events calendar
HIKE TITLE
Friday Night Walk, Christmas Lights #1
DATE
Friday, December 05, 2025, 6:15 to 8:30 pm
HIKE LEADER(S)
Heather Wilson
EMAIL AND CELL NUMBER
Heatherwlsn249@gmail.com
289-259-5099
GENERAL LOCATION
(Locality, city and/or landmark)
North Oakville Trails
MEETING AND START TIME
6:15 for a 6:30 start.
SPECIFIC MEETING PLACE OR PARKING LOCATION
(Include exact address, GPS coordinate and/or map)
Meet at the parking lot at the corner of McCraney St West & Old Upper Middle Road
DISTANCE
7-10 Km
PACE:
Leisurely / Moderate / Fast
Fast, 4-5 km per hour
DURATION APPROX
1-1/2 to 2 hours
TERRAIN:
Easy / Moderate / Challenging
Moderate, on gravel & pavement. Some up and down.
TYPE OF HIKE:
i.e. Loop, There & Back or Combination
Loop
HIKE GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Point of interests
Explore the trails of North Oakville after dark & view some Christmas lights along the way.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Yes. A Must. Leaders appreciate early registration and at least 24 hours 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.
ONLINE REGISTRATION &
HIKER GROUP SIZE
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 15 Hikers are welcome to participate in this event
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.
• Headlamps or flashlights are mandatory.
• Icers required in snowy, icy conditions.
Other Specifics to Your Hike
i.e. social to follow 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.
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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Limehouse Plus Circuit
Saturday December 6th, 2025
Anne Armstrong
hikingrandma@gmail.com
Georgetown/Limehouse
Meet at 9:45 for a 10:00 am. start
Limehouse Conservation Area at 12169 Fifth Line, Limehouse
Limehouse Conservation Area - Google Maps
Approx. 9 km.
Leisurely
3 hours
Moderate
Combination: loop and there and back
Limehouse is a very important place in the area. Quarrying was done and then the limestone was heated to break it down into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, important in the production of cement, lime and other building materials. We will see the old lime kilns, quarry and storage building for explosives. Part of the charm of the trail is going through the ‘hole in the wall’. Our hike will also take in the “Seed Orchard” developed by the Toronto Bruce Trail Club
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 15 hikers are welcome to participate in this event
• Sun and bug protection if necessary
• Icers are mandatory in winter conditions.
WinterFit
Calling all xc skiers and snowshoers!
Let’s get ready for winter. Learn some fitness moves that are specific to xc skiing and snowshoeing as well as some dry land training (striding and bounding with poles). Beginners welcome!
The WinterFit preseason program will help you:
Meeting Place: LaSalle Park, 50 Northshore Blvd. East, Burlington LaSalle Park - Google Maps
Saturday Afternoons: 2:00 – 3:15Oct 18, Oct 25, Nov 1, Nov 8, Nov 15, Nov 22, Nov 29, Dec 6
Registration: Please register every week for each WinterFit session. Registration for each week opens two weeks in advance. A maximum of 25 participants are welcome to register each week.
Leaders:
What to Wear: Dress in layers. It may be cool to start but you will warm up. Running shoes are best but light weight low cut hikers would be OK too. In cool weather, bring a tuque and lightweight gloves.
What to Bring:
In the event of rain, this event will be cancelled.
City View Park
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Frank Vajda
Frank.vajda5@outlook.com 905-510-4103
2500 Kerns Road, Burlington
Meet at 9:45 a.m. for a 10:00 a.m. start.
There are two entrances to City View Park. Take the one labelled SOUTH ENTRANCE (entrance closest to the top of the escarpment, NOT the soccer fields)
The entrance to the parking lot is on Kerns Rd., just south of Highway 5. (DO NOT meet at Kerncliff Park which is below the escarpment)
Approx. 16 km.
Moderate to Fast
4-5 km per hour
Approx. 4 ½ hours
Typical Bruce Trail: rocks, roots, some challenging hills as we descend and ascend the Grindstone Valley
Out and Back.
This hike includes lots of features including, excellent views from the escarpment, scenic waterfalls at Smokey Hollow, and a spectacular gorge up the Grindstone Creek.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 15 Hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
· Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread.
· Hiking poles may be helpful.
· Dress in layers according to weather
· Carry waterproof rainwear, snacks and water
· Sun protection if necessary.
· Icers are mandatory in winter conditions.
HIKE PACE - Leisure: 3 km/hr. or less. Moderate: 3-4 km/hr. or Fast: 4-5km/hr. All paces are an average and will depend on the terrain and weather. Rest stops are not included in the overall pace.
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 long hills and strenuous footing (some parts of the Bruce Trail, some trails in Short Hills, up and down the escarpment). Please note variations can be expected with wet or icy conditions.
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.
COME JOIN THE PARADE!
DATE: Sunday, December 7, 2025
LOCATION: Central Hub (Teen Tour Way), Burlington (further details to come)
TIME: 1:30 pm for 2:00 pm parade start
CONTACT: Denise Davy – ddavy@cogeco.ca
Sandy Gardner – sandy.gardner@bell.net
Santa Claus is coming to town and once again this year the Halton Outdoor Club will be joining the jolly fellow in Burlington's annual parade.
The Sunday, December 7th event draws thousands of people so it will be an excellent opportunity for us to increase the public’s awareness of what we do and possibly increase our membership.
We are looking for 15 to 20 enthusiastic people to join in the fun parade which will start at Central Library and end at the intersection of Brant Street and Blairholm Avenue. The parade will start at 2 p.m. and the route is 3 kilometres.
Your part is to dress festively (green or red jackets or sweaters is fine) and wear a Santa Claus hat and any other Christmas attire you like. We will have a banner that a few people can carry, and the rest of the participants can choose to either walk a bike, carry snowshoes, cross country skis, hiking poles, and/or a backpack, or, if you’re feeling creative, you could make a small cardboard replica of a kayak to wear. This way all elements of the club will be represented.
After the parade, we will head to a “to-be-decided” restaurant/pub to celebrate.
For more information on the parade and parade route: https://www.burlington.ca/en/news/festivals-and-events/santa-claus-parade.aspx
Christmas Light Walk #2
Monday Dec 8, 2025
Paul Lewis, Leader cell 905-519-4008
Dave Somerville, Co-Leader, cell 289-556-6707
outdooractive@hotmail.com (905) 519-4008
NE Burlington
START TIME
Meet at 6:45 for 7:00pm start
Outside Canadian Tire at Appleby & Upper Middle in Burlington
6-7 km
2 hours
Easy
i.e. loop or out and back
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
A loop that takes in the big displays on Blue Spruce Ave and Brada Ave and many other smaller & medium sized Christmas light displays in the Orchard neighbourhood (There are lots of lights in this area!)
REGISTRATION OPENS
2 weeks before the hike. Maximum participation 25 including the leader and co-leader
• Wear supportive walking shoes. Hiking poles if you wish.
• Dress in layers according to weather
• Carry waterproof rainwear, snacks and water
Crawford Lake
Tuesday December 9th, 2025
Patti Blair and Jim Blair
905 906 6941 pattiblair87@gmail.com
Crawford Lake Conservation Area – View of Nassagaweya Canyon between Crawford Lake and Rattlesnake Point
Meet at 9:15am for a 9:30am start
Lower Parking Lot of Crawford Lake, 3115 Conservation Rd, just east of Guelph Line
You can register ahead to enter and save a bit on entrance fees, or you can pay by credit card when you arrive at the gate. Cost is free with a Halton Conservation Membership.
6 -7 km (optional 2 km extra)
2.5 – 3 hours with water and snack stops
Moderate to challenging, some rough footing on rocks and roots, some gentle hills. It is the Bruce Trail.
The loop hike around the lake is closed for repairs, but we will hike a longer loop on the Escarpment Trail and the Lake Crawford Side Trail. An extra Woodland Loop on easy terrain will add an extra 2 kms (optional)
Enjoy the gentle trails of the Conservation area as well as the more rugged Bruce Trail which leads to a beautiful lookout over the Nassagaweya Canyon.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 20 hikers are welcome to participate in this event
• Wear supportive hiking boots with good tread.
• Hiking poles will be helpful but not essential.
• Icers (traction devices) are mandatory n snowy winter conditions.
Hamilton Weekly Waterfront Walk
Wed. Dec. 10, 2025
Tammy Ross, Jim Blair, Heather Wilson
tammyross@rogers.com 905-518-6942
GENERAL LOCATION (City/Town)
Hamilton Harbour Waterfront Trail
Meet at 9:15 for 9:30 start
MEETING PLACE OR PARKING LOCATION
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
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 +/-
Easy/Moderate/Challenging
Easy: Flat and paved.
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)
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.
Two weeks before the hike. Up to 20 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
• 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.
Oakville Urban Hike
Thursday December 11, 2025.
Dave Somerville
905 659 6768
289 556 6707 (TEXT morning of hike)
cdsomerville4@gmail.com
North East Oakville
Oakville
9:15 for a 9:30 start
Iroquois Ridge Community Centre
1051 Glenashton Drive
10-12 km.
3-4 hours
Easy to Moderate
Screened pathways. Some street walking
A few long uphills and stairs are possible.
Modified LOOP
There are many options in the Iroquois Ridge area of Oakville with beautiful ravines, ponds and open meadows. The route will depend on “Mother Nature”.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 25 hikers are welcome to participate in this event
• Hiking poles may be helpful.
• Icers “may” be necessary
Prepare for Mother Nature!
A stop to “warm up” after.
Friday Night Walk, Christmas Lights #2
Friday, December 12 2025, 6:15 to 8:30 pm
McCraney Rd W and Old Upper Middle Parking
Registration opens November 11, 2025
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Donna Copeland 905-719-3947
Location
Information Page
Ski and Snowshoe Day Trip Information
Pick up Locations and times
Burlington 7:45 for 8:00 sharp departure Oakville 8:00 for 8:15 sharp departure Bus Pickup Locations
Cancellation Policy
Bus Fee
$37
Ski Trail Fees
$31
Snowshoe Trail Fees
$19
Guided Snowshoe
Yes leaders - Sue and Frank Elias
Skate Trails
Groomed for classic and skate skiing
Snowshoe Trails
7.5 km
Classic Trails
28 km
Ability Level
Beginner to expert
Lunch Room
Yes. Ample cafeteria seating indoors.
Food Service
Hot and cold food served
Ski Rentals
Yes
Snowshoe Rentals
Waxing Room
Resort Highlights
Many trails located on top of escarpment with views of Georgian Bay
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.
Northern Dundas Valley
Sunday, December 14, 2025
Ellen Kennedy
Paul Toffoletti
Ellen.kennedy12@gmail.com 905-630-1057
Paultgroups@gmail.com 289-230-2038
Meet by the entrance to the Bruce Trail Davidson Blvd. Side Trail on Davidson Blvd. in Dundas.
Meet by 9:15am for a 9:30 start.
We will meet in front of #110 Davidson Blvd. that is next to the Bruce Trail Davidson Blvd. Side Trail in Dundas.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/uzBjj86T7QoYWE9V8
7km
2.5 hrs Could be a bit longer if there is snow.
Moderate with rolling hills
There and Back
A lovely walk through the north side of Dundas Valley along a road allowance with rolling hills. We will cross Governors Road and make our way to the Dundas Valley Trail Centre and return the same way. Please note that the Trail Centre washrooms may or may not be open.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 17 hikers are welcome to participate in this event
• Sun and bug protection if necessary.
• Icers would be helpful if there is snow.
There will be an option to go to the Collins Brewhouse for a drink or bite to eat. 33 King Street West, Dundas.
Christmas Light Walk #3
Monday Dec 15, 2025
Paul Lewis, Leader 905-519-40098
outdooractive@hotmail.com, (905)519-4008
SE Burlington
Outside Tim Hortons in Eastway Plaza at New St & Walkers Line in Burlington
A loop that takes in the big displays on Spruce Ave and Kerry Drive and many other smaller Christmas light displays
2 weeks before the hike. Max participation 25 including the leader and co-leader
Wed. Dec. 17, 2025
Waterdown Bruce Trail – Borer’s Falls
Thursday December 18, 2025
289 556 6707 TEXT
Waterdown Bruce Trail
Bruce Trail Crossing at Hwy. #6 Tunnel
Old Guelph Rd. dead end.
Km. 65.8 Bruce Trail Guide Ed. 30. (map 9)
Bruce Trail Parking Old Guelph Rd
12 -- 13 km.
Moderate to fast
4 Hours (ish)
Moderate to Challenging
Typical BRUCE Trail – Rocky, Steep climbs and “mud?”
There and Back with a side trail in the RBG.
A challenging hike, but a little easier!
There are some long uphills on this one.
Enjoy the main Bruce trail as we head west from #6. Lots of time on top of the escarpment and great views of Borers Falls. Taking a page from the ET & T Series, we will enjoy the York Road Side Trail as well as a RBG Trail on the return trip.
• Hiking poles will be helpful.
• “Icers” mandatory in wintry conditions
• Sun protection if necessary.
The Dutch Mill afterwards??
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event):
Marlis Butcher 647-983-6529
Yes - Lead by Sue and Frank Elias
10 km
27 km combined
Yes. Log Cabin
This area offers beautiful scenery, wooded wilderness and usually good snow conditions.
The Ups and Downs of the Bruce Trail
Sunday, December 21, 2025
Isabel Bravo/Dave Pomeroy
ibravo_13@icloud.com 905.746.221
Beamsville, Lincoln
Meet at 9:30 am for a start at 9:45am
Parking Lot for Cave Spring Conservation, Lincoln,
3780–3792 Quarry Rd, Beamsville
Cave Springs Conservation Parking Lot
Approx. 9 Km
Moderate, 3 km/hr
3 hrs
Mixed, moderate to easy
There & Back
Another Bruce trail hike in the fall; many ups and downs but also flats with view of Lake Ontario and Toronto (but only on a clear day).
Christmas Light Walk #4
Monday Dec 22, 2025
Paul Lewis, Leader 905-516-4008
Dave Sommerville, Co-Leader, 289-556-6707
outdooractive@hotmail.com, 905-519-4008
Outside Tim Hortons in Roseland Plaza at New St & Guelph Line in Burlington
5-6 km
1.75 hours
A loop that takes in the big display on Spruce Ave and many other smaller Christmas light displays in the Roseland area
HIKE and SKATE, Waterdown
Tuesday December 23, 2025
289 556 6707 Day of hike TEXT
Memorial Park
Joe Sams Leisure Trail, Waterdown
Memorial Park Parking Lot
9:15 a.m. for 9:30 a.m. start
200 Hamilton St. N., Waterdown
Opposite Fortinos.
“6” KM
1.5 – 2 hours hike.
½ hour skate
1 hour “warm-up”
Paved path, sidewalks, screened pathways, natural trail.
SMOOTH ice surface.
There and Back.
As many loops on the skating oval as you like!
From Memorial Park we will walk through parts of old Waterdown to Joe Sam’s Leisure Trail. Weather permitting, we will explore the natural trail of the park. If icy, we will stay on the main loop trail and then head back to the skating loop.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 25 Hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
• Wear supportive walking shoes/ hiking boots with good tread.
• “Icers” are mandatory in wintry conditions
• SKATES
Many options for the warm-up afterwards.
(Apple fritters! Timbits! Mc???! Fortino’s Buffet)
Sixteen Mile Creek Trails
Sunday, December 28, 2025
River Oaks Community Centre parking lot-South End.
2400 Sixth Line, Oakville
Meet at 9:15 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. start
River Oaks Community Centre
Approx. 14 km.
Approx. 3 ½ hours
Moderate, mostly flat with some hills. Some sidewalk crossings (Smith-Triller Viaduct, Dundas Street Bridge)
Hike from River Oaks Community Centre on Sixth Line along Crosstown Trail to 16 Mile Creek Trail system.
Varied Terrain as hike will traverse the rim as well as descend into and ascend out of the valley.
In Winter or freezing conditions the hike will be restricted to the rim without descents into the valley.
· Hiking poles will be helpful.
Sandra Redfearn 905-978-2362
Yes leader - Maureen Healey
20 km
80 km
Yes. Ample cafeteria seating indoors. Many outdoor tables are also available.
Outdoor food truck available, some outdoor seating
Excellent trail variety for all levels
Dundas Driving Park to Dundas Peak
Day of week, DD/MM/YYYY
Wednesday, December 31st, 2025
Craig Sim
simcraig54@gmail.com
cell 289 659 0007 (cell for day of hike only)
Dundas Driving Park, Dundas
Meet 9:45 for 10:00 a.m. start
Dundas Driving Park, not far from the washrooms
Dundas Driving Park
8km (approximate)
Approx 2.5 hours
Moderate, with some steep hills and usually good footing. Note that the terrain can vary with conditions, especially in spring.
Out and back or combination.
Dundas Driving Park to Dundas Peak and Tews Falls. Great views from Dundas Peak.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 20 Hikers are welcome to participate in this event
• Wear supportive hiking boots or hiking shoes with good tread.
Optional beverage/lunch stop after hike
HIKE PACE - Leisure: 3 km/hr or less. Moderate: 3-4 km/hr or Fast: 4-5km/hr. All paces are an average and will depend on the terrain and weather. Rest stops are not included in the overall pace.
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 long hills and strenuous footing (some parts of the Bruce Trail, some trails in Short Hills, up and down the escarpment). Please note variations can be expected with wet or icy conditions.
Oakville Town Hall: Morrison Valley Trail - Celebrating the start of the New Year!
Thursday January 1st, 2026
Ralph Gardave & Heather McClintock
gardave@sympatico.ca 905-601-2100
Oakville Town Hall (Trafalgar North of QEW)
Meet at 9:45 am for 10:00 am start
Meet in the parking lot at Oakville Town Hall, 1225 Trafalgar Road, Oakville. The parking lot is accessible by driving north on Trafalgar from the QEW. We will hike along the Morrison Valley Trail and back.
Approx. 8 - 10 km
Moderate 3 - 4 km per hour
3 hours walking time
Moderate to Challenging. Some stairs, and hills. Mostly along pathways
Partly out and back but mostly a loop.
View of woodlands of Oakville.
Two weeks before the hike. Up to 15 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
• Wear supportive hiking shoes or boots with good tread. Hiking poles will be helpful.
• Bring snacks and lots of water
• Icers are mandatory in snowy slippery conditions
There is a mid hike stop for washrooms and hot drinks at a Tim Hortons.
Kerncliff Park to Smokey Hollow – Celebrating the Start of the New Year!
Thursday, January 1, 2026
Lisa Raftis and Bill Pote
raftislisa@gmail.com 416-829-5053
wrsp777@gmail.com 289-772-9490
Kerncliff Park
There is a porta potty at the parking lot
9:45am for 10:00am start
Kerncliff Park,
2198 Kerns Rd, Burlington
8-10 km
3 hours.
Moderate to challenging, some steep hills up and down, stairs, rocks and tree roots
We will start at Kerncliff Park (porta potty available). Out and back along the main and side trails of the Bruce Trail.
View of Burlington and Lake Ontario from the escarpment and the falls at Smokey Hollow
• Icers are mandatory in winter conditions
We will take a 10-minute break at Smokey Hollow to enjoy the falls, take pictures and have snacks
Felker’s Falls & BT Trails – Celebrating the start of the New Year!
Dave Pomeroy/Isabel Bravo
pomeroyd@yahoo.com 289.680.7684
Upper Stoney Creek in Hamilton
Meet at 9:45 for a 10:00 start
Meet at the Felker’s Fall Conservation Area Parking Lot, 43 Ackland St, Stoney Creek, ON L8J 1R3
Felker’s Falls Conservation Parking
6 - 7 km approx.
Leisurely to moderate, approx. 3 km per hour
2.5 hours including breaks
Relatively easy with some gentle ups and downs. Trails are relatively wide and smooth. Some tricky footing depending on weather conditions.
Hike will take us along part of The East Mountain Trail and Bruce Trail in Stoney Creek. Depending on the weather we might see some water on the Felker’s fall.
ONLINE REGISTRATION & HIKER GROUP SIZE
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 15 registrants are welcome to participate in this event
• Icers are mandatory in wintry conditions.
• Bring snacks and enough water or a thermos with your favourite drink for the duration of the hike.
Social will be done during the hike. Possible Tim Horton coffee but you will be informed at the hike.
Hiking Trails in Mississauga – Celebrating the start of the New Year!
Nancy Stevens , Sonia Baistrocchi
nancystevens7@gmail.com, (905)277-8913
Soniab560@gmail.com. (416)427-9127
Mississauga, Ontario
Meet at 9:45 for a 10:00 am start
Meet at Riverwood Visual Arts Centre located at 4170 Riverwood Park Lane, Mississauga. The centre is located just north of Burnharmthorpe Rd. between Mississauga Rd and Riverwood Park Lane. We will meet meet at the parking lot close to the VA Centre.
Visual Arts Mississauga at Riverwood - Google Maps
6-7 kms
Moderate – 4 kmph, about
1.5 hrs approx.
Relative wide and easy terrain. It could be icy and slippery in winter.
Varied, can be loops and there-and-back hikes.
Weekly hikes are always surprising as the season and weather change. Hike along Culham trail, Credit River and Hewick Meadows Park. Hikes may start in the neighbourhoods in late fall and winter.
• If your plans change, please self-cancel online as soon as possible so that other HOC members may take your spot.
• Hike Leader may cancel any hike if weather conditions are not safe to participants like heavy rain, icy and snow conditions or due to low attendance. Please check your emails a day before the hike.
• Good walking shoes/boots with good tread. Hiking poles will be helpful.
• Bring water and snacks
• Icers or traction devices are mandatory in winter conditions
Details regarding an optional coffee stop will be given after the hike
Winter Walk – Shell Park – Celebrating the Start of the New Year!
Frank & Sue Elias
fselias@cogeco.ca 416-556-2638
Shell Park, Oakville
Meet: 10:00 a.m. Start: 10:15 a.m.
Shell Park – 1st Parking lot on the right3307 Lakeshore Rd W, Oakville, ON L6L 6S643.380418, -79.717985
Shell Park Google Map
Approx. 5-6 km.
Moderate: 3-4 km per hour
1.5 - 2 hours
Easy, sidewalks/asphalt trail
Out and back
From the park, we head east and take the trails from South Shell Park and 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.
This walk is suitable for Nordic walking as well so bring your hiking poles if you would like to get a full body work-out.
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike.Up to 15 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
Hiking poles are optional; if you bring poles, remember your rubber booties as we are on asphalt.
We will have demonstration poles and booties available.
· Bring water and snacks.
· Icers are mandatory in winter conditons.
Optional social afterwards
Registration opens December 1st, 2025
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Dave & Collette Somerville 905-630-3265
Yes - Lead by Maureen Healey
Thursday January 8, 2026
Glen Abbey Community Centre
1415 Third Line, Oakville
Park near tennis courts
Glen Abbey Community Centre - Google Maps
3-3.5 hours
Screened pathways. Paved pathways. Some street walking.
A few long up hills and stairs are possible.
There are many options in the Glen Abbey area of Oakville with beautiful ravines, ponds and open meadows. The route will depend on “Mother Nature” and Trail conditions.
• ICERS are a must in winter conditions
A warm-up afterwards!
Registration opens November 8, 2025
Ski Lesson Beginners - Level 1 (for members only)
Loraine Walter 647-283-7304
Level 1 Lessons Fee (includes bus and Ski Trail Fee)
$135
Yes leader - Jim Blair
Sixteen Mile Creek
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Anne and Phill Armstrong
hikingrandma@gmail.com 905 617 3937
Southeast corner of Neyagawa Blvd and River Glen Blvd. next to the baseball fields. Overflow parking on the street.
2.5 to 3 hours
Easy with some long hills to descend and ascend
Sixteen Mile Creek is a valley with a lot of history from Oakville’s early days. We will hike above and beside the lovely creek which one was home to mills and a bustling village at its northern end, just below Dundas Street.
Registration opens December 1, 2025
Level 1 Refresher Clinic (for members only)
Tammy and Pete Ross 905-518-6942
Level 1 Refresher Clinic (includes bus and Ski Trail Fee)
$99
7 km
30 km
Yes. Very limited indoor seating due to lack of space. Outdoor seating available. The bus will be our base. Indoor washrooms are available.
Limited light refreshments. Bring lunch.
Trails traverse rolling terrain in Dunes area
Registration opens November 9, 2025 (A stroke past midnight on November 8, 2025).
Date: Wednesday, Jan 14 – Thursday, Jan 15, 2026
Leaders: Tammy Ross: tammyross@rogers.com Pete Ross: pross33@rogers.com
Description: Enjoy two memorable days of skiing and snowshoeing at Horseshoe Valley & Arrowhead Provincial Park.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express - Huntsville
Cost: The cost of this trip is $230 per person for double occupancy and $295 for single occupancy. Skiers and snowshoers pay the same trail fees.
Space is limited to 44 participants with 6 spaces available for single accommodation on a first come-first served basis.
Please read the Trip Information Sheet before you register. Trip Information Sheet
CONFEDERATION TRAIL
Thursday January 15, 2026.
289 556 6707 Day of hike
Confederation Beach Park
East Hamilton
581 Van Wagner’s Beach Road, Hamilton
Parking Lot at the Bend
Confederation Beach Park - Google Maps
11 km plus 5km option
4 – 4.5 hours
Paved pathways, screened pathways. Some natural trails.
A good hike if it’s not breezy. We will head for the lift bridge and back enjoying the older small cottages and the more modern renovations of the beach strip. The bonus will be east along the Confederation Park trail and back
Registration opens 2 weeks before the hike. Up to 25 hikers are welcome to participate in this event.
• “Icers” may be necessary.
A fish and chip lunch afterwards?
Level 2 Lesson (for members only)
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Marlis Butcher 647-9836529
Yes - Lead by Judy Dragun
Dave & Collette Somerville 905-630-3265
Excellent trail variety for all levels, Retail Outlet
HIKE and SKATE, DUNDAS
Thursday January 22, 2026.
Spencer Creek
71 Cross Street
Dundas
Park near Lawn Bowling
“7” KM
1 hour “warm-up” (i.e. a stop at Timmies), followed by a ½ hour skate
A nice easy walk through old Dundas, past the Cactus remains and along Spencer Creek. A warm-up stop on the way back to the cars.
• “Icers” may be required
Downtown Dundas or a “Timmies”
2026 ITALY / AUSTRIA SKI TRIP
Friday, January 23 – Saturday, February 7, 2026
Registration opens Sunday, March 30th
(a stroke past midnight on the night of March 29th)
We are returning to Toblach, Italy and Seefeld, Austria to ski some of the finest cross-country trail networks in Europe. Other winter activity opportunities include extensive winter hiking trails, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and sightseeing.
Accommodation: One week at the Hotel Villa Monica in Toblach, Italy with half board (all breakfasts and dinners). One week at Hotel Bergland in Seefeld, Austria with an all-inclusive package (see details on the Trip Information Sheet).
Cost:
$ 6,790 for double occupancy $ 7,320 for single occupancy.
$ 6,790 for double occupancy
$ 7,320 for single occupancy.
Number of participants: 24 total, including the leaders. Two of these spots are reserved for single occupancy.
Before you register, please read the Trip Information Sheet (opens as a PDF file).
If you have any questions, please contact the trip leader by e-mail.
Level 2 Clinic and Level 3 Clinic (for members only)
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Frank Vajda 905 510 4103
8 km
40 km
Yes - indoor space to eat your lunch
Trail pass through scenic rolling woodland
Donna Copeland 905-719-3947
Bronte Back Door
Thursday January 29, 2026
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Orchard Community Park
2255 Sutton Drive, Burlington
Take Sutton north from Upper Middle Road
Orchard Community Park - Google Maps
9 - 11KM
3hrs.
Paved path, screened pathways, natural trail.
A beautiful walk along the ridge of Bronte Creek on paved city park pathways. We will access the Provincial Park and follow Ravine Trail and if trail conditions permit we will hike the double loop at the bottom of Half Moon Trail.
• Hiking poles (if desired)
Options for a warm-up in the Upper Middle Road/Appleby area.
Ski Lesson Beginners - Level 1 Follow-up (for members only)
Yes leader - Judy Dragun
Registration opens January 1st, 2026
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Sandra Redfearn 905 978 2362
Registration opens January 1, 2026
Skate Ski Clinic (for members only)
Skate Fee Clinic (includes bus and Ski Trail Fee)
Yes leader: Jim Blair
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Frank Vajda 905-510-4103
Yes leader: Judy Dragun
Dave and Collette Somerville 905-630-3265
NEAR NORTH SKI & SNOWSHOE FEBRUARY 20-22, 2026
Registration opens November 9, 2025. (A stroke past midnight on November 8, 2025)
Event Details:
SKI AND SNOWSHOE THE NEAR NORTH
Date: Friday February 20 – Sunday February 22, 2026
Leaders: Collette & Dave Somerville cdsomerville4@gmail.com
Description: Enjoy 3 days of skiing and snowshoeing at Georgian Nordic Club, North Bay Nordic Ski Club and Arrowhead Provincial Park. Please be advised that snowshoe registration is for those who ONLY snowshoe. If you ski and snowshoe you must register as a skier.
Cost: $380.00/Double occupancy and $550.00/Single occupancy
Savings of $17.50 if only snowshoeing
Space is limited to 44 participants with 6 spaces available for single accommodation on first come-first served basis.
Please read the Trip Information Sheet before you register.
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Marlis Butcher 647-983-6529
Yes - Leader: Judy Dragun
Heather Wilson 289-259-5099
Registration opens February 1, 2026
HOC Winterlude - Lunch is optional : Chili (meat or vegan), a roll, beverage and a dessert can be purchased.
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Sandra Redfearn 905-978-2362
Yes leader: Sue and Frank Elias
QUEBEC CITY WINTER SPORT TRIP MARCH 4 – 8, 2026
Registration opens: November 9, 2026 (a stroke after midnight on November 8)
Date: Wednesday, March 4 – Sunday, March 8, 2026
Leaders: Stephen Walter: walter@mcmaster.ca
Loraine Walter: arctic.lorie@gmail.com
Description:
Location: Beautiful Québec City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure with a European flavour.
Activities: We have planned 3 full days of skiing/snowshoeing at 3 different locations (conditions permitting): the renowned Mont Sainte Anne, which also has a downhill resort, the more rustic Sentiers du Moulin and Camp Mercier. Snow is usually plentiful at these locations in March.
In addition, you have the opportunity to explore the city itself or to ski on the famous Plains of Abraham which are located adjacent to our hotel.
Accommodation: We will stay 4 nights at the recently modernized four-star Hôtel Château Laurier just outside the city walls and right next to the Plains of Abraham.
Note: Space is limited to 44 participants. There are 6 single rooms available on a first come-first served basis.
Please read all the details on the Trip Information Sheet BEFORE you register (opens as a PDF file).
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event): Isabel Bravo and Dave Pomeroy 905-746-2217
Yes - Leader: Maureen Healey
Bus Captain Contact (ONLY on the day of the event):Frank Vajda 905-510-4103
ENGLAND HIKING TRIPThursday 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.
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