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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Most essential backpacking lists are 80% common sense ([backpack](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/luggage/travel-packs/c/1353?q=%3Asales-rank), comfortable shoes, [pillow](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-and-pillows/camp-pillows/c/1408)) and 10% necessity ([adapter](/en/products/travel-gear/travel-electronics/chargers-and-adapters/c/1132), [organization cubes](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/travel-pouches-and-packing-organizers/c/1354), [stuff sacks](/en/products/gear/packs-and-bags/travel-pouches-and-packing-organizers/c/1354)). That leaves 10% wiggle room in your pack for a couple extras that’ll make your trip that much sweeter. After all, what’s trekking through the French Alps without a few sun-warmed sessions in your hammock along the way?

#### For chilling beside famous monuments
Bring your [chef-iest tools](/en/products/gear/camp-kitchen/cookware-and-utensils/knives-and-food-prep/c/1276?q=%3Asales-rank) to picnic all over the EU like a pro, from slicing through a wheel of brie under the Eiffel Tower to grating fresh parmesan over a local pie by the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Bonus points for playing [tunes](/en/products/gear/electronics/radios-and-music-players/c/1167) to set the mood and setting up your [slackline](/en/products/gear/training-gear/slacklines/c/1469) when you’re done eating.

#### For reliable, delicious coffee every damn day
Depending on your plans, you might not have time to make it to a local café for a fresh cup – or you might want to save your coffee money for something more substantial (see: last-minute deals to Lisbon). Pack your [Aeropress](/en/product/5046-862/coffee%26-espresso-maker-with-tote-bag) to get the best of every bean, no matter where you’re staying.



#### For crisp action shots
Selfie sticks don’t always cut it (especially when jump shots are involved) and your picture-perfect travel moments deserve more than a repetitive top-down vantage point. Bring a [grippy, flexy tripod](/en/products/gear/electronics/camera-bags%2c-tripods-and-accessories/tripods-and-camera-mounts/c/1129) that sits solidly on uneven surfaces and can even hang from branches.

#### For coastal swims and surf sessions
Spy on fish in scratch-free goggles as you [snorkel](/en/products/gear/snorkel-gear/c/1417) the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean; keep your feet warm as you catch Celtic Sea waves in Newgale, Wales; or [towel off](/en/ideal-for/travel/products/gear/bath-and-sanitation-products/towels/c/811?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) after a moonlit swim at one of Barcelona’s sandy beaches.



#### For taking in the view
Anyone with a good pair of [hiking boots](/en/products/footwear/boots/hiking-boots/c/1497) and a [hammock](/en/ideal-for/travel/products/gear/camp-and-beach-furniture/lounge-hammocks/c/1484?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) knows incredible vistas pair best with a little kick back. Whether you’re in the endless shade of Germany’s Black Forest or the rolling hills surrounding the Dolomites in northern Italy, you’ll never see two nearby trees quite the same again.

#### For wine country walks and tastings
If you’re hitting the El Camino, you best bring a wine vessel. You can get fancy and grab one with a nesting stem for [red](/en/product/5027-641/glacier-stainless-nesting-red-wine-glass) or white, or grab a [stainless steel mug](/en/product/5063-190/glacier-stainless-steel-camp-cup) and cover it in stickers from each stop. If it’s more your thing to follow Scotland’s Malt Whisky Trail, pack a [flask](/en/products/gear/hydration/flasks/c/1230). Rehydrate later with a [vacuum bottle](/en/products/gear/hydration/vacuum-bottles/c/1232) that keeps water cold for hours.

#### For being spontaneous
Hopping from city to city? Invest in a hostel membership. With thousands of hostels all over Europe, there are plenty of options and it saves you some bucks. 



Packing for a big trip to Europe? These sweet extras will elevate your adventures. From portable espresso to grippy tripods, see what made our list.

Backpacking Europe Checklist: Beyond the Basics | MEC Blog

Backpacking Europe checklist: Beyond the basics

Okay – so you know skiing is awesome. But maybe you’re having a tough time gathering a crew to join you up the hill because of *< insert excuse here >*. This guide is guaranteed to convince any of your friends who are on the fence to come and join you.

And if you’re the one who’s still undecided about skiing? Read on for helpful answers to some of the things that might be holding you back from hitting the ski hill.

#### Excuse #1: “It’s too expensive”
It’s true that skiing and snowboarding are up there with some of the pricier outdoor activities. There’s the gear, lift ticket and potentially overpriced nachos at the lodge. But there are some ways to make it easier.

**Answers**
Ski hills offer rentals, sometimes packaged with lift tickets. If you’re looking to buy gear, then secondhand is a good way to go; check out used gear on online marketplace sites or look for ski and board swaps around town for deals on gently used gear.

And finally, scope out end-of-year clearance sales or even pre-season turkey sales. They’re a great way to pick up a new set-up, often at a deep discount. Who cares if the skis are last year’s model? The added year simply makes them more mature.

As for the food? Bring sandwiches, tea bags, pouches of spicy apple drink or [hot chocolate packages](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/drinks/coffee-tea-and-hot-chocolate) (snag some hot water at the cafeteria) to save on long lunch lineups and $13 burgers.



#### Excuse #2: “I can’t get to the ski hill”
Canada’s pretty fortunate to boast some of the best ski hills in the world – but unfortunately, they’re not all conveniently located near transit. There are options, though.

**Answers**
The first and most obvious? Bus shuttle service. Most ski resorts offer this option, and it’s usually the most economic choice. Here are just a few shuttles to popular hills:

- [ Tremblant](https://www.tremblant.ca/plan/getting-here/getting-around-the-resort), QC
- [Blue Mountain](http://auctours.ca/shuttle.html), ON
- [Lake Louise/Sunshine Village/Norquay](https://www.skibig3.com/ski-shuttle/), AB (purchase a tri-area lift ticket and the shuttle will be free!)
- [Whistler](https://epicrides.ca/), BC
- [Revelstoke](https://www.revelstokemountainresort.com/discover/getting-here/resort-shuttle/), BC
- [Big White](https://www.bigwhite.com/plan-your-trip/get-big-white/airport-shuttles-transportation), BC

If you or a friend have a driver’s license but no vehicle, then renting a car can work out great, especially if you’re able to rally more buddies and split the cost. In addition to standard car rental companies, there are also car shares; here are a few to scope out (there are lots more out there):

- [Zipcar](http://www.zipcar.ca/) (large roster of vehicles in BC and Ontario, great for all day use)
- [Communauto](https://www.communauto.com/index_en.html) (Quebec car share with one-way and round-trip options)
- [Evo](https://evo.ca/) (Vancouver car share that offers hybrid vehicles with ski racks)
- [Enterprise CarShare](https://www.enterprisecarshare.ca/ca/en/home.html) (dozen of models, provides options around Ontario and Saskatchewan)
- [Modo](https://modo.coop/) (they're a co-op!)

Tip: Set up your car share account now (it typically takes a few days for everything to process) so when the first snowfall hits the ski hill you’ll be ready to hit the road.



#### Excuse #3: “I don’t know how”
Never skied before? Then now’s your chance to find out how awesome it is.

**Answers**
The best approach for beginners is to sign up for a lesson. You learn the basics from someone who understands what it’s like to teach newbies (and it’s often a better situation to learn from a neutral third-party – remember what it was like when your parents tried to teach you to drive?). Most hills offer a combo of gear rentals plus a lesson.

If you’re the one encouraging a friend to ski, spend some time with them on easy runs after their lesson. As they get more comfortable, you can be the more experienced guide that gives them the gentle push they need to ramp up their skills.

Heads up: Don’t listen to the saying “no friends on a powder day.” Snow safety’s extremely important, and skiing with a buddy is obviously safer (and more fun).

#### Excuse #4: “It’s too cold”
It’s a mountain covered in snow, so yep, it’s going to be chilly. But there are ways to keep comfortable even when flurries are falling.

**Answers**
Take a look at your layering system. Does it include the [right layers for the ski conditions](/en/explore/clothing-layers)? If it doesn’t, then tackle the problem with borrowed, gently used or new gear (see the answers to excuse #1 for ideas). [Hand and toe warmers](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/emergency-and-survival-gear/hand-and-toe-warmers) can also be a perpetually chilly person’s new best friend. To really take it up a notch, there are also [heated socks](/en/products/footwear/socks/heated-socks) and [mitts](/en/products/ski-and-snowsports/ski-and-snow-clothing/ski-gloves-and-mittens/heated-gloves-and-mittens).



#### Excuse #5: “I’ve tried skiing, and I just don’t love it”
Instead of trying to force something that’s not going to happen, sometimes it’s best to adapt and overcome.

**Answers**
Most ski resorts offer lots of non-skiing activities, and these are a great way for you or your non-skiing friends to join a weekend ski trip without getting on a chairlift. The skiers in the group can head out for first tracks, and the non-skiers can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or even tubing.

When the whole group meets up for après at the end of the day, everyone will have toque-hair, flushed cheeks from playing in the snow, and stories to talk about, which is really what time at the mountain is all about.



Are you or your friends on the fence about skiing? Not for long. Read on for helpful answers to some of the things that might be holding you back from hitting the ski hill.

Answers to every excuse not to ski | MEC Blog

Answers to every excuse not to ski

It’s hard to get stuck in a running rut in Toronto. Canada’s largest city offers a huge variety of routes to run, and an even bigger variety of places to have a coffee, smoothie or snack afterward – it’s the ultimate combo of a challenging workout, followed up with a post-run treat. Time to get out and see all that Toronto has to offer, whether you’re a local or a visitor who wants to explore in your running shoes.

#### Espresso at the Distillery run (3K)


Start your [3-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6963347) along the cobblestone streets and industrial brick buildings in Toronto’s historic Distillery District. Head south on Parliament Street towards Queen Street, where you’ll turn east. Make your way down to the Corktown Common before going back to the Distillery District, where a hot espresso awaits your return at Caffe Furbo.



#### Sunnyside views and cold juice run (5K)


From Palais Royale, this [5-kilometre route](http://milermeter.com/?r=6952905) leads you west on the Martin Goodman Trail toward the Humber Bay Arch Bridge. Once there, head down to the Sunnyside Boardwalk. The pleasant breeze, evenly paved sidewalk and relatively flat terrain make this path a great place to get some speed work in on a Sunday morning. You’ll return to Palais Royale, and then head up to Roncesvalles Avenue. Stop at Village Juicery for an organic drink to rehydrate – if you’re feeling bold, you can add a wake-up shot of fresh ginger or turmeric root.

#### MEC to Liberty with a Feelgood meal run (6K)


This [6-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6963344) begins at King and Spadina. From there, head west toward Liberty Village, one of the city’s quickly growing neighbourhoods. Once you hit Dufferin, go north toward Queen Street West and make your way back to Tecumseth Street. End your run at Feelgoodguru, where you can cool down with a refreshing smoothie or load up on some delicious vegan Mac n “Cheese.”



Limber up on Parkside and The Queensway before you embark on this [7-kilometre run](http://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6952912). You’ll make your way through High Park, alongside Grenadier Pond, before cutting through the park zoo – be sure to greet the animals as you pass by. In spring, High Park’s cherry blossom trees make this run extra scenic. Come back up Spring Road toward Bloor Street and head down Roncesvalles to reach Extra Butter Coffee, your final stop. Treat yourself to something sweet or keep your energy going with a cup of their renowned bulletproof coffee.



#### Academia and Sunnybrook pie… uh, park – run (10K)


For this [10-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6963351), you’ll begin on Bayview Avenue, and run north toward Lawrence Avenue. Make your way through York University’s quaint liberal arts campus, Glendon College, before heading down to Sunnybrook Park. Follow the river through Serena Gundy Park and E.T. Seton Park before returning to civilization. After working up an appetite, finish your run at North Shore Pie Co. for a totally tasty freshly baked pie (savoury or sweet) – you’ve earned it.

#### Parks and pastries in North York run (15K)


If you’re looking for a longer workout with a mix of scenery, then this [15-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6963352) is for you. Start at the RioCan Marketplace and head down to G. Ross Lord Park. Make your way toward Bathurst to cross over to Bishop Avenue and into Bestview Park. Then, hop onto Garnier Court to Newton Drive, and return to Yonge Street. Cap off your run with a visit to Red Rose Patisserie and treat yourself to a tasty Persian pastry and some tea.

Lakes, brick buildings, open parks and good coffee – Toronto has plenty of sights and treats for runners. You’ll never be at a loss for a new route to explore. If you’re looking for a run crew, join local meet-up runs or check out races. Have fun!

*Photo credits: Debra Wiseberg / Getty Images, Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock.com, Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com*



Find out where to run in Toronto – and where to fuel up on post-run treats afterwards – whether you’re a local or a visitor to The 6ix.

Awesome running routes in Toronto

As a runner who lives in Vancouver, I end up running in the rain. A lot. I’ve run in cold rain that pelts my face like small, soggy daggers, walls of mist that somehow soak me completely, and sideways rain that efficiently drenches me on both sides during out-and-backs.

But there’s more to running in the rain than just getting wet. Once, when a soft drizzle turned into a crazy downpour, I took shelter under a bridge to wait out the worst of it. As I stood there wringing out my shirt, two other runners ducked under the bridge too. The three of us quietly hung out and smiled at the situation, steam floating off our bodies, until the deluge let up and we zipped off one by one.

That little moment of silent runner camaraderie has stuck with me for years, so chalk up “everyone becomes your run buddy” as one of the rad things that happen when you run in the rain. Here are a few more reasons to lace up and head outside, even if the weather isn’t perfect:

### You feel kind of awesome


Jim Willett says, “Running in the rain is a combination of feeling badass and feeling like Forrest Gump. The worst part about it is actually going out when it’s already raining – most people won’t. But if you’re out running and it starts raining, you’ll totally enjoy it.” One trick to heading out when it’s already raining? Momentum: if you put your shoes on and just keep moving towards the door, you’ll be 10 minutes into a rainy run before you know it.

### Everything’s so fresh and so green
Things smell fresher in the rain, especially if you’re on the trails. Trees, rocks and dirt all seem to intensify in wonderful earthiness.

### Plenty of elbow room


With the exception of determined tourists and dog walkers, most people stay inside when it rains. That means you have usually-busy run routes to yourself. This is also great if you have run-karaoke tendencies (a [waterproof case](/en/products/watersports/dry-bags-and-waterproof-storage/electronics-cases/phone-cases) is key to keeping the music flowing).

### Zero overheating
A little rain beats running in 25°C anytime (especially if you’re someone who dreads hot summer days). Jim says, “On a warm day, it’s the best feeling in the world – it’s refreshing and keeps your core temperature down.”

### No gritty salt build-up
Ever get little pools of dried white salt crystals on your face during long summer runs? It’s all washed clean on long runs in the rain.

### Good practice for race days
Fact: it might rain on race day. Now’s the time to learn that you can control some things – like your sock choice or banana intake – but you can’t control the weather. Consider it good practice to run in the rain when you’re training for your next race.

### #rainbow
Instagrammers and run bloggers: a rainbow is like a pot of running gold. Double-taps galore.

### Puddles


If you’re running on the road, rain and puddles give your shoes a natural bath (so clean!). If you’re running on the trails, dirt and puddles mean the opposite (so muddy!), which is fun in a whole different way. Wear your darkest [run socks](/en/products/run-and-fitness/running-and-training-footwear/running-socks).

### And the best part?
After a rainy run, there’s nothing like peeling off your heavy, soaked layers and hopping in a steamy shower. Combine that feeling with a coffee, your coziest [fleece socks](/en/product/5006-505/fleece-socks), and the satisfaction of ticking another run off your list, and you’re hitting maximum runner’s high. Nice work.



## Related articles
- [How to choose running shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-running-shoes)
- [A beginner’s guide to trail running](/en/explore/trail-running-beginners-guide)
- [How to choose a rain jacket](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-rain-jacket)



Wet-weather running can be awesome. Check out 8 reasons to get off the couch and go for run while it's wet and rainy.

Why you should get off the couch and run in the rain

Whether you’re planning a long road trip, a fall camping vacation or a first-time visit to a different city, travelling with kids is a great opportunity to build some family memories. But as any parent knows, things can get a little crazy when you add little travellers to the mix. Use this list of tips to keep everyone (adults included) happy and your trip running smoothly.

## Choose lightweight luggage
When you’re travelling with kids, it’s important to make sure that you have enough lightweight compact storage to keep their clothes, toys and snacks in order. Look for bags that can pack away when you’re not using them to save space, like the [Travel Light Duffle](/en/product/5054-182/travel-light-duffle?colour=Black). It has plenty of room and can fold into its own pocket to stash during or away after your trip.

Even the littlest explorer wants a bit of independence from mom and dad. Equip your kids with their own [small daysack](/en/products/kids/kids-backpacks) that has room for a toy, snack and water bottle, so that they can stay hydrated, happy and feeling grown up (and you have one less thing to carry). Find out what other features to look for when you’re [choosing a kids’ backpack](/en/explore/packs-for-kids).

## Pack portable fun
When you’re travelling for hours – whether it’s a long drive to your campsite or an international flight to see new cities – keep the kids entertained with a [portable game](/en/products/kids/kids-activities/games) that won’t drain any batteries or need a power outlet. They’ll be too busy having fun to ask the dreaded, “Are we there yet?”

## Layer up
It’s good to be prepared for anything the weather might bring – and this is where layering comes in handy. Layer a fleece jacket under your kid’s water-resistant outer shell to keep them warm and dry if it starts to drizzle, or just use the fleece jacket for cool nights.

Don’t forget about yourself either – it’s important for you to be comfortable when you’re wrangling the family from point A to B. A waterproof-breathable jacket with deep pockets that gives parents quick access to essential items like bug spray.

## Let kids be the chefs
Build a mobile pantry with all the fixings for trail mix in separate food containers, so that everyone can create their own combinations. You can also let the kids create a fun dessert like [s’mores](/en/article/craft-smores-boost-your-camp-snack-game) – they’ll like camping that much more when they have a say into what’s on the menu.

Pack [cutlery and bowls](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/camp-dinnerware) that don’t have sharp edges, are small enough to be held by little hands and can easily flatten to save room, so that you can call on help from the whole family to make clean up that much quicker.

## Give them the chance to explore
One of the best reasons to bring kids on a road trip is so they can explore nature in new places, which means mud, dirt, leaves and puddles. Look for waterproof [boots](/en/gender/girls%27+boys%27/products/footwear/boots/c/1189) made with parents in mind that are easy to pull on and off as the weather changes. That means you can let your little ones wander (within reason!) through the woods, without worrying about wet feet.

## Prep for naptime
When you’re on a hike and the kids get tired, give your arms a break and strap them into a [comfortable carrier](/en/products/packs-and-bags/child-carrier-backpacks). They’ll be off their feet and shielded from the rain, giving them an opportunity to rest up for the next fun activity.

## Bring the first aid kit
Scrapes and bruises are bound to happen when you’re travelling with kids. Keep the [first aid kit](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies/first-aid-kits) on hand to help bandage any minor bumps quickly so you can get back to enjoying your vacation as soon as possible.

These simple tips will help you keep everyone happy on your next family vacation. By prepping ahead of time, you’ll have a memorable trip with the kids that’ll have you planning your next vacation as soon as you get home.



As any parent knows, things can get a little crazy when you add little travellers to the mix. Use these travel tips to keep everyone (adults included) happy and your trip running smoothly.

Essential Tips for Travelling with Kids | MEC Blog

Essential tips for travelling with kids

Whether you’re hiking the Inca Trail or biking around Paris in search of the flakiest croissant, employ these rad travel hacks from MEC staffers and Ambassadors to make the most of your time on the road.

**1. Go light.** Pack everything you need (nothing you “might” wear), then remove half – you’ll be surprised how freeing it is to go with less. Bonus tip: [fast-drying, no-iron shirts](/en/products/clothing/shirts-and-tops/long-sleeved-shirts) are a saving grace on hot days (wear them damp and still look good at dinner), and merino wool is naturally odour-fighting for long stretches on the road.

**2. Kiss your comfort zone goodbye.** Embrace curiosity and ditch your traditional notions of time and schedule. In fact, leave your watch at home.

**3. Say yes.** Yes is the password to awesome – dining with locals, moonlit skinny-dips in lakes or trail runs through the rainforest.

**4. Don’t bring t-shirts.** Instead, buy them at your destination. Once you’re home, they’re wearable souvenirs.

**5. Watch your back(pack).** If you’re travelling with a checked backpack, get a cover to protect the straps and buckles from overzealous luggage handlers and rollers at airports. Some bags even have straps that tuck away.

**6. Two words: ear plugs.** ‘Nuff said.

**7. Embrace the pause.** Bad weather and indoor days happen. Lift your spirits with playlists, an e-reader, podcasts or a [sketchbook](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tools-and-accessories/notebooks-and-pens).

**8. Keep a record.** Write it all down – from the epic hiking sandwich to the time your only dinner companion was a street cat – take photos or videos, and collect ticket stubs or brochures. Don’t want to carry paper memories along? Mail them home as you go.

**9. Be grateful.** Being rude to a customer service agent will never get you to your destination faster. If your travel plans get screwed up, take a deep breath and remember how lucky you are to be able to travel in the first place.

**10. Little things make a big difference.** Use SeatGuru.com to stake out a comfy airline seat, bring a [packable travel pillow](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/sleeping-bags-quilts-and-pillows/camp-pillows) and wear comfortable shoes. Pack a [squishy water bottle](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-travel-mugs/water-bottles/collapsible-bottles) to stay hydrated through security.

**11. Roll with it.** Don’t be afraid to wait until you’re at your destination to book any local tours or excursions. You’ll often find better deals and recommendations from fellow travellers.

**12. Speak up.** Learn “hello,” “thank you,” and “coffee, please” in the local language. When all else fails, Pictionary your way through.

**13. Depart in good health.** Before you take off, make sure you’re set for dental work, prescriptions and vaccinations. Be sure to leave space between your appointments and your departure date in case anything needs a follow-up. And always get travel insurance.

**14. Don’t be afraid to travel solo.** You’ll be surprised how savvy you truly are when left to your own devices, plus it’s easier to meet locals and other travellers.

**15. Think beyond your hotel safe.** Scan and email a copy of all your important documents and IDs either to yourself or a friend or family member in case anything goes missing.

**16. Travel isn’t a competition.** The point of leaving isn’t to launch a new career as an Instagram star. Go for you. See what you came to see, be open and maybe don’t even take a photo. Nobody needs picture proof that you’re #blessed.



## Related articles
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [How to choose a travel adapter](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-travel-adapter)
- [Roll or fold: packing tips from the pros](/en/article/roll-or-fold-packing-tips-from-the-pros)



Use these savvy travel tips, packing hacks and life lessons to get ready for some of the best times (and memories) of your life.

16 rad travel hacks from adventurous Canadians

Are you hanging onto downhill skis so skinny they’ve been mistaken for cross-country skis? Is your toque so old and ratty that your friends have tried in earnest to throw it away behind your back? Have you tried to resell your banged-up 1997 ski boots without any takers?

We say show off your true ski bum ways and repurpose the gems you’ve accumulated over the years. Here’s how to upcycle them into something cool.

#### 1. Espresso shot ski


Give this boozy ski-lodge necessity a caffeinated twist – your friends will thank you when you wake them up super early for first tracks. Remove the bindings and deck out your used plank with espresso cups instead of shot glasses. Don’t forget to grab a [portable espresso maker](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-kitchen-and-hydration/coffee-makers-and-kettles/espresso-makers) for cabin trips, and sip carefully – it’s hot.

#### 2. Burning Man goggles


Dance your shoulder-season cares away with a bunch of strangers/new friends in the desert under some rainbow lenses made for serious sunlight. Especially handy in dust storms on the playa.

#### 3. Ski fence


A classic, no doubt about it. Start your own by sourcing old gear from your social network, or donate yours to a local hill so your old skis live on at the resort. Requires commitment, but the end result is worth it.

#### 4. Wall art


Forget pricey art prints. All you need is an empty wall, a couple mounts and you’re the coolest collector on the block.

#### 5. Ski pole wind chimes


Nothing like the sweet clang of metal sticks to send you off into a snowy daydream.

#### 6. Toque tea cozy


There’s something extra cozy about a pompom on top of your speckled enamel tea kettle filled with earl grey.

#### 7. Hiking poles


Not collapsible, but no less effective. Bonus: zero adjustments required (although removing your powder baskets is advisable).

#### 8. Boot and helmet planters


To complement the ski wall art, of course.

#### 9. Portable growth chart


Track your kiddos’ vertical gains without having to lose that sentimental piece of doorway trim when you move homes.

#### 10. Pay it forward
You know that friend who is always saying that they don’t have the gear, money or time to make skiing happen? Passing on your stuff as a gift gets them one step closer to the slopes.

*If these quirky second-life hacks aren’t your jam, donate them to your local thrift store or get in contact with your local hill to see if they can recycle or reuse your stuff.*



## More ski articles
- [How to wash and re-waterproof your ski jacket](/en/explore/caring-for-a-waterproof-jacket)
- [How to choose and fit ski boots](/en/explore/how-to-choose-ski-boots-and-bindings)
- [How to choose downhill skis](/en/explore/how-to-choose-downhill-skis)



Have old ski gear buried in your garage or gear closet? Find out how to upcycle skis, boots, toques and more into something cool.

Weird ways to recycle your ski gear

10 weird ways to recycle your ski gear

Burlington, Hamilton and the surrounding area are home to lush parks, scenic trails and an impressive number of waterfalls. You’ll have plenty of scenic views to enjoy on any route you choose. Grab a run buddy and explore somewhere new with these 6 ideas for running routes in the region.

#### Kerncliff Park Climb (3K)


Kerncliff Park offers a variety of double track trails, challenging hills and rocky sections for the runner looking to improve their technical skills. While you’re on this [3-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6948457), you can get a spectacular view of Burlington, Hamilton – and on a clear day, even Toronto – from the top of the escarpment hills.


#### Stair Circuit Challenge (6K)


The stairs accessing the Hamilton Escarpment alongside the city are popular with not only Hamiltonians, but many fitness enthusiasts of the GTA. For a solid workout, try Burlington’s [6-kilometre Stair Circuit](http://milermeter.com/?r=6951977). Starting at Chedoke Civic Golf Course, you’ll run up and down 289 Chedoke stairs and then head over to the Dundurn stairs, where you’ll run up and down another 326 steps. Rinse and repeat!


#### Smooth Hendrie Valley Run (7K)


This gentle [7-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6951984) on a multi-use trail is great for beginners as it provides even footing on relatively flat terrain. This is also an excellent spot to add some [speed training](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-how-to-get-fast-with-speed-work) into your workout. Along the way, you might spot birds, deer and other local wildlife. (Make sure to stay on the trails as the Royal Botanical Garden doesn’t allow runners on their property.)


#### MEC to Newport Out-and-Back run (12K)


Starting from [MEC Burlington](/en/stores/burlington), you’ll head over to Roly Bird Park before embarking on the Hydrocut Trail that will take you to Newport Park and back. This [12-kilometre trail](http://milermeter.com/?r=6948475) is a favourite of the MEC Burlington running club as the route offers plenty of space as well as gentle rolling hills away from traffic.


#### Streams and Climbs Point-to-Point Run (15K)


Set off with a friend and two cars; leave one car at Highland Gardens Park – the start of this [15-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6952021) – and the other by Valleyside Lane and Davidson Blvd in Hamilton. You’ll follow the Bruce Trail where you’ll come across some of Hamilton’s famous stairs and pass through conservation areas like Iroquoia Heights, Tiffany Falls, Canterbury Falls and many more.


#### Bruce Trail Old-Growth and Cascading Waters Run (20K)


The Bruce Trail is a great place to tackle a long-distance [20-kilometre run](http://milermeter.com/?r=6952014). Many spots provide free parking, like Hidden Valley Park, Kerncliff Park as well as several streets. Set out with a run buddy and make sure to bring along your [GPS watch](/en/products/electronics/watches-and-trackers/watches-with-gps) or download the [Bruce Trail App](http://brucetrail.org/pages/trail/app) on your phone, which offers up-to-date info on the trail along with potential side trails and parking access.




The area around Burlington offers a diverse range of routes that lead you past waterfalls, over hills and stairs, and across different terrain. Why run on just sidewalks when you can explore the full beauty of the city’s natural landscape? Happy running!

*Photo credits: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock.com, peters011235 / Shutterstock.com*



Some of the best places to run around Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario. Check out 6 routes around Roly Bird Park, Bruce Trail, the stair circuit and more.

Awesome Running Routes around Burlington and Hamilton

Awesome run routes around Burlington

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