Backpacking Toronto

Humber Bay Shores Farmers Market and High Park Ravines (11.3 km)

Join us on this hike to Humber Bay Shores Farmers Market, taking place in the picturesque Humber Bay Park West. It's the final one of the season. You'll find an incredible variety of farm-fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products, preserves, meats, and more, all sourced from the city and surrounding regions. The market is a staple of the community, fostering engagement and supporting local agriculture. After the market, we will head east over the Humber Bay Arch Bridge to High Park and through its ravines, ending at Keele Station. Those who want a sit-down meal can continue east on Bloor St for Ukrainian syrnyky (cheese pancakes), deruny (potato pancakes), green borscht, and varenyky (dumplings). **Highlights** 1. Old Mill subway station (depart 10:30am) 2. Old Mill 3. Humber River Recreational Trail 4. Oculus Pavilion 5. Floating bridge over Humber Bay wetlands 6. Humber Bay Shores Farmers' Market 7. Views of CN Tower and downtown Toronto 8. Humber Bay Arch Bridge 9. Grenadier Pond 10. Spring Creek 11. Bloor and Keele (arrive 1:45pm) **Neighbourhoods** The Kingsway > Sunnylea > Stonegate-Queensway > Humber Bay Shores > Sunnyside > High Park **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12q2PqID-bXHnS1prfD9QVvxdc3tWhTE&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=12q2PqID-bXHnS1prfD9QVvxdc3tWhTE&usp=sharing) Unpaved and narrow trails in High Park. **How it works** There are no scheduled checkpoints for this hike. If late, you can try to find us at the farmers market. Bus 66B goes to the market from Old Mill Station. See our [homepage](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Bloor Street, Toronto. All of it. (19.6 km)

**Attendance policy is enforced for this hike**. See below for details. Back by popular demand, we're doing a mega hike along Bloor Street in Toronto. We'll trace the entire Bloor subway line and beyond. See how the landscape densifies from golf courses to strip malls to parks to gentrified neighbourhoods as we approach the Don Valley. The restaurants along the way highlight the cultural diversity of Toronto from 5 continents. You need to be in decent shape and have a voracious appetite to do the entire route. However, as with other hikes, you are free to join and leave at any point. Those who complete the entire route will be eligible to buy a commemorative T-shirt (expected price \~$23). There are several restaurants to choose from at the end of the hike: Japanese ramen, Mexican tortas, Egyptian koshari, and Brazilian steaks. Further on at Chester station are even more options: Iranian, Indonesian, and Greek grilled meats. We're not making reservations, so find a group of like-minded people and grab a table. For reference, here's a [map of all our past hikes](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1_FpYriQNv5okUB-oiCODi56uiRDgPGI&usp=sharing). We've covered a large chunk of Toronto and neighbouring cities. **Highlights** Segment 1: Markland Wood 1. Markland Wood Golf Club (depart 12:30pm) 2. Mississauga-Toronto border / Start (or end) of Bloor Street 3. Bloordale United Church 4. Matt's Burger Lab 5. Highway 427 6. Stari Grad / Zayzoun / Frenchie’s Doughnuts (depart 1:45pm) Segment 2: The Kingsway 1. Bonimi 2. Kingsway Fish & Chips 3. Old Mill 4. Chebureky House / Momo Ghar / Janchenko's Bakery (depart 3:05pm) Segment 3: Bloor West Village 1. The CakeSmith 2. Former Runnymede Theatre 3. Marvelous By Fred 4. Ohana 5. Andrea's Cookies 6. Thai Nyyom 7. 9 Mile Jamaican Cuisine / Momoheart / Chito's / Ruru Baked (depart 4:25pm) Segment 4: Bloorcourt Village 1. Bakerbots Baking 2. Komi Banh Mi Bar 3. Nosso Talho 4. Szechuan Noodle Bowl 5. Ambassador Pizza 6. Filosophy / Levant Pizza 7. La Bella Managua / Lalibela / Vit Beo 8. Christie Pits Park 9. PAT Central 10. Hodo Kwaja / Dessert Fox 11. Pizzeria Fornace / JJIN Toast 12. Eva's Original Chimneys / Cong Caphe (depart 5:45pm) Segment 5: Downtown 1. Souper Hot Pot / Myeongdong Gyoza Kalguksu 2. Trinity-St. Paul's United Church 3. Woojoo Bunsik / Zaad / The Daily Dumpling Wonton Co 4. University of Toronto 5. Koerner Hall / Royal Ontario Museum 6. Eataly 7. One Bloor 8. Yuzuki 9. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company / Rogers HQ 10. Church of St. Peter and St. Simon 11. Prince Edward Viaduct 12. End (or start) of Bloor Street at Broadview Ave (arrive 6:55pm) **Neighbourhoods** Markland Wood > Bloordale Gardens > Eatonville > Islington - City Centre West > The Kingsway > Bloor West Village > High Park North > Junction Triangle > Bloordale Village > Bloorcourt Village > Christie Pits > Koreatown > The Annex > Yorkville > Upper Jarvis > St. James Town > Playter Estates **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ESqH0dQk3idaJYpGztKGE8UVoR5wFX8&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ESqH0dQk3idaJYpGztKGE8UVoR5wFX8&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't join at the beginning? 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. The end of the hike is the only time when we can enjoy a leisurely meal. **Attendance policy** Please check in with an organizer when you arrive. 24 hours before the hike, we'll note down who is on the confirmed list. Those that don't show up will be marked as no-show. Repeat offenders will be banned. Please change your RSVP if you can no longer attend. If you got off the waitlist less than 24 hours before the event, you won't be considered a no-show.

One Last Backcountry Weekend in Frontenac

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/weekend-in-frontenac)** **Fall (aka shoulder season) camping brings the serene beauty of the backcountry, without the crowds and bugs.** At this time of year, Frontenac will be less busy and the trail into Big Clear Lake belongs mostly to us. It's a 9km hike to reach the site, working through root tangled trails and stretches of open granite typical of this stretch of the Canadian Shield. Only the most stubborn leaves will remain on the trees and you’ll enjoy long sightlines through bare branches where the canopy used to be. The pace is steady and moderate the whole way in, never technical but never quite letting up either. We set up camp on the shore of Big Clear Lake as the light starts to drop, we get a fire going, and cook dinner together. Late October nights out here are serene, with a sky full of stars over the lake. In the morning, we’ll take our time over breakfast before packing up and heading out along the other side of Big Salmon Lake: a different stretch of trail from the one we hiked in on, with its own look at the park before we're back where we started. By the time we're back at the cars, you'll have had that sweet final night of the year in the backcountry. 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. **Accessibility** Wilderness Union is committed to making our adventures as accessible as possible. If you wish to make an accommodation request relating to a disability or provide feedback, please do so by sending an email to info@wildernessunion.com **Highlights** **Last Trip of the Season:** The final overnight on the calendar before WU's backcountry program pauses for winter **Shoulder Season Solitude**: Long, quiet stretches of trail, with the lake mostly to yourselves. **A Clear Night Sky:** Bare branches and dry autumn air make for some of the best stargazing conditions of the year at the campsite. **Event cost: $265+HST. $70 optional transport also available. Please register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/weekend-in-frontenac)** **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/)***

Muskoka cranberry plunge + Hardy Lake

This is one for the Gram. We'll be heading Northbound to the Muskoka area for a fun day out in the beautiful Fall color season. We'll start the day by visiting Gravenhurst which is a town in the Muskoka region, here you will have free time to grab some brunch. After that, we'll head over to the Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery for a popular Fall time activity. You'll be given some chest waders so you can sink into the water surrounded by millions of Cranberries - it's a great way to get those awesome images. After the farm, we'll make a quick stop at a local brewery, followed by Hardy Lake Provincial Park. This small Provincial Park in Muskoka is a must do for those who like hiking. While there are many trails, we'll head on the biggest and best around Hardy Lake which will serve up some good snaps. We'll gage the groups ability and pick the most suitable hike for the day. Please email sandra@origin-travels.com for more details and to grab a spot! We will have max 15 people on this day trip. *Ticket info: $129 includes plunge entry + gear, round trip transport from Toronto and a driver/guide for the day.*

Midweek morning hike - Earl Bales

Crothers Woods to St Clair via Vale of Avora. Moderate. 2.7

Algonquin Park – Fall Photo Workshop

COST: $250 + HST PAYMENT: [https://buytickets.at/torontotraveloutdoorphotography/2432982](https://buytickets.at/torontotraveloutdoorphotography/2432982) TIME: 12pm - 4pm LOCATION: We'll meet on the west side of Algonquin Park. Exact location and meeting spot will be sent to participants. Spend a day in Algonquin Park at the most magical time of year — when the maples turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. This 1/2 day photo workshop is all about slowing down and learning how to capture the beauty of fall in a way that feels true to your style. This is a hands-on intensive one-on-one workshop where I’ll share practical tips on composition, working with natural light, and getting the most out of your gear — whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless, or even just your phone. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of time to ask questions, try new techniques, and of course, make some great photos. By the end of the day, you’ll head home with fresh inspiration, new skills, and a collection of images that capture the spirit of Algonquin in autumn. **What’s included:** * Instruction on composition, exposure, and working with natural light * Individual feedback tailored to your goals * Access to some of the park’s best locations for fall colours * limited to 6 participants **What to bring:** * Your camera and favourite lenses * Tripod. I have extra you can borrow if you need * Lunch, snacks, and water * Comfortable footwear and layered clothing for the outdoors It’s a day out surrounded by peak fall colours and a chance to connect with nature, photography, and a group of like-minded creatives.

[Part 2]Hike at your own pace: Hockely valley upto 23KM at 3KM -> 6.5KM +/hour

Sauble Falls Camping

Come join us for a 3-day camping getaway at Sauble Falls Provincial Park. This meetup is for anyone who wants a fun, relaxed outdoor weekend with a little adventure and a little fresh-air therapy. Plan for the weekend: Saturday: Arrive, set up camp, and enjoy kayaking/canoeing Sunday: Hiking day and time to explore the falls and trails Monday: Slow morning, pack up, and head home Important details: Electric campsites Everyone brings their own food, drinks, and camping gear Great for people who enjoy camping, nature, and easygoing group vibes Water activities and hiking are part of the plan, so bring clothes and shoes for both What to bring: Tent or camping setup Sleeping bag and pillow Food and snacks for the weekend Water bottle Warm clothes for the evening Hiking shoes Clothes for kayaking/canoeing Flashlight or lantern Toiletries and personal items

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!

Fall Colours Canoe trip to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

This is a trip to view the back country Ontario during prime fall colours. This is a one-night trip. We will paddle into the interior and camp for the night. There are 2 small portage. Camp sites and canoes will be reserved. Food will be provided and carpooling arranged. You do not need to bring any food. We will be asking for a $50 deposit via paypal or bank email transfer to keep your spot since I need to reserve the sites and canoes ahead of time. I will send out a note with further information to those who sign up. See paypal and bank email transfer info under "COSTS" below. RSVP REQUIREMENTS RSVP "Going" if you are sure you can attend, are able to meet the difficulty requirement, bring what is needed and have reviewed the costs associated with this event. EVENT DETAILS Difficulty: Easy to Moderate - You are able to paddle 3-4 hours per day and are reasonably fit. What to Bring: Hat, Personal water bottle, 2 or 3 dry bags or garbage bags (to use for your clothes & sleeping bag) Put the garbage bag inside to line you backpack. Put another one inside your sleeping bag case to line that. Waterproof Coat. List of Clothing : Hat, swimsuit, sweaters or sweatshirts (it will get cold in the evenings), jeans or long pants, 1 towel, 2 pairs shoes - 1 for dry hiking and 1 for wet stuff. Wet shoes need to be secure, flip flops and loose sandals may get stuck in the mud. bowl, cup, spoon, fork, sun glasses, flashlight or strong headlamp, Toiletries: Toilet paper, sunscreen, bug spray. When you pack your stuff, if you can pack everything in one pack, portaging will be much easier! Other camping items: Backpack, Sleeping bag (suitable for cold weather), sleeping pad or mattress GETTING THERE Drivers will be notified by the organizer where to meet and pick up passengers. Drivers will be sent complete directions as to where, when and who to meet and directions to the Park. Please sign up for the carpool here: https://groupcarpool.com/t/po0qbj COSTS Other: 50 deposit to remain on going list. Total cost between 180 and $220. This cost includes all gas, camp fees, food and canoe rentals. The balance is payable at the end of the trip when we calculate the costs owed by each member. HOW TO PAY: contact Pedro for paypal account and e-mail address INTRODUCTION TO CANOEING Please review the following safety videos: (You don't need to kneel, sitting is fine for this type of trip. The other safety tips are good) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrjXT9bAB6c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrjXT9bAB6c) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTtFSpelQk4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTtFSpelQk4) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zHSfEhEqkU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zHSfEhEqkU) Please ALWAYS check your email or the event post in the evening or in the morning prior to the event for cancellation, rescheduling or last minute changes. Please Note: You are required to respond to Meetup messages in a timely manner. The messages may be on the comment board below, private message, or through the email address you have registered with [Meetup.com.](http://Meetup.com.)

Cliffs & Fall Colours: A Bruce Peninsula Hike

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-peninsula-26)** **The Bruce Peninsula does dramatic better than almost anywhere else in Ontario, and fall is when it really shows off.** We'll be out for most of the day, covering 8.5km of moderate hiking through some of the best autumn scenery in the province, with the changing leaves against the escarpment's limestone making for a proper contrast. We'll start in the forest before the trail opens onto the coastline, tracing the cliffs down to the Grotto. It's the most photographed spot on the peninsula for good reason: crystal clear water, a sea cave carved into the rock, and a natural window out to the bay. We'll take our time here, including a stop for lunch. From the Grotto we'll keep following the shoreline out to Stormhaven, crossing pebble beaches with open views across Georgian Bay the whole way. We'll turn around there and retrace the coastline back, catching all the same cliffs and colour from the other direction with the light shifted by then. **Two important things to note:** 1. **Self driving isn't possible for this trip. Parking passes at the trailhead sell out well in advance, so all members travel together on WU transport.** 2. **Bruce Peninsula National Park is stunning, but be aware that it is a long drive there and back. Full details are in the itinerary below.** **Accessibility** Wilderness Union is committed to making our adventures as accessible as possible. If you wish to make an accommodation request relating to a disability or provide feedback, please do so by sending an email to info@wildernessunion.com **Highlights** **The Grotto:** The peninsula's most famous natural feature: a limestone sea cave with turquoise water and a rock window looking out over Georgian Bay. **Stormhaven Coastline:** A stretch of cobble beach with wide open views across the bay, well past where most day hikers turn around. **Fall Colour on the Escarpment:** Peak autumn colour against the Niagara Escarpment's pale limestone cliffs, a contrast you don't get anywhere else on the Bruce Trail\*\*.\*\* **Event cost: $140+HST. Transportation is included in the cost of the adventure. Please register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/bruce-peninsula-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/)***