This is an incredibly beautiful hike that has something for everyone - diverse scenery, plenty of animal activity, a physical challenge and the opportunity to cool off in a gorgeous lake.
We're hiking in Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands - a decommissioned provincial park. Until recently it was practically unheard of but in recent years the secret is starting to get out so we ask you to keep the location under wraps!
At the mid way point we get to a stunning lake that has the opportunity to swim for those who are able so pack a bathing suit and (compact) towel.
The hike has a couple of challenging sections that include a thin beaver crossing and an approx 10ft tall rock face that will need careful navigation. If you have any concerns about your fitness for the hike, please message on the Discord Thread.
This is a 10km out and back, 5km each way. Hiking boots or proper trail shoes are essential for this hike.
06:50 - Meet at the PetroCanada at Keele Station. We need to make an early start so we won't be able to stop for breakfast en route. Please pack your lunch and get a breakfast/coffee in before you join us!
07:00 - Shuttle leaves from PetroCanada at Keele Station. Please note that we leave dead on 7am and can't wait for latecomers.
09:30 - Meet self-drivers at the trailhead. If there are no spaces here, park up at the Devil's Lake lot further up the road. Do not be late! Fair warning, the van may end up being a few minutes late but self-drivers shouldn't come later than the van or they won't be able to join the hike.
09:30 - 12:00 - Hike, eating lunch en route. Stop for swim/paddle/cooling off.
15:30 - Anticipated return to car.
18:30 - Approx return time to Keele Subway Station.
This custom map is georeferenced, meaning it will show you where you are on the map in the right software and lays out the rough path that we’ll be following. It’s opened with the Avenza app which must be downloaded and installed in advance of the adventure.
You should also download the What3words app - this makes it easy to share and find locations in the unlikely event that you get lost.
We're hiking in a wilderness location on what could be a very hot day so, for your safety, it's very important that you read this carefully and are equipped properly. If you're dressed in such a way as to put yourself in danger we will not be able to bring you.
Heat Exhaustion/Sun Exposure - It's a very hot day with heat exhaustion and sunburn a real possibility. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
Getting lost - This is a wilderness location, away from help so it's imperative that we stay together at all times. If you get separated from the group, stop and call for help. It's unlikely that you'll have reception during this adventure. YOU MUST STAY WITH THE GROUP AT ALL TIMES. No breaking off without first discussing it with the hike leader!
Hiking injuries - Wear appropriate footwear and hike within your abilities. If you need extra support, bring hiking poles. Any injuries? Let us know in advance of the hike.
Ticks - Black legged ticks are in the area. You should wear pants rather than shorts to prevent them latching on and lighter colours make it easier to spot them and keep you more cool. There's no need to worry about ticks if we take a few precautions and we'll talk about doing a tick check after the hike just to confirm we haven't picked any up. You can learn more here.
Water danger - Stay away from fast moving water and only swim where guides have explicitly said is safe. Swimming is only allowed under supervision and if you can't swim, you should keep out of the water.
Wild animals - Stay back from any wild animals that you come across. Your guide will give you further instructions.
We like to share some of the indigenous background of the areas we visit because these territories have rich histories that are easy to overlook. Indigenous communities have a connection to and respect for the land that has largely been lost since European settlement. As we strive to form a deeper connection with the land, we have much to learn from these communities. I use the Native Land map to learn more about these areas and find that developing a richer understanding leads to a greater enjoyment of the adventures.
The park is located on the traditional territories of the Missisaugas of the Credit First Nation the Anishnabe and the Huron Wendat.
This is an incredibly beautiful hike that has something for everyone - diverse scenery, plenty of animal activity, a physical challenge and the opportunity to cool off in a gorgeous lake.
We're hiking in Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands - a decommissioned provincial park. Until recently it was practically unheard of but in recent years the secret is starting to get out so we ask you to keep the location under wraps!
At the mid way point we get to a stunning lake that has the opportunity to swim for those who are able so pack a bathing suit and (compact) towel.
The hike has a couple of challenging sections that include a thin beaver crossing and an approx 10ft tall rock face that will need careful navigation. If you have any concerns about your fitness for the hike, please message on the Discord Thread.
This is a 10km out and back, 5km each way. Hiking boots or proper trail shoes are essential for this hike.
06:50 - Meet at the PetroCanada at Keele Station. We need to make an early start so we won't be able to stop for breakfast en route. Please pack your lunch and get a breakfast/coffee in before you join us!
07:00 - Shuttle leaves from PetroCanada at Keele Station. Please note that we leave dead on 7am and can't wait for latecomers.
09:30 - Meet self-drivers at the trailhead. If there are no spaces here, park up at the Devil's Lake lot further up the road. Do not be late! Fair warning, the van may end up being a few minutes late but self-drivers shouldn't come later than the van or they won't be able to join the hike.
09:30 - 12:00 - Hike, eating lunch en route. Stop for swim/paddle/cooling off.
15:30 - Anticipated return to car.
18:30 - Approx return time to Keele Subway Station.
This custom map is georeferenced, meaning it will show you where you are on the map in the right software and lays out the rough path that we’ll be following. It’s opened with the Avenza app which must be downloaded and installed in advance of the adventure.
You should also download the What3words app - this makes it easy to share and find locations in the unlikely event that you get lost.
We're hiking in a wilderness location on what could be a very hot day so, for your safety, it's very important that you read this carefully and are equipped properly. If you're dressed in such a way as to put yourself in danger we will not be able to bring you.
Heat Exhaustion/Sun Exposure - It's a very hot day with heat exhaustion and sunburn a real possibility. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
Getting lost - This is a wilderness location, away from help so it's imperative that we stay together at all times. If you get separated from the group, stop and call for help. It's unlikely that you'll have reception during this adventure. YOU MUST STAY WITH THE GROUP AT ALL TIMES. No breaking off without first discussing it with the hike leader!
Hiking injuries - Wear appropriate footwear and hike within your abilities. If you need extra support, bring hiking poles. Any injuries? Let us know in advance of the hike.
Ticks - Black legged ticks are in the area. You should wear pants rather than shorts to prevent them latching on and lighter colours make it easier to spot them and keep you more cool. There's no need to worry about ticks if we take a few precautions and we'll talk about doing a tick check after the hike just to confirm we haven't picked any up. You can learn more here.
Water danger - Stay away from fast moving water and only swim where guides have explicitly said is safe. Swimming is only allowed under supervision and if you can't swim, you should keep out of the water.
Wild animals - Stay back from any wild animals that you come across. Your guide will give you further instructions.
We like to share some of the indigenous background of the areas we visit because these territories have rich histories that are easy to overlook. Indigenous communities have a connection to and respect for the land that has largely been lost since European settlement. As we strive to form a deeper connection with the land, we have much to learn from these communities. I use the Native Land map to learn more about these areas and find that developing a richer understanding leads to a greater enjoyment of the adventures.
The park is located on the traditional territories of the Missisaugas of the Credit First Nation the Anishnabe and the Huron Wendat.
