A longtime WI participant, Janet Peterson has been on at least 20 trips since 1980 culminating in over 3 decades in the wilderness. Not only has she been a dedicated explorer, but she also volunteered at WI for many years. Some might even remember her from the ‘Ask Jan’ section of the website!
Janet’s First Trip
Growing up, I was deathly afraid of water. I didn’t go in pools, enjoy boat rides, or the surf. But I loved the outdoors. When a friend suggested Wilderness Inquiry, I was reluctant at first. Eventually my adventurous spirit took over.
My first trip was to the Boundary Waters where I got into a canoe for the first time. I was amazed at the stability and from then on I was hooked. I couldn’t paddle much, but loved to walk the portages by myself. It was a quiet time; a time to think, reflect, and look around to watch the wildlife. The paths were narrow and countless times I had to move to the side for someone portaging a canoe or a Duluth pack or two. As they passed, I’d hear “You’re almost there,” “Keep at it,” “Atta girl.” By time I reached the lake I had a big smile and sense of accomplishment.
Hooked on the Outdoors
I enjoyed canoeing tremendously. I loved watching the loons swim, the eagles fly, and see the stars pop out at night. I saw the Northern lights for the first time when we went for a silent night paddle. I canoed the Green River and climbed up to the Anasazi Cliff Dwellings. I rocked and rolled while rafting down the Rio Grande and Flathead Rivers. I even paddled some small rapids in the bow on another trip.
I was fished out of Lake Nipigon when few of us slept on the beach and the tide came in. I was sound asleep and didn’t realize it until a trail staff and a couple participants came and lift me in my sleeping bag to higher ground.
Favorite Memories
My most memorable and favorite one was the horse pack trip. Although I loved every trip and met fantastic trail staff and participants, this trip allowed me to participate more fully. I cherished the independence I had controlling the reins as we trotted through the wide open meadows or nervously walked down switchback paths.
Ah, wilderness!
Greg says
So fun to see this! Janet, you should tell them about your winter trip at Steger’s in early 80’s. Outhouse at -60 degrees!