William River from the air

Canoeing the braided section
of the William River

The contrast between the banks of the William River was utterly striking. It was as if we were paddling along a narrow border between two vastly different worlds. To the east was the jack pine, spruce and birch forest typical of northern Saskatchewan; to the west massive banks of white sand rose 20 metres or more straight out of the water.

For much of its length, the William presented us with constant challenges of rapids and long stretches of shallow rock gardens that made it slow going. Then in this landscape of surprises, the seemingly unending rapids suddenly ended, and the William spread out into a wide braided sandy stream up to half a kilometre across.

Flying over the William provides a dramatically different view. From the air the river looks like butterscotch pudding marbled with whipped cream, as sand just under the water swirls in complex patterns of multi-hued beiges, coppers and browns. Adding to the contrast are bright white sand bars above the water surface, and deep channels marked by shades of dark brown or black.

Join us as we explore this stunningly beautiful river and the adjoining 16,600 hectare dune field. Discover rare plants and stretches of desert pavement, and relive close encounters with wildlife. Hike to the giant dunes which are over 30 metres high and over one kilometre long, and have knife-edge crests flowing in sinuous curves.