Who We Are
Paddle Planner owes its success to individuals like you - those who generously share their knowledge and experience to enhance the paddling community. On this page, you'll discover the stories of our founders, our dedicated top volunteers, and the Avant-level contributors who are the lifeblood of our thriving community. Without their unwavering support, we wouldn't be where we are today!
Founders
BenI have been canoeing since my dad took me on my first Quetico trip when I was 12. I can still remember almost every detail of that trip decades later. Since then I have been on over 70 canoe trips. When I am not on the water, I am dreaming of the next time I can be!
AuraleeI married into the canoeing passion. Before my wedding, I was required to go on a canoe trip with my future husband and his family. Paddling on pristine lakes, catching fish, seeing wildlife, and challenging myself physically is my ideal vacation!
JayI got hooked on canoeing during a Boy Scout excursion in the BWCA, then returned for more trips there and in Quetico with my brother and friends. My wife passed the "newly married canoeing test" and is still a great wilderness partner 30 years later. Along the way there were adventures on the water with our sons. I hope Paddle Planner helps others create great memories of their own.
Top Volunteers
JoshI have been an passionate outdoorsman since my involvement in Scouting Canada as a young boy. My first large backcountry canoe trip was in 2006 when the available maps had no context of distance or time and we did far more time in the canoe than was entirely appropriate. I have a personal goal to spend at least 21 nights in a tent every year.
At Paddle Planner, we're deeply grateful for each and every one of our contributors who go above and beyond to support their fellow paddlers and enrich the paddling community. Your dedication, knowledge, and passion for the outdoors make Paddle Planner an invaluable resource for adventurers.
We want to shine a spotlight on our exceptional contributors who have reached the pinnacle of recognition within our community - the coveted Avant status. These dedicated individuals have not only shared their paddling expertise but have also demonstrated unwavering commitment to helping others plan their paddling journeys.
Join us in celebrating these remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of camaraderie, adventure, and exploration that defines Paddle Planner. Their contributions have elevated the paddling experience for all of us.
Christopher HalvorsonI developed my passion for canoeing on rivers across southern Minnesota. I was introduced to the Boundary Waters in my teens, and discovered a deep connection to the wilderness in my mid-twenties. The beauty and challenges of wilderness canoeing have since become an integral part of my life, and now I'm excited to share this passion with my three boys as we explore new waters together.
Riley SmithAfter a handful of childhood trips, I guided my first summer after college. Four guide seasons and a winter on the Gunflint Trail later, I moved to Ely full time where I married a wonderful woman I met guiding for the same outfit. We now get to experience the wonder of wilderness together. I have about 70 overnight trips to my credit from canoeing, hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing.
Ken OrwollI was introduced to the boundary waters the summer before my senior year of high school(1971). The four of us, all teenagers, had an amazing trip and I was hooked. Two of our foursome are brothers and their family was a big part of my experience in the BW. Like them, I too enjoy introducing the boundary waters to new paddlers. It has been a special place to share with others. I cherish all the annual trips I have made with my son, 29 trips and still counting. When I'm not on the water I dream of my next adventure. During the winter Paddle Planner has occupied many hours of my time as I plan my next trip.
Our Story
In 2011, Ben and Auralee were struggling to plan the summer's canoe trips. As Ben was fighting with maps, string, rulers, and calculations, he thought that there must be an easier way to figure out times and distances. Someone must have created a tool to do this automatically... After a few months of searching, Ben concluded that it did not exist yet, so he had to make it himself.
After working on it for a while, Ben decided to share his work with his fellow paddlers. Jay discovered the website and used it to plan a solo canoe trip. He was so impressed that he contacted Ben with a "thank you" and suggestions for making the website more visible and effective. Ben, Auralee, and Jay hit it off as "brainstorming buddies" and began kicking more ideas around. Auralee designed a new logo, and they celebrated the new partnership by rechristening the website Paddle Planner.
Originally, Paddle Planner only covered the Boundary Waters and Quetico. Josh stumbled on the website and saw the possibilities of bringing the tools to Algonquin Provincial Park and the other areas he paddles in southern Ontario. Josh volunteered his web design experience. Ben and Josh embarked on a journey to redesign the website. (It took a few more years than originally planned...) Josh's suggestions and feedback have been invaluable, and he continues to be an important member of the team.
Paddle Planner's mission is to help others make the most of their paddling experiences, and we could not do it without volunteers like Josh and like you. Thousands of paddlers have contributed campsite reviews, photos, portage comments, and suggestions to make the site better. Thank you for being an integral member of the Paddle Planner community!
