As the brisk wind of adventure beckons, few answer the call with as much enthusiasm and knowledge as David Bain, a man whose very essence seems intertwined with the whispering pines and rolling rivers of the great Canadian outdoors. In this episode of the Super Good Camping Podcast, listeners were graced with the stories of a former elementary school teacher who has turned the vast wilderness into his classroom, imparting lessons not only of survival and resilience but of history and passion.
With the backdrop of Ontario’s pristine landscapes, Bain regaled hosts Pamela and Tim with tales that traverse the line between past and present. His 30 years of teaching experience have shaped young minds and kindled a deep-seated love for Canadian history that fuels his backcountry expeditions. As he speaks, one can almost hear the dip and pull of the canoe paddle from centuries past, a testament to the historical significance of canoeing in this storied region.
Listeners are transported to the rugged beauty of Algonquin Park as Bain recounts his latest winter camping venture. His vivid narrative depicts unexpected weather challenges, with snow melting into his tent and turning his campsite into an impromptu lake. Yet, through his voice, we feel the exhilaration of “type two fun” — the kind of fun that’s gruelling at the moment but unforgettable in retrospect.
Bain’s anecdotes are not merely stories of survival against the odds. They are rich with the wisdom of a seasoned outdoorsman who has learned to dance with the elements, be it while navigating slushy trails or managing gear weight with the aid of a pulk. His preparations for an upcoming trip to Bruce National Cypress Lake with friends reveal his undying zest for embracing the extreme cold temperatures that make such excursions unforgettable.
Yet, David Bain’s legacy extends beyond his own expeditions. His founding of the Voyageur Club bridges younger generations to the land’s natural wonders and intertwined history. Through camping and canoeing, he taught kids about the fur trade, fostering a connection with nature that is both educational and transformative.
His commitment to exploration and education has not waned since his retirement in 2019. Instead, it has grown stronger, with Bain continuing to engage with the natural environment and its rich historical layers.
Tune into this episode of the Super Good Camping Podcast to hear David Bain’s captivating stories and absorb the wisdom of a life spent in nature. Let your imagination set sail on the rivers of history, and perhaps, find the inspiration to embark on your backcountry adventure, with the past as your compass and the wild as your guide.
Join the journey, become part of the story, and discover that the heart of adventure beats in tandem with the rhythm of history.