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Backpacking Toronto

Toronto backpacking enthusiasts gather for urban adventures

Guildwood and Scarborough Bluffs East (8.8 km)

Guildwood and Scarborough Bluffs East (8.8 km)

Sat, May 30, 8:00 PM
From Hike to Eat
4.7

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.

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100 attendees
Eglinton Flats and Mount Dennis: Jamaican-Nigerian flavours (5.8 km)

Eglinton Flats and Mount Dennis: Jamaican-Nigerian flavours (5.8 km)

Tue, Jun 2, 10:30 PM
From Hike to Eat
4.7

Jane and Eglinton is surrounded by recreational flat lands on all four quadrants. They were created after the aftermath of Hurricane Hazel as a flood control measure. The most scenic quadrant is the southeast one with a pond, but we'll go through all of them anyway. Except Scarlett Woods Golf Course which is accessible for hiking in winter only. Above the floodplains sits Mount Dennis. It's not a mountain and barely a hill. There is a strong Jamaican and Nigerian presence which is precisely the type of food we'll encounter along the way. Unfortunately, pickings are slim and there are only a handful of notable restaurants. We'll end at the best of the lot, a modern restaurant specializing in Nigerian suya (spiced BBQ meats). **Highlights** 1. York Recreation Centre (depart 6:30pm) 2. Kodak building 3. Mount Dennis mural 4. Douro Bakery 5. Gladhurst Park 6. Eglinton Flats Tennis Centre (depart 7:15pm) 7. Optical illusion artbox 8. Humber River 9. Suya City Express (arrive 8:05pm) **Neighbourhoods** Mount Dennis > Eglinton Flats **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1Q4F5JunRqI-2JV4mwrkr3Vrdh56ChSU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1Q4F5JunRqI-2JV4mwrkr3Vrdh56ChSU&usp=sharing) Start point is easily accessible by Eglinton LRT, UP Express, and GO trains. **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.

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33 attendees
Long way to Leslieville (13.4 km)

Long way to Leslieville (13.4 km)

Sat, Jun 13, 10:00 PM
From Hike to Eat
4.7

In order to cross 2 blocks in Leslieville, we're taking a 12.5 km detour to Tommy Thompson Park. The entire park is made from landfill and is now a haven for birdlife. We'll be visiting near sunset, when wildlife is more active. Cycling is the most common way to get around the vast park. Since we're walking, we'll focus on trails where bikes can't reach easily. It's not just natural attractions. There's also one of Toronto's newest parks where one can watch the sun set. We won't be sticking long though as we return to Leslieville for food. The selection is eclectic, ranging from Italian to Polish to Canadian. The final stop is a brewery, with an innovative wine bar and Detroit-style pizzerias close by. This hike is faster than usual, at 5 - 6 km/h. **Highlights** 1. Tatsuro's (depart 6 pm) 2. Leslieville sign 3. Ashbridge Estate 4. Chick-N-Joy 5. Ashbridges Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant 6. Tommy Thompson Park Pavilion (depart 6:35 pm) 7. Tommy Thompson Park Nature Centre 8. Pond lookouts 9. Lookouts to downtown Toronto skyline 10. Bird Research Station (depart 7:22 pm) 11. Unwin Bridge / Portlands Energy Centre 12. Leslie Lookout Park (depart 8:25 pm) 13. Maple Leaf Forever Park (depart 8:42pm) 14. Gio Rana's Really Really Nice 15. Descendant Detroit Style Pizza / Completo 16. Slowhand Sourdough Pizza / Restaurant Ricky+Olivia / Avling (arrive 8:55 pm) **Neighbourhoods** Leslie Street Spit > Port Lands > Leslieville **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1WN27mgc_YCOQ0aSdMXDu5Jd1HfZ09qE&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1WN27mgc_YCOQ0aSdMXDu5Jd1HfZ09qE&usp=sharing) Average speed is 5 - 6 km/h. Limited facilities in Tommy Thompson Park. **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

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45 attendees
Parkwoods creeks and Marydale eats (11.1 km)

Parkwoods creeks and Marydale eats (11.1 km)

Sat, Jun 6, 7:00 PM
From Hike to Eat
4.7

This hike connects a chain of parks and creeks around Parkwoods and Maryvale. It's not as well-trodden as the Don Valley trails to the west and has a small neighbourhood feel to it. There are few attractions. However, there are an assortment of restaurants sandwiching the trails. We'll visit the original location of a Jamaican institution, a Greek market, Iranian bakeries, and various food plazas. At the end of the hike lies a solid Uyghur restaurant. Or for those who want more spice, a Hyderabadi restaurant that does more than just biryanis. **Highlights** 1. Sushi Ichiban Ellesmere (depart 3pm) 2. Venus Bakery / Oruma 3. Space age Metro supermarket at Parkway Mall 4. Frank O’Connor House 5. Broadlands Community Centre 6. High Street Fish And Chips / Allwyn’s Bakery (depart 3:45pm) 7. Brookbanks Park 8. Roywood Park (depart 4:45pm) 9. Terraview Park / Willowfield Gardens Park 10. Mangal Kebab House 11. Kostas Meat Market, Deli, and Bakery 12. Ellesmere Community Centre (depart 5:45pm) 13. Jain Society of Toronto 14. Golconda / Kroran Uyghur Cuisine (arrive 6:05pm) **Neighbourhoods** Parkwoods > Maryvale > Dorset Park **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1I7xUBiBafrHCddM0DPpRtfQarYvq9B8&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1I7xUBiBafrHCddM0DPpRtfQarYvq9B8&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. 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. 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.

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35 attendees
Algonquin Park Group Camping

Algonquin Park Group Camping

Fri, May 29, 12:00 PM
From Wilderness Union Toronto - Outdoor Adventure and Hiking Club
4.7

**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/)***

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3 attendees
Intro to Canoe Camping

Intro to Canoe Camping

Sat, Jun 13, 11:00 AM
From Wilderness Union Toronto - Outdoor Adventure and Hiking Club
4.7

**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/)***

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2 attendees
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Frequently asked questions

Meetup is a great place to start. Search for backpacking groups specific to Toronto and browse through a variety of options tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.

You can find everything from local group hikes to more intense backpacking trips designed for different skill levels and interests within the Toronto region.

Absolutely. Meetup allows you to join as many groups as you like, enabling you to connect with a variety of backpacking communities in Toronto.

Event descriptions typically include details on difficulty, length, and required experience, so you can choose events that match your backpacking skills and preferences.

Yes, many groups cater to beginners, offering events that are ideal for those new to backpacking, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.

It's recommended to bring essentials such as water, snacks, proper footwear, and sunscreen. Check event pages for specific recommendations or requirements.

Definitely. Joining Meetup backpacking groups is a great way to explore new trails and hidden gems in and around Toronto that you might not find otherwise.

Oftentimes, event organizers or members have extensive local knowledge, providing guidance and safety tips during group trips in the Toronto area.

Event routes and details are mostly provided by organizers, not directly by Meetup, so it's crucial to read the information shared by the hosts carefully.

While many events are organized by passionate individuals, Meetup cannot guarantee the organization quality. It varies by group and event leader.

Some backpacking events are family-friendly, clearly indicated in their descriptions, making them a great outing option for families.

Event frequency can vary. Some groups offer weekly hikes while others plan monthly adventures. Check specific group schedules for details.

Meetup enables meeting new people, but the success of making connections often depends on your active participation and the group’s size.

Many hosts outline safety guidelines on their event pages to ensure participant safety. It's important to review and follow these guidelines.

Some events might be free, while others could require a fee for permits or shared costs. Check each event page for any specified costs.