The world looks different from the backcountry.
I’ve always known that being in wilderness heals whatever ails me, but my recent trip with girlfriends canoe camping on Shoshone Lake drove home even more why we need to make time to be in wilderness, nature, and wild spaces. This time what struck me the most was the forced respite from social media.
When was the last time any of us took an hour or two off of our devices and social media, much less multiple days?
While it’s well known that our devices and the 24-7 news and social media access they provide are addictive, for me it’s been ever more so since the pandemic hit. Things have changed so fast in the Covid-19 world that I find myself obsessively checking for the latest news, and turning to social media and news outlets to try and form a basis for my own decisions. And it’s been really tough on me in ways I haven’t fully appreciated.
After just one night sleeping with the gentle lapping of waves on the shore and a sky filled with the endless universe I distinctly noticed the lack of tension in my shoulders. It’s like I gained several more inches between the base of my skull and my upper back – released from the hunching I had no idea I was doing.
By the end of three days of paddling, swimming (okay, dunking is more appropriate), sunsets, nights under the stars, and the companionship of friends (socially distanced of course), I felt a softness inside, a peace, a calmness in my muscles that I have not felt for some time. Without the constant distractions of the world, I was able to just be present.
I’ve realized that for me, the keys to getting a true respite from the modern world requires A. No cell service. If there are any bars, I’m checking messages and social or looking something up. I bet you are too. B. Spending the night away from home, in a tent or camper. C. An absence of people. D. Nature- the wild sights and sounds of birds, water, trees, wind, bugs, you name it.
I think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to travel to a distant locale like Yellowstone to acheive these things. Given how busy the parks are right now, it’s a good time to explore the wilds closer to home!
How to plan a paddling trip on Shoshone Lake
If you are coming to Yellowstone and want to do a backcountry paddling trip, it’s important to plan ahead. These high elevation waters are cold, and the weather unpredictible, resulting in large waves that can capsize small craft. If you don’t have experience kaying or canoeing, be sure to go with someone experienced or consider a guide.
Additionally, getting to Shoshone Lake requires a paddle across Lewis Lake and a hike through the channel between Lewis and Shoshone pulling your boat upstream. In addition to paddling experience, you’ll need good balance and the ability to walk for an hour or more on a rocky streambed through running water.
1. Secure a permit through the NPS Backcountry Office. Our advice is to plan low mileage the first day out, to avoid having to travel during high winds that often arise in the afternoons. We also enjoy planning in a layover day, staying two nights at the same site.
2. Study up on safe paddling in Yellowstone. While seeing the backcountry by self-propelled boat can be sublime, the waters are deadly cold with unpredictible weather. It’s important to study up on local conditions and safety practices.
3. Plan to camp at Lewis Lake Campground (first come first served) or Grant Village (reservations available) the night before to allow for an early start.
4. Get a boat inspection. Boat permits and aquatic invasive inspections are required before launching in the park.
5. Start early! We always aim to start by 7 a.m. and be off the water by noon on travel days; afternoons are when the wind whips both Lewis and Shoshone into a frenzy.
6. Plan for bugs, sun, and cold weather. It’s all possible at 7,795 feet, even in July and August.
7. Have fun, and let the peace of the park’s waters flow into you.
Photos © Jenny Golding
