Challenging Hikes Toronto

The Queen Hike (18 km anniversary hike)

**Attendance policy is enforced for this hike**. See below for details. To celebrate our anniversary, we're hiking the entire length of Queen Street. Since Queen Street is *only* 14.3 km, we're continuing along the lakeshore to Etobicoke. Incidentally, this is the shortest route possible between Scarborough and Etobicoke. Queen Street runs through some of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Toronto: idyllic The Beaches, hip Leslieville, sketchy Moss Park, historic Old Town, bohemian West Queen West, and shabby chic Parkdale. The route buzzes with activity and attractions. And more importantly, acclaimed restaurants and bakeries featuring food from six continents. You need to be in decent shape and have a good appetite to do the entire route. However, as with other hikes, you are free to join and leave at any point. Those who walk the entire length of Queen St (Fallingbrook Rd to Roncesvalles Ave) will be eligible to buy a commemorative T-shirt (expected price \~$23). There are different dinner options at the end of the hike. 1. Modern Chinese. [Reserve your spot at Tis Two Cities](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315259938/). 2. Asado (grilled steaks and meats): [Reserve your spot at Vos Restaurante Argentino](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315260441/). 3. Panuzzo and pizza at San Vito's Bakery. Walk-in. 4. Sushi at Krazy Roll. Walk-in. [See all our past hikes](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1_FpYriQNv5okUB-oiCODi56uiRDgPGI&usp=sharing). **Highlights** Segment 1: The Beaches 1. Start (or end) of Queen St at Fallingbrook Rd (depart 1pm) 2. R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant 3. Bagels on Fire / Fox Theatre 4. XOLA / Kyouka Ramen 5. Beaches Library 6. Tiflisi / Limon / Inmigrante 7. Toronto Fire Station 227 / Delina 8. Holi Taco / Dulcinella (arrive 1:58pm; depart 2:15pm) Segment 2: Leslieville 1. Dirty Birrias 2. Ashbridge Estate 3. Sweet Bliss Bakery / Hastings Snack Bar 4. Descendant Detroit Style Pizza 5. Kristapsons' Smoked Salmon 6. Ocha's / Leslie’s Sandwich Room 7. Tabule / Amber Kitchen and Coffee 8. Lamoon Thai Kitchen & Coffee 9. The Broadview Hotel / Happy Burger / White Lily Diner 10. Elviras (arrive 3:16pm; depart 3:33pm) Segment 3: Moss Park 1. Queen Street Viaduct 2. Los Gyros 3. Kim's Convenience 4. Moss Park Armoury / Panemor 5. Eaton Centre 6. Old City Hall / City Hall / Osgoode Hall 7. Campbell House Museum 8. Aux Merveilleux de Fred / Alpha's Shawarma 9. Mizzica Gelateria & Cafe 10. Banh Mi Boys / Yukimi Donburi (arrive 4:43pm; depart 4:56pm) Segment 4: West Queen West 1. Ramen x Remix / Bagels on Fire 2. Mico Italian Sandwiches / Maison 118 / Ngogo / North of Brooklyn 3. Sud Forno / Sanko Trading Co 4. Trinity Bellwoods Park 5. Forno Cultura 6. King Slice / DoDoner / Lisgar Park 7. The Grand Order of Divine Sweets / Han Kki 8. The MoMo House 9. Garleek Kitchen / Afrobeat Kitchen 10. Katyn Monument (arrive 6:20pm; depart 6:35pm) Segment 5: Sunnyside 1. Roncesvalles Pedestrian Bridge / Palais Royale 2. Sunnyside Dinosaur Playground 3. Sunnyside Pavilion 4. Trans Canada Trail Pavilion 5. Humber Bay Arch Bridge / Sheldon Lookout 6. Krazy Roll 7. San Vito's Bakery / Tis Two Cities (arrive 7:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** Fallingbrook > The Beaches > Leslieville > Riverside > Moss Park > Old Town > Downtown Core > West Queen West > Parkdale > Sunnyside > Humber Bay Shores **Map and terrain** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=17oNClOxL7LtZ7hqQv9AFxtxVDjozisU&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=17oNClOxL7LtZ7hqQv9AFxtxVDjozisU&usp=sharing) Portions of Queen Street have narrow sidewalks and lots of people. Since we're a big group, you can pick between the north and south sides of Queen St to walk. The map shows which side has better food and attractions but the other side may have interesting stuff too. We're walking westwards in the afternoon, so bring sun protection. **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.

Sunnybrook - Don River ADVANCED Hike 🌻

Earl Bales Park Mountain Goat 🐐 - Challenging Hike ⛰️ ⛰️

Chasing Hilton Falls: A Summertime Hike

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hilton-summer)** **Hilton Falls is one of the best hiking spots close to Toronto, and we’ll be heading there with the crew to take it all in!** The route blends two very different trail personalities into one amazing adventure. The Beaver Dam Trail is wide and relaxed, threading past active beaver ponds and along the Niagara escarpment. If we’re lucky, we may see some of these incredible creatures at work. From there, we move on to the Hilton Falls Side Trail, which becomes a more technical, Bruce Trail singletrack with rocks and roots that make you pay attention to where you’re stepping, along with beautiful views from atop the escarpment. The waterfall is the centrepiece of this hike: a 10 metres fixture that flows over a rocky ledge into a pool flanked by the stone ruins of three 19th-century sawmills. It's one of the better pieces of trail-accessible industrial history anywhere close to the city. Good company, good trails, and an unforgettable day. See you there! **Highlights** **Hilton Falls:** A 10-metre drop over the Escarpment edge, framed by the stone ruins of three 19th-century sawmills. **Beaver Ponds:** Active beaver ponds and wetlands along a tributary of Sixteen Mile Creek. Move quietly and you might spot reptiles, amphibians, and a lot of beaver handiwork up close. **Close to the City:** Our Trailhead sits less than an hour from downtown Toronto. **Event cost: $50+HST (for explorer members) - $40 optional transport available.** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/hilton-summer)** **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/)***

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

Train & Barenaked Ladies with Matt Nathanson

Come to BC With Us!

Holiday Time! I'm away for a week. Keep an eye on the schedule for our sunday hikes!

Epic #1 - The Brent Run

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/epic-1)** ***Welcome to The Epics!*** ***Through this series, we will embark together on five of the most legendary and challenging adventures anywhere in Ontario.*** **History** The origins of the iconic Brent Run are steeped in wilderness lore. What we do know is that, starting nearly 100 years ago, hardcore guides in Algonquin began trying to complete this grueling 160 km challenge in a 24-hour window. Few have succeeded but, to this day, the legend lives on. **What You Need to Know** For our version of the Brent Run, we’ve taken the best half of this historic adventure and stretched it over five days. This maintains the challenge of the journey (trust us, it will still be a significant challenge) while also allowing us the time to actually appreciate the impressive makeup and scale of the park. You'll travel ***from the top of Algonquin Park all the way down to the Highway 60 corridor*** in this incredible test of endurance and determination. Covering roughly **80 km with 11km of portages**, this journey takes you through the heart of the park’s rugged wilderness, combining long paddling stretches with challenging portages that require strength, patience, and planning. We'll be getting up early each day and putting in long hours (up to 12 hours some days!) to make it to our next campsite each night. Along the way, you'll begin to understand how special Algonquin is, as you cover huge distances without once coming into contact with civilization. Expect to navigate a mix of serene lakes and winding rivers, each with its own character and obstacles, from choppy open waters to twisting, narrow channels. Portages along the route can range from manageable to gruelling, with some stretches featuring steep climbs, uneven terrain, and slippery rocks that will test both your body and your gear. ***For those willing to embrace the challenge, the Brent Run offers one of the most rewarding and unforgettable journeys in Algonquin Park.*** **What's Included:** * *Return transport between Toronto and Algonquin* * *2 expert guides with advanced wilderness skills and medical training* * *Rentals for lightweight canoes, PFDs and paddles* * *All camp meals, cooking equipment and mess kits* * *All safety equipment (including first aid kits and water purification)* * *Tents and all the camping equipment you'll need (sleeping bags and pads are available for rent)* * *All permits and campsite bookings for the whole trip* * *A preparatory information session* * *Detailed trip plan with packing lists, maps and the indigenous history of the route we're following* * *Extensive planning to ensure your safety throughout the adventure* * *A custom, iron-on patch to immortalize your unforgettable adventure* NB: As this is a one-way adventure, self-driving will not be possible. ***Epics are mentally and physically demanding adventures, and participation isn’t automatically guaranteed. These expeditions require skill, determination and teamwork to get through.*** ***To help ensure a safe and rewarding experience for all, anyone who has not previously completed an Epic will need to fill out a short questionnaire so we can assess readiness together.*** ***Your level of fitness and outdoors experience will play a role in this process. Having certain adventures under your belt will ensure you have the right skills and preparation for these kinds of experiences. These include:*** * ***Any Wilder Series adventure, including the upcoming Wilder Loop*** * ***Any Survivalist Series adventure, including Introduction to Navigation or Cold Exposure*** * ***Canoe Foundations Clinic*** * ***Hilton Falls Mega*** * ***Any other adventure with 4 or 5 star difficulty*** ***If you register for an Epic and are not approved, you will receive a refund in full.*** **Highlights** **An Epic Challenge -** Follow the historic 80km line from Cedar Lake to Canoe Lake, tracing the path of the legendary park guides who turned this route into a provincial icon. **Abundant Wildlife -** Algonquin is teeming with wildlife and you'll get to experience it over our 5 days in some of the most remote regions of the park. ‍**Backcountry Bonding -** Forge friendships and memories that will last a lifetime as you work together to successfully complete this adventure. **Event cost: $1050+HST. Please register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/epic-1)** **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/)***

Asado at Vos Restaurante (after The Queen hike)

This is a companion event for the [The Queen hike](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315070707/). You don't have to join the hike to sign up for this, but it's more rewarding if you do. Only a handful of restaurants in the GTA offer Argentine asado (BBQ). [Vos Restaurante](https://vostoronto.com/) is the top pick for its expert grilling and range of meats. Enjoy picaña (sirloin cap), morcilla (blood sausage), mollejas (sweetbreads), and more. Their gourmet empanadas are also popular with 6 flavours to choose from. RSVP closes 3 days before the event. If there are many people on the waitlist, we may arrange more seats. **Payment** * The $10 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, you don't have to pay until a space opens up. You have 24 hours to pay the deposit after you've made it off the waitlist. Remember to check your junk mail and Meetup notification settings so that you're notified when you've snagged a spot. * When sending the e-transfer, please add a note that mentions your Meetup.com name. * If payment is not received 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 or rescheduled.

Dinner at Tis Two Cities (after The Queen hike)

This is a companion event for the [The Queen Hike](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/events/315070707/). You must hike some portion of the route to join this dinner. Those who signed up for the dinner but not the hike will be removed from the attendee list. [Tis Two Cities](https://www.tistwocities.com/) is the only Chinese restaurant of its class in Toronto: refined yet homey in ambience and food. The two cities alluded to in its name are Chongqing, where the restaurant began, and Toronto, where it moved to. The menu is split between traditional and fusion. Traditional Sichuanese dishes like mapo topu or juju pots (claypot dishes) are competent. More interesting are the modern creations like chilli grilled branzino or seared pepper eggplants with avocadoes. Note that the spice level isn't as high as in Chongqing. RSVP closes 3 days before the event. If there are many people on the waitlist, we may arrange more seats. There is a 18% mandatory gratuity since we're a large group. **Payment** * The $10 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, you don't have to pay until a space opens up. You have 24 hours to pay the deposit after you've made it off the waitlist. Remember to check your junk mail and Meetup notification settings so that you're notified when you've snagged a spot. * When sending the e-transfer, please add a note that mentions your Meetup.com name. * If payment is not received 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 or rescheduled.

Group Hike at Mono Cliffs! 🌲✨ Escape to the Trails

Looking for a refreshing day out in nature and a chance to meet some awesome new people? Join us with our language exchange group for a beautiful hike at Mono Cliffs Provincial Park! We’ll be exploring the best of the Niagara Escarpment—think stunning cliff-top views, peaceful cedar forests, boardwalks, and cool rock formations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just want to get outside and get active, this is the perfect excuse to unplug and connect with fellow nature lovers. **🥾 The Details** * **Distance:** \~8 km * **Pace:** Moderate and group-friendly * **Vibe:** Welcoming, relaxed, and social **🎒 What to Bring** * Comfy hiking shoes or trail runners * Plenty of water + lunch/snacks * Weather-appropriate layers * Sunscreen and bug spray * Good vibes and an adventurous spirit! **📌 Important Notes** > * **Be on time:** Please arrive sharp so we can head out together. > * **Weather:** Rain or shine! (We'll only cancel if severe weather hits). > * **Logistics:** Participants are responsible for their own transportation and park admission/parking fees. Come see why Mono Cliffs is one of Southern Ontario’s absolute favorite hiking spots. Can’t wait to hit the trails with you! 👋 ### **Total Fees $19.50** *Mono cliffs vehicle pass fee $8.50 (paid to park)* *Meetup Fee $11 (paid to Event Host)*

Mimico waterfront and sweet treats (7.5 km)

This will be a fairly easy walk to some of the local spots and waterfront area of Mimico. Two places on this walk — Sanremo Bakery and Tom's Dairy Freeze — have been around since 1969. From Mimico's picturesque waterfront, we walk to some lookout points in Humber Bay Park, then head up to Jeff Healey Park, which honours the late jazz and blues musician. We will end the walk at Tom's Dairy Freeze, which typically has long line-ups for their soft-serve ice cream. **\*\*NOTE:** Tom's Dairy Freeze is cash only. **Bring cash** if you plan to get an ice cream. **Highlights** 1. Start at Mimico GO Station (depart at 2 p.m.) 2. Sanremo Bakery 3. Krispy Kreme Doughnut Factory 4. Birds & Beans Cafe 5. Humber Bay Lookout Points 6. Air India 182 Memorial 7. Chang Mai Restaurant 8. Jeff Healy Park 9. Tom’s Dairy Freeze (arrive at 4:30 p.m ish) **Neighbourhoods** Mimico > Humber Bay Shores > Queensway **Map** https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1yzdthLiZd_uE5aowvDeW3zblsk3gx8M&usp=sharing **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at 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.