Wilderness Hiking

**Meeting Point - 299 Stegmans Mill Rd, Stadium Parking Lot, Kleinburg, L0J1C0** Spring Ready! This hike starts from the roadside parking and quickly transitions into a quiet forest network surrounding Kortright Centre for Conservation, while staying on the outer trails. The route is a longer loop, covering 13-15 km, with a few intentional detours onto side trails to explore deeper sections of the woods. Expect a medium fast paced hike with plenty of natural stopping points. Plan a scenic break midway for lunch (bring your own) in the picnic area next to Humber River. Overall, it's a rewarding spring hike with a good balance of distance, variety, and calm surroundings.

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/fire-craft-intro-3)** ***Discover the ancient art of safely creating and maintaining fire without lighters or matches!*** For thousands of years, fire has been our greatest ally for warmth, safety, cooking, and survival. But in the wild, fire doesn’t come easy. It takes knowledge, patience, and the right technique. We are back for the third installment of this popular course to teach you the beautiful art of fire. You’ll begin to master the craft with hands-on guidance from our expert firecraft instructor - guide Kyle. You'll be shown and encouraged to practice: 1\. Ferrocerium rod techniques with multiple tinders 2\. Traditional flint & steel fire lighting 3\. The art of hand\-drill friction fire This course will give you the foundation to create fire anywhere, anytime. **Included:** Your own high-quality ferro rod to take home and keep the fire burning wherever you go. **Who It’s For:** This course is for beginners and intermediate survivalists alike. Bring your curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a love of getting outside. This is an amazing opportunity not only to learn from our expert, but it's a fun, practical lesson at a uniquely low price. **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 coming soon! **Due to the cost of parking at Bronte Creek, WU transport is recommended for this course.** **Highlights** **Ancient techniques:** Learn unique firecraft techniques from long ago that do not need matches or a lighter. **Survivalist skills training:** Develop essential skills to survive and thrive in the wild. **Fire kit included:** Every participant gets this kit including a ferro rod and variety of tinders. **Event cost: $95+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/fire-craft-intro-3)** **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/)***

**Carden Alvar Birding Adventure** **Sunday, May 3, 2026** **Ospreys, Bluebirds, Meadowlarks and More!** Join us on Sunday, May 3rd for a fantastic early May birding adventure to the famous Carden Alvar, one of the most exciting birding destinations in Ontario. Located about two hours northeast of Toronto, this remarkable area is known for its unique habitat, wide open landscapes, and excellent variety of birds that are not always easy to find elsewhere. We will explore some of the best birding spots in the region in search of Eastern Bluebirds, Eastern Meadowlarks, Ospreys Wilson’s Snipe, Brown Thrashers, many newly arriving warblers and songbirds, along with many other surprises. Moose and Black Bears are sometimes spotted. Carden is one of the very best places in Ontario to enjoy stunning looks at Eastern Bluebirds, and it often provides wonderful photo opportunities as well. The Ospreys are back on territory, and you'll will be able to chance to observe and photograph these impressive birds of prey. This is a really enjoyable outing with plenty of birding, scenic country roads, fresh spring air, and the excitement of never knowing what might turn up next. If you enjoy birds, nature, photography, and a fun day outdoors, this trip is for you. It's rated easy. **Itinerary** Departure from Finch Subway Station passenger pickup area at **8:00 a.m. sharp** Free parking is available on weekends Return to Toronto at approximately **4:30 p.m.** **Important Notes** This tour involves driving between birding locations, along with short and easy walks. Lunch is not included, so please bring your own food, snacks, and drinks. We will also make stops along the way at Tim Hortons. As always, we respect wildlife and private property, and our priority is to enjoy the birds without disturbance. **Cost** **$119 CAD per person** Payment by e-transfer to **torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com** I can take up to **3 passengers only**, so if you would like to join us, please reserve your spot early. Come out for a terrific day of spring birding adventure and enjoy one of Ontario’s true birding gems. **Come see a Bluebird with us!**

## Details Our hike leader is Bohdan Bilyj. From the website... * [Claireville Conservation Area](https://www.hphc.ca/Claireville01.html) \-\- description of hike with driving instructions * [Schedule Spring 2026](https://www.hphc.ca/schedule.html) * [What to Bring](https://www.hphc.ca/WhatToBring.html) \-\- on a hike * [Hiking Etiquette](https://www.hphc.ca/HikeEtiquette.html) * [Taking Photos](https://www.hphc.ca/Photos.html) * [Après Hike](https://www.hphc.ca/ApresHike.html) This will be a gentle, level one hike, ideal for your first time out in the season. Until we announce otherwise, we are *not* meeting at Yonge and York Mills (Old York Mills Road). If you need a ride or some passengers, arrange car pooling in the Meetup web page.

This is a hidden gem not far from the city. We will hike 6-7 km around Secord Pond and visit the famous Pet Cemetery at the end. The forecast is calling for a sunny day with a temperature in the mid teens. A great day for a Spring hike. After a long, cold winter, come out and enjoy the warmth of the sun. Don't forget your sunglasses. Our pace will be determined by the trail conditions. There are several hills to climb, but the trail is fairly flat. We will have breaks and take in the scenery. For those who are interested, we can head to Annina's for treats or lunch following our hike. Annina's is a local establishment in The Town of Goodwood, about a five minute drive away. **Note** * Arrive on time. Please cancel if you can't make it. * Parking is Free. * No Dogs. * Dress according to the weather. * Be aware and prepared for ticks. * Hiking shoes are mandatory. * Having fun is mandatory. * The hike will be posted "Canceled" if the weather doesn't cooperate. Fingers 🤞! To participate in this hike, you and guests need to adhere to the rules and agree by a reply of "Yes" to the liability waiver. **LEGAL DISCLAIMER AND LIABILITY INFORMATION:** By RSVP'ing and paying the event fee (if applicable), you are confirming that you have read, understand, and accept the following: 1. GTA Hiking Meetup is a private group. Attending events is voluntary by you as a member. Participation in any activity with us is at your own risk. 2. By joining this event as a member you agree to indemnify and hold harmless its organizers, co-organizers, assistant organizers, event hosts, and other members from all claims or liability of every type (including court costs and legal fees) for injury or death to any person or for damage to property, loss of personal property or any other wrongful act arising out of or relating to your participation as a member. This agreement applies to you and to other persons (as your guests) who may accompany you in these endeavors. 3. You also agree to hold the organizers as well as other group members harmless. By participating voluntarily in the group, you expressly waive any and all such claims against each and every other member in the group, including without limitation any and all claims against the group organizer, co-organizers, assistant organizers, and event hosts.

We’re heading to High Park for the annual cherry blossom bloom. Come for the beautiful views, stay for the "I can’t believe it’s finally spring" vibes. We promise it’ll be a *blooming* good time. Don’t leaf us hanging! P.S. The moment you touch the leaves or the tree for that one Insta pic, we will disown you! (Not kidding here) 💵 Cost: $2 (cash or e-transfer to mech.mandeep@gmail.com) Who knew running a meetup costs money!!

🌸🌳 **CHERRY BLOSSOMS IN HIGH PARK WALK + LUNCH** 🌳🌸 **Spring Blooms, Busy Energy & A Tavern Finish** If the early morning version felt a little too ambitious… this one’s for you. Join us for a slightly later start to experience the cherry blossoms in High Park — one of Toronto’s most beautiful (and busiest) spring traditions. For a short window each year, the park fills with soft pink blooms, drawing people from all over the city. It’s vibrant, a little chaotic, and completely worth it. The cherry trees were originally gifted in 1959 by the citizens of Tokyo through Ambassador Toru-Hagiwara, symbolizing friendship and appreciation. Many were planted along the hillside near Grenadier Pond — and today, they’ve become one of Toronto’s most anticipated seasonal moments. This is not a formal tour. It’s a social walk — come for the blossoms, stay for the experience. 👉 📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd) \*\*\* 🚶‍♂️ **What We’ll Do** We’ll meet at the park and head toward the three main cherry blossom areas, stopping at each so everyone has time to take photos and enjoy the views. Afterward, we’ll continue on a relaxed walk through the park, passing by the zoo and taking in more of the scenery. To wrap things up, we’ll head out of the park and make our way to The Mugshot Tavern for a casual lunch together. 🍔🍻 You’re welcome to join for food or head out whenever you like. Please note: there are hills throughout the park. \*\*\* 🌦️ **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. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. 🌸 **IMPORTANT:** Cherry blossom timing can change depending on the season. This event may be moved to another date to catch peak bloom — please keep an eye on updates. Also — expect crowds. This is a popular event, especially later in the morning. And as always — this is NOT a guided or historical tour. I’ll share context casually, but the focus is on enjoying the space together. \*\*\* 🚫 Getting There **DO NOT DRIVE TO THIS EVENT.** Parking will be extremely limited or unavailable. It is strongly recommended to take public transit to High Park Station. \*\*\* 🧢 Meetup Details 📍 Meetup Location: High Park sign (west side at Bloor & High Park Ave) 🫎 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 in promptly. End Point: Near The Mugshot Tavern \*\*\* 🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to 📧 \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖 \*\*\* 🎒 **What to Bring** **Water** Good walking shoes (hills!) Camera or phone for photos 📸 Weather-appropriate clothing (layers + spring-ready 🌸) Optional: cash/card for lunch Please also use the washroom before arriving, as stops are limited early on. \*\*\* **🌈 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](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the blossoms. Stay for the lunch. Leave feeling like you made the most of one of Toronto’s busiest — and most beautiful — spring days. 🌸✨

[TORONTO COMMUNITY BIKEWAYS COALITION](https://www.communitybikewaysto.ca/) is producing and leading this Jane's Walk weekend bicycle ride. At 11AM they are offering free bike tune-ups to the community at the corner of Stephen Drive & Riverwood Parkway. **1PM departure** for an easy 9km ride along the bike paths to [We The Tacos](https://www.wethetacos.ca/), a gem in South Etobicoke, serves you with traditional tacos made with love and premium ingredients. Volunteer marshalls will support the ride. Ride level: Chill / Relaxed Distance: 9km All ages & abilities are welcome. No one will be left behind. All riders who are comfortable with the pace and distance are welcome! Our Community Rules: 1. Be kind. Welcome and encourage other riders. Insults, shaming, and hate will be removed, and offenders will be banned. 2. Your safety is your responsibility. Helmets are required. Lights are required if riding in darkness. It is each rider’s responsibility to ensure their bike is clean, well-maintained, and fully functional. 3. All bikes are welcome. Occasional Brompton-only events will be clearly labeled. Contact your local Brompton dealer if you'd like to borrow a Brompton for an event (participation may vary). 4. If your plans change, please update your RSVP. BY ATTENDING this event you ACKNOWLEDGE and ACCEPT the following: 1. I ACKNOWLEDGE, agree, and represent that I understand the nature of bicycling activities and that I am qualified, in good health, and in proper physical condition to participate in such activity. I further acknowledge that the ride-out will be conducted over public pavements and facilities open to the public, and upon which the hazards of traveling are to be expected. I further agree and warrant that if, at any time, I believe conditions to be unsafe, I will immediately discontinue further participation. 2. I FULLY UNDERSTAND that (a) BICYCLING ACTIVITIES INVOLVE RISKS AND DANGERS OF SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, INCLUDING PERMANENT DISABILITY, PARALYSIS AND DEATH ("Risks"); (b) these Risks and dangers may be caused by my own actions or inactions, the actions or inactions of others participating in the ride-out, the conditions in which the ride-out takes place, or the negligence of others; (c) there may be OTHER RISKS AND SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC LOSSES either not known to me or not readily foreseeable at this time; and I FULLY ACCEPT AND ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS AND ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSSES, COSTS, AND DAMAGES I may incur as a result of my participation; (d) I acknowledge that Brompton Bicycle, event organizers, ride leaders, and volunteers will not be liable for any accidents or damages through this ride-out. 3. PHOTO RELEASE: I CONSENT to my voice, name, and/or likeness being used, without compensation, in any and all media, whether now known or hereafter devised, for eternity, and release Brompton Bicycle, its successors, assigns and licensees from any liability whatsoever of any nature. DO NOT REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT IF YOU DO NOT WISH TO BE SUBJECT TO THE FOREGOING.

You don’t have to fly to Japan or Washington DC. Its right here at high park. Join us for a walk in high park to witness the cherry blossom! We’re heading to High Park for the annual cherry blossom bloom. Come for the beautiful views, stay for the "I can’t believe it’s finally spring" vibes. We promise it’ll be a blooming good time. Don’t leaf us hanging! We will see you at the high park’s north entrance. Wait for 15 mins and then start the walk. P.S. The moment you touch the leaves or the tree for that one Insta pic, we will disown you! (Not kidding here) 💵 Cost: $2 (cash or e-transfer to mech.mandeep@gmail.com) Who knew running a meetup costs money!!

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles so please wear your shoe of choice. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. Let's hike the edward thomas trail, lake trail , spring creek and a short walk on the multi purpose trail. This is one large loop . Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 4.2 miles in length .

June 17, 2026: Worthington Library. Wild Ohio: The Best of Our Natural Heritage. Jim McCormac. Worthington, Ohio. 7 pm.