Packing up There’s something about packing up before a backwoods trip that makes me a bit fizzy. The checklist, “do I really need this”, and the eternal question: “is this enough socks?” My friend (Eric) and I are heading up to Algonquin for a short winter camping trek on the Western Uplands trail. The forecast says sunny and cold for day 1, then warm and slightly wet for day … [Read more...]
Five winter adventure ideas to explore Ontario parks
While long nights, snowy weather, and frigid temperatures make even the hardiest of Ontarians want to hibernate for six months, we all could use a little more fresh air in our lives especially during the deep freeze. Here are my five favourite outdoor winter adventures, all within Ontario’s excellent park system, and within an easy drive of Toronto. Ice Skating at … [Read more...]
Winter Birding in Ontario Parks
Winter in Ontario provides excellent birding opportunities regardless of which part of the province you live in. Bundling up and braving the elements at this time of year will certainly reward you with some great sightings of multiple bird species. Why Winter? Several species breed far to our north, but migrate to Southern Ontario to overwinter, making winter the only time of … [Read more...]
Snowshoeing Algonquin’s Highlands Backpacking Trail
Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the crown jewels of Ontario’s network of protected areas. With endless canoe routes and excellent hiking trails, the park is a Mecca for the province’s outdoor enthusiasts. While the park’s canoe routes offer an opportunity to experience perfect backcountry solitude for the price of a few portages, the hiking trails are another story. The … [Read more...]
Dog sledding in Algonquin – with Chocpaw expeditions
A week long dog sledding expedition in Algonquin - Adventure of a life time There was no sound around me except the soft purr of sled runners on fresh powder and the synchronized panting of six dogs, tongues lolling, straining against the harness. Dark spruce trees, like sentries, framed the trail along the edge of the frozen stream. My feet were planted firmly on the runners, … [Read more...]
