Packraft Newfoundland – New Docuseries “Man & Dog: 700KM Survival”
Story, photos, & video by Justin Barbour.
Spring 2017, I embarked on a 700-kilometer snowshoe, packraft, and backpacking expedition across the harsh, yet magical Newfoundland interior wilderness. I went solo, but was far from alone. I traveled from start to finish with my loyal Cape Shore water dog, Saku.
Saku and I surmounted many obstacles as we crossed some of the least explored wilderness regions of our province. We encountered frequent wildlife while battling desolate barrens. And we contended with thick bush, mountain ranges, storms, sub-zero temperatures, raging whitewater, massive lakes, the Atlantic Ocean, and monster trout.
A major challenge and unforgettable blessing, we trekked for days far from civilization. Newfoundland is the island portion of the province, “Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.”
Just over 500,000 people live in 108,860 square kilometers. More than 50% of the population lives on the Avalon Peninsula of eastern Newfoundland, where lies the capital and largest city, St. John’s. Overall, the province has a much lower population density of 1.4 people per square kilometer—compared to that of Canada as a whole, which boasts 3.9 people per square kilometer.
Newfoundland features A LOT of unoccupied land and endless outdoor opportunities. The interior of the island remains a largely uninhabited, remote wilderness. Our trip took place there.
From the western side of the island, we traversed for the most part trackless woods and waters to reach the eastern end of the province. I documented the entire journey by camera and am showcasing that on my channel. My goal? To share my passion and learning experiences so that others will further utilize, appreciate and respect what nature offers. Enjoy!
