Embracing the Current: A Transformative Canoe Adventure Down the Green River in Southern Utah

A river is a perfect metaphor for life. Like a river, life ebbs and flows, changes its course, and evolves over time. This profound realization came to life during an 8-day canoeing expedition through the heart of southern Utah, down the tranquil Green River. This memorable voyage was as much about inner transformation as it was about navigating the undulating course of the river.

Canoes at Three Canyons along the Green River in Southern UtahPhoto byMike Shubic

The first night, after our launch from Ruby Ranch, we set up camp beneath a constellation-filled sky. The moon, our only lantern, shone brightly through the mesh of the tent, punctuating the serenity of our surroundings. As the group of sixteen paddled down the river, through the majestic Labyrinth Canyon with towering walls reflecting beautiful colors, we were literally and figuratively moving away from the distractions of modern life, immersing ourselves in a peaceful world with only the gentle whispers of the water and the grandeur of the canyon to keep us company.

Our first hurdle came early into our expedition when we encountered a seemingly impassable riverbank of molasses-like mud at the port of Three Canyons. But, united by the challenge, our freshly-formed team worked tirelessly under the guidance of our determined guide, Lauren Bond of The River's Path. We built a makeshift bridge using willow branches, overcoming the obstacle together and setting up camp in one of the most enchanting spots imaginable.

Canoes along muddy shorePhoto byMike Shubic

Each day was filled with exploration, bonding, and reflection. Our circle became a place of unity, a judgement-free zone where we could share our thoughts, worries, and triumphs under the watchful eyes of the poetic sensation John Roedel. As we journeyed deeper into the river's heart, we forged deep connections with each other, all while dining on exceptional camp food and exploring the intricate beauty of the Three Canyons.

Group circle on The River's Path journey down the Green RiverPhoto byMike Shubic

In this tranquil solitude, there was space for self-realization. Observing the majestic "Tree Arch," a resilient oak that had split yet refused to die, I realized that uniqueness and individuality should be celebrated, not shunned. This arch, like people, had its own beautiful story of survival and resilience.

Tree Arch at Three CanyonsPhoto byMike Shubic

With each paddling day, we moved deeper into the wilderness, and the landscapes we encountered became more captivating. We hiked, explored, and witnessed the astounding geological wonders this secluded terrain had to offer. In our explorations, we found ourselves alone with our thoughts, gazing in awe at petrified wood, discovering ancient petroglyphs, and even attempting to summit a towering sandstone mountain.

Despite the serene beauty, the river also showed us its unforgiving side. An impending storm cut our trip short, and we were thrown into a daunting battle against headwinds, waves, and a river that had transformed from a gentle giant into a formidable opponent. Adrenaline spiked as we maneuvered around massive sandbars and struggled to keep our canoes on course.

Canoeing along the Green River in Southern UtahPhoto byMike Shubic

As we finally reached the end of our journey at Mineral Bottom, relief washed over us, followed soon after by the rumbling of an approaching thunderstorm. We had successfully navigated the unpredictable temper of the river, just as we must navigate life's unpredictable circumstances.

In the end, we returned to our usual lives, taking with us not just memories of a canoeing adventure, but deeper realizations about life and its parallels with a river. The trip was a stark reminder that, like a river, life will always throw challenges our way. We can either fight against the current or learn to ride with it. Accepting the present and moving forward is the only way to navigate life's river.