Backcountry Skiing Toronto

CANOE TRIP 1/26 McCRAE LAKE, VICTORIA DAY, SAT. MAY 16- MON. MAY 18

One of our favourite locations for our first trip of 2026, McCrae Lake is in in the south, and will have warmer weather than the more northern lakes. This is an easy trip, good for novice paddlers, to test your new kit, or get back into shape. McCrae Lake is a large lake divided into several bays, on crown land, close to Toronto. The water quality is excellent, and there is good fishing. The backcountry campsites are large, quiet, have a steel grill and thunder box, and are free. More information on McCrae Lake: [https://www.ontario.ca/page/mccrae-lake-conservation-reserve-management-statement](https://www.ontario.ca/page/mccrae-lake-conservation-reserve-management-statement) The water may be warm enough to swim, and the bugs will not be out yet. Fun activities include hiking on wilderness trails, paddling up and down rapids, swimming with rattle snakes, diving off of cliffs into the lake, and dragging out the bodies of people who tried to do all of those things. Watch for the Five-Lined Skink. Or, you can relax in a hammock. McCrae Lake is very popular. We may have to wait for room in the parking lot, and empty campsites. **If anyone in our group can go into McCrae Lake on Thursday or Friday to secure a campsite, it would be appreciated.** Arrive early Sat. AM. to get a parking spot or after 3:00 PM when day hikers go home. We are not required to go home on Monday night. You can continue to camp for as long as you wish. Carpooling is recommended to reduce the number of parking spaces required. Most areas of the lake have cell service sufficient for text messages and data. One portage, 150 metres, well used trail, over a high granite ridge. Paddle distance: 5 km. Canoe rentals should be available if you reserve one in advance: Swift Canoe Georgian Bay [https://swiftoutside.com/georgian-bay/](https://swiftoutside.com/georgian-bay/) Wawautosa Marina [https://www.wawautosa.ca/](https://www.wawautosa.ca/) Driving Distance: From Hwy 7 and Hwy 400, Vaughan Metropolitan Center: 142 km., 1 hour 30 mins. **ACTUAL LOCATION:** **McCrae Lake Parking Lot Muskoka District Municipality, ON** **44.92206400775243, -79.7772977860336** **Please fill in the Spread Sheet below:** https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1V1iupkEzye3zj5O8Sagri1FZyVLGOeM1EDy4ZkgcABo/edit?usp=sharing

Canoe Foundations Clinic

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/canoe-clinic)** ***Join us for this essential course as we break down the foundations of wilderness canoeing!*** We are heading north to help you build up the necessary skills for your summer adventures. This isn't a rigid certification course but a practical, hands-on clinic led by our two master paddler guides, Rory & Zac. They will share their breadth of knowledge gathered over many years of paddling to help you feel confident and prepared on the water. In this course you will learn: * Fundamentals of canoeing safely and effectively * Bowing & sterning * Paddle strokes & techniques (including the J stroke!) * Capsizing & righting a canoe **Who is this course for?:** It is a day designed for anyone who wants to stop fighting the wind and start *gliding through the wilderness* with ease. If you have never held a paddle before and want to start with the right habits, then this clinic is for you. If you have some experience but want to refine your technical skills for longer trips, then our guides can help you dial in your form. We provide the canoes, paddles, and safety gear so you can just focus on the rhythm of the water. **Interested in joining this year’s Epics? Completing this and other relevant courses will support your approval process for advanced adventures.** **Included:** Rentals for the canoes, paddles & life preservers. **Who It’s For**: Beginner and intermediate paddlers who want to develop and hone their skills, as well as practice real-world simulations of emergency situations. **Highlights** **Outdoors Skills Training:** Develop essential skills to survive and thrive in the wild. **Expert Instructors:** Our amazing expert guides will teach you everything you need to know in a safe and fun way. **Backcountry Readiness:** These skills are the building blocks for every major wilderness expedition we run. Mastering these basics ensures you are ready to tackle vast, untouched lakes and winding rivers on your next big trip. **Event cost: $95+HST - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/canoe-clinic)** **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/)***

SOCCER ⚽️ All Genders Welcome! All Skill Levels Welcome!

Locating Limberlost - A Wilderness Hike

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/locating-limberlost-2)** ***Please note that this adventure was originally planned for April 4th, but was rescheduled due to severe weather.*** ***Join us for this 10km trek through the quiet, stunning wilderness of Muskoka.*** We'll be exploring the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park in a little-known spot with pristine lakes, budding forests, and incredible rocky landscapes. As we hike along the trail and trace the edge of a crystal-clear lake, you can expect: * Dense, old-growth forests where towering trees create a dramatic canopy overhead * Ancient granite cliffs rising up from the shoreline, carved by glaciers over millions of years. * Possible glimpses of wildlife like deer, beavers, and all sorts of birds that call this place home. One of the coolest parts of the hike is getting to see the raw beauty of the Canadian Shield up close. We'll stop at several lookout points where you can take in the incredible panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. **There's a mix of terrain, including boardwalks, rocky sections, and well-maintained paths, which is suitable for any moderately fit hiker.** **Highlights** **Stunning Views -** Enjoy wild views of the iconic Canadian Shield at the many lookout points along this hike **Floating Boardwalk -** Stroll across a beautiful floating boardwalk along the lake’s edge **Sprawling Forest Reserve -** With over 10,000 acres and 70+ trails, this hidden gem has so much to offer **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/locating-limberlost-2)** **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/)***

Wilder Series: Beaver Valley Mega Hike

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/beaver-valley-26)** ***Get ready for one of the hardest day-hike adventures in Wilderness Union history!*** Welcome to the next installment of the Wilder Series: this gorgeous, nearly 30km hike through Beaver Valley is not for the faint of heart. The pay off, however, is incredible, as you’ll pass multiple waterfalls, experienec stunning hilltop views and finish with a huge sense of accomplishment for completing this challenging adventure. While more rural than wild, you will feel immersed in remote nature with few other people to be found as you trek along the trail. You can expect lush forest canopies, diverse terrain and a great group to adventure onwards with. Due to the length of this adventure, we will move at a continuous pace of 3-3.5km per hour. While Ontario is fairly flat, this loop has significant elevation gain. You can expect a lot of ascents and descents throughout the day, which will make the distance covered more challenging but the views that much more exquisite. Please note that attendees will need a high fitness level to successfully complete this adventure. This will be a serious challenge! **Highlights** **Stunning waterfalls:** Experience two of Ontario’s most stunning water features- Eugenia Falls and Hogg’s Falls. **Secluded wilderness:** Enjoy the feeling of near total seclusion on the trail. Just you, the forest and your fellow adventurers. **Type 2 fun:** This adventure will not be easy but, for those willing to meet the challenge, it will be supremely rewarding! **Event cost: $50+HST (for explorer members) - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/beaver-valley-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/)***

Introduction to Nordic Pole Walking - Part 2

Algonquin Park Group Camping

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/whitefish-fc-26)** ***Join us as we head back into the massive, untouched wilderness of Algonquin Park for our second camping adventure of the year!*** We are returning to the legendary home of Ontario nature to soak in the early season vibes. Algonquin is famous for its tall trees and stunning scenery. This trip is an easy introduction to the wild, making it perfect for those who want to get comfortable in the woods, while still having the convenience of a frontcountry site. Our base for the weekend is a site on the edge of Whitefish Lake, where we will have plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the fresh forest air. You can hike, learn to master a campfire or simply relax by the water as the sun dips below the tree line. When night falls, we will share a communal meal under some of the clearest, most *magic star-filled skies* you have ever seen. On day 2 of this adventure, we’ll take the morning to learn canoe fundamentals from our guides. Once we complete the lesson, you can either hang out at camp and relax on the beach or paddle to one of two stunning hikes near the camp. We have handled all the logistics and gear so you can focus on making new friends and soaking in the peace of the woods. If you are looking to build your confidence for more rugged trips later in the summer, this is the perfect place to start. What's included * Professional & certified guides * ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits * ‍Tents * Canoe rental **Whether you are a seasoned camper or it is your first time in a tent, this adventure has something for everyone.** **Highlights** **Learn Camp Skills -** Our guides will show you how to set up a tent, build a roaring fire and any other skills you want to learn so you can feel totally prepared for the season ahead. **Stargazing -** Free of light pollution, the stargazing at Algonquin is otherworldly. ‍**Canoeing on Whitefish Lake** \- Paddle through amazing scenery with our expert guides\. **Event cost: $350+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/whitefish-fc-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/)***

Niagara Glen Hike + Scenic Parkway Bike Ride

Zoom call on May 9 at 7 30 Join Zoom Meeting [https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86382907756?pwd=lUWxEozM0QYVnjaHtVEpUS98IdVUga.1](https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86382907756?pwd=lUWxEozM0QYVnjaHtVEpUS98IdVUga.1) Meeting ID: 863 8290 7756 Passcode: 3hfxtN please join what's app https://chat.whatsapp.com/D37GjXYLjQC1nhkBCkxGpH This one’s for people who like to move their body and clear their head. We’ll start with a grounded, scenic hike through the Niagara Glen — forest paths, river views, real terrain. After the hike, we switch gears (literally) and hop on our bikes for a relaxed ride along the Niagara Parkway. You’ll leave tired — but in a good, earned way. 🧭 The Plan 🥾 Part 1: Niagara Glen Hike (9:00 – 11:30 AM) Distance: ~5–6 km Difficulty: Moderate 🚴 Part 2: Parkway Bike Ride (12:00 – 2:30 PM) Route: Niagara Parkway Distance:~ 10–15 km Terrain: paved, flat, beginner-friendly Optional coffee / ice cream stop along the way 🚲 Bike Options Bring your own bike OR rent locally near Niagara Falls (details shared in comments) 🥾🚴 What to Bring Proper hiking shoes Bike + helmet (mandatory) Water (for both parts) Light snack / lunch Sunscreen, hat Lock (for bike break) I will stay at Niagara Lodge & Suites 7720 Lundy's Lane, L2H 1H1 Niagara Falls, Canada...some one can share the room with me 75 dollars for 2 nights..breakfast included Bike rental website: [https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/zoomleisure/items/377472/availability/1880622924/book/?flow=718448&full-items=yes&back=https://zoomleisure.com/reservations&g4=yes](https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/zoomleisure/items/377472/availability/1880622924/book/?flow=718448&full-items=yes&back=https://zoomleisure.com/reservations&g4=yes)

Camino de Santiago (Portuguese Way)

ULTIMATE FRISBEE All Genders Welcome! No Experience Necessary!

Victoria Day Long Weekend Camping at Bruce Peninsula

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-fc-26)** ***Join us for the first camping trip of the season as we head to the turquoise waters and towering cliffs of the famed Bruce Peninsula!*** We are kicking off the year with a beginner-friendly weekend at one of Ontario’s most legendary landscapes: The Bruce is famous for its shimmering, crystal-clear pools and rugged limestone shores. Securing a spot here can be tough, but luckily we have handled all the logistics, so you can focus on mastering your camp skills, soaking in the fresh spring air and maybe even going for a cheeky swim. Our home for the night is a cozy site at Cyprus Lake, tucked within the National Park. Whether you want to learn to build the perfect campfire or simply chill in a hammock under a canopy of pines, this trip is designed for relaxation and discovery. When the sun goes down, we will gather for a communal dinner under skies that offer some of the best stargazing in the province. What's included * Professional & certified guides * ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits * ‍Tents Sleeping bags and sleep pads can be rented from WU for a small fee. Please note that due to the trip’s itinerary and extremely limited parking options on the Bruce Peninsula during long weekends, you’ll need to ride with Wilderness Union for this adventure. Please note that the cost of transport is included in the price. **Whether you’re a seasoned camper or it’s your first time in a tent, this adventure has something for everyone.** **Highlights** **Grotto Exploration -** Visit the famous sea caves that feel more like the Mediterranean than Ontario **Dark Sky Stargazing -** Our campsite sits in a Dark Sky Preserve, offering a window into the cosmos in dazzling, untouched clarity. **Learn Camp Skills**\- Our guides will show you how to set up a tent\, build a roaring fire and any other skills you want to learn so you can feel totally prepared for the season ahead\. **Event cost: $420+HST** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-fc-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/)***

The "Low-Down & High-Up" Boyne Valley Trek

## Details Get ready, team. This Saturday, we’re taking you low before we get you high. We’re diving deep into the Boyne Valley watershed, weaving through the forest, and eventually conquering the **512-meter lookout** for a 360-degree vista that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. You don’t want to miss this—unless you have a personal vendetta against fresh air and spectacular views. **📍 The Game Plan** * **The Rendezvous:** Meet at the **Subway** sandwich store at Hwy 10 & Hwy 89. * **The Time:** **9:45 AM sharp.** (That’s "9:45" in human time, not "9:45ish" in hiker time). * **The Logistics:** With gas prices being what they are, please carpool—or ensure your Tesla is topped up with enough electrons to get us there and back. * **Pro Tip:** This is your golden opportunity for a "civilized" bathroom break and a caffeine infusion before we vanish into the woods. * **Distance options:** 9 km (The Appetizer) or 13 km (The Main Course). We’re ranking this a Level 2.5 effort and 5.0 views, enough to justify that post-hike snack." **🚗 Parking Tetris** Depending on our numbers, we’ll drive two minutes north to the **Lilliputian parking lot**. If we show up looking like a motorcade, we’ll leave a few sacrificial cars at the Subway lot to keep things manageable. **🗺️ Don't Get Lost (It's Embarrassing)** For the directionally challenged, use these for pinpoint accuracy: * **Google Plus Code:** [3VR6+6F Mono, Ontario](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.google.com/maps/search/3VR6%252B6F%2BMono,%2BOntario) * * [https://www.google.com/maps/place/44%C2%B005'25.9%22N+80%C2%B008'19.9%22W/@44.0905428,-80.141042,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d44.0905393!4d-80.1388477](https://www.google.com/maps/place/44%C2%B005'25.9%22N+80%C2%B008'19.9%22W/@44.0905428,-80.141042,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d44.0905393!4d-80.1388477) * * **What3Words:** [///lettering.governors.slams](https://what3words.com/lettering.governors.slams) * **🎒 The "Must-Haves"** Please bring **water and snacks**. You’re all big girls and boys now; I shouldn't have to remind you that dehydration isn't a personality trait. **One last thing:** People ask if we’re climbing mountains or just "hill-areas." Honestly? It’s going to be **hill-arious** until we hit the incline—then it’s just business. See you on the trail. Gadi Certified Hike Leader