Campers

Cabin bonding past the camp gates!

The leaves have fallen and the lakes have frozen over, on a cold winters night, 305km from Algonquin Park, I realize now more than ever all the moments in the summer I’ve taken for granted.

As a tripper for the past 3 summers, I’ve had the pleasure of being part of a program that continuously strives to be better. For each of the 15 canoe trips I’ve been fortunate enough to lead my belief that this is the best program at Walden has never waivered. As a tripper, my goal has been simple. To provide campers with a safe environment that allows them to have the best experience possible. All of this hinges on growing as a cabin and strengthening the dynamic of the “cabin family”. There is no greater feeling than overcoming an obstacle such as a long paddle or portage and celebrating your success with your best friends. But it’s not just limited to this, from swimming in an imaginary Waterfall to playing cards on the beach – or as Orry Mevorach deemed it Spring Break – the cabin bonding on canoe trips is unparalleled to anywhere else. As a camper, the majority of my cabins “best moments” come from canoe trip and the fun we had together.

Canoe trips are a great way to challenge yourself, enjoy the beauty of nature around but most importantly have fun with your friends in one of the coolest places in the world.

For All Waldeners going on a Canoe trip in the coming summers, I beg of you only one thing. Experience the canoe trip with an open mind. Take a moment to enjoy and reflect. The fun is everywhere. Whether it’s spending a few days of uninterrupted time with your cabin challenging yourself to carry something new on a portage or just taking in the beautiful scenery around you. I hope for all that you can have the fun and memories I’ve made on canoe trips.

— Jacob Bytenksy