Skip to content

Backpacking Toronto

Toronto backpacking enthusiasts gather for urban adventures

Morning in the Pocket (4.5km)

Morning in the Pocket (4.5km)

Sat, Aug 22, 12:15 PM
From Hike to Eat
4.7

This one is for the early risers. The Pocket is a pocket-shaped neighbourhood centred around Phin Park. There are not many entry points and the bottom is hemmed off by railway tracks. So, we'll leave through one of two exits on the east. The Pocket has no food options. We have to continue on to the border of Leslieville, where one can find bakeries and one of the best hot chocolates in the city. The hike ends at a legendary Egyptian brunch restaurant that doesn't take reservations. Come early (that's the point of the hike) to avoid 1-hour queues. Additional breakfast options are further east at Little India. **Highlights** 1. Pape/Danforth Library (depart 8:15am) 2. Cranfield House 3. Jones Avenue Adult Centre 4. Greenwood Yard 5. Soul Chocolate (depart 9:10am) 6. Greenwood Park 7. The Redwood / Conci 8. Maha's Brunch (arrive 9:30am) **Neighbourhoods** Blake - Jones > The Pocket > Leslieville **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1TWY5OSIYaAywFG-fSF42x8XRz4xKzxQ&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1TWY5OSIYaAywFG-fSF42x8XRz4xKzxQ&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
37 attendees
NOGANOSH LAKE, SAT. AUG. 1 - MON. AUG. 3 CANOE TRIP 4/26 CIVIC HOLIDAY

NOGANOSH LAKE, SAT. AUG. 1 - MON. AUG. 3 CANOE TRIP 4/26 CIVIC HOLIDAY

Sat, Aug 1, 3:00 PM
From Algonquin Canoe Tripping
4.9

This 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\.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
15 attendees
Humber Canoe/Kayak -Group Price Save 20%

Humber Canoe/Kayak -Group Price Save 20%

Sun, Aug 2, 12:45 PM
From Tastebuds - Recipes - Food - Travel
4.6

**Canoe or Kayak the Humber River** **BEGINNERS WELCOME - VERY SHALLOW!** **SUNDAY AUGUST 2 9:00AM** **BONUS GROUP SAVINGS!!** **SO MUCH FUN!** **YES, YOU CAN PADDLE WITH YOUR DOG!** **STUNNING SCENERY! YOU WON'T BELIEVE YOU ARE IN TORONTO!** **BONUS - GROUP SAVINGS - 20% OFF REGULAR PRICING -IF you book by Saturday July 25** **I HAVE BEEN PADDLING WITH MY GROUP ON THIS RIVER FOR 26 YEARS - WOWZA! WHERE DID THE TIME GO!???** **OPTIONAL BITE OR DRINK AFTER** BEAUTIFUL MORNING PADDLE ON THE HUMBER RIVER - BEGINNERS WELCOME - PUB FOR DRINKS/BITE AFTERWRDS Exciting that PADDLING SEASON IS BACK! Canoe or Kayak Don't let the summer slip away without experiencing my longest running event - 26 years!!! I have been taking groups to the Humber River for 26 Years WOW If you are looking to be in nature and experience peace and tranquility - this is it! This is the absolute perfect place if you are a newbie - it doesn't get any better - shallow and calm! You will Love it! No one has EVER tipped in 26years! Afterwards we will head up to the Dark Horse Pub on Bloor -5 minute drive. 2401 Bloor Street West - South Side LOTS OF PARKING - just minutes away You will experience nature- peace and relaxation with a chance to see wildlife - you will not believe you are in Downtown Toronto. Sunday August 2 9:00pm please arrive 20 minutes early. If you are new to my group - these paddles sell out FAST BOOK TODAY!! - PLEASE read all important information below! The paddling is located just below the Bloor Viaduct at the Old Mill - You can take the TTC or drive - BEGINNERS WELCOME! The water is calm and shallow so it is a perfect spot to give it a try. You will feel like you are in cottage country as you paddle down the scenic river with the possibility of seeing wildlife like deer - turtles -osprey- beaver and more. This sells out every time - especially the single kayaks (which are the best for beginners) WHAT IS INCLUDED Kayak or Canoe Rental - Two Hours! -PFD (personal flotation device) -Paddle Instruction -Paddle -All taxes $1.50 Processing fee traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com Only use this email. What river are we on? ANSWER Humber BOATS AVAILABLE- Let me know if you need me to match you up with another paddler for canoe. PLEASE INDICATE WHAT BOAT(S) YOU ARE PAYING FOR Single Kayaks 1 person $49.95 - 20% Discount -$9.95 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $46.70 TOTAL Tandem Kayaks 2 People or 1 person and 1 dog or child per boat $89.95 -20% Discount -$17.99 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $85.15 TOTAL or $42.57 If sharing with a friend Canoe 2 People or 1 Person and 1 dog or child per boat $79.95 -20% Discount $15.99 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $74.10 TOTAL or $37.05 each if sharing with a friend. LARGE VOYAGEUR CANOE - HOLDS 3 Adults or 2 Adults and 2 Children or 1 Dog per boat $89.95 - 20% Discount $17.99 + 13% + $1.50 SC =$85.15 TOTAL OR NEW STAND UP PADDLE BOARD - Email me IF YOU HAVE PAID use the following directions: Leave your valuables in the car - there is a place to put a small knapsack in your kayak or canoe. Bring sunscreen and waterproof sandals or shoes - they may get a tad wet getting in your boat. Please be there by 8:40am to sign the waiver. - I will have a clipboard and be wearing a straw hat. They cannot take anyone after the start date of 9:00 and there is no refund - leave yourself lots of time. PLEASE do not go to the desk - meet me on the Grass behind the porta potty Paddle is 2 Hours IF WALKING OR TTC Take the TTC (Toronto’s Public Transit) to Old Mill TTC station. When you exit the station turn left and walk to Bloor St. when you reach Bloor St. turn left again and walk until you come to the bridge going over the Humber River.Before the bridge, on your left side you will see stairs leading down. Take the stairs leading down into the Humber Valley.We are located in the parking lot 200 metres in-front of bottom of stairs, straight ahead, just to your left. OR IF DRIVING Limited free parking is available right at the location on the west bank of the Humber River right under the Old Mill TTC Subway Station. The entrance to Kings Mill Park is a street located on the very East Side of the Old Mill Inn & Spa. (Look for a large sign that reads “Discovery Walks”. This street runs South into Kings Mill Park. Follow this street all the way to the end at the parking lots and you will see the boats and staff. On Bloor turn right into Old Mill Trail - past subway to Old Mill Road - turn right and drive by Old Mill Spa/Hotel and right again into Kings Mill Park - there is parking on your immediate right and just ahead by the river. You will see the boat trailers and tent set up on the bank of the Humber. We are on the West Side of the Humber All payment Info and directions can be found within this event posting - I will not be sending driving info. STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE IF YOU ARE A FIRST TIMER - YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID! Try a Kayak - you will love the peace of being so close to the water and not tippy at all. I have booked a two hour paddle. The guides will give you paddle instructions before you depart. My cell phone for Sunday Only is (416) 427 7843 If you need me before then email me at above address OR CALL me in the office at (905) 471 7843 There are no refunds for any reason. Once you pay I pay the venue to book your space and your equipment. This is their policy. You can transfer your space to someone else or sell it. Text me the day of at 416 427 7843 See you on the water!!! warm regard LeeAnn

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
8 attendees
Group Canoe or Kayak the Humber SAVE 20%

Group Canoe or Kayak the Humber SAVE 20%

Sun, Aug 2, 12:45 PM
From Life Begins at 50 CLUB
4.5

**Canoe or Kayak the Humber River** **BEGINNERS WELCOME - VERY SHALLOW!** **SUNDAY AUGUST 2 9:00AM** **BONUS GROUP SAVINGS!!** **SO MUCH FUN!** **YES, YOU CAN PADDLE WITH YOUR DOG!** **STUNNING SCENERY! YOU WON'T BELIEVE YOU ARE IN TORONTO!** **BONUS - GROUP SAVINGS - 20% OFF REGULAR PRICING -IF you book by Saturday July 25** **I HAVE BEEN PADDLING WITH MY GROUP ON THIS RIVER FOR 26 YEARS - WOWZA! WHERE DID THE TIME GO!???** **OPTIONAL BITE OR DRINK AFTER** BEAUTIFUL MORNING PADDLE ON THE HUMBER RIVER - BEGINNERS WELCOME - PUB FOR DRINKS/BITE AFTERWRDS Exciting that PADDLING SEASON IS BACK! Canoe or Kayak Don't let the summer slip away without experiencing my longest running event - 26 years!!! I have been taking groups to the Humber River for 26 Years WOW If you are looking to be in nature and experience peace and tranquility - this is it! This is the absolute perfect place if you are a newbie - it doesn't get any better - shallow and calm! You will Love it! No one has EVER tipped in 26years! Afterwards we will head up to the Dark Horse Pub on Bloor -5 minute drive. 2401 Bloor Street West - South Side LOTS OF PARKING - just minutes away You will experience nature- peace and relaxation with a chance to see wildlife - you will not believe you are in Downtown Toronto. Sunday August 2 9:00pm please arrive 20 minutes early. If you are new to my group - these paddles sell out FAST BOOK TODAY!! - PLEASE read all important information below! The paddling is located just below the Bloor Viaduct at the Old Mill - You can take the TTC or drive - BEGINNERS WELCOME! The water is calm and shallow so it is a perfect spot to give it a try. You will feel like you are in cottage country as you paddle down the scenic river with the possibility of seeing wildlife like deer - turtles -osprey- beaver and more. This sells out every time - especially the single kayaks (which are the best for beginners) WHAT IS INCLUDED Kayak or Canoe Rental - Two Hours! -PFD (personal flotation device) -Paddle Instruction -Paddle -All taxes $1.50 Processing fee traveltheworldhorizons@gmail.com Only use this email. What river are we on? ANSWER Humber BOATS AVAILABLE- Let me know if you need me to match you up with another paddler for canoe. PLEASE INDICATE WHAT BOAT(S) YOU ARE PAYING FOR Single Kayaks 1 person $49.95 - 20% Discount -$9.95 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $46.70 TOTAL Tandem Kayaks 2 People or 1 person and 1 dog or child per boat $89.95 -20% Discount -$17.99 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $85.15 TOTAL or $42.57 If sharing with a friend Canoe 2 People or 1 Person and 1 dog or child per boat $79.95 -20% Discount $15.99 + 13% Tax + $1.50 SC = $74.10 TOTAL or $37.05 each if sharing with a friend. LARGE VOYAGEUR CANOE - HOLDS 3 Adults or 2 Adults and 2 Children or 1 Dog per boat $89.95 - 20% Discount $17.99 + 13% + $1.50 SC =$85.15 TOTAL OR NEW STAND UP PADDLE BOARD - Email me IF YOU HAVE PAID use the following directions: Leave your valuables in the car - there is a place to put a small knapsack in your kayak or canoe. Bring sunscreen and waterproof sandals or shoes - they may get a tad wet getting in your boat. Please be there by 8:40am to sign the waiver. - I will have a clipboard and be wearing a straw hat. They cannot take anyone after the start date of 9:00 and there is no refund - leave yourself lots of time. PLEASE do not go to the desk - meet me on the Grass behind the porta potty Paddle is 2 Hours IF WALKING OR TTC Take the TTC (Toronto’s Public Transit) to Old Mill TTC station. When you exit the station turn left and walk to Bloor St. when you reach Bloor St. turn left again and walk until you come to the bridge going over the Humber River.Before the bridge, on your left side you will see stairs leading down. Take the stairs leading down into the Humber Valley.We are located in the parking lot 200 metres in-front of bottom of stairs, straight ahead, just to your left. OR IF DRIVING Limited free parking is available right at the location on the west bank of the Humber River right under the Old Mill TTC Subway Station. The entrance to Kings Mill Park is a street located on the very East Side of the Old Mill Inn & Spa. (Look for a large sign that reads “Discovery Walks”. This street runs South into Kings Mill Park. Follow this street all the way to the end at the parking lots and you will see the boats and staff. On Bloor turn right into Old Mill Trail - past subway to Old Mill Road - turn right and drive by Old Mill Spa/Hotel and right again into Kings Mill Park - there is parking on your immediate right and just ahead by the river. You will see the boat trailers and tent set up on the bank of the Humber. We are on the West Side of the Humber All payment Info and directions can be found within this event posting - I will not be sending driving info. STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE IF YOU ARE A FIRST TIMER - YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID! Try a Kayak - you will love the peace of being so close to the water and not tippy at all. I have booked a two hour paddle. The guides will give you paddle instructions before you depart. My cell phone for Sunday Only is (416) 427 7843 If you need me before then email me at above address OR CALL me in the office at (905) 471 7843 There are no refunds for any reason. Once you pay I pay the venue to book your space and your equipment. This is their policy. You can transfer your space to someone else or sell it. Text me the day of at 416 427 7843 See you on the water!!! warm regard LeeAnn

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
2 attendees
Canoe Camping in Killarney

Canoe Camping in Killarney

Fri, Sep 11, 10:30 AM
From Wilderness Union Toronto - Outdoor Adventure and Hiking Club
4.7

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/killarney-camping-1)** **Dive into the Killarney backcountry with this beautiful and beginner friendly canoe camping adventure.** We're heading to Bell Lake, on the quieter east side of the park, for a weekend that mixes an easy paddle-in camping trip and an incredible hike to Silver Peak, the highest point in Killarney. Friday, we'll paddle the short 2.5km crossing to our backcountry site, set up camp, and spend the afternoon settling in. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend how you like. If you want to learn to pitch a tent, get a fire going properly, or handle a canoe, we'll show you. If you'd rather find a rock in the sun and do nothing, that works too. Saturday, you can chill around camp or paddle over and hike Silver Peak, the highest point in the park. It's a roughly 11km round trip, starting on an easy rolling trail before a steep, hands on scramble up exposed quartzite for the final push. At the top, you're rewarded with a 360 degree view over Killarney's white ridges and out to Georgian Bay. Trust us, you won’t get many views in Ontario that are better than this! Both nights, we'll eat around the fire and fall asleep under some of the clearest skies in Ontario. Killarney's stargazing is genuinely other-worldly. On a clear night you'll see the Milky Way and more stars than you knew existed. Sunday, we pack up and paddle back out. By Sunday, you'll have spent two days swimming, paddling, and sleeping under the stars, surrounded by Killarney's unmistakable landscapes. What's included * Professional & certified guides * ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits * ‍Tents * Canoe rentals Sleeping bags and sleep pads can be rented from WU for a small fee. **Highlights** **Silver Peak Summit:** The highest point in Killarney, with sweeping views over the range and out to Georgian Bay **Stargazing:** With some of the darkest skies in Ontario, the Milky Way is in full view on a clear night **Lake Swimming:** Cool off in clear water, or take the canoe out for a closer look at the shoreline **Event cost: $455+HST (for explorer members) - $70 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/killarney-camping-1)** **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/)***

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
2 attendees
Survivalist Series: Introduction to Camp Skills

Survivalist Series: Introduction to Camp Skills

Sat, Aug 29, 12:30 PM
From Wilderness Union Toronto - Outdoor Adventure and Hiking Club
4.7

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-camp-skills)** Think you're ready to get into the wild? Start here. In this intro session, you will practice the core skills every outdoor adventurer needs. You'll learn how to read and select a campsite, pitch a tarp in any conditions, tie the knots that actually matter, hang your food to stay bear-safe, and use your tools with confidence. Learn hands-on fundamentals built for real wilderness. Whether you're brand new to camping or filling gaps in your skillset, the Survivalist Series gives you the foundation to go further more safely. **Who It's For:** Anyone who wants to further develop their camping fundamentals. No prior camping experience required. For those with some background, this is a great change to fill in gaps and build greater confidence. **About this series:** The Survivalist Series is an expert-led set of courses designed to develop applicable and life-saving skills in the outdoors. Keep your eyes peeled for more courses on many other topics as they become available **Highlights** **Expert Instruction:** Our amazing expert guide will teach you everything you need to know in a safe and approachable way. **Hone your Skills**: Get hands on experience Pitching a tent, tying knots, using tools, and protecting your food for your next backcountry adventure. **Confidence Built from Scratch**: Use practical skills and knowledge to demonstrate your new abilities. Ask questions, get experience, and practice with friends. **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $50 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-camp-skills)** **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/)***

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
2 attendees
430kMonthly events
calendar icon
60mMembers
people1 icon
4.5App store rating
appStore icon
200kGroups
people2 icon

Frequently asked questions

Meetup is a great place to start. Search for backpacking groups specific to Toronto and browse through a variety of options tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.

You can find everything from local group hikes to more intense backpacking trips designed for different skill levels and interests within the Toronto region.

Absolutely. Meetup allows you to join as many groups as you like, enabling you to connect with a variety of backpacking communities in Toronto.

Event descriptions typically include details on difficulty, length, and required experience, so you can choose events that match your backpacking skills and preferences.

Yes, many groups cater to beginners, offering events that are ideal for those new to backpacking, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.

It's recommended to bring essentials such as water, snacks, proper footwear, and sunscreen. Check event pages for specific recommendations or requirements.

Definitely. Joining Meetup backpacking groups is a great way to explore new trails and hidden gems in and around Toronto that you might not find otherwise.

Oftentimes, event organizers or members have extensive local knowledge, providing guidance and safety tips during group trips in the Toronto area.

Event routes and details are mostly provided by organizers, not directly by Meetup, so it's crucial to read the information shared by the hosts carefully.

While many events are organized by passionate individuals, Meetup cannot guarantee the organization quality. It varies by group and event leader.

Some backpacking events are family-friendly, clearly indicated in their descriptions, making them a great outing option for families.

Event frequency can vary. Some groups offer weekly hikes while others plan monthly adventures. Check specific group schedules for details.

Meetup enables meeting new people, but the success of making connections often depends on your active participation and the group’s size.

Many hosts outline safety guidelines on their event pages to ensure participant safety. It's important to review and follow these guidelines.

Some events might be free, while others could require a fee for permits or shared costs. Check each event page for any specified costs.