Short Fast Hikes - Scarborough, Pickering, Ajax, Oshawa

We should have a little fun around here!! Wear your warmest, coziest pajamas!! This theme is always optional.
Let's get out for some fresh air on this last Saturday of November!
The weather will be about -2 degrees.
We will hike a trail in Twyn Rivers. The hike will be approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
After the hike, we will go for coffee at McDonald's for those who want to join! ☕️ 🥯

** Please note that you need to get to Twyn Rivers parking lot by going on Altona Road to Sheppard/Twyn Rivers. At the lights at Sheppard and Altona, head west and keep going until you reach the parking lot.
Call me if you have questions. 905-409-9822

There are some steep hills, and we will hike at a moderate pace.
Bring water to keep hydrated. Hiking shoes are recommended.

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

***Update, note date is Sunday***

Could be some mixed precipitation (snow). A in/out hike following Duffins Creek to Whitevale (and back). Some hills/stairs, pace medium (not slow), we'll stay together. Energetic way to finish your Sunday.

** all hikers must have a flashlight or headlamp (cell phone lights are not acceptable) and must be 16 years of age or older and **

This 5k hike will be at a moderate pace of approx. 4.5 km/hr with a number hills but none of them will be very steep but will be long. Bring water, hiking boots and poles if desired. You must bring a flashlight or night light as it will be dark for the entire hike.

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

What are Icers/Crampons/Traction Aids?

❄Winter❄ is coming, lets be prepared. 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 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.

Provided links are not sponsored but are based on years of experience/feedback from leaders and members alike (see below links). Feel free to post additional recommendations in the comments, might get added to the list.

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