The Halton Outdoor Club upcoming events

England Hiking Trip (28 May 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

ENGLAND HIKING TRIP
Thursday May 28 – Sunday June 14, 2026

Registration opens Sunday May 25 (a stroke past midnight on the night of May 24)

Leaders: Loraine Walter arctic.lorie@gmail.com
Carol Bailey carolbailey688@gmail.com

We are heading to two beautiful parts of England: the scenic Peak District National Park and The Cornish Coast near the idyllic town of St. Ives. Accommodation during both weeks will be at HF Holidays country houses, where we will enjoy a wide variety of hiking options. We will travel from one area to the other, by coach bus, stopping for a night in the town of Plymouth.

In each location, well-trained volunteer guides lead 3 levels of hikes on every hiking day. There are opportunities to explore local areas and sightsee on your own.

Accommodation: One week at ‘The Peveril of the Peak’, Dovedale, Derbyshire in the Peak District and our second week will be based at “Chy Morvah”, Cornish for “house by the sea”, HF’s country house in St. Ives, Cornwall.

Cost: $6832 for double occupancy and $7063 for single occupancy.

Number of participants: 26 total, including the leaders. Eight of these spots are reserved for single occupancy.

Before you register, please read the Trip Information Sheet.

Trip Information Sheet

If you have any questions, please contact Loraine Walter arctic.lorie@gmail.com.

Cycling in Elgin & Oxford Counties (04 Jun 2026)

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Three Days of Exploring Ontario’s Railway History, Ports and Dairies by Bike

Thursday June 4–Saturday June 6, 2026

Registration Opens: March 15, 2026

(stroke of midnight March 14, 2026)

Trip Leader: Sue Dane

Ride Leaders & Sweeps: Melanie Baroch, Judy Dragun, Judy Gast

Ride Level Rating: LEVEL 2 (45-60 km, 18 km/hr average speed)

Riding Surface: Stone dust trails; paved road with bike lane; short stints on quiet paved and gravel roads with no bike lane to join trails and paths, some rolling hills.

Description:

Enjoy three days of riding in and around Railway City aka St. Thomas, Ontario. We will start our adventure on Day 1 with a rail trail ride near Tillsonburg. Day 2: we will explore St. Thomas including the Elevated Park then ride to Port Stanley via the Whistle Stop Trail (designated bike lane on a paved road). Day 3: We will start in Aylmer and cycle to Port Bruce along the High Wheel Way (designated bike lane on a paved road) and through the Springwater Conservation Area (gravel trail). Plan for stops at the Elgin County Rail Museum, Shaw’s Famous Dairy Bar and Mistyglen Creamery!

Accommodation:

2 nights at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, St. Thomas

Trip Cost: Double Occupancy $338.00

Single Occupancy $540.00 (4 available)

Please read all the details on the Trip Information Sheet BEFORE you register.

CANCELLED Paddling Exploring the Nottawasaga River (06 Jun 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Paddling Title	Exploring the Nottawasaga River
Type of Trip	Day Trip
Date	Saturday, June 6, 2026
OVERALL RATING FOR THIS TRIP	GRADE B (COMFORTABLE BEGINNER)
SKILLS REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP Skills required to deal with the following anticipated conditions.	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Comfortable forward stroke; Comfortable reverse stroke; Comfortable turning strokes; Able to perform assisted rescue as swimmer within 2 attempts and as a rescuer *
Anticipated Trip Conditions
Wind	Grade A (Beginner) Light; 10 kms/hour
Waves, Breaking Waves, Swell	Grade A (Beginner) Under 1 foot waves; No breaking waves (Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled; no whitecaps)
Current	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Mild currents; Up to 2-3 kms/hour
Open Crossings	Grade A (Beginner) No open crossings
Landing Type	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Pebble; more steep; sand bars
Landing Frequency	Grade C (Intermediate) No more than 5 kms between landings
Total Distance Per Day	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Up to 15 km
IMPORTANT HOC TRIP RATING INFORMATION AND CANCELLATION	We can only anticipate what the trip conditions will be prior to the trip; and they are subject to change based on the weather information for that day; therefore, the overall trip rating and the required skills needed to safely attend the trip, may be upgraded on the day of the trip. This eventuality includes the possible cancellation for some or all its participants; or the postponement of a trip for the following day. By signing up for a club trip, the participant assumes the risk that such a cancellation may occur, even as late as on the shoreline. HOC Paddling Trip Rating Tool-2024-02-29
Important Trip Details	We will be exploring the downstream river section from Edenvale Conservation Area to the Wasaga Beach Sports Park, located in Simcoe county. Approximately 15km in distance, and depending on water current this trip may take up to 4 hours to complete. A beautiful river sorrounded by dense forests, silver maple swamps, open meadow and corresponding wildlife. NOTE - depending on water levels, finding a suitable place to stop and stretch will be challenging. If found, landing spot will likely be muddy and slippery. Please keep that in mind in your decision to sign up. We will meet at the launch spot (Edenvale Conservation Area), drop off our boats and equipment then drive to park our vehicles at the sports park (end point), then Free Spirit tours will provide shuttling back to the start (launch spot). The shuttle is an additional fee of $25 per person. Please bring cash to pay the shuttle directly. Plastic type boats recommended over fiberglass, just in case we run into underwatter logs or rocks. What to Bring: - Lunch & snacks - Lots of Water - Compact camping chair so you don't have to sit on the ground - Extra change of clothes - Mosquito repellent or gear - Sun Protection
Body of Water	Nottawasaga River
Registration Opens	Day trip - 2 weeks before trip date
Registration Opens on this date (at 12:00 am)	May 23
Name of Volunteer Trip Leader(s)	Gabriela Sebestyen &Ed Brunato
Email of Volunteer Trip Leaders(s)	solis.sebestyen@gmail.com hocpaddling@gmail.com
Contingency Email, Name	solis.sebestyen@gmail.com hocpaddling@gmail.com
Trip Address	Launch Point: Edenvale Conservation Area 3920 ON-26, Minesing, ON L9X 0A9
Google Pin of Parking	https://maps.app.goo.gl/T76LHKkCXjS6WDkp9
Paddling Vessels Permitted	Recreational kayaks not permitted
Google Pin of Boat Launch	https://maps.app.goo.gl/T76LHKkCXjS6WDkp9
Arrival time - To get boats, equipment ready for launch	Arrive by 9:00 am to drop off boats/equipment then drive to the end point to park vehicles and take the shuttle back to the starting point
TIME - SHORELINE SAFETY MEETING (PRE-LAUNCH) (PDFs on; Kayaks, equipment on the shore, ready to go)	Ready to leave by 10am
Maximum number of paddlers including leader(s)	8
Boat Rental Available	Yes
Boat Rental Details	Contact Free Spirit Tours directly to arrange and pay: info@freespirittours.ca
Bathroom Facilities	Portapotty
After Paddle Leisure Time
Go to Restaurant After Paddle	To be determined
Trip Safety Requirements, What to Bring	Kayak with sealed fore and aft bulkhead compartments unless the paddle has been specified to permit recreational boats; Inflatable boats are not permitted; A properly fitting PFD or lifejacket must be worn at all times while in your kayak; Inflatable PFDs are not permitted: One (1) buoyant heaving line at least 15 m (49’3”) long; One (1) bailer OR One manual bilge pump; One (1) pealess whistle; If paddling before sunrise or after sunset or in periods of restricted visibility like fog, one (1) all-round light (A light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees); For multi day trips, one (1) magnetic compass (handheld or deck); For kayaks over 6m (19’8”): One (1) watertight flashlight with working batteries AND Six (6) flares of Type A (Rocket parachute flare), Type B (Multi Star flare) Type C (Hand flare) Type D (Smoke Signal), however, only two (2) can be Type D; A minimum of one spare paddle per 2 participants; A spray skirt is required unless you are in a recreational boat (a boat which lacks either a fore or aft sealed bulkhead) or on a Grade A trip; Each participant must have completed their wet exit practise within the past 12 months Please note the club does not provide equipment. If rentals are noted above, it is at the expense of the club member. Please read the details.
Trip Cost Per Participant	No cost to participate, however, there is a $25 cash fee per person to be shuttled back to the start point. Please read trip details.
Incidental Costs	Additional expenses may arise on this trip and the participant assumes the financial responsibility. These are costs which have not been factored in the trip budget and will typically, but not exclusively, entail unforeseen expenses, such as evacuation, ambulance, treatments, food, lodging due to illness.
Trip Cancellation Policy - Day Trips, No Cost	For day trips with no cost, please self cancel. Go to the club website. From the menu, select: ATTEND EVENTS > HOW TO SELF CANCEL

Cycling Level 2: St. Catherines’ Walmart Vansickle to Sunset Beach (06 Jun 2026)

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:45:00 GMT

RIDE	Level 2: St. Catherines’ Walmart Vansickle to Sunset Beach
DATE	Saturday June 6, 2026
RIDE LEADER(S)	Sylvia Wheeler
RIDE LEADERS’ CONTACT	girlupontrek@gmail.com 289-687-3224
CADENCE/PACE	Level 2: 18 km per hour
DESCRIPTION	Easy. 18 KM per hour. Some road
DISTANCE (km)	36 +/- Km.
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Walmart on Vansickle. Park in centre area so others can use mall. 9:45 for 10 am start
MEETING PLACE MAP	St. Catharines Walmart. 43° 9' 12.9305" N 79° 16' 17.9065" W 420 Vansickle Road St. Catherines
SOCIAL	Picnic on Sunset Beach. Bring your own lunch and drink. Bring waterproof shoes to wade in Lake Ontario and a light jacket.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trips leaders will be able to email you with updates & last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
EXTRAS	We stop for lunch & snacks, unless noted, so bring a lunch, snacks & water. Also we stop at a beach, so bring a light jacket.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube. Covid guidelines will be observed.

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 3 - Long, with breaks as needed, these rides are over 60km, more than 18 km/hr on average or road rides where speeds are always over 20 km/hr. on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Non-Members: If you are thinking about becoming a member, The Halton Outdoor Club invites you to take part in up to two (2) club activities as a Non-Member. After that, please join our club so we can welcome you as a member.Registration is required for all events, and you will have to agree to the waiver of participation when registering.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Cycling LEVEL 2: Hillsburgh to Belwood Lake Conservation Area, Cataract Trail (07 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 2 Hillsburgh to Belwood Lake Conservation Area, Cataract Trail
DATE	Sunday, June 7, 2026 9:15 am- 2:30 pm
RIDE LEADER	Mickey Segal
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	segalmi@outlook.com, (416) 389-1594
CADENCE/PACE	LEVEL 2 18 km on average
DESCRIPTION	Hard packed gravel, flat rail trail, out and back
DISTANCE	44km+/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at Parking lot on Station Rd, just off Trafalgar Rd, Hillsburgh at 9:15 for a 9:30 start.
MEETING PLACE MAP	43°47'04.9"N 80°08'35.9"W https://goo.gl/maps/HihnfjwDxQkaUvSv9
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
SOCIAL	We stop for picnic lunch at the Belwood Lake Conservation area so bring your lunch/snack.Optional stop for butter tarts/ ice cream in Belwood.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	WATER, Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Hiking Bruce Trail to Grindstone Creek (07 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

The difficulty of a hike is determined by the speed, distance, elevation gain and terrain. Please read the template to determine if the hike is right for you. More descriptors are included in the Guiding Notes below the template.

HIKE TITLE	Bruce Trail to Grindstone Creek
DATE	Sunday, June 7, 2026
HIKE LEADER(S)	Patti and Jim Blair
LEADER EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER	Patti 905 906 6941 pattiblair87@gmail.com
MEETING TIME and START TIME	9:15 for 9:30 start
MEETING/ PARKING LOCATION	Parking lot behind Walmart in Waterdown at the far eastern end of the lot
MEETING MAP (link)	Behind Walmart in Waterdown
ENTRANCE FEES	None
DISTANCE	7 km +/-
DURATION OF HIKE	2.5 hours
SPEED Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less Moderate: 3-4 km/hour Fast: 4-5 km/hour	Moderate. Speed limited by rocky terrain in some sections.
ELEVATION GAIN Low: mostly flat - a few hills Moderate: some ups and downs High: lots of hills, steep and/or long	Moderate to high. Some steep ups and downs! We descend the escarpment to Grindstone Creek and return.
TERRAIN Easy: wide trail, usually good footing Moderate: some areas of tricky footing Challenging: rugged trail with tricky footing	Moderate with a few rocky sections.
TYPE OF HIKE: i.e. Loop, There & Back or Combination	There and back.
GENERAL ROUTE DESCRIPTION Points of Interest and Special Notes	We will work along the Bruce Trail to Grindstone Creek through beautiful hardwood forest with scenic ravines and ridges.
Other Specifics to Your Hike i.e. social to follow hike
REGISTRATION is required and opens 2 weeks prior to the hike.	Up to 15 hikers may register. Leaders appreciate early registration, but you can register at the last minute. Please join the waitlist if the hike is full.
CANCELLATION	• If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot. • The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.
WHAT TO BRING	• Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. • Hiking poles will be helpful. • Dress in layers according to weather; wear/bring waterproof rainwear. • Bring snacks and enough water for the duration of the hike. • Sun and bug protection as required

GUIDING NOTES:

HIKE PACE - Pace refers to the speed of walking. Rest stops are not figured in to the overall pace, however they are figured in to the Duration of the Hike. These paces represent an average and may vary depending on the terrain, weather, group size, etc.

Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less.

Moderate: 3-4 km/hour

Fast: 4-5 km/hour.

TERRAIN – This refers to the footing on the trail itself and is influenced by the presence of rocks, roots, step-ups and step-downs, as well as the width of the trail. Please note variations can be expected with wet or icy conditions.

Easy: wide trails, may be paved or hard packed, mostly good footing, i.e. rail trails, waterfront trails

Moderate: some tricky footing, i.e. Bruce Trail, Dundas Valley, Conservation Areas, RBG trails

Challenging: significant areas of tricky footing (some parts of the Bruce Trail, some trails in Short Hills, up and down the escarpment).

ELEVATION: This refers to the accumulated elevation gained over the course of the hike.

Low: route is mostly flat but may include some gentle ups and downs

Moderate: route has hills, a few may be steep and/or long, but also some flat areas

Challenging: route has lots of hills, some of which are steep and long and few areas that are flat

Attention Non-Members: If you are thinking about becoming a member, The Halton Outdoor Club invites you to take part in up to two club activities as a Non-Member. After that, please join our club so we can welcome you as a member. Registration is required for all events, and you will have to agree to the waiver of participation when registering.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Paddling Belwood Lake Conservation Area (07 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Paddling Title	Belwood Lake Conservation Area
Type of Trip	Day Trip
Date	Sunday, June 7, 2026
OVERALL RATING FOR THIS TRIP	GRADE B (COMFORTABLE BEGINNER)
SKILLS REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP Skills required to deal with the following anticipated conditions.	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Comfortable forward stroke; Comfortable reverse stroke; Comfortable turning strokes; Able to perform assisted rescue as swimmer within 2 attempts and as a rescuer *
Anticipated Trip Conditions
Wind	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Light to Moderate; 11 to 20 kms/hour; Wind noticeably affects movement of the paddler
Waves, Breaking Waves, Swell	Grade A (Beginner) Under 1 foot waves; No breaking waves (Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled; no whitecaps)
Current	Grade A (Beginner) None or mild
Open Crossings	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Up to 2 kms
Landing Type	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Pebble; more steep; sand bars
Landing Frequency	Grade C (Intermediate) No more than 5 kms between landings
Total Distance Per Day	Grade B (Comfortable Beginner) Up to 15 km
IMPORTANT HOC TRIP RATING INFORMATION AND CANCELLATION	We can only anticipate what the trip conditions will be prior to the trip; and they are subject to change based on the weather information for that day; therefore, the overall trip rating and the required skills needed to safely attend the trip, may be upgraded on the day of the trip. This eventuality includes the possible cancellation for some or all its participants; or the postponement of a trip for the following day. By signing up for a club trip, the participant assumes the risk that such a cancellation may occur, even as late as on the shoreline. HOC Paddling Trip Rating Tool-2024-02-29
Important Trip Details	We will launch from the Belwood Lake Park at the south end of Belwood Lake. We will paddle north to the top end of the lake (7-8 km). We will have lunch in Belwood. Either bring your lunch or enjoy the bakery there, excellent sandwiches and butter tarts! There are picnic tables for lunch and outdoor washroom facility. After lunch we will paddle back to the park.
Body of Water	Belwood Lake
Registration Opens	Day trip - 2 weeks before trip date
Registration Opens on this date (at 12:00 am)	May 24
Name of Volunteer Trip Leader(s)	Maria Eugenia, Virginia
Email of Volunteer Trip Leaders(s)	mricote.citizens@gmail.com, vmartin100@gmail.com
Contingency Phone, Name	mricote.citizens@gmail.com
Trip Address	Belwwod Lake Park 8282 Wellington County Rd 18, Fergus, ON N1M 2W5
Google Pin of Parking	https://maps.app.goo.gl/JGXBEXbHsZGKXEVP8
Paddling Vessels Permitted	Recreational kayaks not permitted
Google Pin of Boat Launch	https://maps.app.goo.gl/JGXBEXbHsZGKXEVP8
Arrival time - To get boats, equipment ready for launch	10:00 AM
TIME - SHORELINE SAFETY MEETING (PRE-LAUNCH) (PDFs on; Kayaks, equipment on the shore, ready to go)	10:45
Maximum number of paddlers including leader(s)	12
Bathroom Facilities	Bathroom facilities on location
Trip Safety Requirements, What to Bring	Kayak with sealed fore and aft bulkhead compartments unless the paddle has been specified to permit recreational boats; Inflatable boats are not permitted; A properly fitting PFD or lifejacket must be worn at all times while in your kayak; Inflatable PFDs are not permitted: One (1) buoyant heaving line at least 15 m (49’3”) long; One (1) bailer OR One manual bilge pump; One (1) pealess whistle; If paddling before sunrise or after sunset or in periods of restricted visibility like fog, one (1) all-round light (A light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees); For multi day trips, one (1) magnetic compass (handheld or deck); For kayaks over 6m (19’8”): One (1) watertight flashlight with working batteries AND Six (6) flares of Type A (Rocket parachute flare), Type B (Multi Star flare) Type C (Hand flare) Type D (Smoke Signal), however, only two (2) can be Type D; A minimum of one spare paddle per 2 participants; A spray skirt is required unless you are in a recreational boat (a boat which lacks either a fore or aft sealed bulkhead) or on a Grade A trip; Each participant must have completed their wet exit practise within the past 12 months Please note the club does not provide equipment. If rentals are noted above, it is at the expense of the club member. Please read the details.
Trip Cost Per Participant	Entrance fee to Belwood Lake Park required at gate
Incidental Costs	Additional expenses may arise on this trip and the participant assumes the financial responsibility. These are costs which have not been factored in the trip budget and will typically, but not exclusively, entail unforeseen expenses, such as evacuation, ambulance, treatments, food, lodging due to illness.
Trip Cancellation Policy - Day Trips, No Cost	For day trips with no cost, please self cancel. Go to the club website. From the menu, select: ATTEND EVENTS > HOW TO SELF CANCEL

Cycling Level 3 Road Ride: Carlisle to Campbellville (07 Jun 2026)

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

RIDE	L-3 Road Ride: Carlisle to Campbellville
DATE	Sunday, June 7, 2026, 9:45 am-1.00 pm
RIDE LEADER	Frank Albanese Christine Charette
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	info@frankalbanese.com 416-567-9890 info@christinecharette.com. 416-568-2126
CADENCE/PACE # OF RIDERS	Level 3 , 10 riders max, Average speed 20+km/hour Speeds over 25 Km per hour at times during the ride
DESCRIPTION	Quiet roads, hills but no steep climbs, crosses railway tracks
DISTANCE	38km+/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at Carlisle Conservation Area parking lot on Centre Rd at 9:45 for a 10:00 start.
MEETING PLACE MAP	Carlisle Conservation Area https://maps.app.goo.gl/soyFS6qcqVPBX55QA
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
SOCIAL	We will be stopping at Trail Eatery for a snack or lunch so packing a lunch is optional.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Hiking Dundas Valley (09 Jun 2026)

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

HIKE TITLE	Dundas Valley
DATE	Tuesday June 9, 2026
HIKE LEADER(S)	Dave Somerville
LEADER EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER	Cdsomerville4@gmail.com 289 556 6707 (text morning of hike)
MEETING TIME and START TIME	9:15 a.m. for 9:30 start
MEETING/ PARKING LOCATION	Sanctuary Park, Dundas Sanctuary Parking Lot at the end of Sanctuary Street. Turn right on Sanctuary Street and go to end. Lot is on the right just past Skyline Drive.
MEETING MAP (link)	Sanctuary Parking Lot
ENTRANCE FEES	Free
DISTANCE	13 km
DURATION OF HIKE	4 – 5 hours
SPEED Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less Moderate: 3-4 km/hour Fast: 4-5 km/hour	Moderate / Fast
ELEVATION GAIN Low: mostly flat - a few hills Moderate: some ups and downs High: lots of hills, steep and/or long	Moderate / Challenging Some good UPS and DOWNS!
TERRAIN Easy: wide trail, usually good footing Moderate: some areas of tricky footing Challenging: rugged trail with tricky footing	Moderate Variety of natural trails, screened pathways and a short road walk. Some challenging “Bruce Trail” sections.
TYPE OF HIKE: i.e. Loop, There & Back or Combination	There and Back with Several LOOPS.
GENERAL ROUTE DESCRIPTION Points of Interest and Special Notes	From our starting spot we will follow the Spring Creek Trail, The Sawmill Trail, The McCormack Trail and The Main Bruce Trail for a variety of loops in “the valley.”
Other Specifics to Your Hike i.e. social to follow hike	PREPARE for Mother Nature! A stop in Dundas afterwards.
REGISTRATION is required and opens 2 weeks prior to the hike.	Up to 30 hikers may register. Leaders appreciate early registration, but you can register at the last minute. Please join the waitlist if the hike is full.
CANCELLATION	• If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot. • The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.
WHAT TO BRING	• Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. • Hiking poles will be helpful. • Dress in layers according to weather; wear/bring waterproof rainwear. • Bring snacks and enough water for the duration of the hike. Sun and bug protection as required.

GUIDING NOTES:

Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less.

Moderate: 3-4 km/hour

Fast: 4-5 km/hour.

Easy: wide trails, may be paved or hard packed, mostly good footing, i.e. rail trails, waterfront trails

Moderate:some tricky footing, i.e. Bruce Trail, Dundas Valley, Conservation Areas, RBG trails

Challenging: significant areas of tricky footing (some parts of the Bruce Trail, some trails in Short Hills, up and down the escarpment).

ELEVATION: This refers to the accumulated elevation gained over the course of the hike.

Low: route is mostly flat but may include some gentle ups and downs

Moderate: route has hills, a few may be steep and/or long, but also some flat areas

Challenging: route has lots of hills, some of which are steep and long and few areas that are flat

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Cycling LEVEL 2: Centennial Trailway, Burlington to Hamilton (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 2: Centennial Trailway, Burlington to Hamilton
DATE	Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
RIDE LEADER	Ellen Kennedy Paul Toffoletti
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	ellen.kennedy12@gmail.com 905-630-1057 paultgroups@gmail.com (289)230-2038
CADENCE/PACE	LEVEL 2 Up to an average of 18 km/hr
DESCRIPTION	Paved, flat trail along former hydro easement. Quite a few street crossings.
DISTANCE	35km +/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at Sherwood Forest Park, Fothergill Rd, off Prince William Drive at 9:00 for 9:15 start.
MEETING PLACE MAP	https://maps.app.goo.gl/pMmgWhFiP8rD7AdWA
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
SOCIAL	Bring water and snacks. Quick stop at the turn around point. Coffee in Downtown Burlington.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leaders will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	WATER, Snack, Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Hiking Hamilton Weekly Waterfront Walk (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

HIKE TITLE	Hamilton Weekly Waterfront Walk
DATE	June 10, 2026
HIKE LEADER(S)	Tammy Ross, Jim Blair, Heather Wilson
EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER	tammyross@rogers.com 905-518-6942
GENERAL LOCATION (City/Town)	Hamilton Harbour Waterfront Trail
START TIME	Meet at 9:15 for 9:30 start
MEETING PLACE OR PARKING LOCATION	Hamilton Bayfront Park Parking Lot - Google Search Park in the lot closest to the water. Meet at the stylized ship’s mast with “Waterfront Trail” written on the sail which is located in the corner of the parking lot, close to the water and the railway yard.
DISTANCE (km)	6 km with option to lengthen to 8 kms +, depending on route
PACE: Leisure/Moderate/Fast	Moderate: 3 - 4 kms per hour but pace may vary if you prefer a faster or slower pace
DURATION APPROX (hrs)	2 hours +/-
TERRAIN: Easy/Moderate/Challenging	Easy: Flat and paved.
TYPE OF HIKE: Loop, out and back, End to End	Out and back, with some possible route variations from week to week (i.e. up to York Blvd., over to pier 4, some city sidewalks)
GENERAL DESCRIPTION Point of interests	Along the waterfront of Hamilton Harbour, under bridge to Cootes Paradise and Bayfront Park. There may be some route variations.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. A Must. Leaders appreciate early registration and at least 24 hrs before the event.
CANCELLATION	• If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot. • The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.
REGISTRATION OPENS	Two weeks before the hike. Up to 20 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
WHAT TO BRING	• Hiking boots or good walking shoes • Carry: Snacks, water, extra layers, especially wind and rain protection.
OTHER SPECIFICS TO YOUR HIKE i.e. social to follow	A coffee stop at Williams Fresh Café, on the waterfront, is a regular option following the hike.

GUIDING NOTES:

HIKE PACE - Leisure: 3 km/hr or less. Moderate: 3-4 km/hr or Fast: 4-5km/hr. All paces are average and depending on the terrain.

TERRAIN - Easy: mostly flat and usually good footing (i.e. rail trails, Confederation Park, Bay Front Park), Moderate: some hills and/or poor footing (Bruce Trail, Dundas Valley, etc.) and Challenging: steep hills and strenuous footing (Bruce Trail, some trails in Short Hills, Dundas Valley and Red Hill Valley). Please note variations can be expected with weather conditions.

Registration is required for all events, and you will have to agree to the waiver of participation when registering.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

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Paddling Wednesday Night Paddle - 16 Mile Creek (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Paddling Title	Wednesday Night Paddle - 16 Mile Creek
Type of Trip	Day Trip
Date	June 10, 2026
OVERALL RATING FOR THIS TRIP	GRADE A (BEGINNER)
SKILLS REQUIRED FOR THIS TRIP Skills required to deal with the following anticipated conditions.	Grade A (Beginner) Entry level skills; Forward stroke ability; Reverse stroke ability; Turning stroke ability; Wet exit
Anticipated Trip Conditions
Wind	Grade A (Beginner) Light; 10 kms/hour
Waves, Breaking Waves, Swell	Grade A (Beginner) Under 1 foot waves; No breaking waves (Waves up to the deck seam; water glassy to rippled; no whitecaps)
Current	Grade A (Beginner) None or mild
Open Crossings	Grade A (Beginner) No open crossings
Landing Type	Grade A (Beginner) Easy; gently sloping sandy beach
Landing Frequency	Grade A (Beginner) No more than 1 km between landings
Total Distance Per Day	Grade A (Beginner) Up to 10 kms
IMPORTANT HOC TRIP RATING INFORMATION AND CANCELLATION	We can only anticipate what the trip conditions will be prior to the trip; and they are subject to change based on the weather information for that day; therefore, the overall trip rating and the required skills needed to safely attend the trip, may be upgraded on the day of the trip. This eventuality includes the possible cancellation for some or all its participants; or the postponement of a trip for the following day. By signing up for a club trip, the participant assumes the risk that such a cancellation may occur, even as late as on the shoreline. HOC Paddling Trip Rating Tool-2024-02-29
Important Trip Details	Leisurely evening paddle on 16 Mile Creek
Body of Water	16 Mile Creek
Registration Opens	Day trip - 2 weeks before trip date
Registration Opens on this date (at 12:00 am)	May 27, 2026
Name of Volunteer Trip Leader(s)	Bob Annis, Paul Leppik, Maria-Eugenia Ricote, Kate Rantanen, Hania Jakimowicz
Email of Volunteer Trip Leaders(s)	bob.annis@rogers.com, paulleppik9@gmail.com, mricote.citizens@gmail.com, , katherine.groom@bell.net, haniaward@gmail.com
Contingency Phone, Name	Paul Leppik 905-464-6968
Trip Address	Busby Park Area (Randall & Front Street) parking lot below
Google Pin of Parking	]https://goo.gl/maps/jFuamY1VQikjAgdg9
Paddling Vessels Permitted	Recreational kayaks permitted
Google Pin of Boat Launch	https://goo.gl/maps/jFuamY1VQikjAgdg9
Arrival time - To get boats, equipment ready for launch	5:30 PM
TIME - SHORELINE SAFETY MEETING (PRE-LAUNCH) (PDFs on; Kayaks, equipment on the shore, ready to go)	6:00 PM
Maximum number of paddlers including	30
Bathroom Facilities	Outhouse at launch
After Paddle Leisure Time
Go to Restaurant After Paddle	To be determined
Trip Safety Requirements, What to Bring	Kayak with sealed fore and aft bulkhead compartments unless the paddle has been specified to permit recreational boats; Inflatable boats are not permitted; A properly fitting PFD or lifejacket must be worn at all times while in your kayak; Inflatable PFDs are not permitted: One (1) buoyant heaving line at least 15 m (49’3”) long; One (1) bailer OR One manual bilge pump; One (1) pealess whistle; If paddling before sunrise or after sunset or in periods of restricted visibility like fog, one (1) all-round light (A light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360 degrees); For multi day trips, one (1) magnetic compass (handheld or deck); For kayaks over 6m (19’8”): One (1) watertight flashlight with working batteries AND Six (6) flares of Type A (Rocket parachute flare), Type B (Multi Star flare) Type C (Hand flare) Type D (Smoke Signal), however, only two (2) can be Type D; A minimum of one spare paddle per 2 participants; A spray skirt is required unless you are in a recreational boat (a boat which lacks either a fore or aft sealed bulkhead) or on a Grade A trip; Each participant must have completed their wet exit practise within the past 12 months Please note the club does not provide equipment. If rentals are noted above, it is at the expense of the club member. Please read the details.
Trip Cost Per Participant	No cost to participate; Parking lot fee required Please self cancel if you are not coming so as to allow others to participate
Incidental Costs	Additional expenses may arise on this trip and the participant assumes the financial responsibility. These are costs which have not been factored in the trip budget and will typically, but not exclusively, entail unforeseen expenses, such as evacuation, ambulance, treatments, food, lodging due to illness.
Trip Cancellation Policy - Day Trips, No Cost	For day trips with no cost, please self cancel. Go to the club website. From the menu, select: ATTEND EVENTS > HOW TO SELF CANCEL

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Hiking Nordic Walking – Shell Park (11 Jun 2026)

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:30:00 GMT

HIKE TITLE	Nordic Walking – Shell Park
DATE	Thursday, June 11, 2026
HIKE LEADER(S)	Sue Elias
LEADER EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER	fselias@cogeco.ca 416-556-2638
MEETING TIME and START TIME	Meet: 9:30 a.m. Start: 9:45 a.m.
MEETING/ PARKING LOCATION	Shell Park – 1^st Parking lot on the right 3307 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 6S643.380418, -79.717985
MEETING MAP (link)	Shell Park Google Map
ENTRANCE FEES	N/A
DISTANCE	Approx. 5-6 km.
DURATION OF HIKE	1.5 - 2 hours
SPEED Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less Moderate: 3-4 km/hour Fast: 4-5 km/hour	Moderate
ELEVATION GAIN Low: mostly flat - a few hills Moderate: some ups and downs High: lots of hills, steep and/or long	Low
TERRAIN Easy: wide trail, usually good footing Moderate: some areas of tricky footing Challenging: rugged trail with tricky footing	Easy
TYPE OF HIKE: i.e. Loop, There & Back or Combination	There & Back
GENERAL ROUTE DESCRIPTION Points of Interest and Special Notes	From the park, we head east and take the trails to Shelburne Park then from South Shell Park go west to Burloak Waterfront Park. On the way back, we will take the multi-purpose trail on Lakeshore Rd W. back to Shell Park. Depending on weather, may add in the trail to Spruce Park, between Burloak and Great Lakes Blvd.
Other Specifics to Your Hike i.e. social to follow hike	This is a Nordic Walk so bring your telescoping hiking/walking poles with rubber booties. Sue will review the Urban Poling technique for Nordic walking for anyone interested. Sue is a certified Urban Poling Instructor. Check out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-fuF1pUaws Get a full body work-out.
REGISTRATION is required and opens 2 weeks prior to the hike.	Up to 10 hikers may register. Leaders appreciate early registration, but you can register at the last minute. Please join the waitlist if the hike is full.
CANCELLATION	• If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot. • The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.
WHAT TO BRING	• Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. • Hiking poles are not mandatory, i.e. if you don’t want the full body benefits • Dress in layers according to weather; wear/bring waterproof rainwear. • Bring snacks and enough water for the duration of the hike. • Sun and bug protection as required

GUIDING NOTES:

HIKE PACE - Leisure: 3 km/hr or less. Moderate: 3-4 km/hr or Fast: 4-5km/hr. All paces are average and depending on the terrain.

Attention Non-Members: If you are thinking about becoming a member, The Halton Outdoor Club invites you to take part in up to two club activities as a Non-Member. After that, please join our club so we can welcome you as a member.

Registration is required for all events, and you will have to agree to the waiver of participation when registering.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

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Cycling LEVEL 2: Friday Night Rides North Oakville Trail, east/west of 16 Mile Creek (12 Jun 2026)

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:15:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 2: Friday Night Rides North Oakville Trail, east/west of 16 Mile Creek.
DATE	June 12, 2026 6:15-8:30 pm
RIDE LEADER	Heather Wilson
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	heatherwlsn249@gmail.com 289-259-5099
CADENCE/PACE	LEVEL 2 18 km/hr on average.
DESCRIPTION	Rough gravel, paved trails, several steep hills. Some riding on quiet roads.
DISTANCE	20-30km
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at the parking lot at the corner of McCraney St & Old Upper Middle Rd at 6:15 for a 6:30 departure.
MEETING PLACE MAP	McCraney St W & Old Upper Middle Rd https://maps.app.goo.gl/aQbxqHZvz8rJXiMs8
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
SOCIAL	Breaks for water only on this ride.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Cycling LEVEL 3 Club Ride: Caledon East to Terra Cotta, Caledon Trail (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 3 Club Ride: Caledon East to Terra Cotta, Caledon Trail
DATE	Saturday, June 13, 202, 9:15 am-1:30 pm
RIDE LEADER	Melanie Baroch
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	melaniebaroch@gmail.com 416-797-2922
CADENCE/PACE	Level 3 average up to 20 km/hr
DESCRIPTION	Hard packed gravel, flat trail.
DISTANCE	44 km+/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at parking lot behind Caledon East Community Complex, 6311 Old Church Rd, Caledon East Time 9:15 for a 9:30 start.
MEETING PLACE MAP	https://maps.app.goo.gl/vQicshe6wk5vTTZJ6
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
SOCIAL	We will stop in TerraCotta for water and a light snack. We will gather at 4 Corners Bakery after the ride for optional Ice cream/lunch/snacks.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Water, snacks, lunch if not purchasing, Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 3 - Long, with breaks as needed, these rides are over 60km, more than 18-30km/hr on average or road rides where speeds are always over 20 km/hr. on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Non-Members: If you are thinking about becoming a member, The Halton Outdoor Club invites you to take part in up to two (2) club activities as a Non-Member. After that, please join our club so we can welcome you as a member.Registration is required for all events, and you will have to agree to the waiver of participation when registering.

Attention Past Members:You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Cycling LEVEL 2 Club Ride: Caledon East to Tottenham, Caledon Trail (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 2 Club Ride: Caledon East to Tottenham, Caledon Trail
DATE	Saturday, June 13, 2026, 9:15 am-1:30 pm
RIDE LEADER	Leader: Marcia Ouellet Sweep: Susan Dane
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	missmarcie2810@hotmail.com, 289-885-0016
CADENCE/PACE	Level 2 up to 18 km/hr
DESCRIPTION	Hard packed gravel, flat trail.
DISTANCE	40 km+/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at parking lot behind Caledon East Community Complex, 6311 Old Church Rd, Caledon East Time 9:15 for a 9:30 start.
MEETING PLACE MAP	https://maps.app.goo.gl/vQicshe6wk5vTTZJ6
SOCIAL	We will stop in Tottenham for water and a light snack. We will gather at 4 Corners Bakery after the ride for optional Ice cream/lunch/snacks.
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Water, snacks, lunch if not purchasing, Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 3 - Long, with breaks as needed, these rides are over 60km, more than 18 km/hr on average or road rides where speeds are always over 20 km/hr. on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members:You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Cycling LEVEL 1 Club Ride: Caledon East to Brickworks, Caledon Trail (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

RIDE	LEVEL 1 Club Ride: Caledon East to Brickworks, Caledon Trail
DATE	Saturday, June 13, 2026, 9:15 am-1:30 pm
RIDE LEADER	Gloria Seberras
RIDE LEADER CONTACT	gloriaseberras@sympatico.ca. 905-814-9844
CADENCE/PACE	Level 1 up to 15km/hr
DESCRIPTION	Hard packed gravel, flat trail.
DISTANCE	25km+/-
MEETING PLACE & TIME	Meet at parking lot behind Caledon East Community Complex, 6311 Old Church Rd, Caledon East Time 9:15 for a 9:30 Start
MEETING PLACE MAP	https://maps.app.goo.gl/vQicshe6wk5vTTZJ6
START POINT	Parking lot out & back
SOCIAL	We will stop in Inglewood for water and a light snack. We will gather at 4 Corners Bakery after the ride for optional Ice cream/lunch/snacks.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED	Yes. It’s important. Leaders appreciate early registration but you can register at the last minute. Trip leaders will be able to email you with updates and last minute changes.
TO CANCEL	Self-serve online. Leader will be checking the website list to see who to expect.
REGISTRATION OPENS	2 weeks before the ride
IMPORTANT REMINDERS	Water, snacks, lunch if not purchasing, Helmet, tire repair kit including spare tube

Ride Types and Descriptions:

Level 1 - In general, shorter, more gentle rides (20-40km) with frequent stops, up to 15km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Level 2 - Medium, faster paced, with fewer breaks, these rides will vary from 40-60km with stops as needed, up to 18 km/hr on average. Check the ride description for more details.

Attention Past Members: You are not entitled to two trial activities. Please renew your membership to take advantage of all that the Club has to offer.

Hiking the Short and Sassy North Shore Loop (13 Jun 2026)

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 13:15:00 GMT

HIKE TITLE	Hiking the Short and Sassy North Shore Loop
DATE	Saturday, June 13, 2026
HIKE LEADER(S)	Sharon Davis Payton
LEADER EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER	Spayton1988@gmail.com 905-920-2765
MEETING TIME and START TIME	Meet at 9:15am for a 9:30am start
MEETING/ PARKING LOCATION	Royal Botanical Gardens Arboretum, 16 Old Guelph Road, Hamilton, ON Royal Botanical Gardens - Arboretum - Google Maps Park near the kiosk and Interpretative Center in the circular parking lot.
MEETING MAP (link)	Royal Botanical Gardens - Arboretum - Google Maps
ENTRANCE FEES	Payment required for parking @ $5.00/hr. Free if RBG member
DISTANCE	6-7km
DURATION OF HIKE	2+/- hours
SPEED Leisurely: 3 km/hour or less Moderate: 3-4 km/hour Fast: 4-5 km/hour	Moderate: 3-4 km /hour
ELEVATION GAIN Low: mostly flat - a few hills Moderate: some ups and downs High: lots of hills, steep and/or long	Low: mostly flat with a few hills. Elevation gain is less than 100 meters
TERRAIN Easy: wide trail, usually good footing Moderate: some areas of tricky footing Challenging: rugged trail with tricky footing	Moderate: some rough footing but wide trails for the most part. Some hills
TYPE OF HIKE: i.e. Loop, There & Back or Combination	Two loops
GENERAL ROUTE DESCRIPTION Points of Interest and Special Notes	Views of Cootes Paradise, nice trails, wildflowers, marshlands, grasslands, boardwalks through the RBG. The Anishinaabe Waadiziwin Sanctuary opened in 2015 to acknowledge the importance of the Indigenous peoples to this area
Other Specifics to Your Hike i.e. social to follow hike
REGISTRATION is required and opens 2 weeks prior to the hike.	Up to 15 hikers may register. Leaders appreciate early registration, but you can register at the last minute. Please join the waitlist if the hike is full.
CANCELLATION	• If your plans change, please self-cancel as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot. • The club may cancel due to bad weather that may impact the safety of participants or due to low attendance.
WHAT TO BRING	• Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread. • Hiking poles will be helpful. • Dress in layers according to weather; wear/bring waterproof rainwear. • Bring snacks and enough water for the duration of the hike. Sun and bug protection as required