Lessons from Mistagpigumiwak: Reconciliation, Community, and the Power of the Land
I recently had the privilege of embarking on a fat biking adventure with Aski Holistic Adventures near Cumberland House, Saskatchewan, on the traditional lands of Treaty 5 territory and the homeland of the Métis. It was an experience that pushed me to my physical and mental limits. But beyond the miles ridden and the personal challenges overcome, what stayed with me most was the profound sense of community and the generosity of those who welcomed us into their home and way of life.
Mistahpeegumiwak (Big Eddy Lodge) is more than just a place—it is a testament to the beauty, resilience, and significance of Indigenous lands and traditions. The Carrière family: Michela, Leo, Renee, and Solomon, didn’t just open their home to us; they created an experience rooted in relationship-building and reconciliation. They shared their land, their knowledge, and their warmth, offering us the opportunity to connect—not just with nature, but with each other and something far deeper. Standing in that space, surrounded by the land they so carefully protect, made it undeniable why Indigenous ways of life must be preserved, honored, and defended. After a weekend like this, how could anyone question the importance of safeguarding Indigenous lands and cultures?
One of the most inspiring aspects of the weekend was witnessing how Solomon, a traditional Cree-Métis man, has found a way to weave together Indigenous traditions and modernity—incorporating fat biking into a landscape deeply rooted in ancestral knowledge. His ability to merge these worlds is a powerful reminder that traditions are not relics of the past; they are living, evolving, and as vital today as they have ever been. The values they carry—respect for the land, connection to community, and a spirit of resilience—are timeless. They guide us not only in the wilderness but in every aspect of our lives.
But the lessons of this weekend weren’t just about the land—they were about the people. In the midst of physical exhaustion, frozen eyelashes, and miles of snow-covered trails, a beautiful community emerged. We showed up for each other. We cheered each other on. We shared stories, laughter, and quiet moments of reflection. Strangers became friends. Friends became family. In a world that often feels disconnected, this experience was a powerful reminder of what it truly means to belong.
At the heart of the weekend was the Escape the Hooved Man race—an experience unlike any other. Set against the vast northern landscape of the Saskatchewan River Delta, the race followed the Carrière family's trapline, retracing their steps through land infused with history and spirit. Racing at night, guided only by my bike light, the stars, and the camp’s trusty beagle Hobbes, I felt the weight of the stories embedded in the trails. Each landmark along the route was a reminder of the deep spiritual connections to this land—places where the past and present merge, where ancestors walked before us. It was more than just a race; it was a journey through time, a challenge that tested endurance, but also one that invited reflection, reverence, and an overwhelming sense of connection to those who have travelled these paths for generations.
I left Mistahpeegumiwak with sore legs, a full heart, and a renewed sense of purpose. The land and the people who care for it taught me lessons that extend far beyond cycling. They taught me about resilience, generosity, and the shared responsibility of reconciliation. And they reminded me that the most transformative experiences happen when we open ourselves up—to challenge, to connection, and to the power of community.
Ekosani (Masi-cho/Thank-you) to Michela, Leo, Renee, and Solomon for their generosity. Ekosani to the land for its lessons. And Ekosani to the incredible people who made this weekend unforgettable. Until next time.
-Jennifer Keith (Parking Lot Princess)
