Adventurer Kayaking from Montana to New Orleans | Video

Evan Kruegel | 9/4/2012

Kayaking from Montana to New Orleans might sound like a bold idea, but for one Canadian thrill-seeker, it`s just one part of a much bigger project.

"This is stage one of a larger project called the Magnificent Seven Expedition. Basically, that`s a quest to paddle the longest river system on each continent from source to sea," said adventurer Rod Wellington.

For this stage, Wellington is kayaking from the headwaters of the Missouri River all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.

"I look at about 10 hours of travel a day. Usually from 8:00 in the morning until 6:00 p.m. at night, and I try to cover 30 miles a day. That would be a good day for me. definitely."

It`s a difficult trip, and Wellington has encountered his fair share of obstacles. He counted 22 moose in his first week on the water, and has had to endure numerous wind and rain storms along the way. It`s a daunting task, but for Wellington, it`s a peaceful journey.

"I find the time is very nice for interacting with nature, and just kind of processing some things that are going on in my mind, and reflecting on the past, and setting some goals for the future as well. So its a very introspective time, but in a positive way."

As he travels through Williston moving east, Wellington can`t help but feel a connection to Louis and Clark, who traveled this same path over 200 years ago. They were, of course, going the opposite direction.

"I’m certainly going the easier way, downstream. I really admire what they did coming upstream, I`m having my challenges going downstream so I can`t imagine going into un-charted territory upstream, and doing it successfully, very admirable."

As Wellington continues on his journey, he`ll hope for a swift current and nice weather. Barring any unforeseen obstacles, he`ll get to celebrate Christmas in New Orleans.

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