12/20/2025
“The staff training trip was going too well. Everyone was getting along, the weather was lovely, and the new guides were displaying confidence and competence, making me optimistic about the summer to come. But I didn’t feel like we were being truly challenged.
When summer staff arrive, the first thing we do is a BWCA trip. The highs and lows of that trip give us something to refer back to as a case study through the rest of training. But 3 nights into the 2025 staff training trip, we had no lows. Don’t get me wrong, it felt wonderful, but I was starting to fear it might not prepare our staff for challenges ahead.
The 4th morning we set out on the Frost River, known for its low water, beaver dams, steep portages, tricky navigation, and countless bends that make you feel like it will never end. But I was beginning to think even that wouldn’t stretch us.
God heard my concern.
We paddled up to the first portage. 140 rods. We had done far worse already. My canoe partner took the boat. I grabbed a pack and followed. Around the first corner was a large, downed tree at chest height. A noble challenge to maneuver around. I encouraged the new guide as she slid the canoe over the log then ducked underneath and placed it back on her shoulders. Around the next corner was another, then another, then a pile of trees stacked like match sticks on the trail. We climbed over, ducked under, bobbed, and weaved through the ninja warrior course this portage proved to be. This early in the season maintenance crews had not yet cleared this remote trail.
I couldn’t have been more thrilled.
We made it through the portage. It was challenging. And while the guides were certainly not as thrilled as I was, each downed tree on that portage was a reminder from God: 'You’re not alone. You don’t have to train these staff on your own. I have plans for this summer that you don’t and won’t know about, but we get to do this together.'
I’m often tempted to over-accept responsibility for the tasks God places in my path, but He just asks me to do it with Him. The circumstances and outcomes are His responsibility. A few downed trees reminded me of that.” 🌲
Trisha Haugen
Program Director
