Outdoors & Adventures

### **Celebrate the Magic of Spring with the Canada's Birder Club!** As winter fades and the landscape awakens, spring offers the perfect opportunity to **reconnect with nature** and witness one of the **season’s most spectacular migrations**, the **Return of the Swans**. The familiar songs of **American Robins**, the unmistakable calls of **Red-winged Blackbirds**, and the soaring **Red-tailed Hawks** signal the changing season. But beyond these familiar sights lies a **hidden gem of migration**, the **majestic journey of thousands of Tundra Swans and Sandhill Cranes** through southwestern Ontario. Join us on an **unforgettable adventure** to the **Aylmer Wildlife Management Area**, where volunteers spread corn to attract these elegant white swans during their long migration to the **northern tundra** of Canada. This is one of the **best locations** to observe large flocks of **Tundra Swans up close**, set against a backdrop of early spring landscapes. ### **A Rare Opportunity to Witness Sandhill Crane Courtship** One of the highlights of this trip is the **breathtaking display of Sandhill Cranes**, watch as these ancient birds engage in their **intricate courtship dances**, filling the air with their **deep, resonant calls** that seem to echo from another time. Our expedition will also take us to the **renowned Long Point area**, a world-famous birding hotspot. Past outings have given us spectacular views of: 🦢 **Thousands of Tundra Swans and Sandhill Cranes**, resting in marshes and fields 🦅 **Bald Eagles and possibly a Golden Eagle**, soaring in search of prey 🦆 **Over a dozen species of colorful ducks**, drawn to the rich wetlands of Long Point ### **A Spectacle of Wings and Water** With luck, we’ll witness the sky come alive with **hundreds—if not thousands—of Sandhill Cranes and Tundra Swans**. Whether they’re flying overhead, resting on open water, or feeding in nearby fields, this is a **wildlife event like no other**. ### **What to Expect** 🔹 **Prime viewing locations** carefully selected for the best sightings 🔹 **Expert guidance** to help you spot and appreciate key species 🔹 **Frequent stops** for photography, observation, and a break for lunch (bring your own) or we stop at Tim Hortons. Please note that due to the **migratory nature of these birds**, each trip is unique, and conditions can vary. However, rest assured that the **photos shared were taken during previous outings**, and our **local knowledge** ensures an exceptional experience. Don't miss this **limited-time opportunity** to witness one of **Ontario’s greatest wildlife spectacles**. Spaces are **limited**, so sign up today and join us for a **spring adventure like no other!** **Itinerary:** * Depart Finch Subway Station at 8:30 a.m. sharp. * Return to Toronto by 5:30 p.m. **Price:** $109.00 plus tax for a total of 123.00 Dollars for my guiding services only. **Important Details:** * Payment through Paypal or direct e-transfer to [torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com](torontonaturelovers@hotmail.com) **Note:** Let us know right away if you'd like to join us on this spring adventure! Come get wild with us and embrace the wonders of spring!

Total: ~11–12 km (out & back or extended loop) Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (long distance) Pace: Steady, social but moving Duration: ~4–5 hours total Rouge Hill GO Station From the station, it’s a short walk to trail access points. 🕘 Meetup Time Meeting Time: 9:00 AM 🎒 What to Bring Trail shoes or hiking shoes, icers and hiking poles Water (at least 1.5–2L) Snacks / light lunch Weather-appropriate clothing Optional social: After the hike, anyone interested can join us at Deccan House in Scarborough for food and drinks — about a 15-minute drive from Glen Rouge Campground.

Join us each **Saturday** morning from **9:00 – 9:40** for *Wonder Walks*, a gentle practice of walking meditation in the beauty of the woods and neighbourhood. We meet at The Church of the Incarnation’s outdoor gathering space, set our pace together, and walk with openness, awareness, and gratitude. With each step, we feed our spirits, root ourselves more deeply in community, and awaken to the wonder of the natural world. Come as you are. Breathe deeply. Walk lightly. Let the trees, the sunlight, and the quiet paths guide you into peace. For more information, contact Sue-Ann+ [rector@incarnationchurch.ca](mailto:rector@incarnationchurch.ca) 1240 Old Abbey Lane, Oakville ON L6M 3Y4 (Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.) 1240 Old Abbey Lane, Oakville ON L6M 3Y4 incarnationchurch.ca

Hello everyone, **\*\*Kindly Read Carefully\*\*** Please join me and my other groups for a fun Saturday social leisure nature walk that will include trails, parks, café-pitstop and cool neighbourhoods in the Yonge and Eglinton area. The evening will continue after with close by Restaurant for dinner then St. Paddy's Party with Live Music and Dancing. **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at out front of the **Burger Priest (2 Eglinton Avenue)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at 3:30 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 4:00 p.m.) This will give us an opportunity to introduce ourselves as everyone arrives; then make our way on our small adventure through quieter and more natural parts of the city we don't usually get to see. More details below: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) **Event Details:** **Saturday Park, Trail and Neighbourhood Walk! (with Dinner and St. Paddy's after Party!)** -A great day planned as we explore parts of these iconic neighbourhoods, parks and trails -During the walk we will stop and rest at different spots, bathroom breaks, take some lovely scenic photos, group photos and share some laughs together -Play a couple ice breaker games near the beginning of the walk as well to help us get to know one another \*This event is a great way to naturally make connections, get some fresh air and (re) connect with some wonderful people **Bonus after our Leisure Nature Walk: (Optional)** \*Stick around after the walk for a fun Saturday Night gathering at a great venue with reserved seating, Food, Beverages and (Dancing (Live Band/DJ (after dinner)) **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (cash only) when you arrive (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to Steveflemming11@gmail.com \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Time and Location: Where to meet us?** We will meet at out front of the **Burger Priest (2 Eglinton Avenue)** \*Arrive early if you like (however we will meet out front at 3:30 p.m. (we will wait for everyone to arrive until roughly 4:00 p.m.) **Drivers & Free Parking:** Plenty of parking on Yonge, Eglinton and residential area too :) Free parking on Duplex, one street west of Yonge :) Across the street from the Yonge/Eglinton subway station \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***Thanks for reading everyone, remember to RSVP and see you real soon!*** :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

We will be going to the Sugar Shack festival at Harbourfront Centre where they will be having many activities OUTSIDE relating to maple syrup including entertainment, a lumber jack show, maple taffy tasting, and food. This is a free event. We will first meet OUTSIDE the Tim Hortons at 55 York Street this is beside the Royal York hotel and across the street from Union station subway. Dress warmly. Check it out at: www.sugarshackto.ca

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hike-mount-nemo)** ***Mount Nemo, one of the most popular scenic spots in the GTA, offers breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment while being conveniently close to the city.*** Despite its proximity, the area feels beautifully removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As we hike along the ancient limestone formations that shape the escarpment, we’ll be on the lookout for *Eastern Cedars*, some of the oldest living trees in the world. This is a fun 7 km hike that's accessible but super interesting — you'll feel truly connected with the escarpment as you walk through cracks in the rock and alongside ancient forest that goes all the way to the cliff edge. On this hike you can expect: \- Ancient cedar trees \- Sweeping panoramic views \- Dramatic escarpment ridge formations \- Scramble up rocks & wooden ladders **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Highlights** **Scenic hike -** Walk through some of Ontario's oldest forests and enjoy the varied terrain and ecology. **Local mountain -** Only 45 minutes west of Toronto, Mount Nemo is the perfect accessible hike for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and people who want to just dip their toes in what Ontario nature has to offer. **Panoramic escarpment views -** Once at the top of Mount Nemo, enjoy some beautiful views. **Event cost: $40+HST - optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hike-mount-nemo)** **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/)***

🍽️ Breakfast Meetup Location: Eela South Indian Cuisine Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM What to expect: This is not buffet but have thalis with unlimited rice and roti ( bread). South Indian breakfast classics (dosas, idlis, vada, filter coffee) Easy conversation, no rush A relaxed start to the day — phones down, people present This is not a “grab-and-go.” This is a sit, savor, and connect kind of breakfast. 🚗 Transition Time 12:00 – 12:30 PM Wrap up breakfast Short drive to Rouge National Urban Park Carpool if possible (always boosts bonding points) 🥾 Nature Walk / Hike Location: Rouge National Urban Park Time: 12:30 – 2:00 PM (flexible) Hike details: Easy, beginner-friendly trails Forest paths, river views, fresh air Walk-and-talk pace — not a bootcamp What to bring: Comfortable shoes Water bottle Light layer (Rouge can feel cooler under the trees) Vibe: Grounded. Unhurried. The kind of walk where conversations deepen naturally — or silence feels just as good.

Come and join us for a walk through the PATH, Toronto's underground pedestrian walking network. We're doing something different while the forest trails start to transition from winter to summer. We will meet at Union Station in the Great Hall (see pic). We will make our way north to the Eaton Center. From there, we will head south, completing a loop as we make our way to The Old Spaghetti Factory ([https://www.osf.com/](https://www.osf.com/)) for a late lunch. We will make changes to the route in order for us to arrive at the restaurant on time (2pm). Plenty of breaks along the way and if you haven't attended one of our events before, come out and meet the group. The PATH is a mostly underground pedestrian walkway network in downtown Toronto that spans more than 30 kilometers of restaurants, shopping, services, and entertainment accommodating more than 200,000 business-day commuters as well as tourists and residents. For more information, visit: [https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/visitor-toronto/path-torontos-downtown-pedestrian-walkway](https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/visitor-toronto/path-torontos-downtown-pedestrian-walkway) **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.

Join us at our vegan-friendly social climbing session! We welcome all vegans, vegetarians, or anyone who is curious about the lifestyle and/or interested in eating more plant-based. No climbing experience is necessary. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time climber, all are welcome. We will be bouldering, top roping, and using autobelays - feel free to join whichever activity you're interested in! For those who are climbing for the first time, not to worry as it is quick to pick up and we are happy to provide some pointers on technique. You can boulder or use the autobelays after getting a quick orientation from the staff at the gym. For top roping, we're happy to belay any of our attendees. **Fees**: * $28 admission fee, plus rentals Climbing shoes are strongly recommended (disclaimer: rental shoes are not vegan as they contain suede/leather). Harnesses are only necessary for top roping and autobelay, however this gym is primarily a rope climbing gym. * Shoe rental: $7.00 * Harness rental: $7.00 Remember to sign the [waiver](https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/5f121ea156df1/web/) before you hit the rocks! You can sign the waiver online or in person once you arrive. Make sure to arrive at the Bloor location, there are multiple Basecamp locations! Happy climbing! 🧗‍♂️🌱 Note: Clean indoor shoes are allowed to be worn, however we highly recommend using climbing shoes otherwise your experience will be negatively impacted.

Scouting trip on QEW (**Day hike only**, not overnight) - basically we will follow the Ganaraska trail until we hit Sheldon lake. Around 4-5 KM 1 way (1-2 hours). I've done this trail before in the Winter, but it's probably been 10+ years. \- https://www\.alltrails\.com/trail/canada/ontario/sheldon\-lake\-via\-ganaraska\-devil\-s\-lake Meeting point is Devil's Lake Access point - 1115 Devil's Lake Road. Assumes that the weather does get warmer by March and non-SUV /4 wheel vehicles can access the parking lot, which presumably is unmaintained. This also means no registration / parking fees needed. **The weather will still be cold in March.** Anyone interested ensure you have the right gear to stay warm and for hiking and bring your own breakfast / lunch. **You are responsible for your own safety.** Unless things change, I'm planning on taking my 4.5 year old daughter along as a weekend outdoor activity, so beginners are welcome and we will likely go slow. 1 - Mainly hike along the trail and see the conditions for future overnight backpacking trip. 2 - If there is time, explore the different camp sites along the lake to see which would be best for a future trip and for different group sizes.

**IMPORTANT:** This event is weather relate, if rain is forecast for the event date it will be reschedule. READ whole event details. **Pay to Play - $25 x spot** Send payment using Zelle or Venmo at: Darwin Castillo - 202-848-2436 You will be add to the go list as soon event fee is send. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have ever wondered what outdoor rock climbing is all about this is a great opportunity for you to give it a try...You will be hooked on a new activity and I will be your personal coach, we both will make this happen. The DC Wild Outdoor Adventurers members will be there to help, we fit you in a harness, get you a pair of climbing shoes, and give you all the intel you need to know to get you started in this trilling sport. The clinic itself will show novice climbers the basic skills necessary to safely rock climb and scale rock walls with confidence. Specific items covered in the class: knot craft, harness wear and adjustment, belaying, climbing techniques, and climbing safety. Participants will spend the remainder of the class practicing the skills and climbing. **Clinic hours**: 9:00AM-2:00PM. **Meet at**: Carderock Recreational Area Be on time, you may wont find us as soon we move from the parking lot. The clinic will start promptly at 9:00am and last until about 2:00pm. **Important:** If weather is adverse to our purposes (rain) event will be reschedule. **What to bring:** We are climbing through lunch time, so make sure you bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch to keep you going, bug spray maybe necessary **What to wear:** Look at the weather conditions the day prior to the event and wear accordingly. **Equipment**:: All equipment (Helmets, harness, climbing shoes, ropes, etc.) will be provided. **Where to meet**: Carderock Rock climbers parking, as soon you crosse the bridge go right to the last parking lot. **Google maps**: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f6rWprhNQK3Lwy2e6 **GPS coordinates**: 38.976094, -77.205624 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Climbing is a dangerous sport and serious injury may and can happen You are solely and completely responsible for choosing outings and activities that are within your physical and medical ability level, for taking proper clothing, provisions, and equipment along on outings to provide for your personal comfort and for making appropriate decisions to ensure your very own safety. By reserving and or participating in any of our activities you have agree to all the term stated on our Liability waiver: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing)

We will be hiking the loop trail, (counter clockwise) around the BeaverDam Reservoir starting at the brand new Reservoir Park VisitorsCenter. Beautiful views of the water and varied woodland areas. This is an 7.5 Mile loop hike around one of Northern Virginia's largest bodies of water. The loop is mainly flat with a tiny hill or two. I've rated the loop moderate because the distance is 7.5 miles. After the hike we'll head over to Lark Brewing. 24205 James Monroe Hwy, Aldie, VA 20105 for food and beverages. \*\* I will make every effort for your safety. You are hiking at your own risk. Dogs are welcome on the hike as long as they are good with groups, friendly and you follow all leash laws. I like kids but this is an adult event so please no kids or any one under 21.\*\* Reservoir Park Trail on AllTrails https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/virginia/reservoir-park-trail?sh=lkkoxr&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality

**This scenic scamper is a \~2mile moderate hike that has uneven terrain & is relatively flat.** Pace: 2mph. The trek traverses Camp Seneca park, home to [the Lodge at Little Seneca Creek](https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/lodge-little-seneca-creek/) which hosts various social gatherings, as well as a charming corridor of a Creek sharing the same name. After egressing from the Lodge the circuit STEEPLY ascends a hill, disappearing off-trail into the wilderness. Summiting this proud plateau offers vacuous views of the surrounding landscape. The hike then follows a faint fire road, occasionally obstructed by downed trees, revealing a small stream. Navigating away from the stream and towards little Seneca Creek traverses through viny **thorns & brambles!** Latter of the circuit parallels the creek, at times CAUTIOUSLY cliff side, featuring a delightful Beaver Dam & creek cascade (pictured) before eventually concluding back at the Lodge via lollygagging across a lavish lawn. Terrific lean-mean-green trees along the way too! NOTES: 1\. Trail Forecast= [AllTrails MAP](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/activity-january-22-2025-5ef0599-2) \| Boots & Trek Poles advised\! 2\. Consider "thicker\- wear" for the thorns/ brambles\. 3\. Post\- social @[Chicken Pocha](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hi1s5HvXgBfbdGbBA) \| [menu (Korean fried chicken/ bbq)](https://chickenpocha.com/menu/)