Short Fast Hikes - Scarborough, Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa

Our group will leave at the posted time, so please arrive early. Please cancel your RSVP if you can't make it.

How fast, how far? Assume 4.5 km/h for a distance of ~7km. The path is a paved, but we might go on some trails as well, plus snow is likely so be prepared for anything. The route is flat. It's mostly in clear land, but we'll come across a few forested areas as well. The route is a "there and back again" so we will finish where we originally start from.

Bring water, a snack, and hiking footwear for a distance walk. We're getting to the point in the year where icers are required. Although the forecast is clear, please have them on hand in case.

Required reading for you and your guests before RSVP'ing to all events:

***Headlamps are mandatory ***

Our group will leave at the posted time, so please arrive early. Please cancel your RSVP if you can't make it.

***We will hike to the lake in silence. ***

Sunrise on this day is scheduled for 7:50. In order for us to arrive at the lake by this time we'll have to walk a brisk pace, and we won't be able to wait for stragglers. Those of you that have trouble keeping my usual pace are encouraged to arrive early and get a head start. The distance from the parking lot to the lake is approximately 3.1 km. The route is a "there and back again" so we will finish where we originally start from.

Bring water and wear comfortable shoes to walk in. Please have crampons on hand as they may be necessary.

Just to reiterate, everyone is expected to hike to the lake in silence

Depending on the popularity of this sunrise hike, I'll organize it seasonally, but the next one won't be until the new year.

Required reading for you and your guests before RSVP'ing to all events:

What are Icers/Crampons/Traction Aids?

❄Winter❄ is here. They go by different names but the concept is exactly the same, they 'stretch' over your existing boot providing additional traction on snow, mud and ice that most boots cannot provide normally. Almost like snow chains on a car tire. They are light/compact when not in use, easy to carry. Fall/Winter/Spring conditions are constantly changing but when needed, you don't know what you would do without them. When requested by hike organizers you MUST have them with you.

You do not need to buy these exact models/brands (below) but all use the same 1/2" triangular spike and chain design. Anything less is too little, anything more is too much. These are for off-trail use, not urban hard-paved surfaces, they would prove to be overly aggressive for that purpose. Lastly, to set expectations correctly, whatever you choose, they live a tough life and will not last forever. Rubber can rip, chains can break even on the more expensive models (on-trail repairs happen). If you like fall/winter/spring hiking, think about a back-up pair in due time.

Sizing:

This is the more difficult part. Ideally should try them on matched with your specific winter boot you plan on using (in store). From experience, generally sizing is based on a less bulky hiker. If you plan on using a fully insulated snow boot, you may need to upsize to a larger size than your normal shoe size (by about 1 to 2 shoe sizes). Some even provide sizing charts based on smaller shoe vs. bulky boot usage. If shoe size is at the very top end of a given range (i.e S/M/L), might want to consider jumping to the next larger size to fit a bulkier boot. I cannot get more in depth as it is very specific to each person and product.

Generally fit should be snug but not tight and importantly the rubber needs to be fully 'engaged' up the heel of the boot (see the picture). If riding low, they are too small. Either try them on or be in a position to send them back if too small/large (i.e. Amazon). Would not be the first time someone needed a gear change, everyone needs to find what works for them. You can find them at Amazon, Sail, MEC & Cabelas. Links below:

Budget Friendly $25-$35