Here’s a cold, hard fact about Canada. Winter comes every year and it’s not an excuse to stay inside. Winter hiking is a lovely and calming way to be active in cooler temperatures. It’s also my favourite way to spend the first day of the year. True story – I have to take myself on a hike within the first couple of days of the new year to feel like I started the year off right. There’s something incredibly fascinating about the quiet and stillness of the woods in winter. It can be so serene, the sounds of the trees creaking in the wind almost have a tune. Winter causes many people to hibernate. Especially in Canada, it can be cold!  In my eyes, fun in nature doesn’t end with the first temperature dip below zero or the first snowfall. Here are some of my winter hiking tips for hikers of all levels.

Tips For Winter Hiking

Before you head out into nature in winter, there is additional preparation work required. Always look ahead at the weather and choose trails that aren’t in mountainous regions that are prone to avalanches. Then, your preparation generally starts with how you treat your body before you go.

Do You Need To Hydrate When Hiking In Winter?

How much should I hydrate before hiking in the winter? Fuel up and hydrate the day before and the morning of with more than you think you might need. You might sweat more in layered clothing than in a t-shirt in the summer. For example, I will try to drink at least 1L electrolyte mix the day before and again on my way to a hike. I do this because when wearing gloves or mitts, it’s harder to unpack water bottles from your pack unless you’re using a bladder and a hose. I do love bringing a thermos of a hot drink like cocoa to encourage myself to drink more. Also helps to get some extra calories in and warm up my core if needed. 

Same with food. Normally, I love to take breaks and eat while hiking in the warmer seasons. However, if it’s really cold, my hands aren’t happy taking my gloves off to look in my backpack for my granola bars or hard-boiled eggs. I’ll load up on protein on my way to the hike and take a couple of smaller items I can easily access and don’t require much outdoor care to eat along the way.

What Should I Wear While Winter Hiking?

First thing first when it comes to clothing when hiking in the winter – layers. – Start with a non-cotton base layer. Trust me on this – clothing made of cotton is not good for cold weather. The reason is, it will absorb moisture and will trap it next to your skin. During winter, cotton is a killer as you could be a victim of hypothermia. Winter hiking tips – the best fabrics to wear as a base layer in winter are wool, polyester and polypropylene. They will keep you warm when wet and they dry out quickly. Be sure to choose socks made of these materials as well.

On top of the base layer, follow with a mid-layer like fleece/wool, both on your top and your bottom. And then a snowsuit. A down or a synthetic blend is a great option for materials, but be sure it’s water resistant. 

Always pack yourself choices to change into. Have them in your vehicle or if size permits, bring a change or an additional layer in your backpack. Temperatures can vary quite a bit in the winter. It depends on windchill, sunlight and time of day, so be prepared to either take a layer off or add another one on.

If you have cold hands and feet like I do, be prepared and bring toe and hand warmers with you. Even if you don’t have cold extremities, bring them anyway. Regardless of the amount of snow there is or how high the temperature is in the winter, these are good to have on. They’re lightweight and if you do find yourself cold mid-hike, you can warm yourself up.

• Pro Tip: pay attention to how long you’ve been holding onto the toe and hand warmers on a shelf or in a drawer. Their effectiveness wears off the more time has passed. After a couple of years, you could be the proud owner of completely ineffective toe and hand warmers.

Winter boots, toques and mittens complete the outfit. For winter hiking boots, you want a pair that cover above your ankles and are water resistant. The higher they are, the better for keeping snow out of your socks. Toques are a necessity so that you don’t lose heat out of your head. Mittens or gloves or a combination of both of them keep hands shielded from the elements. Leather gloves that are fleece lined are a personal preference.

What Should You Pack for Winter Hiking?

If you are heading out for a winter hike, I strongly advise you carry a backpack with you. In this backpack, I recommend packing the following items as staples for winter hiking:

• Gaiters – these can be rolled up and tucked into a pocket or put at the bottom of your bag. Gaiters are worn over non-waterproof pants or leggings. But not over waterproof trousers. These are not essential items to wear or use, but are incredibly useful in wet weather. This is because once moisture gets into your boots, it’s difficult to dry them out while you’re on the move. Gaiters help keep moisture out.
• Microspikes or crampons – these are essential items. Ice can be treacherous and while microspikes or crampons won’t guarantee that you don’t fall, they will certainly help prevent you from falling or taking a tumble down a steep, icy hill. These traction devices strap onto boots and use metal points to plunge into ice. Crampons are bigger than microspikes. Crampons are best for steeper, icier terrain like glacier hiking or ice climbing. Microspikes are good for everyday hiking.
• Trekking poles – just because I don’t use poles, doesn’t mean I can’t recommend them to others. Some people find trekking poles as mandatory items to help with their balance and keep them stable on unstable terrain.
• First Aid Kit – a first aid kit doesn’t need to be extravagant for hiking, but it’s good to have some of the bases covered such as disinfectant, bandaids and of course treatments for blisters on your feet (moleskin). Winter doesn’t make your feet immune from blisters. A foil blanket and emergency whistle should be items in this kit as well.
• Knife – a small utility knife is also an essential item to have in your backpack. Knives have so many uses I won’t go into all of them here. 
• Rope – chances are good an experienced outdoors person has this in their kit. For the new to the outdoors folks, a rope is super useful in a few situations. A rope can be used as a support line for an emergency shelter, as a rescue line in case a fellow hiker falls into water, as a travel aid if you’re having problems with a hill.
• Firestarter – in the off chance that you get lost or stuck in the woods, a firestarter will help you get a fire going to help you stay warm.

Can Kids Go Winter Hiking?

Winter hiking is a family activity. Children can absolutely be part of the trek. They need to be dressed properly for the elements. Kids should also visit the trail hydrated and well-fed. 

I regularly take my children on the trails (as well as camping) in the winter. In our house, there’s no such thing as bad weather. There is being unprepared for the cold though. Items such as crampons come in kid sizes as well, so it’s possible to also take kids waterfall chasing in the winter. Just remember to exercise caution and remember that simply because it’s below zero, doesn’t mean that the water is frozen so watch where you step or you could end up standing in a wet, cold creek.

There are many trails in Ontario I take my children on year-round. If you’d like to check some of them out, please read:

Best Hiking Trails For Families in Southern Ontario and Best Waterfalls Near Toronto To Hike

What Apps Should I Rely on For Hiking?

Aside from the preparations above that should be undertaken with your body, wardrobe and backpack, some other work is required. If you intend on hiking solo, my biggest recommendation is to let someone know where you are going and at what approximate time. Even if you are hiking as part of a group, leave the details of your journey with a trusted source not attending the hike. You need a map. Always.

 An app such as What3Words is an easy way to communicate exact locations and it utilizes Google Maps. Giving someone a postal code or where you parked your car won’t help you if you’re lost on the trail. What3Worlds can share your exact location.

Cell phone and data reception cannot always be relied on when out hiking. If you subscribe to an app called AllTrails, you can download a trail map ahead of time.

What Considerations Do You Need To Take On The Trail While Winter Hiking?

In terms of picking a trail for more novice hikers, in case of weather changes or it turns out you or your hiking partners just not in the mood, pick a trail with multiple loop options and turnback points. On this same train of thought, use well-marked trails. Blazes (painted tree markers) and elevated signage are your friends in the woods as snow can cover worn trails. Snow can also cover ground level rock markers that are easy to see in other seasons. 

During the winter, bridges and stairs are not your friend. These can become incredibly icy. Walk around in the snow if possible. Take the hill instead of the stairs. Pay attention to area where you find more ice than snow and these can become more treacherous than enjoyable as the hike goes on.

Lastly, I would recommend that you pace yourself as a hike is not a race. In the winter, you want to stay warm, but not profusely sweat. This is an issue I encounter frequently – I sweat easily and I move quickly. Once you stop moving, your body temperature lowers and the sweaty, moist clothes you are wearing will get cold. This is why it’s important to not wear cotton. There’s nothing that will end your day faster than not being able to recover from being too cold.

Should I Prepare My Vehicle For Winter Hiking?

As it is likely you will be driving to a trailhead, it’s important to also have a vehicle that is prepared for the elements as well. Pay attention to the weather and if there is snow or rain in the forecast, be sure you angle your windshield wipers off the windshield so they do not freeze on.

I drive a Jeep Wrangler (JKU) and it’s the most failsafe vehicle out there for adventure seekers. Starting to snow? No problem, I can drive out in 4WD. In case of an emergency, I keep the following in my trunk and if these are items you do not have, I recommend you get them – a blanket, cell phone charger, tire pump, small shovel, salt and a snow brush. Jeeps have a spare tire on the back. Knowing how to change a tire, get ice off your windshield wipers and having a service such as CAA gives you added security.

I sincerely hope these winter hiking tips are helpful. Winter is one of the most amazing seasons, but it can also be the most unforgiving to those who are unprepared. Being prepared will ensure you have as much fun as possible and stay safe!

*** Always remember to practise leaving no trace. What you bring in with you, must also leave with you ***

Read more on leave no trace here: Hiking Etiquette; A Guide To The Trails

*** You must be a member of Craigleith Ski Club to use their facilities ***

In the winter of 2019, some ski clubs across Ontario were celebrating some of their earliest opening dates ever. In no time flat, suddenly bemoaning the melt of the snow and lack of optimal conditions to attract ski enthusiasts to the hills. It was an economic blow to their businesses. Despite the impact of climate change on downhill skiing, ski clubs like Craigleith thrive in the midst of the weather challenges. In fact, over the next couple of years, Craigleith is set to invest eighteen million dollars into cutting-edge snowmaking. Then, club improvements to generate an all-year-round facility with a hopping Apres Ski social scene.

What Is Snowmaking?

Snowmaking is the process of using pressurized water and compressed air or an electric fan to make snow. That “snow” is distributed all over the hill for the skiers to use. What Craigleith has done is take the technology of snowmaking and kick it up a notch. “It was Craigleith’s need for more information so that they could be more efficient with their snowmaking and grooming”, says Jeff Courtemanche, General Manager of Craigleith Ski Club.

This has led Craigleith to the forefront of GPS technology used in surveying and for new subdivision grading.

*** I spent the day with Jeff Courtemanche, General Manager of Craigleith Ski Club learning all about the process from him and members of his crew in February 2020 ***

The Magic of Craigleith Ski Club Snowmaking

At Craigleith, water used for snowmaking starts in Georgian Bay. A remote pump house that has two pumps pushes through 4000 gallons of water per minute into an 18 million gallon snowmaking pond on Craigleith’s property. 

In the most simplistic terms, from the snowmaking pond, the water flows through a 24-inch pipe into a wet well. A wet well is like a huge holding tank, located at the back of the snowmaking building. Water is then cooled down to 2 degrees Celsius through two smaller pumps. Then flows from the cooling towers to the six main snowmaking pumps in the snowmaking building. From there, it is pumped up the hill at the rate of 6000 gallons per minute at 600 pounds of force per square inch. For comparison, a residential house usually has 60 psi. A fire truck would have approximately 140 psi, so this is really powerful! 

On the airside, cold outside air is drawn in through filters at the side of the snowmaking building by the 1250-horsepower centrifugal air compressor. The air goes through 3 stages in the compressor. It is compressed to 110 psi and five thousand cubic feet per minute. 

Snowmax

Over the years, Courtemanche oversaw advancements in technology. Utilizing computerization and automation has advanced snowmaking to the point where it is now a 1:1 air-water ratio is down to 1:3 ratio. Once the snowmaking water is pumped and starts to leave the snowmaking building, it is injected with a bacteria called Pseudomonas syringe strain 236. That is sold commercially as Snowmax. Craigleith Ski Club was the first ski area in Canada to use Snowmax and has been using it since 1987.

The Snowmax bacteria are naturally occurring in the environment and is manufactured, concentrated, and eradicated to make it harmless and tested for commercially viable. That means there are no effects to any human on the slopes. When Craigleith’s snowmaking water was tested, they found that only 60% of tested drops froze by minus 6 degrees Celsius. It takes until minus 15 to have 100% freezing. By adding Snowmax, all water sample droplets were frozen by minus 1.5 degrees Celsius. 

The compression process is called adiabatic compression. That means heat is generated in the compression process and air leaves the compressors at about 160 degrees Fahrenheit.  Compressed air then goes through the heat exchangers located outside of the snowmaking building. The air is subsequently cooled to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot air can hold much more moisture than cool air. After the air is cooled the moisture starts to fall out of the air. The cold air then goes through a moisture separator which pulls the moisture out of the air and it is recycled back to be used to make snow.

How Much Snow Does Craigleith Need To Make?

So how does Craigleith know how much snow to make? Steve Young from SnowRight came up with an incredible system that helps keep an even depth of snow on the slopes. Using a method of measuring the snow depth, they are able to get exactly what they want. In the summer, everywhere on the hill, including the grass is measured. That creates a complete three-dimensional model of the ground. In the winter, another survey is created which pinpoints all the spots on the mountain.

Then, they are brought together into a mesh that makes a full model of the snow every night. The measuring tool is on the snow groomer which drives up and down the runs. The snow groomer can tell the difference between the elevation he’s at and the ground at any time. At the end of every night, the operators in the CATs hit a button on their screen and it goes back to a master computer. Everything is calculated in a software-based program.

Atlas – The Snowmaking Software

The snowmaking software is called Atas, and it controls the entire snowmaking operation. Each one of the 500-plus shelters that are in place on the trails is shown by a pictogram on a monitor back in the snowmaking building. A member of the team can turn them on and off by clicking a mouse. Atas talks to a programmable logic control panel in the building that makes sure there are enough resources in the machine room to get enough pumps and compressors running for the resources required on the hill. The programmable logic control panel takes inputs from inside the machine room from vibration to pressure to water and flow sensors. Then, it takes all of that combined with an algorithm to control the pumps, motors, and compressors. Everything in the machine room is mapped out to where and how much snow is required in each area.

The automation at Craigleith is one of the largest systems in North America. The entire snowmaking process can occur within the blink of an eye. This is how Craigleith Ski Club can thrive each and every winter regardless of the climate.

Never being one to sit still, when Waterloo called, I answered. And I’m very glad we did as the Waterloo Region is perfect for fall, family fun weekends. There is nothing better than a quick road trip to explore a close by area that you haven’t devoted the appropriate amount of time to.

The kids were hosted in the Waterloo Region for Fun By Day and Fear By Night.

All of our experiences and reactions are genuine and we actually experience it all as opposed to simply posing for a photo.

A little over an hour from Toronto lies the beautiful Region of Waterloo. Waterloo Region is an easily accessible destination for families driving via the 401 or by train. And for Family Fun in the fall, this region should be on your list for a road trip! 

Why Visit The Waterloo Region?

The Region of Waterloo combines a couple of cities – Cambridge, Kitchener, and Waterloo, as well as the townships of North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich. There are many charming rural roads to drive between them lined with farms. You can visit stunning scenery while walking on trails alongside the Grand River. While you are exploring between the cities and townships, there are cute stops you can make along the way like the Montrose Kissing Bridge (one of the oldest covered bridges in Canada) or St. Jacob’s Farmers Market. 

While the cities are considered to be large, you’re never far from lots of green space and room to breathe fresh air. The cities have built a lot of parks and outdoor spaces. And at this time of year, those green spaces are turning to spectacular autumn hues of reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s perfect for fall outdoor activities for families.

Amidst all of the outdoor space, the Waterloo Region is home to a number of craft breweries and restaurants that boast food from nearby farms. As my readers know, I will travel for beer. You’ll find farmers’ markets, farm visits, and other attractions that are family fun during the day, along with scarier attractions at night that will make you jump!

What To Do This Weekend in Waterloo?

Waterloo is not too far away from the Greater Toronto area, so you can jam-pack an itinerary for the day or plan to spend a whole weekend! With so many options for fall activities, it’s a good idea to book in advance and line your timings up.

Here are some of the fall activities for kids and the whole family if you are heading to the area. First up – fun family fall activities you can do during the day:

Canoe The Grand River with Canoeing the Grand  

There is nothing better than a fall paddle and there is something about the beautiful perspective of the autumn hues from the water. The Grand River is an oasis of a beautiful display of fall colours in October. This is an amazing fall activity for kids as they can sit up front of the canoe while the parent (or adult) does the work. My son and I shared a canoe while my daughter kayaked solo.

The Grand River has a mighty current that will gently pull you along if you need to take a break from paddling. You can choose from different time slots and lengths of courses to take. We did a 5km paddle that dropped us in at Woolwich.

Canoe The Grand rents kayaks and canoes and can be found at 3734 King Street East, Kitchener. You can park there and they will shuttle you to your starting point or they will designate you to start elsewhere and finish there. Please consult the guide and their website for more information.

Hike Alongside The Grand River at Walter Bean Trail

Waterloo itself has more than a dozen different trails throughout the city. The Walter Bean Trail is a long, 17.4-kilometre trail that’s classified as moderately challenging. For those with kids, you don’t have to do all of it and can stick to the easier parts by Schneider Park – where you can find free parking for your vehicle. Please note that the parking lot isn’t large, so plan to go early to secure a spot. The trail is really picturesque and for autumn hue hunting, it’s a nice place to be.

It’s also a stone’s throw away from Canoeing The Grand, so your family can combine two outdoor activities around one location.

Have A Farmtastic Fun Time at Snyder’s Family Farm

My kids and I did not allot enough time – we think – to Snyder’s Family Farm. We arrived close to 2:00pm and stayed all the way until closing time. Our advice? Plan to spend at least half a day with the family at Snyder’s Family Farm. This is also a good place to plan to get lunch as there is a grilled cheese double-decker bus and a burger hut. 

There is honestly enough to keep the kids entertained here for hours from a jumping pad and a jumping pillow to a corn maze you can spend an hour in and a hayride and play areas. There was also a puppet show, there are play ground areas for smaller children, a pumpkin patch you can get your pumpkins from as well as a bake shop you can make purchases at.

For an extra add-on special experience for the family, you can rent a campfire pod. Campfire pods are available to book and you will be assigned a team member who takes care of bringing wood to the fire and keeping it going. That means it’s your family’s job to sit back and relax and let someone else look after your pit.

As if the experience alone wasn’t amazing enough, you can order food and drinks directly to your pod. While the kids delight in roasting marshmallows for s’mores, mom can enjoy a local beer from Block 3 Brewing Co.

Snyder’s Family Farm can be found at 936685 Blenheim Rd, Bright, ON N0J 1B0. It’s approximately 25 minutes of a drive from Canoeing The Grand.

Although fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down, the tone changes in the fall to fear! After a fall family fun day, the spooky and scary come out to play!

Snyder’s Family Farm becomes the setting for Fear Farm!

The Fun-tastic Farm turns into a haunted hayride through cornfields and forests. Keep your wits about you, you don’t know who or what is lurking where! Multiple themed hauntings will keep you on your toes and not sure what’s around the corner.

Screampark  at Bingeman’s

Running select nights between now and Hallowe’en, be prepared to get your scare on because Screaming Season is here. Screampark takes brave souls through 6 horrifying attractions meant to leave you shaking in your shoes!

While the gory and terrifyingly dead cast members won’t touch you, they certainly can death stare you down as you visit The Lot, Soulless Swamp or Devil’s Hallows. You might even find yourself being chased by a chainsaw-wielding maniac. 

The kids were definitely terrified. As a tip – there are emergency exits. Should you find yourself too scared to continue and it’s okay to jump out.

Fear Farm or Screampark are not recommended for anyone under the age of 12.

Where to Stay in the Waterloo Region

We stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Kitchener. The DoubleTree by Hilton Kitchener is located close to the highway in the southern part of the region. It’s very close to Bingemans, to Canoe the Grand, and has many shopping conveniences.

The rooms are comfortable and spacious, perfect for family stays. My kids and I were quite comfortable. The restaurant is delicious for breakfast – while the service is buffet, we had eggs cooked to spec. The staff are lovely and kind and the price point is affordable.

Where to eat in Waterloo? Well there are lot of chains restaurants, but there are many locally owned and operated resturants

What my kids and I got to do in this mini-itinerary is a small tip of the iceberg. There are so many fantastic family fun activities during the day for the whole family. And don’t forget the fear-by-night attractions that the Waterloo Region has to offer. It will definitely entice you into wanting to return.

The kids and I were hosted by Québec’s Eastern Townships (Tourism Eastern Townships) to explore. We spent 3 nights and took in all of the quaint charms of the region that we could. We are never coerced into having a good time. Opinions are always ours.

Do you want to take a road trip to a Quebec destination with French and English language and culture?

Beautiful countryside?

Ready access to nature, bike and hiking trails?

Delicious and fresh farm-to-table cuisine?

The Eastern Townships of Québec will check all of the boxes.

Spend a long weekend in Québec’s Eastern Townships and you will most certainly head home from this special corner of Québec with a desire to return!

What are Quebec’s Eastern Townships?

The Eastern Townships is a place that will take your breath away! While we’ve only had the pleasure of being there in the summer, it’s a year-round destination. Around every corner are a picture-perfect village, historic building, farm, mountain, lake and a culinary adventure. Romance, outdoor activities and vineyards dot the landscape with a lust for life. Wildflowers grow in fields alongside the roads beckoning you to stop. 

There are 114 towns and cities that make up the Eastern Townships all connected by roads across the 9 territories.

Where are Québec’s Eastern Townships?

The Eastern Townships of Quebec are approximately 6 and a half hours from downtown Toronto. The major city of the region is Sherbrooke, Quebec. You’ll find this area right on the Vermont, USA border area of Quebec which is why there are strong English communication skills in pockets of the area.  

What Are the best activities in the Eastern Townships?

There are many ways to fill your time in the Eastern Townships. For this itinerary, we are going to focus on the area of Magog, Hatley and Coaticook.

Magog is the bigger city in this area with the city amenities.

North Hatley is quaint and reminds us of a beautiful French town. The streets are walkable and the people are personable. The entire town is scenic and photo opportunities are on every corner.

Coaticook is a medium-sized town, known for its dairy production.

Kayak tour in Cherry River 

Sometimes the best way to appreciate the environment is through actual exploration of it. Take a kayak tour through the Cherry River (Rivière-aux-Cerises), a wonderful open-air classroom to observe the more than 20 plant and animal species that appear on the endangered list as well as introduce yourself to an easy and gentle water sport. Set against the backdrop of Mount Orford, the ecosystem of the Cherry River Marshland is a relaxing adventure to observe birds and maybe see a couple of beavers here and there. 

The waters are calm are appropriate for all skill levels and family members.

Parc national du Mont-Orford

Hike – Many trails up Mont-Orford lead to stunning lookouts, vistas and picnic areas. Plan to spend hours on the trails, many of which are boardwalks built out from the rock. While some of the trails are really tough, a few of them can be tackled by all family members and the rewards are worth it.  

Kayak or SUP – For a relaxing day on the water, there are kayak and SUP rentals at Lakes Stukely. For a nominal price, you can spend an hour, a half-day or a full day. You will have to pay to enter the park. And the beach! It’s a wonderful place to bring the kids and play!

Head under ground at Épopée Capelton (Capelton Mines)

Did you know that there is a rich mining history outside of North Hatley? Capelton Mines was originally opened in 1863. The property owner at the time found copper, iron and sulphur. Combined together, that is called chemical pyrite. At the time of the discovery, copper was more valuable than gold! The mining at Capelton Mines stopped in 1907 as they were running out of chemical pyrite and the entrances were all filled in.

The Capelton Mine is one of the oldest industrial mining complexes in Canada. Many years after its closure, the property, along with the abandoned mine was purchased in 1995 and a family business was born. Now you can tour a piece of history in the Eastern Townships. 

You board a truck and head up the mountain to the original entrance where your guide will lead you in and explain the mine, how it worked and show you some of the tools that were once used.   

While only a few floors can be explored on a guided tour, it’s very impressive!

Pro tip: This is a major area cycling junction here. Also, this is a great spot to get lunch.

Acoatica at Parc Découverte Nature

The Acoatica experience is unlike anything you’re ever experienced before. At Acoatica, you learn about and go through the lifecycle of a fish. Through the use of a video game, you create a large reef of fish and then your objective is to go through the different stations collecting points. Through the “learning activities” by way of a video game, you understand the habitats, feeding and how to better the chance’s of the fish survival. The end goal is to help save an endangered species in the video game.

For a lunch option – and part of the admission – you can catch and prepare your own fish on site. There is a river to catch a trout in. Acoatica supplies you with a fishing pole and bait. They also have an outdoor barbeque area, an herb garden and provide seasonings for a culinary experience.

Disclosure – we did not catch a fish and eat it. My son wouldn’t allow this so we got some feed and fed fish in another area instead. I am familiar with catch and release. I haven’t eaten a fish that I have caught since I was a little kid.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to fill your water bottle before arriving

Mini-golf at Glo Golf Aventures

A one-in-a-million experience! Inside a repurposed church, Glo Golf Adventures is an 18-hole

Mini-golf course played in the dark where the balls and decor glow.  It’s a big visual trip! Wear white shirts so you can see the crew you are with easily. If you do not understand French, you can understand mini golf.

Each hole is a different theme where you will find yourself in a Museum of horrors, in space, in a castle, in the mouth of a shark and more! Perfect for chilly evenings or days when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

By day: Hiking trails and the suspended footbridge at Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

Very worthwhile hike alert! There are trails of 3 to 20 kilometres you can take and explore about the Gorge de Coaticook. Be sure to make your way across the massive suspension bridge across the Gorge of Coaticook, which is 50 meters in the air. If you are afraid of heights, do not take the bridge.

Other attractions of the park include observation towers, a cave – which we went into, a dam, an operational hydroelectric power station, cascades, a round barn, a flower garden, a horseback riding centre, a mini farm, and the majestic Gorge of the Coaticook River. The trails are family-friendly and the main ones accommodate hikers and walkers of all levels.

Protip: Bring refillable bottles of water with you as there are refill stations along the way.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kathryn: Adventure Seeker (@kathrynanywhere)

By night: Foresta Lumina at the Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook

After sunset in the gorge, the enchanted forest comes alive with the myths of Quebec, inspired by the fictional tales of the region. Through lights and sounds, the transformed 2.5-kilometre walking paths and suspension bridge introduce you to “Margaret” the main character at

the heart of the narrative told throughout the ‘enchanted forest’. As a ‘Luminaries’ (a visitor to

Foresta Lumina) you embark on an immersive experience that beckons you to come and come back again.

The entire experience takes about an hour and a half, so plan accordingly if bringing your children with you. Strollers are not recommended, if you have baby carriers for the younger ones, it’s a good option to have.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kathryn: Adventure Seeker (@kathrynanywhere)

Where to stay in Eastern Townships of Quebec

There are quite a few options of boutique and smaller hotels in the area to stay at. It’s rare to find large chain hotels, which adds to the charm of the area. In the Eastern Townships, the kids and I stayed in two amazing accommodation choices.

La Station du Chêne Rouge

The first is La Station du Chêne Rouge in Hatley. This is glamping at its finest. We had a super cozy cabin in the woods where we had our best sleep in months. Station du Chêne Rouge offers 10 short-term 4-season ecolodges, 10 campsites and 5 seasonal ready-to-camp ecolodges on a platform scattered over 150 acres at the top of the mountain. 

The cabin we stayed in had a loft with a mattress and a bed on the main floor. There was a small and very basic cooking area along with a fire pit for relaxing at night. It wasn’t overly secluded as we had fellow glamping neighbours within 100 feet of us, however, it was quiet and we were unbothered by others. Our cabin did not have electricity or a toilet, but we could still get a hot shower and a place to do our business at the comfort station under the main office. You cannot drive up to the cabin and will need to bring your stuff to your site either in a wheelbarrow or on your back.

The grounds are beautiful to walk around or drink a coffee and watch the clouds roll by.

This spot is located 15 minutes from Sherbrooke and from the village of North Hatley. We highly recommend here for off-the-grid relaxation.

Hôtel Chéribourg

The second place we stayed at was Hôtel Chéribourg in Orford. As an asterisk to our stay – we arrived there on a Sunday, very late in the afternoon. What I learned is that not much is open in the area on Sunday at that time. The restaurant was closed so we ordered delivery pizza from town and it took close to 2 hours to arrive. The outdoor pool and kids’ activities closed before we could get out. The kids and I swam in the indoor pool and enjoyed it. In the morning, my son enjoyed the kid’s club before we checked out and drove back to Toronto.

Hôtel Chéribourg has a cheerful vibe, known for its spa experiences and food. Our room was a 1 bedroom suite that had a kitchenette and a living room. We could drive our vehicle right up to the front door to unpack and repack with ease. The balcony off the bedroom faced a quiet, residential neighbourhood.

We would return to both locations and would spend more time at each in the future.

Where to Eat in Québec’s Eastern Townships

Food is part of the culture in the Eastern Townships and no dining experience will be alike. Everything is market fresh. So many of the ingredients are locally sourced. It’s mindblowing.

La Caravane

The first dining experience we had was quite literally in someone’s backyard at La Caravane. La Caravane, on the roadway heading into North Hatley, serves Italian pizza and pretty much that’s it. It was incredibly unexpected to be in such a homely atmosphere with everyone who worked there being a member of the family. 

The pizza was delicious. Drinks handcrafted. Mind blown!

l’Auberge La Chocolatière

Artisan chocolate for breakfast? In the town of North Hatley, yes. Expertly make into pancakes or crepes or drizzled onto french toast. It’s French-style heavenly food on a plate. 

Microbrasserie Coaticook

Always been a sucker for a brewery when I travel, this trip wasn’t complete without a visit to one. The patio here is a great draw with a constant lineup on a sunny day for a spot. Beer in the sunshine is never a bad way to spend a dinner hour. 

Of note – there were a lot of families there at the same time we were. I like seeing this as I don’t feel alone being with my kids at a brewery all the time.

Laiterie de Coaticook Ltée

After dinner at the Brewery, cross the street for Ice cream for dessert at the Laiterie de Coaticook Ltée. Laiterie de Coaticook Ltée is one of the largest ice cream manufacturers in Quebec. On a summer day, there’s no better place to get dessert.

Now is the time to visit Québec’s Eastern Townships

The Eastern Townships of Quebec are the region I had always wanted to explore. I feel like I have seen a small corner and I know I definitely want to encounter more. There is so much to eat, drink, bike, drive and experience in Québec’s Eastern Townships. This scenic, quaint and charming area is a gem to behold.

One long weekend will draw you in, but it will definitely encourage you to plan a return trip.

If you haven’t been to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia in your lifetime, you are definitely missing out. Make plans as soon as possible to get yourself to the Acadian South Shores of this Maritime Province in Canada!

Yarmouth is incredibly photogenic and I’m not talking about this awkward model in the shot that you are about to see below. From shipyards to wharves, murals, museums and picturesque Main Street, this town has it all for the eye! If you’re looking for a visual journey, the incredibly colourful Acadian South Shore is for you. In fact, it’s such a cool spot to be, the area’s history predates Samuel de Champlain’s introduction to the shores of Nova Scotia.

Yarmouth is the kind of place where everyone talks to everyone, no matter where you are from. Usually, the conversations open up with where are you from and who’s your father? Sometimes there was “what’s your mother’s name”? And if you are going to cross the street, that car almost 2 blocks back is slowing down to give you ample time to cross the street. They take it a little slower out there and I like it.

Have I sold you on Yarmouth, Nova Scotia yet? I will take you on a deep dive into the awesome things to do in Yarmouth.

I was graciously hosted along with many other travel writers and content creators in Yarmouth for media tours before and/or after the Travel Media Association of Canada conference.

Things to Do And See in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia

The first thing you’ll want to do to really get to know the town of Yarmouth is to explore on foot. My personal favourite ways to get a feel for places are walking tours or taking turns down back roads on my bike. The history of Yarmouth is full of architecture, history, folklore and legends. As it’s a marine town, it has a deep connection to the fishing industry and to this day attributes the vast majority of its revenue and employment to the working wharves, working fish plants and working Museums.

Yarmouth Walking Tours

Should you take a walking tour of Yarmouth? Yes! Meet a local and take a 90-minute walking tour with Yarmouth Walking Tours. Candice Phibbs guides tourists (and residents) through the Town of Yarmouth’s Heritage District and waterfront area. Learn about the ghost at Frost Park, the rich founding families, the shipbuilders, their careers and the homes they built. You can also listen to some of the family drama stories along with their homes. Included in my tour was a visit to The Yarmouth County Museum.

Take a Bike Ride

One of the first things I did when I arrived in Yarmouth was pop into a local bike repair shop to pick up new lights and a tire pump. I asked the guy where he likes to ride and Cape Forchu Lighthouse was his recommendation. So that’s where I went on my first ride! 11.9 km each way from my Airbnb. There are some hills and I met a headwind going in. Made a stop at Fish Point for the Lost At Sea memorial to catch my own wind and found some great views. I lucked out with a gorgeous day and great ocean views all around! 

The second time I was heading out with my bike, I stopped at Heritage Brewing and solicited bike route advice there. Heidi recommended Pickney’s Point. It’s a fishing wharf that is relatively flat to get to. A longer ride clocking 19km each way. On a calm weather day, it’s a good ride. 

So, the moral of the story – ask the locals. Don’t be afraid to inquire – “What’s your favourite bike ride here?”

W. Laurence Sweeney Fisheries Museum

Are there museums in Yarmouth? Yes! Located at 112 Water St., if you’re looking for an authentic and preserved piece of shipping history, this is it. At the W. Laurence Sweeney Fisheries Museum, displays have been reassembled to reproduce the waterfront of Yarmouth’s past.

You will walk across a floor built of authentic wharf planks, head up to the second floor and stand at Laurence Sweeney’s original desk and imagine you are in charge of the wharf! Even better, head up to the wheelhouse and pretend to be the ship’s captain.

Firefighter’s Museum

The Firefighter’s Museum is the place to come in Yarmouth to discover the history of firefighting in Nova Scotia. Here you can see the different fire engines that were used in the area from the 1800s to the 1930s. From antique hand-drawn and operated engines to a Chevrolet pumper.

Head up to the second floor to see the photos of the ill-fated Fleurus and see the life preservers saved from that ship. I will not give too much away about this story. However, there were elephants walking the streets of Yarmouth in June 1963.

Taste the Wine & Beer of Nova Scotia

Is there craft beer in Yarmouth? You bet. It’s no secret that I’ll travel for good beer. If you’re thinking the same, I’d highly suggest you check out Tusket Falls Brewing Co, Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub and Heritage Brewing in Yarmouth. There must be something about the proximity to the saltwater that makes these brews so good. The ales and sours were very palatable and mild. These flavours can only be found in this part of the Maritimes, so run to Yarmouth!

Among my favourite beers are:

1. Crack of The Rock Blonde ale at Tusket
2. Wheat King Pineapple Wheat at Heritage Brewing
3. Kilometre 0 cream Ale at Heritage
4. Blonde Rock at Rudders

Each brewery features pouring samples, glasses and flights along with merchandise for sale.

If you choose not the drive and want some local guidance, enlist Wine & Beer Tours Of Nova Scotia – you won’t be sorry!

Climb The Light House at Cape Forchu

What is the lighthouse at Yarmouth? It is the Cape Forchu Lighthouse! IF you ever have the chance to visit – here are some highlights of this apple core lighthouse you can take it in:

– Climb the Light!  Take a guided tour into the lighthouse tower, learn some interesting facts about Cape Forchu and enjoy spectacular views. It’s only 77 steps! Don’t forget to get a selfie from the top.

– Discover the Leif Erikson Park with walking paths, picnic sites and benches, providing front-row seats for amazing sunsets.

– Meet “Foggy” the 50’ whale skeleton on display in the park. Yes, it’s real.

– Tour the lightkeeper’s residence It is a provincial heritage property complete with museum artifacts.

– Finally, have lunch on the deck or inside the Keeper’s Kitchen café. The smoked salmon sandwich is great. Others enjoyed the lobster roll.

This is one of the destinations I visited by bike on my own. I also returned with my guided group.

Go Foraging

Discover The Night Sky

Where to Eat in Yarmouth

This is not the place where I am going to list a bunch of restaurants to dine at in Yarmouth. Pretty much every food establishment serves lobster. And seafood chowder. It’s fresh and from the sea right outside the door. For those who do not eat seafood, you can order chicken and meat. Fairly basic fair. What is lacking is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s hard to find a bell pepper anywhere or a decent salad. You can definitely get french fries and potatoes.

You will not find large chain restaurants or a Starbucks in the main area. Be prepared for restaurants to close before 9:00 pm in the evening, so plan your dining and evenings accordingly.

What To Do Outside of Yarmouth?

I hope this inspires you to travel to Yarmouth and the Acadian South Shores of Nova Scotia! Please do say hi to David Sollows when you get there. He’s a retired school principal, sings in a Celtic band and was my tour guide.

The Park at Land’escapes, off of Highway 62, south of Bancroft, is one of Canada’s most unique private conservation and recreation communities. Unique in the way that it is an exclusive, members-only wilderness park for all seasons. Meaning once you have a membership, you are welcome to visit and bring guests with you. Members can explore 26,000 acres without overcrowding or waiting for a site and have a true wilderness experience.

Getting out into the wilderness and enjoying nature is something that’s always been very important to me. Growing up, we lived on the edge of the city of Belleville. At the end of our road, were acres of seemingly uninhabited land. It was heavily treed and owned by a farmer, but we used it to explore all year long. Unless we were stealing his strawberries from the farmer section of the field a couple of kilometres away, he never bothered with any of the neighbourhood kids. We built forts, we flexed our girl guides skills of compass and orienteering, fire building, s’mores making but more than anything, we simply explored.

As a child, my parents took me camping every summer. Whether it was in the 1000 Islands or into the Muskoka area or going all the way to Newfoundland with our camper trailer and back, we did it. We hiked, we biked and we foraged wild berries. The pull to the outdoors still tugs like comfort from my childhood. I want my children to have some of the same experiences I have. 

Why Land’escapes?

Living in increasing over-development and urban density, it’s extremely key to me to have a place to escape the noise and pollution. I need somewhere to go to reset my mental health. I like the ability to paddle on a glassy lake and safely bask in the sunshine. It’s nice to snowshoe across many miles without another soul to bother me. And it’s essential to have a plan to leave behind these wonderful green spaces for my children and for their futures. 

It pleased me to hear about a project preserving and protecting landscapes right here in Ontario called Land’escapes. I was lucky enough to spend some time there last summer when the land was first purchased. The kids held frogs in their hands, jumped in the lake and learned about foraging wild mint. Fortune was mine to revisit it earlier this week.

The Park is focusing on conservation and low-impact recreation. There isn’t heli-skiing or motocross here, but there are many kilometres of hiking trails and quiet lakes to explore. The land is formerly a logging property – industrial timber operations – that has been abused in a variety of ways throughout its history. Park operations are busy removing leftover scrap metal, debris, vehicles, tires and waste. The hope is that this will help restore the land back to a natural oasis.

The Benefits of Land’escapes

More and more we are learning about the benefits of submersion in nature. The idea of outdoor schools and forest bathing is becoming more and more popular. The Scandanavian outdoor school concept was never seen outside of that region. Now, outdoor courses and school terms are creeping into North American curriculums. What was once an idea that someone in the city would laugh at, is now the desired activity. Judging by rates for summer camps, parents will pay for their children to get that exposure.  

Being in the outdoors has become the antidote to stress. It’s also the prescription for lowering blood pressure, stress levels and anxiety. Doctors are legitimately writing prescriptions for people to get passes to Parks Canada and Ontario Parks. We are being encouraged to enjoy the outdoors on a regular basis to help improve our moods. It sounds like it’s pretty critical to our survival to have beautifully conserved greenspaces we can access.

There are over 150 kilometres of marked and mapped hiking trails to explore over the 26,000 acres of territory at Land’escapes. Over twenty-five quiet lakes beckon you to play as no motorized vehicles or watercraft are permitted. All quiet recreation. Endless paddling awaits!

That’s a lure to me. The freedom to be out there and be able to teach my kids to canoe or stand up paddle board on the water without fear of being injured, having close calls with drunken cottage boaters. I don’t have to own a canoe to go on a canoe trip in The Park. What if I told you that you could go on a canoe portage camping trip and not have to haul your canoe overland? 

(Not that I am ever afraid of a canoe portage, but if I don’t have to haul my canoe and just take my camp gear, I will!)

The Park is On The Mend

With membership comes access to premium amenities like a gear library, you can book a guided tour or participate in a workshop on mushroom foraging or birding. Members can paddle to the end of one lake, leave that canoe and hop into a new one waiting at the next lake. It’s the portage less portage!

Currently, there are 20 camping spots ready for use. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are in place and ready for recreation. Hiking trails are marked and blazed. Turtles are crossing, elk are grazing and herons are flying.

Over the next couple of months, there will be more campsites ready for members to use. Have you always wanted to try to hike out and camp? This is your chance to learn!

Nature Addict

It’s no secret that I am like a wildling, born to be outside or on the water. With the craziness of construction and congestion in the city where I live, you can bet I’ll be taking full advantage of everything Land’escapes has to offer. You can find me on Jacko Lake on a kayak or on Dixon lake teaching my kids a killer j-stroke.

Disclaimer: We are pleased to partner with Landescapes for their values and commitment to conservation and leave no trace style. I am happy to access this beautiful wilderness and also take ownership of its care for generations to come.