Backcountry

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hockley-valley-and-winery)** ***Just over an hour outside of Toronto, enjoy a leisurely hike along the Niagara Escarpment, ending with great food & drink overlooking a vineyard.*** Hockley Valley offers some of the best hiking in the GTA. It’s especially beautiful in the spring time with the trees budding, the ice thawing and no bugs to be found. This hike covers a gentle 6km and brings you over trickling streams and bridges, winds through diverse, piney forests filled with fungi and brings you out to hilly meadows where you may spot the first few wildflowers of the season pushing through. After the hike, we’ll gather together for some time at the Adamo Estate Winery right beside the park to eat, drink and socialize with good company. **Please note anything purchased at the winery is not included in the cost of your registration.** **Highlights** **Diverse Landscapes-** Embrace the wide array of different landscapes you will encounter throughout this adventure **Winery Experience-** Savour amazing wines from a great Ontario producer **Group Social Moment-** The perfect opportunity to connect and chat with fellow WU members **Event cost: $40+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here. ](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hockley-valley-and-winery)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Experience the wonders of Algonquin Park in the beautiful early days of spring, when the park begins to wake up and wildlife activity really starts to pick up. Please join us for a fantastic day trip into one of Ontario’s most famous and beloved wilderness areas. This is a wonderful time of year to visit Algonquin. If you have ever dreamed of seeing a moose in the wild, this is one of your best chances. The ice is disappearing, the forests and wetlands are coming back to life, and there is always that sense of excitement that comes with a new season. Along the scenic roads and waterways of the park, we will be watching for moose, which are often seen feeding along roadsides and in marshy areas at this time of year. We will also keep an eye out for River Otters, Beavers busy repairing their dams, and other wildlife that make Algonquin such a special place. With some luck, we may also encounter specialty birds such as Spruce Grouse and Ruffed Grouse, especially during the breeding season when they can be very active. This is also an excellent time to look for birds like Black-backed Woodpecker and newly arriving spring songbirds. While moose are one of our main targets, this can also be a very rewarding time for other wildlife. Over the years, we have seen everything from Eastern Wolves and Red Foxes to Pine Martens and Barred Owls. Our adventure begins with departure from Toronto at 7:30 a.m. sharp from Finch Station Passenger Pickup and Dropoff. We expect to arrive in Algonquin Park at approximately 10:30 a.m., where we will begin exploring some of the park’s best wildlife and birding areas. We will do some short walks during the day, and we will also visit the iconic Visitor Centre with its panoramic views over the forest. With expert guidance, we will explore some of the park’s prime birding and wildlife locations, always hoping for memorable sightings and good photographic opportunities. While specific sightings can never be guaranteed, I will take you to the areas that offer us the best chances based on current conditions and recent activity. This outing is considered moderate, with short hikes and walks, as much of the birding and wildlife viewing is done from concentrated areas and roadside stops. Please wear appropriate footwear, as trails may be muddy or wet at this time of year. Cost is $129 per person, including tax. Payment can be made through PayPal or by bank e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. Whether it is your first visit to Algonquin or one of many, spring is a magical time to be there. Please join us for a memorable day of wildlife viewing, birding, photography, and fresh air in one of Ontario’s true natural treasures. Limited spots, so do not miss out! Of course, wildlife can never be guaranteed, as these are wild animals, but with my years of guiding experience and by visiting at the best time of year, we give ourselves an excellent chance to see moose and other wildlife in the park.

Let's meet for an afternoon snack at Silk 111 Bakery & Cafe (near St. Clair & Christie).

🌿🛍️ DOWNSVIEW PARK WALK & MARKET HANGOUT 🛍️🌿 Open Space, Fresh Air & A Market to Explore Together Sometimes the best way to discover a place… is just to go and see what you find. This is a brand new walk — the first time we’re doing it — and that’s part of the fun. Join us for a relaxed social walk through Downsview Park, one of the largest urban parks in the city. Wide open spaces, walking paths, and a completely different feel from downtown — it’s the kind of place where you can actually breathe a little deeper. After our walk, we’ll head over to explore the Downsview Park Merchants Market, where we can wander, browse, and find something to eat together. This is not a formal tour. It’s a casual, exploratory outing — a mix of movement, curiosity, and good company. 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) *** 🚶‍♂️ What We’ll Do We’ll meet outside Downsview Park Station and head into the park for a relaxed walk, roughly about an hour at an easy pace. This isn’t a long-distance or intense walk — just enough to get moving, chat, and enjoy the space. Afterward, we’ll make our way to the market to explore together. There are usually a variety of vendors and food options, so we’ll take our time, see what’s there, and grab a bite if something catches our eye. You’re welcome to stay, eat, or head out whenever you like. *** 🌦️ Weather & Expectations This event will happen in typical spring weather — sun, wind, or light rain. As long as it’s not extreme conditions, we’ll be going ahead. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Also — since this is our first time doing this route, we’ll be figuring it out together a bit. That’s part of the adventure. And as always — this is NOT a guided or historical tour. It’s about being social and enjoying the experience. *** 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: I will be waiting outside of the Downsview Park Merchants Market & Farmers Market. The entrance is the one closest to Downsview Subway Station 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat ⏰ Meetup Time: 11:00 AM I will only wait 5 minutes. Early is on time. On time is late. We’ll head out promptly, so please plan ahead. *** 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** This helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 *** 🎒 What to Bring Water Comfortable walking shoes A small snack (optional) Weather-appropriate clothing (layers + wind-ready 🌬️) Optional: cash/card for market food Please also use the washroom before arriving, as stops are limited. *** 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant gatherings There’s always something happening. *** REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule. And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. *** 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com Come for the walk. Stay for the market. Leave feeling like you discovered something new — because we all did. 🌿✨

Ticket Link: [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatiana-frank-live-backroom-comedy-club-one-night-only-tickets-1982631087955?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/tatiana-frank-live-backroom-comedy-club-one-night-only-tickets-1982631087955?aff=oddtdtcreator) Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with Tatiana Frank's hilarious comedy show at the Backroom Comedy Club - it's going to be a night t Welcome comedy lovers! Don't miss out on a night of laughs with **Tatiana Frank** live at **Backroom Comedy Club**! One night only! Get ready to bust a gut on **Sat, April 25th, 2026 at 8PM & 10PM**. Grab your friends and get ready for an evening filled with hilarious jokes and good vibes. See you there!

Experience the wonders of Algonquin Park in the beautiful early days of spring, when the park begins to wake up and wildlife activity really starts to pick up. Please join us for a fantastic day trip into one of Ontario’s most famous and beloved wilderness areas. This is a wonderful time of year to visit Algonquin. If you have ever dreamed of seeing a moose in the wild, this is one of your best chances. The ice is disappearing, the forests and wetlands are coming back to life, and there is always that sense of excitement that comes with a new season. Along the scenic roads and waterways of the park, we will be watching for moose, which are often seen feeding along roadsides and in marshy areas at this time of year. We will also keep an eye out for River Otters, Beavers busy repairing their dams, and other wildlife that make Algonquin such a special place. With some luck, we may also encounter specialty birds such as Spruce Grouse and Ruffed Grouse, especially during the breeding season when they can be very active. This is also an excellent time to look for birds like Black-backed Woodpecker and newly arriving spring songbirds. While moose are one of our main targets, this can also be a very rewarding time for other wildlife. Over the years, we have seen everything from Eastern Wolves and Red Foxes to Pine Martens and Barred Owls. Our adventure begins with departure from Toronto at 7:30 a.m. sharp from Finch Station Passenger Pickup and Dropoff. We expect to arrive in Algonquin Park at approximately 10:30 a.m., where we will begin exploring some of the park’s best wildlife and birding areas. We will do some short walks during the day, and we will also visit the iconic Visitor Centre with its panoramic views over the forest. With expert guidance, we will explore some of the park’s prime birding and wildlife locations, always hoping for memorable sightings and good photographic opportunities. While specific sightings can never be guaranteed, I will take you to the areas that offer us the best chances based on current conditions and recent activity. This outing is considered moderate, with short hikes and walks, as much of the birding and wildlife viewing is done from concentrated areas and roadside stops. Please wear appropriate footwear, as trails may be muddy or wet at this time of year. Cost is $129 per person, including tax. Payment can be made through PayPal or by bank e-transfer to torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com. Whether it is your first visit to Algonquin or one of many, spring is a magical time to be there. Please join us for a memorable day of wildlife viewing, birding, photography, and fresh air in one of Ontario’s true natural treasures. Limited spots, so do not miss out! Of course, wildlife can never be guaranteed, as these are wild animals, but with my years of guiding experience and by visiting at the best time of year, we give ourselves an excellent chance to see moose and other wildlife in the park.

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26)** ***Join us at Tommy Thompson park in Toronto to experience spring migration in all its glory.*** Back by popular demand, our expert birdwatching guide Pedro Hernandez from [Outdoor Commute](https://www.instagram.com/outdoor.commute/) will be leading his Introduction to Birdwatching Workshop. This experience is designed for beginners and regular birders alike who are curious about the birds that share our city. Together, we’ll learn how to identify both local and migratory species, practice using binoculars, and explore field guides and apps, all while deepening our appreciation for the natural world around us. **What we might see:** The end of April and into May is peak spring migration season in Ontario. Tommy Thompson Park is one of the best birding spots in the province and is located right in the city. Depending on conditions, we might encounter warblers, sparrows, thrushes, and waterfowl such as northern shovelers and gadwalls, along with year-round residents like red-tailed hawks, black-capped chickadees, and northern cardinals. **Please note that binoculars are included in the cost of the adventure and that, due to the Toronto location, transportation is not offered.** **Highlights** **Spring Migration -** Experience birding at one of the best times of year, connecting with both local and travelling species before many move south for the winter. **Binoculars Included -** Every participant will get to use a pair of high quality NOCS binoculars. **Professional Birder -** Learn from Pedro Hernandez, founder of the popular Instragram account Outdoor Commute **Event cost: $50+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/spring-birdwatching-26)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Come join me for an exciting hike at Humber River North Trail. · **Trail Description**: check out the trail here: [https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/humber-river-north-trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/ontario/humber-river-north-trail) · **Distance**: approx. 11km · **Pace**: moderate, 4 to 4.5km/h · **Meeting Point**: 4901 Rutherford Rd, Vaughan, ON L4H 3C2 (Parking Lot at Emily Carr Secondary School) · **Estimated Duration**: 3 to 3.5hrs **Essentials**: Water, snacks, proper hiking boots and poles, and weather-appropriate clothing **Important Reminder:** **📝** By participating in this hike, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the **[Liability Waiver and Acknowledgement of Risk](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfIzC6o_9ncbMGYW8yI1EcD6YaTHDLgwjY6AsxbR3I_YNLHBg/viewform).** If you have not done so, we kindly request that you refrain from participating in this event. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to an enjoyable and safe adventure! · **Dress for the weather!** Prepare for the weather and wear suitable gear for the trail · **Arrive on time!** Please be punctual, as the group will leave on time · **Know your limits!** Choose hikes that match your fitness level

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

(Note: RSVPing here on meetup does NOT reserve your seat. To do that, you’ll need to register at our website, [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=2026-Central-Ohio-Real-Estate-Investing-Expo-14-5-5-2026).) We’re serious about helping you succeed in real estate. That means not just teaching you—but putting you in the room with the people who help you get deals done. Every deal depends on people. The agent or wholesaler. The lender. The contractor. The title company. The insurance agent. The problem is that most investors meet those people slowly. This event fixes that. One room full of: • Lenders • Contractors • Title companies • Insurance providers • Property managers • And active local investors A place where you can: • Build your team • Find funding • Solve real problems • Make connections that lead to deals If you’re serious about real estate, this is a smart room to be in. Members and non-members at any level of knowledge and experience are welcome. This event is free. Remember, to actually reserve your seat, you have to go [HERE](https://www.coreerocks.com/Events.aspx?ID=2026-Central-Ohio-Real-Estate-Investing-Expo-14-5-5-2026) and register on our website!

*We can only take 13 women on this trip.* **The details...** Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure. Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip. ***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** **A guided adventure:** Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality. This is more than a hiking trip. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna). **What to expect...** * Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe. * Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages. * Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center. * Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts. * Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.) * Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels. **Wait, there's more...** * Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms. * Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do. * Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting. * Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. * Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience. * Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey. The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland. Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides? ***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** * Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact) * Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about). * Rates start at $6195