A snowmobile trail, beaver dam, and canoes were all part of a very Canadian northern rescue.

Two Thompson men aged 51 and 55 were out camping on an unnamed lake 53 kilometres south of the city when they lost their boat.

Last Saturday night, at 10:30 p.m. RCMP officers, were told the boaters were stranded and went to help, taking them on a journey full of twists and turns.

“You can’t get much more Canadian than this rescue, with beaver dams, canoes, and Mounties," Thompson RCMP Detachment Commander Inspector Chris Hastie says in a statement.

First attempting to use a snowmobile trail, the officers were unable to get through the now-swampy terrain and a watery dead end. The group then knew they needed help.

"This rescue highlights the unique demands placed on officers who work in Manitoba’s north... I would also like to thank our policing partners – Manitoba Conservation and Park Patrol – for providing operational support and local knowledge in traversing this rough wilderness."

Paint Lake Provincial Park's Park Patrol and conservation officers mapped out a route, taking them over a beaver dam, hiking three kilometres through the area's bush towards the stranded men.

Now needing more help, locals loaned two canoes, paddles, and a boat to the group.

Following a stream of light coming from the other side of the lake, the canoes paddled, making their way to find the boaters in good health.

Making their way back, they all safely returned and trekked back to the highway.

"I am very glad we were able to get there and assist the stranded boaters and that everyone got home safely," Hastie says. "Help is there when we need it so that we can help others.”