EVENT DESCRIPTIONS - November 2015 to March 2015

Wed. Nov. 12 – Winter Information Night

Join your fellow members and guests to learn more about the club’s winter activities. There will be a presentation by author Kevin Callan on “Wilderness Pleasures”. Feel free to invite anyone who may be interested in our club. Light refreshments will be served and door prizes.

Wed. Nov. 12 – Kevin Callan at the Winter Information Night – “Wilderness Pleasures”
Using personal videos and images from various wild places, Kevin helps everyone understand why we love wilderness so much – a reminder to some, and a reason for others, to head out and enjoy our time in nature. It’s guaranteed informative, enlightening and a very amusing presentation.

Sat. Nov. 15 – Day Hike – York Regional Forest – 10-12 km

A short drive will take us to a diverse woodland ecosystem. Terrain varies from sandy dirt paths to woody debris-covered forest floor.

Sun. Nov. 16 – Day Hike – Mono Cliffs – 15 km

We will be hiking in the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, varied terrain, wooded with some open spots. (Bruce Trail Guide Map 19).

Wed. Nov. 19 –Hike – Eldred King Woodlands – 15 km

The trail has some rolling hills and sandy/clay terrain and is on the Oak Ridge Moraine. Bring a lunch. Please call to confirm your attendance.

Wed. Nov. 19 – Evening Hike and Pub Stop

Hike will be from 6:30 to 8:00 from different locations with a hike leader familiar with the area. All locations will be easily accessible by public transit – e.g. High Park, Riverdale Park, a local neighbourhood. Afterwards, we will go to a local pub/restaurant. Please call for details. For hikes/snowshoes in parks, a headlamp would be useful.

Fri. Nov. 21 – Christmas Trees at the Gardiner Museum

See the dazzling one-of-a-kind Christmas trees created by top Toronto designers. Enroute, we will see the beautiful galleries in this museum and their current exhibition.

Sat. Nov. 22 – Hike – Canadian Northern Rail Line in the Rouge Park – 8 km
Hike the old Canadian Northern rail line, west to the Finch Meander and return.

Sat. Nov. 22 – Day Hike – Hockley Valley – 18-20 km

Sun. Nov. 23 – Day Hike – Muskoka – 18 km

Hike on the Five Winds Trails in southwest Muskoka. This is shield country – an area of bare rock, small lakes, rivers and beaver ponds.

Wed. Nov. 26 – Day Hike – Seaton Trail – 15 km

We will hike from the south end of the trail to Whitevale and return. Bring a lunch. Please call to confirm your attendance.

Thurs. Nov. 27 – Kevin Callan Presentation – S. Walter Stewart Library
The Five Winds Backcountry Ski Club is pleased to present Kevin Callan. Kevin is the author of thirteen books, including the best selling “The Happy Camper”, the incredibly popular series of paddling guides, and most reviewed “Wilderness Pleasures: A Practical Guide to Camping Bliss”. On a regular basis, he presents across North America and has been a key speaker at all the major canoe events for over 25 years. His topic for this evening is “Hot Tenting: The Joys of Winter Camping”.

Sun. Nov. 30 – Urban Hike – Roncesvalles

Explore this fascinating area of the city. Pub stop after?

December Date – TBA – Gluhwein and spatzle at the Distillery Christmas Market
A Christmas market is a street market which celebrates the traditional sights, sounds and scents of Christmas during the weeks leading up to Christmas. These markets originated in Germany, beginning in the early 1400’s and we have an authentic one right here in Toronto which captures all of the tradition, heritage and charm of a European Christmas Market! The streets and squares of the Historic Distillery District are transformed into a paradise of lights, festive sounds and secuctive smells with many varieties of beer, mulled wine (Gluhwein), hot rum beverages and European foods. There are many activities and musical performances including: carolers, Bavarian brass band concerts, classical organ concerts, trumpeters, children’s choirs and more. An outdoor seating area is created around the huge Christmas tree and stage. Parking in the area is challenging and weekends get very crowded so if you are interested please let XXXXX know and we can select a good date based on the programme of performances when it becomes available.

Wed. Dec. 3 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Thurs. Dec. 4 – Day Hike – 10 km

A city loop hike through Cedarvale ravine, along the Belt Line and Balfour Park.

Thurs. Dec. 4 – Christmas Concert – Etobicoke School of the Arts

This concert by the talented students of the School of the Arts has generated rave reviews from the many club members who have attended in past years. The finale is the stirring Hallelulah from Handel’s ‘Messiah’ performed by the school’s award-winning choir. Tickets for the show usually sell out quickly so be sure to call by the booking date.
Note: Tickets are purchased online and once bought for those who have called, you will have to take your chances and book your own.

Fri. Dec. 5 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sun. Dec. 7 – City Walk – Danforth & Downtown

A town and country walk through pretty parks, neighbourhoods, and bustling streets. The greenhouses at Allan Gardens are always beautifully decorated for the season. We`ll finish at City Hall and enjoy the Festival of Lights. Optional supper afterwards in the Duke of Richmond Eaton Centre. Dress for the weather.

Tues. Dec. 9 – Urban Day Walk – Martin Goodman Trail – 14 km

We will walk from the Broadview subway station to Kew Gardens in the Beaches passing by the Don River, onto the Martin Goodman Trail and up through the gardens to Queen St. This will be a joint hike with the Toronto Bruce Trail Club. Refreshment later.

Fri. Dec. 12 – Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition

Last year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition was astounding. This year’s will be even bigger and not-to-be-missed. Even though it’s 100 years old, the ROM is full of new ideas and new exhibits. Afterwards, we can repair to a nearby cafe or pub.

Fri. Dec. 12 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Dec. 13 – Ski – Ganaraska Trail

Ski the Ganaraska Trail on the Oro-Medonte moraine between Bass Lake and Horseshoe Valley. This is an activity for intermediate skiers. If the snow is lacking, there will be a hike.

Sun. Dec. 14 – Evening Walk – A Merry Walk at Christmas

Our annual walk of Lawrence Park viewing the elegant homes laden with colourful strings of lights, reindeers, joyful wreaths and other decorations traditional of the season. You can expect a spectacular display of lights. Reserve in advance.

Wed. Dec. 17 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Wed. Dec. 17 – Evening Hike and Pub Stop

Hike will be from 6:30 to 8:00 from different locations with a hike leader familiar with the area. All locations will be easily accessible by public transit – e.g. High Park, Riverdale Park, a local neighbourhood. Afterwards, we will go to a local pub/restaurant. Please call for details. For hikes/snowshoes in parks, a headlamp would be useful.

Fri. Dec. 19 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Dec. 20 – Theatre Outing “Christmas Belles” – Capitol Theatre, Port Hope

This variety-style Christmas-based musical is centred on a back story recounting memories of past Christmases, as told by a host. The show features the St. Mary’s Choir, solo singers, dancers and dramatic visual effects. This show is produced, directed and written by Antonio Sarmiento, the same person who produced and directed “Broadway: Andrew Lloyd Weber - A Musical Tribute” which played to great acclaim in Port Hope this past summer.

Fri. Dec. 26 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sun. Dec. 28 – Bus Trip No. 1 – Ski or Snowshoe – Hardwood Hills/Simcoe County Forests
Ski or snowshoe at Hardwood Hills Resort, Ontario’s best cross-country resort. Hardwood has five recreational ski trail systems with a combined mileage of 88 km. available. Snowshoeing will be led by a knowledgeable leader TBA in Simcoe County forests nearby. Snowshoes should be rented before coming on this trip for use off the property.

Tues. Dec. 30 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Dec. 31 to Sun. Jan. 4 – Come Celebrate New Years Eve with Us in Algonquin Park
We had so much fun skiing, snowshoeing and of course the New Years Eve celebration. We have booked the entire Wolf Den Lodge again for this year. We plan to put together a gourmet meal for New Years Eve. Here are details about the Wolf Den Lodge (www.wolfdenbunkhouse.com).

Thurs. Jan. 1 – First Day Walk – Toronto Islands

First day walks are fast becoming popular around North America. Looking for an invigorating way to kick off the New Year, join us on the Toronto Islands where it is a different world in the winter. The farm animals of Centreville look for visitors, skaters grace the canals, and Christmas decorations still adorn the cottages of Ward’s and Algonquin Islands. Snow crunches as you walk along the boardwalk and explore these communities. Reserve in advance.

Fri. Jan. 2 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Jan. 3 – Bus Trip No. 2 – Ski or Snowshoe – Horseshoe/Ganaraska Trail/Copeland Forest
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing activities, alpine skiing available at the resort. The bus will drop track skiers at Horseshoe Resort, off- track skiers on the Ganaraska Trail and snowshoers in Horsehoe vicinity. At the end of the day, the bus will pick up all participants at Horseshoe and return home.

For track skiers, Horseshoe offers 40 km of trails meticulously groomed for both classical and skating techniques. There are trails catering to all skiing levels.

Off-track skiers will ski along the nearby Ganaraska Trail from Oro Concession 4 and follow an improved trail to Concession 11 to be picked up by the bus at the end of the day – a distance of 14 km through wooded uplands.

For snowshoers, someone familiar with the area will lead snowshoers from the Chalet to the adjacent Copeland Forest and the Ganaraska hiking trail. Snowshoes can be rented at Horseshoe, however, a trail pass will have to be bought as well.

Tues. Jan. 6 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Jan. 7 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Fri. Jan. 9 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Jan. 10 – Snowshoe – Glen Major and the Old Pleasure Valley

We will explore this large hilly wilderness area on snowshoes for about 5 hours. If there is not enough snow, we will hike. Refreshment stop after.

Sun. Jan. 11 – City Walk – Corktown and Distillery District

Always a favourite, the Distillery District, with its 19th Century atmosphere, is a fun place to visit. If the weather is tolerable, there will be an informative historical walk with special emphasis on Corktown, one of Toronto’s oldest residential neighbourhoods, leading up to our final distination where welcoming hot beverages can be procured. If, however, the weather is bone-chilling cold, we will keep warm by walking more briskly and more directly to the warm comfort of the Distillery District buildings.

Sun. Jan. 11 – Bus Trip No. 3 – Ski or Snowshoe – Wasaga Beach Provincial Park/Ganaraska Trail
Wasaga Beach offers some of the most exciting Nordic ski terrain in Central Ontario with 32 km of trails located in the Dunes area of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park. Expert skiers are challenged on the groomed and track set High Dunes Trail, or you may choose a more leisurely ski on the Blueberry Plains Trail. Blueberry trails has modern equipment rentals, washrooms, fireplace and refreshment facilities. For snowshoers, a person familiar with the area will take the group bushwhacking over the dunes near the Nottawasaga River. The ski lodge rents snowshoes. Come on out for a great day in the snow.

Tues. Jan. 13 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Thurs. Jan. 15 – Special Event – Organized Tour of the Lost Dhow: A Discovery from the Maritime Silk Route

A 1998 Indian Ocean discovery off Indonesia of 9thC Arab Belitung shipwreck revealed a rich cargo (ingots, spice jars, silver/gold vessels) and mysterious relations between and influence of the Tang and Abassid Empires, from East China Sea to North Africa. This 300-piece display of the early maritime silk route, ship/crew stories, treacherous intercontinental sea routing 1,200 years ago of luxury wares and vibrant technological exchanges, centuries before the Portuguese, ensures a stimulating end to our day.

Fri. Jan. 16 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Fri. Jan. 16 to Sun. Jan. 18 – Ski & Snowshoe Weekend – Camp Wanakita
Camp Wanakita is a YMCA outdoor centre 12 km south of Haliburton village. There is a main lodge with dining room and recreation facilities. We will have sole use of the Health Centre building which has rooms with 3 or 4 beds plus a common room, washrooms with showers, a laundry and a kitchen. Wanakita provides a group facilitator dedicated to our group who will lead guided snowshoe or ski trips and offer some ski and/or snowshoe instruction. Skis and snowshoes are available for participants to borrow at no charge. The centre has 25 km of groomed cross-country ski trails and 25 km of snowshoeing trails as well as a skating rink, toboggan hills and an area for indoor games. On Saturday night, there is a guided ski excursion to a fire pit.

Sun. Jan. 18 – Bus Trip No. 4 – Ski or Snowshoe – Mansfield

For skiers, Mansfield offers 35 km of groomed and track set trails catering to all skiing levels. If you are new to Mansfield, be sure to ski the blue trail to the lookout with a view of the Pine River Valley. For snowshoers, a person familiar with the area, will take the group to the adjacent Dufferin County Forest with its many kilometres of forest trails. Mansfield rents snowshoes at $5 a pair. Come on out for a great day in the snow.

Tues. Jan. 20 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Jan. 21 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Wed. Jan. 21 – Ski – Wilket Creek Park

A short evening ski in the park.

Wed. Jan. 21 – Evening Hike and Pub Stop

Hike will be from 6:30 to 8:00 from different locations with a hike leader familiar with the area. All locations will be easily accessible by public transit – e.g. High Park, Riverdale Park, a local neighbourhood. Afterwards, we will go to a local pub/restaurant. Please call for details. For hikes/snowshoes in parks, a headlamp would be useful.

Fri. Jan. 23 – Theatre Outing – Perfect Wedding

This fast-moving comedy starts just outside Toronto, with an about-to-be bridegroom waking up beside a young woman he has no memory of meeting/let alone... Perfect Wedding “leaves the audience crying with laughter” http://www.stagecentreproductions.com/index.php/perfect- wedding. If interested, we can meet for dinner before the show.

Fri. Jan. 23 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Jan. 24 – Bus Trip No. 5 – Ski or Snowshoe – Highlands Nordic/Bruce Trail – Ski Instruction
For skiers, Nordic Highlands at Duntroon offers Niagara Escarpment Nature at its best with 20 km of ski trails. They are groomed daily for classic and skate skiing. The trails go through maple bush and rolling hills with panoramic views of Georgian Bay. XXXXX who is familiar with the area will take snowshoers to the nearby Bruce Trail. It offers many kilometres of trail with views of Georgian Bay. Snowshoe rentals are available at Highlands Nordic.

Sun. Jan. 25 – Joint Ski Bus – Five Winds Backcountry Ski Club

OCEY members are invited to come on the Five Winds Ski bus as guests for the day of off-track backcountry skiing in the Gibson River area near Georgian Bay.

Tues. Jan. 27 – Skating – Cedarena – 87th Annual Birthday Party

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Jan. 28 – Ski – Wilket Creek Park

A short evening ski in the park.

Fri. Jan. 30 to Sun. Feb. 1 – Ski/Snowshoe – Algonquin Park

Join us in the Wolf’s Den Hostel and Nature Retreat and enjoy the beauty of the Algonquin winter on your snowshoes and/or cross-country skis. At the end of the day, relax in the sauna and lounge, socialize or nap by the fire. Saturday night, we’ll have our famous pot luck dinner. This weekend fills up quickly, so book early.

Fri. Jan. 30 to Sun. Feb. 1 – Snowshoe Weekend – Waubaushene and Area
We’ll go where the snow takes us. Most areas will be on Crown land using map and compass through hidden trails, bushwhacking and frozen marshes and swamps. Muskoka, Severn, Tay and Georgian Bay townships are all within easy reach from our base in Waubaushene, an 1880s farmhouse 1⁄2 hr. north of Barrie. Bring your lunches and a pot luck dish for Saturday night’s dinner.

This year, we will travel mainly through unexplored areas, so expect to encounter hills, bushwhacking and some difficult terrain. It will be necessary that the group’s ability and pace are at the same level to keep the group close together.

Sat. Jan. 31 – Bus Trip No. 6 – Ski or Snowshoe – Horseshoe/Ganaraska Trail/Copeland Forest

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing activities, alpine skiing available at the resort. The bus will drop track skiers at Horseshoe Resort, off- track skiers on the Ganaraska Trail and snowshoers in Horsehoe vicinity. At the end of the day, the bus will pick up all participants at Horseshoe and return home.

For track skiers, Horseshoe offers 40 km of trails meticulously groomed for both classical and skating techniques. There are trails catering to all skiing levels.

Off-track skiers will ski along the nearby Ganaraska Trail with XXXXX from Oro Concession 4 and follow an improved trail to Concession 11 to be picked up by the bus at the end of the day – a distance of 14 km through wooded uplands.

For snowshoers, someone familiar with the area will lead snowshoers from the Chalet to the adjacent Copeland Forest and the Ganaraska hiking trail. Snowshoes can be rented at Horseshoe, however, a trail pass will have to be bought as well.

Fri. Jan. 30 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Jan. 31 – Restaurant Outing – Great Foods of the World® – Tehran
Delicious homestyle Persian food in a cozy little restaurant on Yonge Street near Wellesley subway.

Date TBA – 10th Annual Reel Paddling Film Festival

Once again, we will be selling tickets for this event, Reel Paddling Film Festival, the best canoeing, whitewater and sea kayaking films of the past year. Half of the proceeds from this event go to Project C.A.N.O.E. (Creative and Natural Outdoor Experience Inc.), a non-profit organization providing wilderness canoe trips for youth at risk.

Tues. Feb. 3 – Skating – Cedarena – Alternate Birthday Party

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Feb. 4 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Wed. Feb. 4 – Ski – Wilket Creek Park

A short evening ski in the park.

Fri. Feb. 6 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Feb. 7 – City Walk – High Park, Lakeshore and Roncesvalles

High Park is beautiful any time of year. We’ll walk through the park, pausing for coffee or hot chocolate at the Grenadier Restaurant before heading down to the lake and then east to walk up Roncesvalles. Lots of TTC drop-outs after the park. Dress for the weather.

Sat. Feb. 7 – Bus Trip No. 7 – Ski or Snowshoe – Wasaga Beach Provincial Park/Ganaraska Trail
Wasaga Beach offers some of the most exciting Nordic ski terrain in Central Ontario with 32 km of trails located in the Dunes area of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park. Expert skiers are challenged on the groomed and track set High Dunes Trail, or you may choose a more leisurely ski on the Blueberry Plains Trail. Blueberry trails has modern equipment rentals, washrooms, fireplace and refreshment facilities. For snowshoers, XXXXX will take the group bushwhacking over the dunes near the Nottawasaga River. The ski lodge rents snowshoes. Come on out for a great day in the snow.

Sun. Feb. 8 – City Walk – Tour of the Annex and the Massey Murder

Today is the 100th anniversary of the murder of Charles Albert (Bertie) Massey, an event that shocked the masses of Toronto-the-good at the time. As well as learning about some of the lurid details of the foul deed, we will also learn about the history of the Annex neighbourhood and about the many famous people who once lived there.

Tues. Feb. 10 – Urban Day Hike – Toronto, Beltline, Central Ravines & Gardens – 15 km

We will walk from the St. Clair subway station to Yonge and Bloor via the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, the Beltline and the Central Ravines. This will be a joint hike with the Toronto Bruce Trail Club. Refreshments later.

Tues. Feb. 10 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Wed. Feb. 11 – Ski – Wilket Creek Park

A short evening ski in the park.

Thurs. Feb. 12 to Mon. Feb. 16 – X-C Ski & Snowshoe Long Weekend, Val David, Quebec
We will be staying 4 nights at the Chalet Beaumont Hostel above the Village of Val David about 80 km north of Montreal. Accommodation will be in private rooms with 2 beds each and private or shared bathrooms. The hostel has a comfortable common room, solarium, full kitchen with food storage and laundry facilities. There is access to 70 km of cross- country ski trails and several nearby crosscountry areas with large trail networks that we will plan to visit. All areas have good opportunities for snowshoeing. Within a 20 minute drive is a 10 km long return ice skating trail on a lake.

Fri. Feb. 13 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Feb. 14 – City Walk – Walking Tour of Beaches

Just happens to be St. Valentine’s so let’s get some group warmth going. Leisurely walk about 1.5 hours; supper follow. Thank you for confirming with me if you will eat!

Sun. Feb. 15 – Bus Trip No. 8 – Ski or Snowshoe – Ganaraska Outdoor Centre
Ski at the Ganaraska Outdoor Centre.

Mon. Feb. 16 – Ski – Five Winds Trails

Ski the challenging Five Winds Trails northwest of Gravenhurst. This will be an all day activity for intermediate skiers. Be prepared to break trail and contend with deep snow on narrow trails. No facilities.

Mon. Feb. 16 to Sun. Feb. 22 – Ski/Snowshoe – Val David and area

There are many other wonderful ski areas close by (including backcountry and snowshoeing if desired) that we cannot cover in three days. For anyone who does not have to rush back to work in Ontario, XXXXX would like to make up a group who will stay for up to 6 days or longer. It is possible to change the dates to go the week before the Feb. 12-16 Val David trip, or stay for less days if this suits people better.

Wed. Feb. 18 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Wed. Feb. 18 – Evening Hike and Pub Stop

Hike will be from 6:30 to 8:00 from different locations with a hike leader familiar with the area. All locations will be easily accessible by public transit – e.g. High Park, Riverdale Park, a local neighbourhood. Afterwards, we will go to a local pub/restaurant. Please call for details. For hikes/snowshoes in parks, a headlamp would be useful.

Fri. Feb. 20 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Feb. 21 – Special Event – Pub Night

Share good cheer and mouthwatering snacks at the lively Queen Victoria’s Pub (Progress and Midland Ave.). Leave the winter blues behind and enjoy a night out with your fellow club members. A good time is always had by all! Light refreshments will be provided. Beverages are extra. Call by Wed. February 12 to confirm if you are coming.

Sun. Feb. 22 – Bus Trip No. 9 – Ski or Snowshoe – Mansfield Outdoor Centre/Dufferin Forest

For skiers, Mansfield offers 35 km of groomed and track set trails catering to all skiing levels. If you are new to Mansfield, be sure to ski the blue trail to the lookout with a view of the Pine River Valley. For snowshoers, a knowledgeable leader will take the group to the adjacent Dufferin County Forest with its many kilometres of forest trails. Mansfield rents snowshoes at $5 a pair. Come on out for a great day in the snow.

Sun. Feb. 22 – Brunch, Hike and Art Show – High Park

Brunch at the Grenadier Restaurant followed by an easy 3 km hike to the CNE grounds and The Artist Project show at the Better Living Centre. Enjoy lots of exciting original artwork. www.theartistproject.com

Tues. Feb. 24 – Skating – Cedarena

Enjoy an evening of skating. This picturesque outdoor natural ice rink is located at Cedargrove on Reesor Rd., just north of Steeles Ave. East.

Fri. Feb. 27 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Feb. 28 – Bus Trip No. 10 – Ski or Snowshoe – Horseshoe Resort/Ganaraska Trail/Copeland Forest
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing activities, alpine skiing available at resort. The bus will drop track skiers at Horseshoe Resort, off –track skiers on the Ganaraska Trail and snowshoers in Horseshoe vicinity. At the end of the day the bus will pick up all participants at Horseshoe and return home.

For track skiers, Horseshoe offers 40 km of trails meticulously groomed for both classical and skating techniques. There are trails catering to all skiing levels.

Off-track skiers will ski along the nearby Ganaraska Trail with XXXXX from Oro Concession 4 and follow an improved version of the trail to Concession 11 to be picked up by the bus at the end of the day – a distance of 14 km through wooded uplands.

For snowshoers, someone familiar with the area will take the group to Horseshoe and the adjacent Copeland Forest with its many kilometres of quiet forest trails. Snowshoes can be rented at Horseshoe, however, a trail pass must be bought as well.

Wed. Mar. 4 – Hike or Snowshoe – Location and Distance TBD

Please check the OCEY Updater for more information.

Fri. Mar. 6 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sun. Mar. 8 – Bus Trip No. 11 – Ski or Snowshoe – Hardwood Hills/Simcoe County Forests
Ski or snowshoe at Hardwood Hills Resort, Ontario’s best cross-country resort. Hardwood has five recreational ski trail systems with a combined mileage of 88 km. available. Snowshoeing will be led by a knowledgeable leader TBA in Simcoe County forests nearby. Snowshoes should be rented before coming on this trip for use off the property. Off track skiing is available with XXXXX.

Wed. Mar. 11 – Evening Hike and Pub Stop

Hike will be from 6:30 to 8:00 from different locations with a hike leader familiar with the area. All locations will be easily accessible by public transit – e.g. High Park, Riverdale Park, a local neighbourhood. Afterwards, we will go to a local pub/restaurant. Please call for details. For hikes/snowshoes in parks, a headlamp would be useful.

Fri. Mar. 13 – Skating – Various Locations

Enjoy skating at various locations in conjunction with the Toronto Bicycling Network. Schedule will be posted at www.tbn.ca/programs/fallwinter and then click on Friday Night Skating. On the webpage is a schedule but an update may be available on the page giving details. I will try to make it out to some, so members can join me there. There is usually an Apres following the skating nearby.

Sat. Mar. 14 – Restaurant Outing – Great Foods of the World® – Hakka Chinese

It may be cold outside but the food is hot & spicy – and delicious! This is Chinese food with a twist – a strong Indian influence on the cuisine.

Sat. Mar. 14 – Bus Trip No. 12 – Ski or Snowshoe – Highlands Nordic/Bruce Trail
For skiers, Nordic Highlands at Duntroon offers Niagara Escarpment Nature at its best with 20 km of ski trails. They are groomed daily for classic and skate skiing. The trails go through maple bush and rolling hills with panoramic views of Georgian Bay. XXXXX who is familiar with the area will take snowshoers to the nearby Bruce Trail. It offers many kilometres of trail with views of Georgian Bay. Snowshoe rentals are available at Highlands Nordic.

Wed. Mar. 18 – 2015 Spring/Summer/Fall Information Night

This event will launch our new calendar, April to November, listing the best selection of outdoor events in the city. Our hiking, cycling and paddling programs will be highlighted as well as many social outings.

This is a great opportunity for members to meet up with each other and to get a head start on the upcoming activities. Bring your friends along. There is no better time to introduce them to the club and the tremendously varied program we offer. Refreshments will be provided.

Sat. Mar. 21 – Ski – Awenda Provincial Park

Don’t put away those skis yet. The ski trails at Awenda still have some snow. The terrain is relatively flat and there are excellent views of Georgian Bay from the crest of the Nipissing Bluff. Along the shore, there may be the unusual remains of gigantic ice formations. If we must, then hike we will.

Sun. Mar. 29 – City Walk – Historic Scarborough

It seems that “historic” does not seem to be an appropriate adjective for Scarborough, but within this expanse of typical suburbia, there is a First Nations burial mound that pre-dates Columbus. As well, on this walk, we will learn about some of the earliest European settlers of the area. Afterwards, we coule stop for refreshments.

EVENTS AND DESCRIPTION

Tues. Mar. 31 – Extreme Museum Makeover: The Future of Museums
Hear community, museum, arts and lifestyle trail blazers as they dish on their dream museum of the future. Reception to follow. Mark this in your diary. Watch the Updater for details. 7-9 p.m.

Fri. Apr. 3 – Day Hike – Mono Cliffs – 12 km

I love Mono Cliffs because of the variety of terrain and the scenery which changes each season. Our route this Good Friday has us walking a glacial spillway, through hardwood forests perhaps still covered with the retreating snow. During this spring hike, we walk along a cliff top where spectacular views are guaranteed and along the perimeter of McCarston’s Lake in this natural environment park.

Fri. Apr. 17 to Sun. Apr. 19 – Algonquin Awakens

Come and join us in celebrating the awakening of nature. We will be staying at the rustic Wolf Den Bunkhouse for a fun-filled weekend. Relax in the log sauna or socialize at the cozy fireplace. The award winning pot luck dinner on Saturday night is always delicious. Be prepared for lingering snow and ice on the scenic park trails. Spots fill up fast so book early.

Fri. July 3 to Sun. July 5 – 55th Mariposa Folk Festival – Orillia

The last two years, a number of OCEYer’s have attended this event for all or part of the festival. There are over 100 performances on nine stages over the three-day event, as well as workshops, an artisan village, lots of good food and, of course, a pub tent. The festival is held right on the shores of Lake Couchiching, so bring your bathing suit and/or bicycle as there are plenty of trails and quiet country roads nearby to walk or bike if you want to get in a little exercise between sets. For more information and up-to-date pricing, Mariposa’s website is: www.mariposafolk.com