Local Army Cadet Conquers Winter Expedition at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
A local Army Cadet spent March Break with 27 cadets from across the province for a winter adventure that included snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, and cross-country skiing near Thunder Bay.
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Over March Break, Sergeant Paige Johnson of the 42 Grey and Simcoe Foresters Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps in Owen Sound and a student from Grey Highlands Secondary school in Flesherton took part in the Storm the Giant Winter Regional Expedition, an advanced ten-day backcountry challenge held at the iconic Sleeping Giant Provincial Park near Thunder Bay.
Sgt Johnson joined 27 cadets from across the province for a winter adventure that included snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, and cross-country skiing.
The expedition is part of the Army Cadet Program’s Regional Expedition series, which requires cadets to meet strict fitness and training standards, including shuttle runs, push-ups, curl-ups, and flexibility benchmarks.
During the expedition, Sgt Johnson completed the demanding 22-km ascent to the Giant’s Head lookout, one of the most rewarding and physically challenging hikes in the region. She also completed two days of cross-country skiing and two days of fat-tire biking on slippery, technical trails.
Throughout the experience, Sgt Johnson strengthened her leadership abilities, resilience, and advanced expedition skills, key components of senior Army Cadet training.
When asked about her experience, she shared:
“Storm the Giant was the most challenging thing I have ever done within the cadet program, yet it is an experience I wish I could go back and relive.
It pushed me both physically and mentally in ways I had never experienced before, forcing me to step outside of my comfort zone. I met some amazing people there and everything we went through together made it such a memorable experience.
Storm the Giant not only strengthened my resilience and determination, but also reminded me of the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and a positive mindset.
It is an opportunity I am incredibly grateful for, and one that has left a lasting impact on me as both a cadet and an individual.”
“Sergeant Johnson demonstrated exceptional determination and professionalism throughout this demanding winter expedition. Storm the Giant is one of the most challenging regional adventures available to our cadets, and she rose to every obstacle with confidence and maturity. Her success reflects the spirit of our corps,” said Captain Krista Linthorne, the Commanding Officer of the 42 Grey and Simcoe Foresters Royal Canadian Army Cadets in Owen Sound.
The Army Cadet Program offers a wide range of advanced outdoor and leadership opportunities for senior cadets, including regional and national expeditions. Physical fitness is a core component of the program, and many advanced activities require strong preparation and resilience.
One of the most unique opportunities available is the Canadian Forces Parachute Program, where eligible cadets (16+) must complete a Pre-Para selection course during March Break to qualify for summer parachute training. Successful graduates who later join the Canadian Armed Forces may wear their earned parachute wings on their uniform.
About the Army Cadets
Open to youth aged 12–18
Parade nights: Tuesdays, 6:15–9:00 p.m., September to June
Location: Owen Sound Armoury
No obligation to join the military afterward
Cadets may earn high school credits in Grades 11 and 12
Training focuses on outdoor adventure, including hiking, navigation, survival, and expedition skills
To register, visit Join the Cadet Program - Canada.ca and select 42 The Grey and Simcoe Foresters, Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps.
Submitted by Captain Krista Linthorne
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