Weekend Hikes

Ready to sweat it out on the hills? Join us for a HIIT-style hill training hike This hike is part of the **HikeFit Series**, a collection of fitness-focused hikes designed to build strength, endurance, and overall hiking fitness. We’ll challenge you with steep climbs, rugged terrain, and a high-intensity workout. This isn’t a fast-paced hike, but it is **intense**. We’ll tackle multiple **very steep hills** in intervals, with plenty of chances to catch your breath, recover, or skip hills if needed. This hike is designed for intermediate hikers, but it’s **beginner-friendly** since you can skip as many hills as you need. It’s perfect for anyone looking to **get stronger, improve endurance, and boost their hiking fitness** at their own pace. **Weather-Dependent Notice:** The hike is a go, **(light)** rain or shine; However, if there's a risk of excessive mud making the hills too slippery, the hike will be canceled with around 24 hours’ notice. **Distance & Duration:** * **Length of hike:** \~4 km * **Event duration:** \~1.5 hours * **Trail maps:** Random hill at Earl Bales park * **Difficulty level:** L3 (Level 3/Moderate) * Terrain: L4 * Pace: L2 * Distance: L1 **What to Bring:** * **Water:** 1\~2 liters * **Extras:** Hiking pole (Highly recommended) * **Required Gear:** Hiking boots or Trail Runners with good grip, Headlamp, and [Microspikes](https://kahtoola.com/traction/microspikes-footwear-traction/?srsltid=AfmBOoqq-URDFRgNAISoLYH1l1cSLKeXOTSuU6EqUC6VupfLNZAGRg8P) **Costs:** * **Member Event fee:** FREE EVENT **Travel Coordination:** * No Travel Coordination for this Event, Meeting at Starting Point **Event Guidelines:** * **Punctuality,** Please arrive on time so we can start promptly. We won't be able to wait for more than 5min past the start time * **Pack out everything you bring** (including nut shells, fruit peels, etc.) to help keep our trails clean. * **RSVP:** Only those marked as “Going” and have confirmed travel details (if requested) are eligible to attend the event. * If your **plans change** and you are no longer able to attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible. * **No-shows** without prior communication may result in removal from future events. * **Weather Considerations** The hike is a go (light) **rain or shine**, so please be prepared for the conditions. for example, If it’s expected to rain, waterproof gear (like a jacket or shoes) * **Pets:** please check with the organizer for details before bringing your pet. Looking forward to seeing you on the trail

Ready to add more fun, movement, and connection to your week? Come join our group dance classes at [Access Ballroom](https://studioaccessballroom.com/)! We have classes **every day except Tuesday**—that’s Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 7:50pm, and Weekends at 3:40pm. Visit our [Monthly Calendar](https://studioaccessballroom.com/class-schedule/) to view the group class Schedule. To sign up you can also download our APP that is in both the Google Play store and the Apple Store. Just look up Access Ballroom. Whether you’re a total beginner or already have some moves, you’ll fit right in! We always have multiple teachers on hand to guide every level, so everyone gets the attention they need. Our amazing environment and welcoming atmosphere are what make us one of Toronto’s premier Latin and Ballroom studios—and it’s why we have the most Google reviews in the city! Don’t just take our word for it—come experience the energy, laughter, and community for yourself. We can’t wait to see you on the dance floor!

Play some beach and meet cool people

Toptracer Winter Golf League @ The Docks Overview Weekly 9-hole Toptracer Virtual Golf League — runs all winter. Men’s and Women’s divisions. $50 Docks Gift Card to weekly low gross in each division (requires ≥10 entrants; rolls over if not met). $200 monthly Gift Card for ≥25 total entrants (rolls over if not met). All scoring is automatic via Toptracer leaderboard — no manual scorecards. Starting 5 November 2025 17:30 - 9 November 2025 23:59 weekly Wednesday to Sunday Regular Driving range rates apply (rates posted at www.thedocks.com)

We are continuing our tour of different trivia events in the city that also have good beer at Birroteca by Indie Alehouse located at the concourse level of Eataly (at Bay and Bloor) fits that bill. Come enjoy a variety of beers exclusive to Birroteca by Indie Alehouse. Our taps change often, so there is always something new for you to explore! Enjoy your sips and bites with trivia to put your knowledge to the test. Brass Facts Trivia has been hosting trivia around Toronto since 2008. Host Ryan Galati dishes out questions to new and returning teams! **Nota Bene:** Free to play, no reservations required, but we fill quick! Please see staff on arrival to be seated. Max 4 players per team. 1 ticket per member of your team. Trivia starts at 8. Teams are limited to 4 people per their website. (They do seem to allow 5 per team.) I have set the event for 10 for 2 teams; reservations have been secured via Eventbrite.

Exhibition Place has lots of majestic buildings but it's hard to appreciate them when it's crowded. So, we'll visit before event season begins. It's a sprawling venue that's great for a hike to work up an appetite. We will detour first to Trillium Park for a vista of downtown Toronto and check out some of the illuminated works from the [Lumière](https://ontarioplace.com/en/special_programs/lumiere/) light exhibition. Then, we'll make out way through all the heritage-listed buildings of Exhibition Place. It runs the gamut from a colonial fort to neo-Classical exhibition buildings. The hike ends in Parkdale, where we can peruse the late night restaurants there: Tibetan momos, Japanese ramen, Saudi kabsa, Italian millefoglie, and even Mexican insects. **Highlights** 1. Princes' Gates (depart 6:30pm) 2. Toronto Inukshuk 3. Trillium Park (depart 7pm) 4. CNE Food Building 5. CNE Fire hall / Music building / Press building 6. CNE Bandshell 7. Fort Rouillé / Scadding Cabin / Wind turbine 8. Ontario Government Building 9. Dufferin Gate 10. Lao-Thai / Gladstone Hotel (depart 7:50pm) 11. The Drake Hotel / DoDoner / Lisgar Park 12. Matt’s Burgerlab 13. Molkagtez Mexican Cuisine / Kaminari Ramen Bar / BB's 14. Daymi 15. Shambhala Kitchen (arrive 8:20pm) **Neighbourhoods** Ontario Place > Exhibition Place > Parkdale **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1tJVHKn9_bIiGBuweFLULTS71AJSIMCE&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1tJVHKn9_bIiGBuweFLULTS71AJSIMCE&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. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

**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/)***

Bundle up and join us for a refreshing winter walk through the snowy beauty of High Park! This is a relaxed, social stroll where we enjoy crisp air, peaceful trails, and good company while exploring one of Toronto’s most scenic parks in winter. We’ll keep the pace comfortable, take breaks as needed, and soak in the quiet winter vibes. Perfect for meeting new people, staying active, and enjoying the season. 👢 **What to expect:** • Easy to moderate walk (all fitness levels welcome) • Friendly, social atmosphere • Winter scenery + great conversations 📍 **Location:** High Park North Gate, Toronto ⏱ **Duration:** \~ 1.5 to 2 hours 🧣 Dress warmly, wear good winter boots, and bring water. Come solo or with a friend — everyone’s welcome! TTC - Get off at High Park TTC Station and walk to Meeting Spot. Parking - Paid and Free Parking is available on nearby streets.

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.

🍀🥂 **ST. PATRICK’S DAY WEEKEND BRUNCH** 🥂🍀 Green Vibes, Irish History & A Proper Pub Gathering Yes, St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year… But who honestly wants to party on a Tuesday unless it involves a movie night? So we’re doing this properly — weekend style. Join us for a festive St. Patrick’s Day brunch celebration at **Stout Irish Pub!,** right in Toronto’s Cabbage Town. Expect warm wood interiors, classic Irish pub energy, hearty brunch plates, and yes… possibly something green in your glass. 🍻 But this isn’t just about beer and brunch. St. Patrick’s Day holds real historical weight in Toronto. When Irish immigrants first arrived in Canada, many faced discrimination and hardship. Over time, the Irish community played a profound role in shaping the city — from infrastructure to politics to culture. In fact, some of the earliest large-scale St. Patrick’s Day celebrations began in North America before the holiday became as widely celebrated in Ireland itself. So this weekend, we’re raising a glass not just for fun — but for legacy. And also… for brunch. 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) *** 🥓 The Plan We’ll gather outside the pub, head in together, and settle in for a relaxed, social afternoon of food and conversation. Menu: Click Here! Cost of meal: $$ (pay restaurant directly) Think: 🍳 Irish breakfast plates 🥞 Brunch classics 🥪 Pub favourites 🍺 Guinness, cider, and festive drinks Come hungry. Leave cheerful. *** 🧢 How to Find Me ⏰ Meetup Time: 1:00 PM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes outside I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat by the front entrance. PLEASE DO NOT GO IN WITHOUT ME. And please do not call the restaurant — they won’t have information about this event. If you have questions, message Mathew directly. *** 💰 Meetup Fee $5 cash in person or e-transfer to: 📧 mathewmaclean@hotmail.com If you’ve never attended one of my events before, you must send your e-transfer as soon as you sign up to confirm your spot. Those who don’t will be removed from the event. This helps ensure committed attendance and supports the group so we can continue hosting high-quality gatherings. Thank you for respecting that. 💛 *** 🌈 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 🍽️ Restaurant outings There’s always something happening. *** ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder Sometimes circumstances change 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 Come for the Irish brunch. Stay for the laughter. Leave feeling just a little bit luckier. Because the best way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Toronto? With history, heart… and a table full of new friends. 🍀✨

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

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.

Hike approx 4.0 miles at approx. 18 minute mile pace. Meet in front of the Nature Center.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.