Backpacking Toronto
Toronto backpacking enthusiasts gather for urban adventures
Mimico waterfront and sweet treats (7.5 km)
Sun, Jul 26, 6:00 PMThis will be a fairly easy walk to some of the local spots and waterfront area of Mimico. Two places on this walk — Sanremo Bakery and Tom's Dairy Freeze — have been around since 1969. From Mimico's picturesque waterfront, we walk to some lookout points in Humber Bay Park, then head up to Jeff Healey Park, which honours the late jazz and blues musician. We will end the walk at Tom's Dairy Freeze, which typically has long line-ups for their soft-serve ice cream. **\*\*NOTE:** Tom's Dairy Freeze is cash only. **Bring cash** if you plan to get an ice cream. **Highlights** 1. Start at Mimico GO Station (depart at 2 p.m.) 2. Sanremo Bakery 3. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Factory 4. Birds & Beans Cafe 5. Humber Bay Lookout Points 6. Air India 182 Memorial 7. Chang Mai Restaurant 8. Jeff Healy Park 9. Tom’s Dairy Freeze (arrive at 4:30 p.m ish) **Neighbourhoods** Mimico > Humber Bay Shores > Queensway **Map** https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1yzdthLiZd_uE5aowvDeW3zblsk3gx8M&usp=sharing **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way.
The Queen Hike (18 km anniversary hike)
Sat, Jul 25, 5:00 PM**Attendance policy is enforced for this hike**. See below for details. To celebrate our anniversary, we're hiking the entire length of Queen Street. Since Queen Street is *only* 14.3 km, we're continuing along the lakeshore to Etobicoke. Incidentally, this is the shortest route possible between Scarborough and Etobicoke. Queen Street runs through some of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Toronto: idyllic The Beaches, hip Leslieville, sketchy Moss Park, historic Old Town, bohemian West Queen West, and shabby chic Parkdale. The route buzzes with activity and attractions. And more importantly, acclaimed restaurants and bakeries featuring food from six continents. You need to be in decent shape and have a good appetite to do the entire route. However, as with other hikes, you are free to join and leave at any point. Those who walk the entire length of Queen St (Fallingbrook Rd to Roncesvalles Ave) will be eligible to buy a commemorative T-shirt (expected price \~$23). There are different dinner options at the end of the hike. 1. Modern Chinese. [Reserve your spot at Tis Two Cities](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315259938/). 2. Asado (grilled steaks and meats): [Reserve your spot at Vos Restaurante Argentino](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315260441/). 3. Panuzzo and pizza at San Vito's Bakery. Walk-in. 4. Sushi at Krazy Roll. Walk-in. [See all our past hikes](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1_FpYriQNv5okUB-oiCODi56uiRDgPGI&usp=sharing). **Highlights** Segment 1: The Beaches 1. Start (or end) of Queen St at Fallingbrook Rd (depart 1pm) 2. R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant 3. Bagels on Fire / Fox Theatre 4. XOLA / Kyouka Ramen 5. Beaches Library 6. Tiflisi / Limon / Inmigrante 7. Toronto Fire Station 227 / Delina 8. Holi Taco / Dulcinella (arrive 1:58pm; depart 2:15pm) Segment 2: Leslieville 1. Dirty Birrias 2. Ashbridge Estate 3. Sweet Bliss Bakery / Hastings Snack Bar 4. Descendant Detroit Style Pizza 5. Kristapsons' Smoked Salmon 6. Ocha's / Leslie’s Sandwich Room 7. Tabule / Amber Kitchen and Coffee 8. Lamoon Thai Kitchen & Coffee 9. The Broadview Hotel / Happy Burger / White Lily Diner 10. Elviras (arrive 3:16pm; depart 3:33pm) Segment 3: Moss Park 1. Queen Street Viaduct 2. Los Gyros 3. Kim's Convenience 4. Moss Park Armoury / Panemor 5. Eaton Centre 6. Old City Hall / City Hall / Osgoode Hall 7. Campbell House Museum 8. Aux Merveilleux de Fred / Alpha's Shawarma 9. Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe 10. Banh Mi Boys / Yukimi Donburi (arrive 4:43pm; depart 4:56pm) Segment 4: West Queen West 1. Ramen x Remix / Bagels on Fire 2. Mico Italian Sandwiches / Maison 118 / Ngogo / North of Brooklyn 3. Sud Forno / Sanko Trading Co 4. Trinity Bellwoods Park 5. Forno Cultura 6. King Slice / DoDoner / Lisgar Park 7. The Grand Order of Divine Sweets / Han Kki 8. The MoMo House 9. Garleek Kitchen / Afrobeat Kitchen 10. Katyn Monument (arrive 6:20pm; depart 6:35pm) Segment 5: Sunnyside 1. Roncesvalles Pedestrian Bridge / Palais Royale 2. Sunnyside Dinosaur Playground 3. Sunnyside Pavilion 4. Trans Canada Trail Pavilion 5. Humber Bay Arch Bridge / Sheldon Lookout 6. Krazy Roll 7. San Vito's Bakery / Tis Two Cities (arrive 7:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** Fallingbrook > The Beaches > Leslieville > Riverside > Moss Park > Old Town > Downtown Core > West Queen West > Parkdale > Sunnyside > Humber Bay Shores **Map and terrain** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=17oNClOxL7LtZ7hqQv9AFxtxVDjozisU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=17oNClOxL7LtZ7hqQv9AFxtxVDjozisU&usp=sharing) Portions of Queen Street have narrow sidewalks and lots of people. Since we're a big group, you can pick between the north and south sides of Queen St to walk. The map shows which side has better food and attractions but the other side may have interesting stuff too. We're walking westwards in the afternoon, so bring sun protection. **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't join at the beginning? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. The end of the hike is the only time when we can enjoy a leisurely meal. **Attendance policy** Please check in with an organizer when you arrive. 24 hours before the hike, we'll note down who is on the confirmed list. Those that don't show up will be marked as no-show. Repeat offenders will be banned. Please change your RSVP if you can no longer attend. If you got off the waitlist less than 24 hours before the event, you won't be considered a no-show.
Lakeside Glamping Getaway - Haliburton Highlands
Fri, Jul 31, 9:00 PM**Let's return to the Lakeside Cozy Glamping Camp where we had so much fun a few years ago in the heart of the Haliburton Highlands!** For this trip we will stay in a mix of accommodations: forest glamping domes (great comfort), glamping tents, or you can pitch your own tent. All subject to "first come first serve" so best to get your RSVP in ASAP. Think lakeside views, fireflies at night, short hikes on the property, water activities, lots of leisure time. Water activities will be just minutes away with kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats easily accessible. We will swim, go on short hikes, stargaze (the skies should be great for viewing), have a bonfire, tell stories, play boardgames, play outdoor games, listen to music, relax, enjoy nature, sip wine and other refreshments, and enjoy good food together and more! We are going to have so much fun. Depart Friday after work at 5pm. Everyone should arrange to be at their carpool location no later than 5pm to leave Toronto. We will return on the Monday (Monday is a holiday) That's 3 nights, and about 2.5 days. We will have various carpool departure spots. There are different prices for each type of accommodation and the options will be first-come first served based on who pays first. We will have up to 25 people or more going on this trip but it won't feel like a crowd as there is lost of space. We are a friendly group and you will feel part of the group in no time if you don't know anyone! **Here are the accommodation options - until filled!** **Forest** **Dome** (see photos 1 and 2 below) **\- A shared glamping experience in a cozy and furnished dome\! Option 1: $299 for a Queen bed on your own in the dome or Option 2: $250 for a comfortable mattress in the dome\. This includes taxes and meetup fee\.** Domes have most comforts of home including electricity, lights inside, electrical outlet. It's a short 1 min walk to washrooms/showers, and well-equipped, large, sheltered outdoor kitchen only a short walk. **Small Glamping Tents (these are filled for now) Option 3** - **2 person occupancy at $212 each person sharing one Queen bed or Option 4 - $231 for a Queen bed on your own and Option 5 - $193 for person on thick floor mattress.**. No electricity. Washroom with showers and indoor kitchen close by. **Large Glamping Tents (see photo 3 below) Option 6: 2 person occupancy. 2 double beds in tent, with each person paying $266 for their own double bed.** No electricity. Washroom with showers and indoor kitchen close by. **About RSVPs:** Please read all RSVP instructions further below. Be sure to provide your phone number so the organizer can contact you. **No attendance confirmed until payment is received** and the organizer has spoken to you. Payment secures your spot. **Responsiveness:** Best way to secure your spot on this fun trip is to be responsive if I have contacted you. If I don't hear from you, I'll move on to the next person on the list. **About the Trip:** This is an outdoors exploring and camping weekend lakeside with activities, social time, and lots of time for relaxation. **About the Camp:** The place we are staying used to be a camp, and there are various facilities available. There are kayak, canoe and paddleboat rentals. The organizer will rent a few of each for the entire weekend, therefore saving on costs and everyone can take turns using them. They have washroom/shower facilities, and outdoor kitchens. However, we will also have an indoor kitchen we will use as well. There are bbqs and firepits for us to use also. **Cost for event**: -Accommodation for 3 nights \- Food \- food will be a combination of bringing your own food\, or optionally joining group meals \(TBD based on feedback/preferences\) \- $ to contribute to gas for driving there\. Gas costs are determined at the end of the trip\. Drivers are reimbursed for their gas\. \- $ for any extra activites or parking costs\. WOOT Score: Outdoors 5, Adventure 4, Fun 5, overall WOOT Score - 5++ (I only post events that are a 5 = awesome) Everybody must answer both RSVP questions to be moved to the GOING list, which you should see when you sign up for the event (everyone goes to the waitlist first): (1) What is your cell number? (this is private - only the organizer sees this info) (2) What are your transportation plans? A. Passenger at carpool B. Driver (have my own car) at carpool for x passengers - do not say "B" unless you own your own car. C. Prefer to be passenger, but driver at carpool for x passengers if needed D. Meet at location (limited spots available, preference given to those commuting from Toronto) The organizer will monitor the RSVPs. Hope you can make it! Hope you can join us! Rebecca (rphinn)
NOGANOSH LAKE, SAT. AUG. 1 - MON. AUG. 3 CANOE TRIP 4/26 CIVIC HOLIDAY
Sat, Aug 1, 3:00 PMThis trip has flexible dates. If you want to come in on Friday, or leave Sunday. We will arrange the trip to suit the people who want to go. Noganosh Lake is a remote, quiet area. We have always been able to get a premium campsite there. Noganosh Lake is an non-operating Provincial Park. There is no Park Gate, no rules, and no fees. Most campsites have a fireplace with a steel grill and a thunder box. The Park covers 3000 ha of pristine forest, all of the land within 60 to 200 m. of the shore of the lake. The water is deep, clear and full of fish. There is one fishing camp with a few small power boats. There are no public roads. Noganosh is a remote, quiet area. We have always been able to get a premium campsite there. We will paddle in on Sat. AM. The distance is 15 to 20 km., to find a campsite. There are 2 portages, of 153 m., and 318 m. on Smokey Creek. They are easy. Smokey Creek is still, winding, and deep, except for one spot where you push through floating bushes. On Sun. we can explore 20 km. of lakes, hike, fish, and swim. We will paddle out on Mon., the way we came in. **LOCATION:** **Fleming's Landing** **Birchwood Trail & Hwy. 522** **45.893272, -80.160721** Distance from Toronto, Hwy 400 & Hwy 7: 310 km., 3.5 hours. This is an easy, fun, trip for experienced canoe campers. To avoid a long drive on Sat. morning, some paddlers camp at Grundy Lake Provincial Park on Fri. night. The park is only 20 minutes from the put in. Reserve your campsite well in advance. Post your reservation so other paddlers can share your campsite, and the cost. Tornado's Resorts, 10 minutes from the put in, rents motel rooms for $100 per night and canoes for $40 per day. Tornado's is convenient because you don't have to unload your car, you just drive in, sleep, and they serve breakfast. **To join us: Add your name to the Spread Sheet and post your contact info on the Spread Sheet to arrange paddle partners and canoes.** https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1XRW4tAqGA7bLGCTqv6aFqLhqVVHfCdFqp8OdVotgL58/edit?gid=0#gid=0 1\. Find a paddling partner\, one of you has to be good paddling stern\. 2\. Own\, rent\, or borrow a canoe\. Grundy Lake Supply Post may or may not rent kevlar canoes to use in Noganosh for $50 /day. You must make your reservation months in advance, and specify it is for a Noganosh Lake trip. [https://grundylakesupplypost.ca/rentals/](https://grundylakesupplypost.ca/rentals/) The best location to get the best quality canoes is Swift, Georgian Bay, on Hwy 400,. A quality kevlar canoe is $60/day, and they will show you how to load it on your car. [https://swiftoutside.com/rentals/](https://swiftoutside.com/rentals/) 705-538-0881 3\. Please message or email me\, earlcowan@hotmail\.com\, to arrange your schedule or if you need help\.
Restoule Reset Summer Camping
Fri, Jul 24, 11:30 AM**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/restoule-reset)** **Some weekends are for slowing all the way down. This is one of those weekends.** Restoule is one of Ontario's best-kept secrets. It's every bit as beautiful as the big-name provincial parks, clear water, big pines, granite shoreline, but it sees a tiny fraction of the visitors. No fighting for a campsite, no crowded trails, just space to breathe. It's also the rare park that gives you both worlds. Camp comes with hot showers, running water, a fire pit and a picnic table, the comforts that make this an easy first camping trip. But push a canoe off the beach and you're into quiet, wild water within minutes. Frontcountry comfort, backcountry soul. We drive up Friday afternoon and settle into camp before dinner. The site is yours to inhabit, not just sleep in. If you're new to camping, our guides will walk you through the essentials, pitching a tent, working a camp stove, building a fire, so you'll leave with skills you can use on every trip after this one. Then bring a book, bring a card game, or just sit and watch the lake. Saturday is yours. The standout option is getting out on the water: canoe rentals are available right at camp as an optional add-on, and within minutes of pushing off you're on quiet, wild water with the shoreline to yourself. Prefer dry land? Lace up for the Fire Tower Trail, a loop through mixed forest that climbs to an old fire lookout with a sweeping view over the park and lake below. It's a real payoff for a reasonable effort. Or stay at the beach and do absolutely nothing. All correct choices. Sunday is breakfast, a slow pack-up, and an optional stop at Barton's Bistro in Restoule on the way out (lunch there is your own, not included), before the drive home feeling genuinely reset. This is a great first camping trip, and a great escape if you've been needing to slow things down. 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. Before the trip we'll be sharing a detailed packing list telling you absolutely everything you need to think about and pack so you can turn up feeling totally prepared, ready to have an amazing time with the WU crew. Canoe rentals are an optional extra if this is something you want to do on Saturday morning. **Highlights** **Beauty Without the Crowds:** One of Ontario's best-kept secrets. As scenic as the big-name parks with a fraction of the people, and room to actually hear yourself think. **Canoe From Camp:** An optional rental right at the beach. Push off and you're on quiet, wild water within minutes, the easiest way into the backcountry. **Fire Tower Lookout:** An optional hike up to an old fire lookout with open views over the forest and the lake below. Manageable climb, genuine payoff. **Event cost: $350+HST for explorer members. Optional transport available. Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/restoule-reset)** **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/)***
NEW Ladies Getaways - SLEEPING with the WOLVES
Thu, Sep 3, 8:00 PM**Ladies Getaway! SLEEP with the WOLVES under the STARS** **FIRST LADIES GETAWAY TRIP** **AND** **ADVENTURE AWAITS!!!!** **SLEEPING WITH THE WOLVES UNDER THE STARS** **UNFORGETABLE EXPERIENCE The only adventure in Canada where you can get up close with Wolves!** **ALSO ON PROPERTY** **SPA WITH THERMAL BATHS, MASSAGE & MUCH MORE!** **GETAWAY SPECIAL- BOOK TWO NIGHTS AND GET THE 3RD NIGHT FREE** **I HAVE THE CHALETS ON HOLD UNTIL MONDAY 5:00pm OR UNTIL I SELL OUT CALL ME TODAY TO BOOK AND ENSURE YOUR SPACE** **(905) 471 7843** **YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EVENT OF THE SUMMER!!** **September 3, 4 and 5th** I am so excited to be starting a program of LADIES ONLY GETAWAYS - FABULOUS 2 AND 3 OR MORE DAY TRIP ADVENTURES JUST FOR LADIES. There is so much to explore - and sometimes when we can't take a full vacation - a mini getaway is the perfect way to reset and unwind! We will explore nature, the unique, retreats, and so much more! The ideal getaway combines, adventure, relaxation, great food, FUN and meeting new friends! Let's do i! Starting with a fabulous once in a life adventure that encompasses all of the above!!! I am starting with an incredible experience for our first OUTING - SLEEPING WITH THE WOLVES UNDER THE STARS - AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!!! An extraordinary adventure you won’t find anywhere else in North America : Sleeping with the Wolves under the stars. Prepare to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of wolves as you spend the night within their realm. The thoughtfully designed accommodations offer the perfect blend of comfort and excitement, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest while surrounded by the mesmerizing sounds of the forest. Not only do you get the chance to sleep with the wolves, but you also have the privilege of witnessing breathtaking sunsets, sunrises, and mesmerizing stargazing through the glass ceiling. With a bit of luck, you might even catch the northern lights performing above you, all while enjoying the cozy warmth of your bed without the need to step outside into the cold. The "Sleeping with the Wolves" experience at [Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa](https://cedarmeadows.com/sleeping-with-the-wolves/) is in Timmins, Ontario, It features luxury glass-walled chalets built directly beside a 10-acre wolf habitat. Guests can safely observe a roaming pack of wolves from their beds while enjoying amenities like a kitchenette, fireplace, and stargazing ceilings. Key Features of the Experience * The Cabins: Fully insulated, modern, and heated cabins separated from the wolves by a heavy-duty fence for maximum safety. * Wolf Sightings: The pack frequently approaches the glass, allowing for up-close viewing of the animals in their natural element. * Resort Amenities: Your stay grants access to the on-site Nordic Spa (hot/cold plunge protocol), an on-site steakhouse, and guided wilderness tours in a covered wagon to feed other local animals. Situated on 175 acres, the Chalets are part of a 49 room/suite and 10-chalet resort & spa nestled in the majestic beauty and natural serenity of Northern Ontario. Located just five minutes from the urban center, ten minutes from Timmins Airport and five minutes from the Timmins Square Shopping Centre. The Chalet sleeps 4 and I am booking two nights and we are receiving one night free. There are only 4 Chalets available and I have them on hold until Monday June 1. Each cabin can sleep 4. You need to book through me - Payment is made directly by you to the venue. 3 Nights Total Based on 2 people includes all taxes $715.12 each Based on 3 people includes all taxes $476.75 each . Based on 4 people includes all taxes $357.76 There is one Queen Bed and 1 Queen Pull out. DUE TO THE POPULARITY OF THIS ADVENTURE - YOU HAVE TO MAKE A QUICK DECISION AS i CAN HOLD THEM UNTIL TOMORROW ONLY. CALL ME AT (905) 471 7843 THE WOVES Rescued from a zoo you will meet SABEL, BEAR, ONYX, SMOKE, REBEL, KARBAI, RAVEN, SILVER, AXEL AND SHANDY. **DINING** CM Steakhouse, is set in a rustic theme that encompasses the heritage and traditions of Northern Ontario’s forefathers. Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa‘s on-site restaurant offers a convenient and unique dining experience to hotel guests. All dishes are made with natural ingredients and prepared fresh daily by our Chef and culinary team. Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. You have a full kitchen - so bring some food from home for a couple of meals. You can also explore local restaurants or Skip the Dishes. **THE SPA EXPERIENCE** Welcome to Spa Grande Nature, Timmins’ Premier Spa and Nature Baths, located at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa. Inspired by the splendour of the nature surrounding us, we are proud to offer you a nurturing spa experience tailored to meet your individual needs. Spa Grande Nature is designed to promote the ultimate relaxation experience in serene surroundings. Rejuvenate your body by indulging in the Nature Baths, or schedule a massage, body treatment, facial, manicure or other aesthetic service. Stimulate your senses with our hydro-fusion spa jet and infrared sauna. Each member of the team is certified and has been specifically selected for their vast knowledge, experience, dedication, and education in their field. I will send out a complete list of spa services available at Cedar Meadows Spa and I will book you in June Thermal baths are free **WILDLIFE TOUR** If you love wildlife, you can get up close and personal with Bison, Elk and Fallow Deer while riding in a tractor-drawn wagon during our daily Wildlife Tour, through the 100-acre wildlife park. WHAT TO DO IN TIMMENS -Hike or Swim Kettle Lakes Provincial Park -Indiginour Experiences Car pooling To Timmins! **MORE ADVENTURES TO COME!!**
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