Hudson Bay Girls Gear Up: Seven Essentials for Their Epic Expedition

Exciting Adventures Await: The Hudson Bay Girls Prepare for a Mighty Journey

This summer, a group of fearless young women known as the Hudson Bay Girls are set to embark on a monumental 1,200-mile canoe trip from Lake Superior to Hudson Bay. This historic route, which carries stories of courage and adventure, is not just a journey to explore the natural beauty of Minnesota and Canada; it’s a mission to inspire future generations of female adventurers. Team members Emma Brackett, Abby Cichocki, Olivia Bledsoe, and Helena Karlstrom, all scouts at heart, are determined to break stereotypes and usher in a new wave of women in outdoor pursuits.

Inspired by Trailblazers

The Hudson Bay Girls drew inspiration from trailblazers Natalie Warren and Ann Raiho, who first paddled this route in 2011 and documented their experiences in the book Hudson Bay Bound. "Just hearing about Natalie and Ann’s story as the first two women to publicly paddle this route was so inspiring,” says team member Olivia Bledsoe. Their expedition is about more than just adventure; it's about making a statement that women can excel in outdoor activities traditionally dominated by men.

What’s Inside Their Essential Expedition Kit?

The Hudson Bay Girls have curated a unique gear kit for their expedition, underscoring the importance of preparation and resourcefulness. Here’s what they won’t leave behind:

1. Girl Scouts: Each member brings skills honed through scouting, where they learned to tackle tough challenges, like portaging 70-pound canoes over rugged terrains.
2. Orvis Clearwater Fly Rod: Helena Karlstrom, an avid fisherman, has packed a fly rod and handmade gifts from her fishing community to share moments of joy and connection during the expedition.
3. Crafting Supplies: Emma Brackett, a studio art major, plans to crochet inspired patterns, adding a creative touch to their downtime.
4. Games: To keep spirits high during possible downtime, they’ve packed games like UNO and corn-themed Farkle dice.
5. Thrifted Pot: Demonstrating that you don’t need brand-new gear to explore, the girls are bringing along a $1 thrifted pot for cooking, emphasizing sustainability and practicality.
6. Comfortable Sleep System: Thanks to the support of the Bob Swanson Memorial Grant, they've secured quality sleeping bags and tents to ensure a good rest during their adventure.
7. Safety Gear: Each canoe features a custom spraydeck for safety in rough waters, reflecting their dedication to ensuring safe travel through varying conditions.

Empowering Women Through Wilderness

As the expedition unfolds, the Hudson Bay Girls aim not only to conquer the journey but also to serve as role models. Comments like, “Is that a girl under there?” reflect the lingering stereotypes that the team is determined to challenge. “The Girl Scouts is more than just philanthropy, crafts, and cookies. We empower people to get out into the wilderness and tackle hard things,” says Helena. Their adventure isn’t just about paddling; it’s about inspiring young women everywhere to embrace their inner explorers.

Championing Wilderness Protection

Moreover, their journey aligns with conservation efforts, calling attention to the importance of protecting wilderness areas like the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA). Paddling through these pristine landscapes not only enriches their experience but also highlights the threats they face from proposed mining operations. By sharing their story, they hope to educate others about the need for sustainable practices that protect our precious waterways for future generations.

Join Their Journey

As the Hudson Bay Girls navigate through some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes, they carry with them a powerful mission. It’s about personal growth, environmental advocacy, and empowering the next generation of adventurers to dare to dream and explore. “Together, we can make a difference,” says Helena Karlstrom, encouraging readers to support wilderness protection initiatives. Join them in celebrating the beauty of the great outdoors and the importance of keeping it safe for all.