There it is! The grand departure of the First Nations Expedition has finally arrived.
We woke up very early this morning to prepare ourselves well. The first snowmobiles set off around 10 a.m. Of course, all of this was marked by a ceremony. Indeed, the spiritual guide blessed each of the snowmobiles and then proceeded with purification using sage. So, we are now all set for this beautiful adventure. The snowmobiles left in front of many spectators who were there to wish us a safe journey.
The day went well despite a few minor hiccups. Fortunately, nothing major, no injuries, just a bit of crumpled metal and a little fear. Midway, we made a stop for lunch. We were welcomed by the Domaine du Lac des Cèdres. Their entire team and the owners warmly greeted us with a superb meal they offered to all of us.
During the day, we experienced about a 3-hour delay, which did not affect the morale of our group. Trail conditions were practically perfect, and so was the weather. It must be said that we are still getting used to it, and the first few days will allow us to adjust to this type of expedition.
Thus, on this first day, we covered 180 km. Around 6 p.m., a welcoming committee was present upon our arrival at this first stage of this beautiful expedition. We spent the night in Essipit.
Tomorrow, around 9 a.m., the First Nations Expedition will resume its journey towards Jonquière.
Keep Up With Us
- Real-Time GPS
- Day 2 | Essipit to Jonquière
- Day 3 | Jonquière to Mashteuiatsh
- Day 4 | Mashteuiatsh to Chibougamau
- Day 5 | Chibougamau to Lebel-sur-Quevillon
- Day 6 | Messengers of Reconciliation
- Day 7 | Plenty of Emotions in Pikogan
- Day 8 | The Support Team
- Day 9 | These Inspiring Women
- Day 10 | Warriors’ Rest
- Day 11 | Roller Coaster Ride and Star of the Day
- Day 12 | Mutual Aid and Success
- Day 13 | Fatigue and Festivities
- Day 14 | Saint-Michel-des-Saints To La Tuque
- Day 15 | An Emotional End
