Celebrating Women Adventurers
Breaking Boundaries in the Wild
The call of the wild knows no gender, yet historically, outdoor adventure has often been viewed as a male-dominated space. Thankfully, that narrative is shifting, and more women are stepping into the great outdoors—not just as explorers, but as leaders, guides, and mentors. From paddling remote waterways to hiking rugged trails, women adventurers are proving that courage, resilience, and a love for exploration transcend stereotypes.
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the fearless women who are redefining what it means to be an explorer. Some, like Meagan Molin, find adventure in solo backpacking and family hikes, embracing the beauty of Northern Manitoba’s trails. Others, like Angel Hartman, take to the water, where kayaking and fishing fuel their passion for the outdoors. And for Adrianna Sawchyn, adventure is more than just a personal pursuit—it’s a way of life. As the owner of Aurora Sacred Healing Centre, she not only guides others on wilderness expeditions but also fosters a deeper connection between people and the land.
Whether conquering new summits, gliding through pristine lakes, or helping others discover their own love for the outdoors, these women remind us that adventure is for everyone. Join us as we shine a light on their journeys, their challenges, and the incredible landscapes of Northern Manitoba that continue to call them forward.
Meet Meagan Molin
Q: Where are you from?
A: I'm originally from Southern Ontario, specifically Grey County. It's a beautiful area, and outdoor adventures were a big part of my childhood.
Q: What first brought you to The Pas, OCN & the RM of Kelsey?
A: I met my husband while teaching in Pukatawagan, and we moved to The Pas in 2016 when I got a teaching job. The opportunities for hiking and canoeing around the area were a big bonus!
Q: What is your favorite outdoor activity?
A: Backcountry camping and canoeing are my absolute favourite activities. There’s something about being out on the water or deep in the wilderness that just feels like home to me.
Q: How long have you been exploring the area?
A: Since day one! In fact, my first solo backpacking trip was to Kwasitchewan Falls shortly after I moved here. It was a bit of a disaster, but I’ve returned a few times since then to redeem myself. My family and I have been hiking, paddling, and exploring local outdoor spaces ever since. Even after years here, I’m always amazed at how many new places there are to discover.
Q: Where do you love to explore the most?
A: The trails in our area are incredible! Some of my favourites include:
- The Caves Trail at Clearwater Lake – This has been a family favourite from the start. The views are stunning, and the off-trail exploring along the crevices adds to the adventure.
- The Rosie Mayne Trail – There’s so much variety here! If you wander past the gravel pit, you might even come across the elusive heron nesting grounds.
- The Grace Lake Boardwalk and Trail – It’s been amazing to see this trail become a rising star in the area. Standing on the floating boardwalk as the Missinippi planes fly overhead is an unforgettable experience. Plus, the informational plaques make it a great learning spot for all ages.
Q: Do you have any new adventures planned for this year?
A: I need to start taking advantage of our cross-country ski trails! We have groomed trails at both Rosie Mayne and Clearwater, so I have no excuse. I think this is the year I finally get into it.
I’m also considering a canoe trip down the Carrot River. Hopefully, I can convince some paddling buddies to join me this summer!
Looking to the Future
"I'm so excited about all the local efforts to promote outdoor spaces and activities," Meagan says. "Opasquia Trails' accessibility project and the Clearwater Lake Outdoors Club’s work to reopen the ski chalet are going to be huge assets for our community."
Looking ahead, Meagan hopes to see even more outdoor interest groups develop. "A hiking and camping club, a canoe/kayak club, and walking groups would be great ways for people to connect, learn about local hotspots, and find adventure buddies."
With passionate explorers like Meagan leading the way, Northern Manitoba’s outdoor scene is sure to keep growing. Whether you're an experienced adventurer or just starting out, there’s no better time to get outside and explore!
Meet Angel Hartman
Some adventurers find their calling in the mountains, others on winding trails—but for Angel Hartman, the water has always been home. Whether she’s gliding across crystal-clear lakes in her kayak or casting a line in search of the perfect catch, Angel fully embraces the outdoor lifestyle that Northern Manitoba has to offer.
We caught up with her via email to learn more about her favourite paddling spots, the thrill of fishing in Northern Manitoba, and what adventure she’s planning next.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born and raised on the beautiful shores of Hudson Bay in Churchill, but I moved south and have called Thompson home for the last 20+ years.
Q: What first brought you to The Pas, OCN & the RM of Kelsey?
A: I remember visiting The Pas as a child for school trips and to see family friends, so my connection to the area goes back many years. More recently, I’ve been a frequent visitor for about the last 10 years.
Q: What is your favorite outdoor adventure activity?
A: It’s so hard to choose just one, but I’d have to say kayaking—especially when I have my fishing rod with me! Northern Manitoba has so many fantastic little spots to drop a hook in the water, and you don’t have to go far to find them. One of the best things about living here is being able to leave work at the end of the day and be out on a lake within 30 minutes.
Q: Where do you love to explore the most?
A: Some recomendations include:
- Clearwater Lake – A must-see! The water is unbelievably blue, and you can see everything beneath the surface, which makes it perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. I love visiting the Caves while I’m there, and I’ve even made special trips to see the ice formations in winter.
- Rocky Lake – The fishing is always amazing, and the shorelines have such unique outcrops and ledges. It’s a completely different landscape from where I live, and I love exploring it.
Q: Do you have any new adventures planned for this year?
A: I would love to make another kayak trip out to Louck’s Falls (Iswaksum Lake)—it’s one of my absolute favourite places to camp and fish! While I’m in that area, I also enjoy hiking in to see Karst Spring, so it’s the perfect spot to spend a few days.
Looking to the Future
Q: Is there anything you’d like to see more of for adventurers in the area?
A: The Pas really has a little bit of everything to enjoy when you’re visiting—I can’t think of anything that’s missing!
With her love of paddling, fishing, and exploring, Angel is a true ambassador for outdoor adventure in Northern Manitoba. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful day on the water or a multi-day wilderness trip, the landscapes she explores offer something for everyone.
So, grab your gear, pick a spot, and get outside—the adventure awaits!
Follow her adventures on Instagram @northern_mb_adventures
Meet Adrianna Sawchyn
For International Women’s Day, we’re highlighting women who not only embrace outdoor adventure but also inspire others to experience the beauty of Northern Manitoba. Adrianna Sawchyn is one of those women—an experienced outdoor guide, passionate adventurer, and the Owner/Director of Aurora Sacred Healing Centre. With decades of experience in the region, she combines her love for nature, wellness, and ecotourism to help others connect with the land in meaningful ways.
We caught up with Adrianna via email to learn more about her journey, her favorite places to explore, and her advice for first-time visitors.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I taught Biology in The Pas and Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Manitoba for over 30 years. Upon my recent retirement, I relocated to Cranberry Portage, where I can be surrounded by lakes and forests all around.
Q: What first brought you to The Pas, OCN, and the RM of Kelsey?
A: Having lived in northern Manitoba for the majority of my life, my roots are deeply embedded in this region. My commitment to ecotourism, wellness, and biology inspired me to establish Aurora Sacred Healing Centre, located on the lake in Grass River Provincial Park in Cranberry Portage. Aurora provides a variety of wellness and ecotourism programs and services aimed at helping people lead richer, more fulfilling lives connected to the land.
Q: What is your favorite outdoor adventure activity?
A: I have a deep passion for canoe trips, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and wilderness survival training. Canoeing is my real passion, which is why I purchased my own fleet of canoes—to get more people out paddling with me!
Q: How long have you been adventuring in this area?
A: I have been exploring and engaging in outdoor activities in this area personally for several decades, having paddled and hiked across Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Over the years, people would ask me to guide them personally, and in 2019, I started guiding professionally through the programs offered at Aurora Sacred Healing Centre.
Q: Where do you love to explore the most?
A: I particularly enjoy leading Wild Expeditions every Sunday morning throughout the seasons, encouraging others to move their bodies and connect with not only nature but also like-minded people.
Q: Is there an area or activity on your to-do list for this year?
A: This year, I am excited to continue offering and expanding our land-based education programs, which include wild crafting, make-work projects, and ethnobotany.
Q: As an experience provider, what advice would you give to first-time visitors to the area?
A: Embrace the diverse outdoor activities available and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our region. Whether it be joining a guided canoe trip, participating in a wilderness survival training, or exploring our scenic hiking trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy and connect with nature.
Aurora also has two Airbnb accommodations, perfect for visitors looking to experience the north. Feel free to contact me through our website so I can help you build your perfect Northern Manitoba outdoor experience!