th- Winnipeg, Canada: Arrive in Canada. Overnight stay in Winnipeg.
July 5th- Red Lake, ON: Transfer to Red Lake. Preparation of equipment and food. Overnight stay in Red Lake accommodation.
The 13-Day Expedition: Boreal Wilderness
July 6th – 18th: Bloodvein River- Morning of the 6th, floatplane from Red Lake to Artery Lake. Visit historic pictograph site. Followed by 13 days on the river. Continuous descent of the 225km Bloodvein River. Wild camping throughout.
Departure & Relaxation
July 18th: Bloodvein Village- Final morning of paddling. Finish at Bloodvein Village. Afternoon transfer to Winnipeg. Group meal & overnight stay.
July 19th: Winnipeg, MB- Return flights home/ onward travel.
Who This Trip Is For?
This is an Intermediate+ Expedition designed for canoeists who are ready for a demanding wilderness challenge
Canoeists comfortable paddling Grade 2 whitewater and experienced with multi-day wild camping trips.
Appropriate level of fitness for 13 continuous days of river descent, portaging, and wilderness travel.
Low Guide Ratio (1:4): We purposefully keep numbers very small to ensure safety, hands-on coaching, and a strong, successful team ethos.
Unsure? The comprehensive pre-expedition program, with online sessions and the 5-day Scotland trip, is specifically designed to ensure you are fully confident and ready for the demands of the Bloodvein. Please contact us to discuss your experience level.
Logistics and What’s Included
What’s Included:
5-Day Pre-Expedition Course in the Scottish Highlands (March 9th–13th, 2026).
Program of 4 online team meet-ups for preparation.
All internal road transport in Canada by private vehicles.
Floatplane charter access to Artery Lake.
National Park and community fees.
3 nights accommodation (Winnipeg and Red Lake) before and after the river trip.
Expert Coaching, Guiding, and involvement in our risk management process.
Use of quality open canoes and all expedition group kit.
All food and drink whilst on the 13-day expedition.
Emergency equipment, satellite mapping, and communications.
Complimentary Paddle International Sun Hoody and discounts on gear.
What You Need To Provide:
International Airfare and baggage fees.
Travel Insurance (Mandatory).
Non-expedition meals (e.g., bar bills, meals in Winnipeg/Red Lake).
Some personal clothing and equipment.
Dates: July 4th – 19th, 2026
COST: £5,250 pp
Pay deposit to secure your place.
(£1250 deposit is non refundable)