River Roots is EVERYTHING it promises (and that’s a lot). In 42 days I learned so much, not from reading or studying, but from doing. I came home with confidence, wild stories, new friendships, an expansive knowledge of bird calls and a reignited passion for paddling. The instructors are not only skilled, but great and patient teachers. I saw some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever witnessed and paddled stuff (swam some too) I had only dreamed of. I can’t say enough how much value I got out of this program. I will always highly recommend it to anyone interested in a career in the outdoors or a complete life reset. I was challenged exactly to my threshold and left feeling incredibly proud of myself. It toughened my skin and opened my heart. And as if I almost forgot to mention the best part…the FOOD. Next time a friend brings a bunch of freeze dried pad Thai on a three night trip in Algonquin you will laugh so hard. I am now a certified wizard of bush cooking and everywhere I set up my tent has a full kitchen with counters and everything. The meals you will cook in this program in the outback will have you feeling like a 5 star chef. When it’s cold and wet and rainy, your belly will be full of freshly baked cinnamon buns.