Canyon Hikes Toronto

Dinner at Bale Kapampangan (after Bathurst Street hike)

This is a companion event for the [Jewish and Filipino Bathurst Street hike](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/316245847/). You don't have to do the hike to join this, but it's more rewarding if you do. Pampanga is regarded as the culinary capital of the Philippines and [Bale Kapampangan](https://balekapampangan.ca/) is the place to indulge in its cuisine. The Kapampangan palate is adventurous and quite different from the rest of the Philippines. Snails, frogs, blood, monitor lizards, and dogs are fair game. Thankfully, you won't find the latter two at this restaurant. Their menu is still unusual compared to other Filipino restaurants in Toronto. They've even introduced lobster dishes, in a nod to its Canadian home. Most dishes are large and meant for sharing. Bale Kapampangan does not take reservations on weekends, so we'll arrive before the dinner rush. Although the restaurant is aware of our arrival, **there's no guarantee there will be enough seats**. You might have to wait or we might split to different restaurants. RSVP closes 1 day before the event. If there are many people on the waitlist, we may increase the attendee limit. **Payment** * The $5 event fee is a deposit. It will be refunded when you show up for the event. * If there are spots available when you sign up, you have 24 hours to e-transfer the fee to globaltorontoeats@gmail.com * If you're on the waitlist for the restaurant event, you don't have to pay yet. After you've made it off the waitlist, you have 24 hours to pay. Remember to check your junk mail and Meetup notification settings so that you know when you've snagged a spot. * When sending the e-transfer, please add a note that mentions your Meetup.com name. * If you do not pay in time, you will be removed from the attendee list. The spot will be given to the next person on the waitlist. **Cancellation and refund policy** * You can cancel and get a full refund 5 calendar days before the event. For example, if the event is on Friday 7pm, you can cancel without penalty anytime before the preceding Sunday 11:59pm. * No refunds within 5 calendar days of the event, unless someone can be found to take your place. * Full refund if the event is cancelled, rescheduled, or you can't get a seat at the appointed time.

Hello Fall Colours: Dorset Hike & Lookout Tower

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/dorset-hike-and-lookout)** **Not every good trail makes it into a guidebook, and this hidden gem sure hasn't.** Tucked just southwest of Algonquin, it's a route we keep close for our members: rolling rock outcrops, quiet beaver ponds, and wide ridges that open into sweeping views when you least expect them. In September, the whole forest turns to a radiant display of red, orange, and gold; the kind of colours that makes you stop mid-stride. Welcome to fall in Ontario. We'll cover 7.5 km at a comfortable pace, with plenty of time to take it in before stopping for lunch at one of the best views on the route. It's a moderate hike, and a solid choice if this is your first time out on trail. From the trailhead, it's a short drive to Dorset. The tower was first built in 1922 as a fire lookout and rebuilt in 1967 into the structure that stands today. Climbing to the top puts you level with the treetops and gives you a panorama of the hills and lakes around Lake of Bays, all dressed in their fall colours. It's one of Ontario's most recognizable lookouts, offering a totally different perspective after a morning spent within the tree canopy. **Please note that anyone not taking the WU transportation will need to purchase their own tower access pass.** ‍ **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](mailto:info@wildernessunion.com) **Highlights** **The Lookout Tower Climb:** The observation deck sits 142 metres above Lake of Bays, with a 360 degree view over the surrounding hills and lakes. **A Trail Off the Map:** A quiet, little-known route kept for Wilderness Union members, far from the lineups that build up around Dorset in the fall. **Fall Colours:** Red, orange, and gold scattered across the Canadian Shield. **Event cost: $75+HST (for explorer members) + $60 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/dorset-hike-and-lookout)** **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/)***

Bus Hike: Terra Cotta (New Hikers/Families Welcome)

New Hikers (but all are welcome) are invited to join me on a 10 km Introductory Level Bus Hike on the Toronto Section of the Bruce Trail around Terra Cotta less than an hour from Toronto. Expect some downhill/uphill and tree roots but nothing too rocky or challenging. We'll be following behind the hikers completing the club's annual two day E2E hike. There will be the option of a short out and back hike on the Walking Fern Side Trail at the end. After the hike we'll drive to Spirit Tree Estates Cidery that offers pizza and baked goods and a country store. Hopefully the weather cooperates so we can sit on the picnic tables outside. Optional dropout at 5 km. Hiking boots are recommended. Beginners and families welcome. \*\* Registration opens Sun Aug 30 at 8:00 PM. You must register and prepay the bus fare on the Bruce Trail Conservancy Website $25 Members/$32 Non-Member Children Under 10 $12/$14 (bus fares are non-refundable and the hike goes rain or shine) Registration link: [https://hikes.brucetrail.org/event/bus-hike-terra-cotta-new-hikers-families-welcome/2026-09-12/](https://hikes.brucetrail.org/event/bus-hike-terra-cotta-new-hikers-families-welcome/2026-09-12/)

HIKE - SOCKS - BEER (Bermuda Triangle)

Scarborough Bluffs: Guild Park - South Marine Drive Park and back

This is a Photography hike in that we will take pictures at Guild Park and on the shore towards South Marine Drive Park You can view the history of the Guild Inn here: http://guildinnestate.com/guild-inn-history/ Distance: 8-10k hike Hiking Pace: slow to medium, take lots of pictures Elevation: +600' No Dogs Allowed (rules of Guild Inn) The Guild Inn Estate 201 Guildwood Pkwy · Scarborough, ON There are plenty of parking spots at Guild Park and Gardens. We'll meet in the first parking lot south of Guildwood Pkwy. In case you are lost, please call my cell: 647-949-6912 **Important Reminder:** By participating in this hike, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the Liability Waiver and Acknowledgement of Risk. If you have not done so, we kindly request that you refrain from participating in this event. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to an enjoyable and safe adventure! • Dress for the weather! Prepare for the weather and wear suitable gear for the trail. • Ice cleats are mandatory! • Arrive on time! Please be punctual, as the group will leave on time. • Know your limits! Choose the hike that match your fitness level. After the event we may stop for a hot coffee or tea.

Bruce Peninsula Trip: Grotto & Hiking

Humber salmon run (5 km)

It's salmon season! The short falls at Etienne Brulé park is the most reliable place to see salmon jumping against the current. It's also the most convenient too; just a few minutes from a subway station. We'll use the last light of day to spot migrating salmon. At dusk, we'll hike through so-called garden suburbs. Baby (pronounced babby) Point was the site of Teiaiagon, a Seneca village. Today, it's developed into landscaped single-family homes around swirly lanes. There are decent cafes but they're closed at night. So, we won't linger. We'll head to Bloor West Village, filled with restaurants and minor attractions. There's a converted theatre, a library with Haida totem poles, and scattered Ukrainian businesses. This neighbourhood was a magnet for Ukrainian immigrants in the 1950s. Most have moved on to other parts of the GTA but there's a resurgence in recent years with new Ukrainian restaurants sprouting up. There will be very quick stops to check out some bakeries and cafes en route. **Highlights** 1. Old Mill Restaurant (depart 6:15pm) 2. Salmon jump at Etienne Brulé Park 3. Rabago Bakery and Cafe (depart 7:05pm) 4. Momo Ghar 5. Chebureky House 6. The CakeSmith 7. Bao Bao Dim Sum / Meaty Eats 8. Runnymede Theatre 9. Runnymede Library (arrive 8pm) **Neighbourhoods** The Kingsway> Baby Point > Runnymede **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1VU95gNa5QAVCCoPTJcNK3jto8T7USBI&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1VU95gNa5QAVCCoPTJcNK3jto8T7USBI&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 have been 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.

Food evolution in poorly-planned neighbourhoods (6 km)

**Attendance policy is enforced for this hike**. See below for details. Liberty Village and CItyPlace are two high-density neighbourhoods that are examples of how not to do urban planning. Thankfully, some things have gotten better, like the presence of some good restaurants. This hike will highlight some of the better food options and architectural gems in these neighbourhoods. End the hike at a trio of casual restaurants: classic burgers, grilled chicken, or Thai street food—all the top of their kind in Toronto. **Highlights** 1. Haydn's Acaí at Stackt Market (depart 6:30 pm) 2. Puente de Luz 3. Mailo's 4. Canoe Landing Community Recreation Centre (depart 6:55 pm) 5. Parade condos 6. Roywoods 7. Fort York / The Bentway 8. Garrison Point condos / Garrison Crossing 9. bb.q Chicken / Burgers n' Fries Forever 10. Liberty Village Park (depart 7:35 pm) 11. Thindi Cafe / Chiang Mai Restaurant / Aloette Go 12. Wilbur's Taco Shop 13. Toronto Carpet Factory 14. Thai Barn Na / Burger Drops / Mozy's (arrive 8:05 pm) **Neighbourhoods** Liberty Village > Fort York > CityPlace **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1cTd7g0hRwCk-7OkO-O3UhhJRb4QBQYM&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1cTd7g0hRwCk-7OkO-O3UhhJRb4QBQYM&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.](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. **Attendance policy** Please check in with an organizer when you arrive. 24 hours before the hike, we'll note 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.

HikeFit: Earl Bales – Steep Hills Fitness Hike – L3 (Moderate)

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

Caves, Cliffs, and Crevices: The Duncan Caves Loop

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/duncan-caves)** **Join us as we head to the Duncan escarpment to explore some incredible ‘crevice’ or ‘fracture’ caves, created over thousands of years through a mixture of glacial movement, extreme temperatures and the raw force of gravity.** We start the hike through open farmland and meadow before the ground tilts up and we climb onto the escarpment itself. From there, most of the day is spent walking along the escarpment and through the forest that grows right up to the cliff edge and spill over its exposed rock. We will then descend into the caves, with some being over 30 metres deep. You will be scrambling in some places, working your way down and through one of the more unique pieces of trail anywhere in Ontario. From the caves, the trail climbs back along the escarpment edge through mature forest, with a stretch of cliff top that opens up into views out over the valley below. We drop back down and loop through the same mix of field and forest that opened the day. **Parking is extremely limited at the trailhead, so we recommend taking transport for this adventure.** ‍ **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](mailto:info@wildernessunion.com) **Highlights** **The Crevice Caves:** A gorge over 30 metres deep, formed by rock shifting off the escarpment face. **Cliff Top Views:** A stretch of trail along the escarpment edge showing off open views over the valley. **Farmland to Forest:** Open farm fields give way straight into escarpment forest. **Event cost: $60+HST (for explorer members) - $40 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/duncan-caves)** **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/)***

🌳🚶‍♂️ Eglinton West Trail & Mimico Creek + Swiss Chalet 🍗! 12KM

**🌳🚶‍♂️ Eglinton West Trail & Mimico Creek + Swiss Chalet 🍗** Golden trails, sparkling creek, great conversation… and Swiss Chalet after 🍗. We’re walking **Eglinton West & Mimico Creek** this weekend — once it’s over, it’s gone. Meet awesome people, get fresh air, and make memories you *won’t* get sitting at home 💬☀️. 📱 Don't forget to join our **WhatsApp Group – [CLICK HERE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc)** **📍 Meetup Details** 🚌 **Start:** We’ll begin by taking the **73 Bus** to Eglinton West. 🚶‍♀️ **Route:** Follow the city trail until we reach Mimico Creek, take a short park break 🌳, then continue back to **Royal York Subway Station** 🚇. 📌 **Location:** Inside Royal York Subway Station — by the stairs on the bus platform. Look for me in my 🦌 Moose Hat! ⏰ **Time:** We leave with the **10:55am bus** — I will only wait until departure. 💵 **Fee:** $5 cash 💰 or e-transfer to **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** **🎒 What to Bring:** 💧 Water 👟 Good walking shoes 🥪 Snack 🚻 Bathroom stop before you arrive (there *may* be facilities on the walk, but not guaranteed) 🏁 **End Spot:** Back at Royal York Subway Station 🕒 **Leaving Time:** Anytime you like — your pace, your choice! **⚠️ Notes:** * Plans can change — please check for possible cancellations 🔔. * You can **just show up** if you’re not sure until the last minute. 💬 This group is open to *everyone* — singles, couples, social butterflies 🦋, and anyone who wants to meet great people. We also host 🎥 movies, 🥾 hikes, 🎭 arts & culture outings, and more.**[!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc)** 📩 **Organizer:** Mathew — post a message on the wall or email **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com** for questions. **Come for the trails.** **Stay for lunch.** **Leave with a new connection — and maybe a new friend.** 🌳🍦💛

Taylor-Massey Creek & Don River Walk + Ice Cream 🌳🍦9KM

## **Taylor-Massey Creek & Don River Walk + Ice Cream** 🌳🍦 **Taylor-Massey Creek** is a tributary of the Don River, winding its way through Scarborough and East York before meeting the Don. Named after two prominent Toronto families, the Taylors were well-known for owning and operating the historic Don Valley Brick Works. This walk takes us along the scenic **Taylor-Massey Creek Trail**, through the **Don Valley**, and ends with a challenging hill climb before rewarding ourselves with **ice cream at Dairy Queen**. If ice cream isn’t your thing, you can continue with the group toward Broadview Station. 📲Don't forget to join our **WhatsApp Group – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc)** *** ### **🕰 Meetup Details** **Start Location:** Outside the main entrance of Victoria Park Station (on Victoria Park Road). Look for me in my Moose Hat 🦌. **End Point:** Near Broadview Station *(we will not be returning to Victoria Park)*. *** ### **💵 Meetup Fee** **$5 cash in person** or **e-transfer** to: **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** *** ### **🥾 What to Bring** * Water 💧 * Comfortable walking shoes 👟 * A snack 🥪 * Bathroom breaks are limited — there’s only one near the very end of the walk. *** ### **🚶 Pace & Flexibility** We’ll be leaving Victoria Park at a steady walking pace, but you can leave anytime you like. *** ### **Please Notes** * Occasionally events need to be cancelled — please check for updates before heading out. * You can **RSVP in advance or just show up** if you’re unsure you can make it. * This group is open to **everyone** — single, coupled, shy, social, new in town, or a long-time local. We also host **movies, hikes, arts & culture, restaurants**, and more — come be part of it! 📧 **Contact Mathew (Organizer):** Post a message on the wall or email **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com** **Come for the trails.** **Stay for the ice cream.** **Leave with a new connection — and maybe a new friend.** 🌳🍦💛