Backpacking Toronto

Yorkville valleys (6.8 km)

Yorkville is known as a swank shopping sector for socialites, but did you know there is a lush valley trail behind it? It's the first branch (or last depending on your perspective) of the Don valley system. This hike will bring you down to the Don river and up Rosedale ravine. Yorkville is also an attraction in itself. It's steeped in history, with Victorian-era houses and a handsome library and fire hall. There are also hidden murals to be found, making it pleasant to explore. The old houses attracted artists in the 1960s for their low rent. Today, they attract luxury boutiques with high property prices. Of course, the restaurants here cater to the big spenders. Most are overpriced but there are some gems and wallet-friendly food to be found. We'll end just outside of Yorkville, at a Korean BBQ buffet. Reservations are required in a [separate event](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/314503608). If you're not in the mood to eat all you can, there are affordable options in the same block for Afghan, Chinese, Japanese, and Syrian food. **Highlights** 1. Sherbourne subway station (depart 6:30pm) 2. Wan2 Food Mart 3. St. James Cemetery 4. Rosedale valley 5. Toronto Reference Library (depart 7:30pm) 6. POPpadum 7. Yorkville library / Toronto Fire Station 312 / Buca 8. Yorkville murals 9. Historic houses like the Former Mt Sinai Hospital (now Chanel) 10. Alobar / MSSM 11. Eataly 12. Oklahoma Burgers / Jongro Korean BBQ Buffet (arrive 8:25pm) **Neighbourhoods** St. James Town > Yorkville **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1mEcYzIdMt01R7VyG_X3TZyIsi9PuDqY&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1mEcYzIdMt01R7VyG_X3TZyIsi9PuDqY&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Swansea, the other side of High Park (5.5 km)

Swansea was a village with its own town hall, fire station, and even historical society. This hike runs through whatever is left standing from that era, and also a quick jaunt into the least-visited part of High Park. The park's northeastern edge doesn't have much attractions and is relatively inaccessible, so that's where we'll go to avoid the crowds. The crowds will probably be gawking at cherry blossoms on the east bank of Grenadier Pond. If you're into that, visit before or after the hike. For food, there's a handful of notable places near the start and end. There's no distinct theme around High Park. In contrast, Bloor West Village has Ukrainian businesses—bakeries but no restaurants, so we'll settle down at a new Tibetan momo restaurant at the end of the hike. **Highlights** 1. Bennett Park (depart 6:30pm) 2. Usagi Sushi / Ohana 3. High Park Playground 4. David H Williams Clubhouse (depart 7:10pm) 5. Upscale houses along Ellis Avenue 6. Former Swansea Town Hall / Toronto Fire Station 425 7. Runnymede United Church 8. Momo Ghar (arrive 8pm) **Neighbourhoods** High Park > Swansea > Bloor West Village **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1in_E4djL0onwm9iDioPSS2mN3m1LHA8&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1in_E4djL0onwm9iDioPSS2mN3m1LHA8&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse some food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Guildwood and Scarborough Bluffs East (8.8 km)

A well-trodden trail with food gems at the end. Guildwood was a former artists' colony and has an idyllic setting close to the Scarborough bluffs. It's a weird mish-mash of attractions and we'll check out every one of them. Then it's down to the lake shore, a popular hiking trail. The eastern approach to the cliffs goes past an iconic sculpture before swinging up an invigorating hill. Guildwood does not have good food. The handful of good restaurants in this hike are at the end, in Scarborough Village. There's an excellent Egyptian restaurant with an ambitious menu, a Haitian supermarket, and a unique dining experience in a retirement residence. A trio of South Asian restaurants await at the end, where you can choose between Sri Lankan, Kerala, and Tamil food. Or try them all. **Highlights** 1. Clark Centre for the Arts (depart 4pm) 2. Guild Inn 3. Greek theatre and scattered statuary 4. South Marine Park 5. Scarborough Bluffs 6. Passage sculpture (depart 5:15pm) 7. Doris McCarthy Trail / Gates Gully 8. Haitians Food Market 9. Aragoz 10. Momiji / Maru Sun Japanese Restaurant 11. Scarborough Village Theatre (depart 6:10pm) 12. Cornell Campbell House 13. Premium Sweets 14. King of Taste / Tharavadu Home Of Kerala Cuisine / Namma Madurai (arrive 6:40pm) **Neighbourhoods** Guildwood > Scarborough Village **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=14edeBtVwC8vnT40YPt8BG7XVXxPd3kU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=14edeBtVwC8vnT40YPt8BG7XVXxPd3kU&usp=sharing) Long, steep uphill at Doris McCarthy Trail. **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. See the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

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

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/)***

Camino de Santiago (Portuguese Way)

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/)***

Intro to Canoe Camping

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-canoe-camping)** ***If you've been curious about backcountry canoe camping but unsure where to start, this is a solid entry point.*** We’ll be heading into the iconic Algonquin Park for an easy canoe camping adventure on Joe Lake. It’s a short paddle in, about 7km total, with just one 240m portage along the way. The route offers a good intro to how we carry gear between lakes at a steady, safe and manageable pace. We'll launch from Canoe Lake and follow a calm route past narrow channels and rocky shorelines typical of the Canadian Shield. Weather conditions can change quickly, so we’ll pack accordingly and help you plan ahead. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, so keep your eyes peeled for turtles, beavers, and the occasional moose if we’re lucky. Once we reach camp, you can settle in and do what feels right. Swim, read, hang out with the group, or practice campsite basics like setting up a tarp or hanging food safely. This is a chance to experience the magic of the backcountry - falling asleep to the sounds of loons, your tent illuminated by the milky way and learning what you need to know without being thrown in the deep end. What's included * Professional, certified guides * Canoes along with all safety equipment * ‍All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits * ‍Tents Sleeping bags and sleeping pads can be rented from WU for a small fee. **Highlights** **Pristine Backcountry -** Escape the crowded city and enter into the serenity of the backcountry. **Learn to Portage -** An essential skill for conquering the Ontario backcountry, learn how to portage with confidence from our expert guides. **Possible Wildlife Spotting** \- Bears\, moose\, beavers\, eagles and loons are just some of the creatures that call this area home\. You'll have a chance to spot some from a safe distance for a magical encounter\. **Event cost: $349+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/intro-canoe-camping)** **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/)***

A Guided Glow in the Dark Paddle!

Join our guided, Glow-In-The-Dark Paddle on June 11! Use the following link to book your spot on our Voyageur Canoe: [https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/glow-in-the-dark-guided-tour/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/glow-in-the-dark-guided-tour/) Glide through the shimmering waters of the Humber River in our illuminated Voyageur Canoe. The 11-seater canoe is setup with SUBMRG’s Under Glow Lighting System, which casts a halo of light all around the boat as the group paddles. Our experienced guides will take you on a 1.5-hour tour of some of the coolest spots on the Humber! *Events are subject to weather and other factors out of our control. If we must cancel or delay an event we will let those booked on the torontoadventures.ca website know as soon as possible.* **Pricing (per seat), Payable online through:**[https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/glow-in-the-dark-guided-tour/](https://torontoadventures.ca/all-adventures/glow-in-the-dark-guided-tour/) * Voyageur Canoe: $45+tax (per seat) **What's Included:** * Seat on the Voyageur Canoe * Paddle * PFD(s) “Lifejackets” * SUBMRG Under Glow Lighting * 1.5-Hour Guided Night Paddle of Toronto’s Humber River! * Our experienced staff to help you every step of the way! **What to Bring:** * Dress for the weather! * Wear closed-toe athletic footwear you don’t mind getting wet & muddy. * It gets cooler at night so bring an extra layer. * Government Issued Photo ID. **More Information:** * We Start & Finish this event at our Humber Location, so no need for a shuttle. * Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early for Check-In to ensure the entire group can begin and embark on the tour on time. * Waivers to be signed on location. * Paddlers must be comfortable treading water while wearing a PFD and reaching a shoreline (minimum 20 metres to shore) **[Google Link Directions](https://www.google.ca/maps/dir//Toronto+Adventures:+Humber+River+Paddling+Centre,+9+Old+Mill+Rd,+Etobicoke,+ON+M8X+0A5/@43.6493249,-79.4923631,15z/data=!4m9!4m8!1m0!1m5!1m1!1s0x882b36600580f343:0x299b832aaa564814!2m2!1d-79.4923631!2d43.6493249!3e0)** **[Cancellation Policy](https://torontoadventures.ca/faq/#cancellation)** We hope to see you out on the water!

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/)***

Feedback | An Open Mic Comedy Show @ Backroom Comedy Club

Ticket Link: **[https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1974279855193)** Welcome to **Feedback \| An Open Mic Comedy Show** at the **Backroom Comedy Club**! Get ready for a night filled with laughter, jokes, and good vibes. Whether you're a seasoned comedian or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy some live comedy. Come join us on **Sundays** at **10:00 PM** for a hilarious evening that you won't forget. Talented and non-talented lineups of comedians will be taking the stage to entertain you and keep you laughing all night long, and if they fail, owners Ariel Kagan & Brandon Sobel will offer feedback on sets at the request So grab your friends, grab a drink, and get ready to have a great time at the **Backroom Comedy Club**. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience some of the best or worst comedy in town!

Easy Spring Camping Trip Fri May 8, 2:00 PM to May 10

**This event is hosted by James at Ontario Backcountry Camping.** **To join the fun go to:** https://www.meetup.com/ontariobackcountry/events/314203340/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events This is an easy spring camping trip at Wolf Lake. Whether you want to test your gear, paddle a canoe, go for a fish, sit by the campfire, explore the trails, or go for a swim if you dare (water will be COLD!), this will be an easy trip. Having said that, it is May and we may get some rain, so be prepared for the weather. There is no itinerary for this trip once we get there, just designed to be an easy weekend getaway. Wolf Lake can be accessed by car this time of year; the road is rough but most vehicles can drive right to the campsites if care is taken. A canoe or kayak is optional, this is car camping with the backcountry feel. The campsites are first come, first served and some are close together, so we might have some neighbours. This is crown land so camping is free. You are responsible for yourself and your own safety. **LOCATION: Wolf Lake** **839 wolf lake road · madoc, ON** **DISTANCE FROM TORONTO:** Hwy 404 & Hwy 401: 200 km., 2.5 hours.