Rafting the Great Northern Rivers
The Nahanni, Firth, and Tatshenshini
Though modern science and technology have given us comfort and security, for many people, something deeper is also needed; something that takes us closer to our evolutionary roots in nature. This book will allow the reader to experience, from the comfort of central heating and plumbing, some of the world's most beautiful northern wilderness areas. W. J. Becker shares three wonderful trips on Canada’s northern rivers with inspiring, educational, and accessible photos and prose—whether you’re a wilderness enthusiast or an armchair adventurer. The experiences recounted here centre on voyages along three epic northern Canadian Rivers: the South Nahanni, especially memorable because of its legendary canyons and its mysterious history; the Firth for its austere Arctic beauty; and the Tatshenshini for its dramatic glaciers—all are rich in untamed natural beauty. The extensive collection of photographs included gives the reader a taste of the wonder of these incredible wilderness areas. |
Rafting the Great Northern Rivers includes sidebars and stories about the natural history, the human history, and the geology of each river valley—from Klondike Gold Rush lore, to lessons for identifying bear tracks, to the strange and unusual sights of aufeis, glaciers, and icebergs.
These wilderness areas are a precious heritage and need to be preserved and protected. Becker believes that the wilderness regions of the world can provide great inspiration and enjoyment through ecologically sound travel.
These wilderness areas are a precious heritage and need to be preserved and protected. Becker believes that the wilderness regions of the world can provide great inspiration and enjoyment through ecologically sound travel.
Rafting the Snake
A Journey Through the Yukon’s Snake River Wilderness
“I am not a rugged adventurer, and this is not the story of a journey that you could never do. I brought only a reasonable degree of fitness to the Snake, a camera at the ready, and an open mind.” Experience the beauty and wonder of Canada’s North through the reflections and photography of Werner J. Becker. He—along with his wife and two teenage grandchildren—embarked on a two-week rafting tour of the Snake River Valley, starting not far from the river’s source and ending at its mouth on the Peel River. From breathtaking views of majestic Mount Macdonald to a thundering waterfall and raging rapids, this wilderness adventure is artfully captured in photos and prose. Along the way, stories of natural and human history are shared, giving depth and context to the narrative. |
A celebration of the beauty of the Yukon and a love letter to Canada’s North, Rafting the Snake is a timely encouragement for the protection of the environment and our planet. It shows the interconnectedness of humans and nature and makes a strong case for preserving our northern wilderness.