1-4.8.2006: One Island Lake Youth Camp 2006: Fun in the sun.

Seven youth, eight adults, four days to spend in one of Canada's most remote national parks and fantastic weather! That about sums up the Parks Canada One Island Lake Youth Camp 2006 for youth of Paulatuk. Markus joined us as a photographer and chaperone along with staff and three other volunteers. I'll let the photos from the Youth Camp do most of the talking.

Camp at One Island Lake. Photo by Markus Siivola.

We flew in and out with a Twin Otter aircraft which made two trips to drop off all our people and supplies. The youth were ages 10-12 yrs, plus one 13 yrs and one 14 yrs. The weather for the entire four days was phenomenal. It wasn't long before we needed to set-up a tarp to provide some relief from the sun while spending time at camp.

Our camp goals consisted of hiking and exploring, learning about land features and the geological/cultural history of the landscape, learning about Tuktut Nogait National Park and having fun! The first day we set-up camp and did a little exploring nearby. On the second day we hiked around the lake to a prominent hill on the opposite side which was used historically by Inuvialuit as a look-out and navigational landmark. Day three we made our climax hike to see the Brock Canyon, visiting a tent ring archaeological site on the way. The last day was spent packing up and getting home. Every day included lots of swimming - the children couldn't keep themselves out of the water in such warm weather. It was the last of our hot days for the year.

Flying home afforeded some scenic aerial views of the landscape. Hope you enjoy the Youth Camp pictures. Markus also put together a fantastic DVD with many more pics for Parks Canada and the youth. I only wish he were in at least one photo!

Delia

Ruben Ruben Jr. beaming at the Brock Canyon look-out. Photo by Markus Siivola.