In this issue

A welcome to new members from your Club Manager, Cheryl McCarney

I would like to extend a warm welcome to the new members – you have joined a dynamic, inclusive, non-competitive and social club that is “active and energized together outdoors”. 

Make sure to frequently visit the website at www.haltonoutdoorclub.ca, as events are continuously added throughout the month in all sports. I suggest you check the Events Calendar every couple of days so you don’t miss a scheduled activity. If the event registration is full, make sure you join the waitlist. Typically, registration for most events opens 2 weeks in advance of the start date, however, if there is a cost associated with the event, then the registration open date will be further out. Check the event for the specific date that registration will open.

Consider trying something new: if you joined for cycling, consider joining a hike. We offer various levels/distances in our activities so we can appeal to a novice as well as the experienced. Be sure to read the general description of the activity and what to bring before registering. If you have questions or aren’t sure if you should sign up for an event, reach out to me or the trip leader for further clarification. 

Ask questions, we are here to help you in any way we can!

Some useful tips about our website:

“Home Page” provides a general overview of what the Club has to offer. Lessons are available for paddling and cross-country skiing. Consider trying out a new sport and participating in the lessons – even the best paddler/skier can improve on their technique, and we offer various levels of lessons for that reason. 

“Attend Events Tab” includes the Events Calendar, but also a wealth of information on how to self-cancel a registration, extended trips, sport guidelines, information about lessons, etc. 

“Members Tab” includes a wealth of information about the Club as well as access to Club Forums. Subscribing to the Forums will keep you updated on Club happenings (instructions are on the Forums page):

“HOC Talk” is an online discussion forum to chat with other members and is often used to announce new events added late to the event calendar.

“Marketplace” is the place to buy, sell or trade gear with other members

Mobile App  We encourage all members to take advantage of the "Wild Apricot for Members" mobile app, to make your Halton Outdoor Club experience even more convenient. Further information and guides on how to use the app can be found on our website under the Members Tab. 

You will receive the Club’s Newsletter quarterly. You will also find an Updater in your Inbox every few weeks. As the name implies, the Updater provides up-to-date information about current and future events. Make sure to update your profile so that you receive these publications. Contact me if you require help doing so.

Please don’t hesitate to email me with any questions or concerns at manager@haltonoutdoorclub.ca  905 332 4318

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Message from the Chair, Maureen Healey

Message from the Chair, Maureen Healey

While the long winter season made for quality club snowshoe and ski trips along with interesting hikes, paddlers and cyclists among us are ready for summer fun.

If you're new to the club or want to try some warm-weather sports, read the activity descriptions carefully and register for an entry level or beginner activity. These ratings are based on distance, speed/pace, on-site conditions, experience or a combination of these and are provided to ensure all participants have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Reach out to the club manager or trip leader for clarification.

See you on the trails.

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Sad News

TRIBUTE TO SANDY NAY: “A life rich in friendship & purpose”

by Paul Leppik.  

A paddler, hiker, cyclist, snowshoer, downhill and cross-country skier--Sandy embraced every moment and every season. No matter the activity, she was fully engaged and encouraged the rest of us to do the same. As a volunteer, mentor, board and committee member, and trusted trip leader, she gave her time generously, but more than that, she gave her presence. As a friend, sister, daughter, aunt, and devoted animal lover, she showed up with heart. That was Sandy. She lived fully, and she gave fully.   

What made Sandy so special was how she made people feel. She had a way of including everyone--of making you feel seen, heard, and valued-- whether you had known her for years or had just met. She was never one to accept things as they were just because “that’s how it’s done”. She asked meaningful questions--thoughtful & probing--because she was genuinely curious about others.

Then there was her humour. Sandy could find it anywhere; in the mundane, or the serious, and in herself. Never forced or loud, just perfectly timed and quietly disarming.

Her calm, steady way gave Sandy perspective. She could step back, see what really mattered, and help the rest of us find that clarity. She never judged, never imposed. She simply offered another way of looking at things. Who can forget her trademark “what about, what about?”; her gentle invitation to pause and consider another angle. Or, with that wry smile, “you drank the Kool-Aid!”, when she successfully talked you into something you once swore you’d never do. Warm and honest, those phrases were so her.

Sandy led by example--often quietly, though not always--she never wavered when it came to what mattered. “Safety first” wasn’t just a guideline; it was a principle she lived by. On a trip to Bon Echo, while paddling Upper Mazinaw Lake, we stopped in a shallow, sunlit bay to look for a lunch spot. A couple of paddlers split off toward a nearby island--calm water, blue skies, nothing but knee-deep water--and still came Sandy’s firm reminder: never split the group, conditions don’t change the rule. That was Sandy--always watching, always teaching, even in the smallest moments.

And what an innate ability Sandy had to read people. She sensed what you needed, whether it was space or a gentle (sometimes “gentle-ish”) push forward. She reached out at just the right time. She remembered moments that mattered, without being reminded. She turned simple conversations into something meaningful, as one club member tearfully shared after a recent winter trip to Quebec.   

As all of us who knew Sandy understood, friendship was never about constant contact or grand gestures. It was about trust, respect, and being there when it counted. And that she was, in ways both big and small.

That was Sandy—a true friend, to each of us.

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Meet our new Newsletter Layout Editor!

Hello Halton Outdoor Club community! My name is Kristine Self, and I’m excited to be joining the newsletter team as your new Layout Editor. As a long-time member of the HOC—since 2011—I’ve always loved the sense of adventure, camaraderie, and connection this club brings. Some of my favourite memories are from the extended cross-country ski trips, which remain highlights of my winters year after year.

Professionally, my background is rooted in health, performance, and leadership. I hold a Doctorate of Chiropractic, a Master’s in Health Studies and Health Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Biology, and the Certificate Health Executive designation. After many rewarding years in private practice, I retired as a Chiropractor and transitioned into my current role as a Health Services Management Officer with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

My passion for coaching and athlete development is a major part of my life. I’m a Certified Personal Trainer Specialist, Yoga Instructor, SPIN Instructor, Certified Life Coach, Certified Coach Practitioner, and an Athletics Canada–certified Trail and Road Leader. One of my proudest roles is serving as the Peak Performance Coach for the CAF International Running Team, where I support elite military athletes in maximizing their performance while maintaining balance and long-term well-being.

As an athlete, I’ve had the privilege of competing internationally through the CISM (International Military Sports Council) program. I earned a bronze medal at the CISM World Military Marathon Championships in Ottawa in 2017, and I represented Canada again at the CISM World Military Games in Wuhan, China in 2019, completing the marathon. I was honoured to be recognized as Female Athlete of the Year in 2022 for my contributions and achievements in sport.

My true passion lies in outdoor endurance pursuits. I’m an enthusiastic ultra-marathon trail runner, cross-country skier, snowshoe runner, cyclist, and trekker. Adventure travel is woven into my life. I’m happiest exploring trails, mountains, and remote landscapes while pushing my limits and discovering new places.

I’m excited to bring creativity, clarity, and enthusiasm to the HOC Newsletter. I look forward to highlighting our community’s adventures, sharing inspiring stories, and contributing to a publication that celebrates the spirit of outdoor exploration.

I can’t wait to connect with many of you—on the trails, in the snow, or in the pages of the next issue!

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Cycle safely with a well-fitting helmet

by Marg DeCourcy

Spring is here and we are happy to dust off our bikes and get back out on the roads and trails. It is a great time to review bike safety, and one issue that is sometimes overlooked is the proper fit of our helmet. Wearing a helmet properly will reduce the risk of head injury.

Consider these key elements in establishing your fit:

The helmet should sit low on the forehead, about two finger-widths above the eyebrows. The helmet should sit flat and squarely on your head and should not be tilted back, exposing the forehead.

Straps should be adjusted to sit flat against the face and form a V just below the ears.

The helmet should be buckled, with only a one-finger space between the strap and the chin. It should fit snugly on the head and should not move when you shake or tilt your head. Use the dial on the back of the helmet to adjust as needed.

Check for wear and tear. Replace a helmet that has been in a crash, even if there is no visible damage. Replace a helmet that has visible cracks or dents, and/or torn or frayed straps. Materials degrade and it is recommended that helmets be replaced every five years.

Several websites, including the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (helmets.org), caution about wearing a hat under the helmet. While it is okay to wear a hat under a helmet, it is important that the helmet still fits according to the guidelines mentioned above. Often a hat pushes the helmet too far back on the head, exposing the forehead. It may also cause the helmet to move around on the head. Check out their website for detailed information, including recommendations to consider before purchasing a helmet. The website contains a wealth of information.

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Halton Outdoor Club Cycling Program 2026: 
"More rides, new adventures and a strong community spirit”

by Sue Dane, Cycling Director

A Great Start to the Season

The 2026 cycling season is off to a fantastic start! Opening weekend on May 9–10 brought 42 riders together to reconnect after winter, enjoy the trails, share a great lunch, and kick off another season of cycling adventures. The enthusiasm, energy, and sense of community among members once again set the tone for what promises to be an outstanding year!

Building Skills and Confidence

Before the season officially began, members had the opportunity to build fitness and confidence through three Conditioning Rides and hands-on Tire Change Clinics offered in partnership with Cyclepath. These early-season events continue to be a great way for riders to refresh their skills, prepare equipment, and ease back into riding safely.

A Diverse Cycling Program

This year’s cycling calendar is one of the Club’s most diverse yet, with more than 100 rides and cycling events planned throughout the season. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteer ride leaders and the Cycle Planning Team, there truly is something for everyone.

Local rides remain the heart of the program, with rides offered throughout the week on paved and gravel trails, scenic rail trails, and quiet country roads across Halton and surrounding regions. Friday evening trail rides continue to provide a slightly more adventurous option through Oakville’s rolling trail systems.

The Return of Level 3 Road Rides

One exciting addition this year is the return of Level 3 Road Rides. These brisk-paced rides explore the scenic rural roads of Flamborough and nearby countryside, covering approximately 35–40 km at a pace of 21–25 km/h. Riders can look forward to scheduled rides in May, June, July, and a more challenging climbing route in August beginning at LaSalle Park.

Extended Trips and Signature Adventures

Extended trips continue to be a highlight of the cycling season. This year, members can explore the beautiful rural landscapes and rail trails of Elgin and Oxford Counties, enjoy the social atmosphere of the Kingston Multisport trip, cycle through Niagara’s wine country and waterfront communities, and discover the charming villages and countryside of the Montérégie region of Québec. These trips combine cycling, exploration, and memorable social experiences.

All-Level Club Rides Return

Returning by popular demand are the All-Level Club Rides, one of the best examples of what makes our cycling community so special. These rides allow cyclists of varying abilities to enjoy the same destination while following routes suited to their comfort level. Whether the stop is at a bakery, café, picnic area, or ice cream shop, these rides blend cycling, conversation, and community spirit.

Ride Levels for Every Cyclist

To help members choose rides that best suit their comfort and ability, events continue to be organized into Levels 1, 2, and 3, ranging from relaxed social rides to faster-paced trail and road rides for experienced cyclists.

Safety and Preparation

Safety and preparation remain important on every ride. Members are encouraged to review ride descriptions carefully, arrive prepared with water and repair supplies, and ensure their bikes are in good working order.

More Than Just Cycling

Most importantly, the cycling program is about far more than kilometres ridden. It’s about friendships formed on the trail, shared adventures, and the incredible volunteers who make every ride possible. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all our ride leaders, sweeps, planners, and volunteers who help keep the wheels turning all season long.

Here’s to another great year of cycling adventures — see you on the trail!

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Celebrating Earth Day: “Community, stewardship and dirty deeds done dirt cheap”

by Sue Dane, Cycling Director and Site Co-ordinator

A huge thank you to everyone who came out to support this year’s Earth Day clean-up events!

Members of the Halton Outdoor Club gathered at Valley Ridge Park, while Dave Sommerville and his energetic group of hikers tackled the rail trail from behind Shoppers Drug Mart at University Plaza to west of Sanctuary Park -- covering even more ground than in previous years.

The Valley Ridge clean-up had an outstanding turnout with 22 HOC members and friends, including 3 Rotary exchange students, joined by another 22 community members. Together, volunteers collected an impressive 24 full bags of garbage from trails, trailheads, and surrounding greenspaces.

Meanwhile, 21 Earth Day hikers extended their clean-up route farther than ever thanks to many helping hands. Dave reports that only one football needed “rehoming” this year — a marked improvement from previous clean-ups!

Why It Matters

Earth Day clean-ups are about much more than picking up litter. As outdoor enthusiasts, we rely on clean, safe, and accessible natural spaces for hiking, cycling, paddling, and connecting with nature. By giving back, we help preserve these spaces for ourselves, future members, and the wider community.

These efforts also inspire others. Seeing volunteers caring for local parks and trails is a powerful reminder that small actions can make a big difference.

The Power of Community

One of the best parts of the day was the incredible sense of teamwork and community spirit. Members, friends, students, and local residents all worked side by side toward a common goal — and had plenty of laughs along the way.

After the clean-up, many participants gathered for a well-earned social, proving once again that good company and community spirit are just as important as the work itself. 

Thank you again to everyone who participated and helped make these events such a success. Together, we’re not just enjoying the outdoors — we’re protecting it.

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Quebec City Winter trip

by Kathy Lentz

Thursday morning was meant to begin with a 9:00 a.m. bus departure for Camp Mercier, but a technical issue delayed our plans. Under grey skies and biting winds, some of us bundled up and set out for a walk across the historic Plains of Abraham, thankful we had fortified ourselves with the hotel’s excellent buffet breakfast. 

After pausing to watch skaters on the rink, we passed through an old stone gate and wandered into the charming, European-flavoured streets of Quebec City. Our walk led us to the stately Château Frontenac and along Dufferin Terrace, where we discovered the historic Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide. Built in 1884, the wooden slide remains a beloved winter tradition, sending riders racing down the track at speeds of up to 70 km/h.

Maggie, Scott, Diane, Gerald, Ginny, and Kathy L. braved the cold for an exhilarating ride. On Friday, Gail and Mary took their turn as well.

Meanwhile, Lorraine and Stephen efficiently reshaped our ski plans, arranging for us to ski at Sentiers du Moulin once the bus was ready around noon. By the time we arrived, the weather had turned in our favour—bright sunshine and blue skies overhead. The snow was fast and slightly icy, and the forested trails made for a wonderful afternoon before we returned, happily tired, to Quebec City.

Friday’s visit to Camp Mercier brought perfect conditions—blue skies, no wind, and beautifully groomed trails around the lake.

Rain on Saturday shifted plans again, sending us to a traditional sugar shack on Île d’Orléans for a lively maple-themed feast, music, and laughter. A stop at a chocolatier followed before we returned to the hotel and shared a final group dinner to end the trip. ❄️⛷️

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Have a seat!

by Denise Davy

I was strolling along the Bronte pier one evening last summer, admiring the beautiful Muskoka chairs that grace the waterfront, when the idea came to me -- wouldn’t it be fun to have a chair representing the Halton Outdoor Club!

The Bronte BIA (Business Improvement Area) has been running the At Home in Bronte Muskoka Chair Project for nine years now and each year provide 50 chairs to residents, businesses, schools and community groups to decorate them.

It’s a great way to promote local groups and the BIA even provides a chair kit. It’s also a fun idea for a public art initiative. Most of the chairs face the water where our kayakers paddle so it only seemed appropriate that the club has one of its own.

The idea was approved and a team of club members was set up to pull it all together. Scott & Maggie Munro picked up the chair, assembled it and delivered it to my house. I offered my double garage for a makeshift art studio. Over the next week, people arrived at my house ready to paint, stencil and varnish the chair.

My dogs, George and Harriett, insisted on monitoring the entire project, earning the title of inspectors. With their help, the project became a reality. Every sport is represented and the bright green and blue really pop!

Thanks to the team - Joanne Penney (lettering); Sonia Baistrocchi (painting); Scott and Maggie Munro (chair delivery and drop off); Ion Bertumé (stencil creator and painter); Simone Bates (painter/designer); Maria Harris (painter); Debbie Leishman (painter); Val Carroll (painter) and myself (painter and dog wrangler).

On June 4th, the chair will become part of the Bronte waterfront landscape. As a frequent visitor to the pier, I can tell you the chairs are well used. On any weekend and evening, you’re hard pressed to find one that’s empty.

CONTEST

This is where you, as club members, come in. You are invited to visit the pier, find the HOC chair and take a photo of yourself, either beside it, in it or under it, whatever you like. The most creative photo will win a gift certificate to the Flavour Fox ice cream shop on the corner of Lakeshore and Bronte roads.

I’ve tested the chocolate gelato and can attest to its yumminess.

All photos should be sent to: communications@haltonoutdoorclub.ca by July 31, 2026. The winning photo will be selected on August 6, 2026 and will be featured in the fall newsletter. All submissions will be posted to the photo gallery.

Best of luck!

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Near North winter trip

by Debra Moy

As I sat in my car waiting for the bus to arrive (it was going to be 1.5 hrs late we were told) and listening to the rain splashing down on the car roof I briefly wondered if signing up for the Near North trip had been such a good idea after all. I was a new HOC member on my first overnight trip and it was off to an inauspicious start.

By the time we arrived at Arrowhead to ski/snowshoe for the afternoon, rain had turned to snow (almost as though Dave and Collette had planned it that way). The trail around the lake for which the park is named was beautiful with glimpses of the lake as we skied through the mixed deciduous and coniferous forest. Snowshoe and ski trails around the campgrounds and along the East River included easy “ups and downs”. Those snowshoeing took in the beauty of Stubbs Falls.

Dinner that evening was on our own so, in true HOC spirit, people were invited and welcomed to join different groups to go to nearby restaurants for dinner.

On Saturday we travelled to North Bay Nordic, which was just as beautiful as Arrowhead but different in its own way. The trails here included more hills with the challenge of a rolling 3km climb to reach an 18km trail. Needless to say--I skipped that--maybe next year? With lots of choice in trails HOC members were meeting up with those they knew had similar interests in skiing and/or snowshoeing different distances and at a pace that worked for them. One of the joys of North Bay Nordic was the winding trail DOWN the 3km after putting in all the work to climb up. As I snowplowed down some of the steeper parts, I rediscovered some muscles that I forgot I had. Back at the chalet we enjoyed a delicious lunch which was a highlight for sure (chili, lentil soup and so much more!).

Sunday, we checked out of the hotel and headed to Georgian Bay Nordic. I had already had 2 wonderful days of skiing and snowshoeing, but nothing prepared me for the beauty of the trails at Georgian Nordic. We arrived at a winter wonderland. Skiing and snowshoeing in the Canadian Shield, the trails included gentle hills, lots of winding curves and the scenery was second to none. The new chalet with its wood burning fireplace and pine/cedar interior was perfect for warming up and chatting with others as we planned our day.

Arriving back in Burlington later that day I reflected on how much fun I had not only being able to ski at 3 amazing Ontario Nordic Centres but also getting to know so many more HOC members. None of this would have happened without the work of our leaders, Dave and Collette Somerville doing the behind-the-scenes preparation to make this trip the success it was. Everything within their control was well run, organized and a ton of fun.

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Springtime in Niagara 2026

by Kathy Lentz

We headed out from Burlington on time after a last-minute delivery of hiking boots from a spouse in Ancaster when one of our hikers raced out of their house with their slippers on!

Three days prior to our hike, the weather forecast was dreadful. The forecast was for two full days of torrential rain on Sunday and Monday. Lo and behold, the night before our hike began, the forecast changed to sunny with cloudy periods, so it turned out to be perfect weather. Everyone was ecstatic!

We had a fabulous day of hiking Short Hills Provincial Park, with three levels of hikes led by Craig Sim, Frank Vajda and Debbie Martin. There was a plenitude of mud which required cautious stepping. We enjoyed lots of lovely scenery in a pristinely beautiful park. All three groups met at the beautiful waterfalls at lunchtime. The cascading water, and the sound of the thundering falls could not have been a more perfect location.

After our hike we were bused to Pelham Estates Winery where we tasted five different wines. Our winery guide provided a rich history of the family that began the winery and its current descendants (three brothers who now own and run it with dedication and love for the business).

Afterwards, we drove to the Comfort Inn Fallsview Hotel, where I’m sure everyone enjoyed getting a hot shower. Our hikers headed out to various restaurants to satisfy their appetites after such a great day hiking gorgeous woodland trails in the fresh air.

After eating breakfast at the hotel on Monday morning, we experienced an incredible day of sunshine (remember that three days earlier the forecast had been for torrential rains).

We had our three various hikes along the Niagara Parkway.

Sue and Frank Elias led the Nordic and shorter walk, where everyone enjoyed walking the paved pathway along the top of the Niagara Gorge. Frank Vajda led the intermediate hike with his harem of five ladies. The budding spring forest, the huge rock formations left by the receding glaciers and the rushing Niagara River were spectacular. The longer hike was guided by Craig Sim and this group enjoyed the same scenery and experience as the medium hike, accessing some extra elevations along with 80 steel steps.

Our afternoon stop was beautiful Balls Falls. Isabel Bravo and Dave Pomeroy, who live nearby, met up with us to be our guides for the intermediate and advanced hikes. There we experienced both the upper and lower falls, the surrounding forest and spring flowers.

The two days were a testament to everything positive and glorious about hiking, and our wonderful club camaraderie. Special kudos to Debbie Martin (with the assistance of Patti Blair) who put this whole trip and two truly amazing days of adventure together. She and her team did a fabulous job of researching, booking, and pre-hiking the trails not just once or twice but three times to make sure that everything would go according to plan. The hiking gods shone down upon us.

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Please consider writing a short piece for your Club Newsletter 

Share your thoughts, experiences and photos with other members

Newsletter submissions are welcome at any time - share your experiences, photos or thoughts about the Club with your fellow members. And we like it short – no more than 500 words!! Preferably with some photos.

The Newsletter is published 4 times a year with submission deadlines of February 12, May 12, August 19 and late November (1-2 weeks after the AGM). 

Details, including where to send, can be found  at Guidelines For Newsletter Submissions 

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