Call Of The Wild
Call Of The Wild
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Multi-day Tours • Eco Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing
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Guided wilderness camping canoe trips in Algonquin Park. Spend the day paddling across remote and wild lakes, while looking for moose along the shoreline. Swim in the clean, clear lakes. At night enjoy a campfire and delicious fresh cooked meal. Later, gaze at the countless stars in night sky free of any light pollution. We supply all the equipment, including light weight expedition class kevlar canoes, meals, permits, and a guide. Transport from Toronto can also be arranged. These trips are suitable for all ages and all experience levels. We will teach you everything you need to know! During the winter we offer dog sledding day trips, and award winning multi-adventure trips that include dog sledding, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Have fun in the snow all day and in the evening relax in a cozy wilderness eco-lodge complete with an outdoor hot tub!
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada
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5.0
19 reviews
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Sébastien
1 contribution
We really enjoyed the 3 days canoe trip with Robin and Amanda. We were 5 guests including a family of 3, with whom we really got along.
The trip consisted in canoeing, portage and preparing the camp (food, campfire ...). As this was our first camping trip, Robin took the time to explain us everything very patiently about camp life, Algonquin wildlife and canoeing skills. We really enjoyed the canoeing part even if the windy weather made it a bit hard sometimes. We could observe wildlife (loones, bald eagles, chipmunks, frogs, and even a glimpse of a wolf !). The food cooked by Robin was delicious (fajitas, pasta, bagels, fruits, porridge...) and he carefully adapted to everyone's food restrictions.
Algonquin Park is splendid, overall it was a wonderful experience, we definitely recommend it.
The trip consisted in canoeing, portage and preparing the camp (food, campfire ...). As this was our first camping trip, Robin took the time to explain us everything very patiently about camp life, Algonquin wildlife and canoeing skills. We really enjoyed the canoeing part even if the windy weather made it a bit hard sometimes. We could observe wildlife (loones, bald eagles, chipmunks, frogs, and even a glimpse of a wolf !). The food cooked by Robin was delicious (fajitas, pasta, bagels, fruits, porridge...) and he carefully adapted to everyone's food restrictions.
Algonquin Park is splendid, overall it was a wonderful experience, we definitely recommend it.
Written September 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jerry M
1 contribution
Feb. 2023
I started this journey by booking a 5 day RAP trip. Unfortunately there were not enough people for this to happen. After talking to Robin he was able to set me up with the 3 day trip on Feb 13th. We all met in the parking lot. The snowmobile I rented showed up on time. I was very impressed on the quality of the snowmobile and it was a perfect fit for me. We left our luggage for it to be brought to the lodge and within a hour of arrival we were on the trails. Scenery was unreal. We went out each day and every day was perfect. Each night we went back to the lodge to relax. No wifi was perfect and we all did the old fashion thing talked to each other. That was refreshing. It was a laidback back experience. We were fed breakfast and dinner. The meals were not fancy just good food and plenty of it. I would like to thank Robin for experience that allows a person shut down and enjoy nature and people. Looking forward to do the 5 dap RAP next year
Thanks Jerry Morrow
Thanks Jerry Morrow
Written February 25, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
Thanks Jerry! I look forward to doing the 5 day snowmobile tour with you next year!
Written March 18, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tarek H
Streetsville, Canada1 contribution
I went in February for 3 days snowmobile trip Monday to Wednesday, with Robin, it all started with the amazing online reservation that really was so good and easy as it explains in details what to expect. Then the promptness of timing, right on the dot all group members met at 12:15 together with the snowmobile providers. We managed to go first day 4 hours then second day whole 6 hours then another 3 hours last day (due to weather restrictions). Accomodation was very nice, very clean, food was delicious, no wifi which might be a surprise to some but it's actually very detoxing for mind and soul, we actually enjoyed the company of the rest of the group each evening around the fire wood place, really enjoyable, Robin has enough team to accomodate various skills and experiences, he really goes the extra mile to make everyone at ease and enjoyable. He also does his best within the trails and weather limitations utilizing his experience to come around with different options if need be. I am actually looking forward to my next trip with Robin.
Written February 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
Thanks for the kind review! I look forward to doing a 5 day snowmobile trip with you and your son in the future!
Written March 18, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Curious_KEX
Edinburgh, UK31 contributions
The tour itself was great, a few days to just be. Our group was small, just 3 guests and Robin, the owner who was our guide. Everyone was nice and helpful, and on more of the quiet side, so we had some friendly conversation, but mostly just soaked in sounds of the water and nature. The whole experience wasn't strenuous, we had time and energy to swim a little, read and just be and enjoy.
The amount of canoeing was light, maybe 2-3 hours the first day as we were searching for a campsite. Robin was bit disgruntled, that he couldn't take us to the best campsite, as that was already taken, but ours was completely fine in an island pine grove with a prepared campfire place, flat places to set our tents - between two other campsites (people there were nice and quiet, didn't bother us at all outside of a friendly visit from a small pup😊). So if this was the "worst" I am happy to say it was still better than a lot of wild camping sites I have experienced.
We set up camp, and for nearly each meal had a nice fire going. Each meal was freshly prepared, tasty and Call of the wild made sure that my complex dietary restrictions were met without excluding me to a special diet - I want to stress here, that this is exceptional, and thoughtful, and thank you Robin & team!
Second day we did a bit more light canoeing, maybe 4-5 hours worth (we voted for a longer paddle, could have choosen a shorter trip), with a 1 km portage to a nother lake (same 1 km back), a packed lunch, a nice swim.
The last day we had a morning fire for breakfast, packed up camp and paddled maybe 1,5 hours back to our starting point.
We didn't see moose or bears, but met a couple of loons, red squirrels, a lot of chipmunks and some huge frogs. If we had any questions about the park or animals, vegetation, Robin was very knowledgeable.
The amount of canoeing was light, maybe 2-3 hours the first day as we were searching for a campsite. Robin was bit disgruntled, that he couldn't take us to the best campsite, as that was already taken, but ours was completely fine in an island pine grove with a prepared campfire place, flat places to set our tents - between two other campsites (people there were nice and quiet, didn't bother us at all outside of a friendly visit from a small pup😊). So if this was the "worst" I am happy to say it was still better than a lot of wild camping sites I have experienced.
We set up camp, and for nearly each meal had a nice fire going. Each meal was freshly prepared, tasty and Call of the wild made sure that my complex dietary restrictions were met without excluding me to a special diet - I want to stress here, that this is exceptional, and thoughtful, and thank you Robin & team!
Second day we did a bit more light canoeing, maybe 4-5 hours worth (we voted for a longer paddle, could have choosen a shorter trip), with a 1 km portage to a nother lake (same 1 km back), a packed lunch, a nice swim.
The last day we had a morning fire for breakfast, packed up camp and paddled maybe 1,5 hours back to our starting point.
We didn't see moose or bears, but met a couple of loons, red squirrels, a lot of chipmunks and some huge frogs. If we had any questions about the park or animals, vegetation, Robin was very knowledgeable.
Written September 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
Glad to hear that you enjoyed your trip! We try to cater the trips to each group, so special diets are usually not an issue.
Written September 17, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andy P
1 contribution
Sep. 2022 • Solo
This trip was up there with one of the best experiences I’ve had whilst traveling. The eco lodge is quaint and homely with good facilities and comfy beds. The meals provided by Geoff and Alex were top notch. The private lake is so tranquil so make sure you get up early one morning and take the canoe out onto it. The self guided walk and canoe trip were also well described to us and easy to navigate. The 3 day canoe/camping trip led by Robin was brilliant, this was by far the best part for me personally. You camp by the lakes, make fires to cook on and head out during the day to canoe and portage (carry the canoe over land) to then return to camp later on. Robin makes all the meals and they’re filling and satisfying after a day on the water. If you’ve never canoed before don’t worry, the routes are nice and easy and Robin goes through the basics before you set off. The packing list provided is spot on but for me personally I’d make sure you have a few decent dry bags to keep clothes and sleeping bags dry in case you tip your canoe but they are very stable (it states garbage bags on the packing). Make sure you have some decent water shoes and hiking boots for the portage as well. I cannot recommend this trip enough! I would love to come back to do one of the longer canoe trips. Book it now!!!
Written September 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
That's great to hear you enjoyed yourself so much! We strive to design our trips for both beginner campers as well as people with more experience. Algonquin Park had a lot to offer to everyone, and a canoe trip is the best way to see it!
Written September 16, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Anon
Bath, UK4 contributions
Jul. 2022
A superb trip to Crouch and Shirley lakes in late July, with a mixed experience group of paddlers across two families. The scenery was beyond our expectations and we encountered few people in our bit of wilderness - but sadly also no moose :-( which would have been the cherry on the cake. Rick was an excellent guide, raconteur and magician in the camp kitchen.
The portage at 1000 meters was longer than perhaps typical for "newbie" trips but was flat and wide and worked well and I appreciated the fact I'd searched out a provider with lightweight Kevlar boats ! I appreciated the "proper" experience and the whole party covered the portage in two trips with just the right amount of challenge...
At the time of year we still encountered a fair few mozzies and despite taking what we thought were adequate precautions left with some reminders beyond the photos and memories Definitely an experience to repeat though.
The portage at 1000 meters was longer than perhaps typical for "newbie" trips but was flat and wide and worked well and I appreciated the fact I'd searched out a provider with lightweight Kevlar boats ! I appreciated the "proper" experience and the whole party covered the portage in two trips with just the right amount of challenge...
At the time of year we still encountered a fair few mozzies and despite taking what we thought were adequate precautions left with some reminders beyond the photos and memories Definitely an experience to repeat though.
Written July 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
Thank you for the nice review, and glad that you enjoyed your trip so much! We try to balance our trips with remoteness, adventure, and difficulty. It is quite a balancing act to make them suitable for beginners! Rick certainly knows how to make it happen!
Written July 30, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Diya A
1 contribution
Oct. 2021 • Couples
We had an absolutely amazing time! Rick was the perfect guide and he was very invested in ensuring that we had a great experience.
Algonquin was beautiful during the peak of the fall colors. Rick was a great teacher, cook and knows the Algonquin inside out. He taught us how to portage, canoeing and camping 101, took us on hikes and explained the different trees in Algonquin. It was great hearing about Rick’s adventures over the years at Algonquin over a camp fire and s’mores! Call of Wild provided good quality equipment as well.
I highly recommend Calm of the Wild and Rick for your Algonquin Canoe Adventures!
Algonquin was beautiful during the peak of the fall colors. Rick was a great teacher, cook and knows the Algonquin inside out. He taught us how to portage, canoeing and camping 101, took us on hikes and explained the different trees in Algonquin. It was great hearing about Rick’s adventures over the years at Algonquin over a camp fire and s’mores! Call of Wild provided good quality equipment as well.
I highly recommend Calm of the Wild and Rick for your Algonquin Canoe Adventures!
Written October 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your great review, and glad to hear how much you enjoyed your trip, despite the rain. Rick is a consummate professional, with many years of guiding experience. Hopefully we'll see you out again on another Algonquin adventure!
Written October 7, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Emmer H
1 contribution
Aug. 2020
Our guide was fun, knowledgeable and clearly an expert canoe trip leader. He worked hard at each campsite with boundless energy and enthusiasm. As anticipated, all participants were expected to carry canoes and the heavy packs which was a great part of the experience. The food was plentiful and surprisingly good. This was a great canoe trip refresher for me and a wonderful introduction to canoe tripping for my daughter. We will do this again next year!
Written August 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin B
Glad that you enjoyed your trip so much! We look forward to seeing you again.
Written August 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KellyBobo
Toronto, Ontario, Canada22 contributions
Aug. 2020
We were one of the few canoe trips going in this lovely pandemic year. We had a group of 6 including the guide and we all got along. It was great to get transportation from Toronto to make this a relatively stress-free trip. We left from access point Shall Lake and spent 1 night at 1 camp site and 2 nights at another site. We did 3 portages (both ways), 1050 km, 500 (or was it 625 m? :)) and a very short 90 m -- it took 2 trips of carrying equipment to do a portage.
The guide was very well organized and took care of all the cooking which was great. It definitely felt like a true wilderness experience. We didn't see any big animals but there were tons of loons and chipmunks. There were very few bugs except for 1 part of 1 portage where we all got swarmed for 20 minutes or so.
We ate fresh food but the punishment was that we had to portage it :) My only warning would be that even though we all felt like relatively fit people, portaging is tough ... awkward with canoes and the group equipment was heavy. Be prepared. Make sure not to overpack your own belongings (everything in 1 backpack is best). Personally I could have done without the fresh melon in the food barrel :) A day of portages and canoeing will leave you exhausted. I think my ideal trip would have been 4 nights, but 2 nights in each camp so more chill time.
The guide was very well organized and took care of all the cooking which was great. It definitely felt like a true wilderness experience. We didn't see any big animals but there were tons of loons and chipmunks. There were very few bugs except for 1 part of 1 portage where we all got swarmed for 20 minutes or so.
We ate fresh food but the punishment was that we had to portage it :) My only warning would be that even though we all felt like relatively fit people, portaging is tough ... awkward with canoes and the group equipment was heavy. Be prepared. Make sure not to overpack your own belongings (everything in 1 backpack is best). Personally I could have done without the fresh melon in the food barrel :) A day of portages and canoeing will leave you exhausted. I think my ideal trip would have been 4 nights, but 2 nights in each camp so more chill time.
Written August 24, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
88Traxx
7 contributions
Feb. 2020
The multiday winter adventure was a wonderful experience! Robin arranges for your cross country ski rental in Bancroft where you go and pick them up. Then you head 20 mins down the road to go dog sledding. After that you drive 20 mins to the eco-lodge parking lot and you can either hike, ski or snowshoe in a winter wonderland to the lodge. If you have a lot of luggage, Robin with snowmobile it in for you. The food was tasty and hearty, we had:
Night 1: beef stew on rice, salad and freshly baked brownies with kawartha icecream
Day 2:
Breakfast- scrambled eggs, bacon, freshly baked croissant and fruit, milk, juice, coffee or tea
Lunch - cold cut sandwich with avocado, cheese and lettuce, granola bar, fruit and juice (ate at the top of a mountain while snowshoeing)
Dinner - cheese, bread, cracker and sausage appetizer, chicken cacciatore with quinoa, salad and freshly baked cinnamon swirl cake with kawartha icecream
Day 3:
Breakfast - omelet, bacon, toast, fruit, peanut butter and jam, milk, juice, coffee or tea
Lunch - cold cut sandwich
Robin has a sustainable lodge that generates its own energy using hydro electric power. The lodge is located on a private lake and has an outdoor hot tub and sauna where you have a nice view of the wilderness around you. He will even cut a hole in the ice so you can do a polar dip! He has a variety of beginner and more advanced cross country ski and snowshoeing trails, and give you a lesson in either if you need it. Overall it was a one-of-a-kind Canadian (Southern Ontario) winter experience that we always remember. Don't be shy to meet new people, as others stay up in the lodge as well.
Night 1: beef stew on rice, salad and freshly baked brownies with kawartha icecream
Day 2:
Breakfast- scrambled eggs, bacon, freshly baked croissant and fruit, milk, juice, coffee or tea
Lunch - cold cut sandwich with avocado, cheese and lettuce, granola bar, fruit and juice (ate at the top of a mountain while snowshoeing)
Dinner - cheese, bread, cracker and sausage appetizer, chicken cacciatore with quinoa, salad and freshly baked cinnamon swirl cake with kawartha icecream
Day 3:
Breakfast - omelet, bacon, toast, fruit, peanut butter and jam, milk, juice, coffee or tea
Lunch - cold cut sandwich
Robin has a sustainable lodge that generates its own energy using hydro electric power. The lodge is located on a private lake and has an outdoor hot tub and sauna where you have a nice view of the wilderness around you. He will even cut a hole in the ice so you can do a polar dip! He has a variety of beginner and more advanced cross country ski and snowshoeing trails, and give you a lesson in either if you need it. Overall it was a one-of-a-kind Canadian (Southern Ontario) winter experience that we always remember. Don't be shy to meet new people, as others stay up in the lodge as well.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No questions have been asked about this experience