These limited-edition custom coasters were designed and handcrafted for a select group of brave clients who have ventured with us through uncharted territory over the past year. Each individual coaster is unique and together (40 in total) form the 540km of the Nahanni River.
This project is a celebration of adventure, creativity, craftsmanship, collaboration and the great Canadian backcountry.
The Nahanni River is one of the prime backcountry rivers in Canada, known for its fishing and whitewater by adventure seekers around the world.
The Nahanni River is located in the Nahanni National Park Reserve, roughly 500 kilometres west of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. It flows from the Mackenzie Mountains, through the Selwyn Mountains, growing as it heads east over the majestic Virginia Falls, and finally empties into the Liard River.
The Nahanni is also rich in history. The Dené and their ancestors have lived and hunted in the Nahanni area for thousands of years. In the early 19th century the first Europeans (including Alexander MacLeod of the Hudsons Bay Company) came to the area seeking fur and gold.
In the 20th century, with the arrival of float planes and the publishing of R.M. Patterson’s Dangerous River, the Nahanni became an outdoor destination.
Each set of coasters is accompanied by a custom letterpress map of the entire river and the surrounding topography.
Coasters: handmade with Canadian maple and chill epoxy.
Letterpress Map: 1-colour letterpress with blind impression on Colorplan 260# cover in White Frost printed on a Heidelberg Windmill press.
For me, the process is fascinating. It’s an opportunity to collaborate with people who excel at their craft and share a glimpse of all the work that goes into making a one-of-a-kind project like this.
Creative Direction & Design: Jon Allison, Backcountry
Coasters: Rob Purvis, Stone City Woodworks
Letterpress Map: Vincent Perez, Everlovin’ Press
Photography: Mike Wing, Wing Studios
© 2026 Backcountry Design Co.
