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We’ve all been there. It’s Thursday, the weekend forecast looks good and all you want to do is get outside and go hiking somewhere beautiful. But what if you don’t have a vehicle to get to the trailhead? Or maybe you’ve just moved to a new city and haven’t met an adventure buddy yet, or you don’t know where to get outdoors near you?

Enter: Parkbus. This bus service is an awesome way to get to parks and wild spaces from cities across Canada, no car required. I’m a big fan – and MEC has been supporting Parkbus as one of our community partners since their humble beginnings.



## What’s Parkbus?
Parkbus connects many major Canadian cities to almost 75 national and provincial parks. It’s been going for nearly a decade and serves about 20,000 people across Canada every year (!). The goal? To help more people get access to being active outdoors. Day trips, family camping or wilderness expeditions – Parkbus can get you there. Check out [Parkbus destinations](https://www.parkbus.ca/destinations) to find trips near you, and see what group hikes they’ve got planned through the [ActiveDays program](https://activedays.parkbus.ca/).

Along with reducing barriers to people getting outside, Parkbus has some other wins. Collective transportation (i.e., a bus) helps minimize environmental impact of individual cars. The team works very closely with national and provincial parks to decide on where to go and when to go, and teaches people to be responsible outdoors along the way.

“For every trip, we send pre-departure info, including tips on packing, safety and Leave No Trace, along with trip preparation for people who are going to remote wilderness,” explains Alex Berlyand, one of the two founders of Parkbus.

“There’s a pretty strong educational component that’s emphasized by our Ambassador program – volunteers on board who talk about these kind of things,” he continues. Parkbus also partners with organizations such as the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and the Nature Conservancy of Canada to provide experts to talk about the educational side of their programs.



## How it all started
“Parkbus came from our personal experience of living in a big city without a car,” explains Boris Issaev, the other Parkbus founder. “When we turned 18 and started driving, we realized all these amazing places outside of Toronto exist. It was an eye-opening experience, so we wondered why there wasn’t a bus service. We never really expected this to be our full-time job.”

In 2010, Boris and Alex emailed MEC Toronto with their idea for a bus that goes to parks, and a short time later they were invited to the store to survey what MEC members were looking for with a park bus service. “This really was the catalyst for the whole project,” explains Boris.

Initially, the pair aimed to work with larger bus companies, but were pushed back. “So we rented a big white van,” Boris says. “We were under 25 then, and only one place in the middle of nowhere would rent to us. We drove everyone for free out of our own pockets because we didn’t want to disappoint people. On that first run there were some amazing people who really inspired us to continue,” he adds.

Shortly afterward, MEC jumped on board with funding to help kick things off, and Parkbus has been growing ever since.



## Group hikes, free shuttles and more
Along with lack of transportation, other issues can prevent people from enjoying the outdoors. Lack of outdoor skills and gear, financial constraints, and not knowing people to go with are real barriers, so MEC is working with Parkbus to help break these down.

**Guided hikes**: In partnership with MEC, Parkbus offers [ActiveDays](https://activedays.parkbus.ca/), which aims to build communities in the outdoors. These outings give you the opportunity to meet other hikers, go on a guided hike with a Parkbus facilitator, and learn about the park you’re in from outdoor experts.

**Free shuttles**: A free (yep, free) shuttle service you can take from four Canadian cities to national parks. These [TD Park Express free shuttles](https://www.parkbus.ca/parkexpress) greatly reduce the financial barriers to getting outside.

**Subsidized trips**: Parkbus runs [NatureLink](https://www.parkbus.ca/naturelink), a program that provides subsidized trips for new Canadians to introduce them to the outdoors.

In the past three years, Parkbus has really taken off and MEC has been with them the whole way. An idea that started with one bus every few months has grown into multiple programs that work with different age ranges, abilities, demographics and places – it’s exciting to see how they have programming for everyone.

Not bad for something that started out with two guys and a van.

*MEC All Out is proud to support Parkbus as one of our*[*community partners*](/en/explore/partnerships)*. Top photo: Parkbus trip to Cypress Provincial Park from Vancouver.*



## Related articles
- [Introducing: MEC All Out](/en/article/introducing-mec-all-out)
- [NatureLink: Connecting newcomers to nature](/en/article/naturelink-explore-parks-in-torontos-backyard)
- [7 ways to hike and camp responsibly](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly)



Your ticket to adventure in the great outdoors. See how two guys with a van have grown into a service that gets 20,000 people into parks each year.

Want to go hiking but don’t have a car? Hop on board Parkbus

In a country that spans almost 10 million square kilometres of dense rainforest, calm lakes and steep mountains, there are literally thousands of outdoor activities to keep you busy. But what are the quintessential Canadian experiences for your adventure bucket list? Get ready, explorers: here’s a distilled must-do list for adventurous Canadians:

## 1. Ride the waves in Tofino
On the far west coast, Tofino promises the best surfing in Canada. It has 35km of year-round break (yep, a [wetsuit](/en/ideal-for/surfing/products/watersports/watersports-clothing/wetsuits-and-neoprene-clothing/c/1058) is a must), along with epic scenery and the relaxed atmosphere you’d expect from a laidback beach town surrounded by rainforest.

## 2. Scale a mountain in Banff
Nothing speaks to Canada’s scenic power quite like the Rockies. If you’re not an experienced mountaineer, you can still traverse the alpine with the Via Ferrata at Mt. Norquay in Banff National Park. Common in the Alps, a Via Ferrata is a network of ladders, cables and bridges that make a mountain face accessible to anyone with a bit of grit and [sturdy shoes](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-shoes/c/1492).



## 3. Canoe tripping in Algonquin
What Ontario lacks in mountains it makes up for with its impressive 250,000 lakes. Nowhere is this more evident than in Algonquin, the country’s oldest provincial park. The true beauty of Algonquin is its promise of complete solitude. [Plan a canoe trip](http://www.mec.ca/product/5029-277/a-paddlers-guide-to-algonquin-park/) and set up camp near a calm lake that you can access from launch points farther north of Highway 60.

## 4. Hike the Bruce Trail
The Bruce Trail stretches 885km along the Niagara Escarpment from St. Catharines to Tobermory. The whole thing can take more than a month to complete, but there are several well-marked day hikes that explore this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.



## 5. Paddle the 1000 Islands
Sprawled across the St. Lawrence River, these islands are home to history and adventure; 20th-century castles and War of 1812 battle sites punctuate the active archipelago. Take a multi-day kayaking course to get to know the area, or [bring your own boat](/en/products/watersports/kayaking/kayaks/c/911) and pitch a [tent](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camping-tents-tarps-and-bivies/tents/c/1449) somewhere off the shores of Gananoque.

## 6. Cycle La Route Verte
This route in Quebec’s Eastern Townships was hailed as the best [cycling](/en/products/cycling/bikes/c/854) route in the world by National Geographic in 2010, three years after the trail’s inauguration. At 5,300km in total, it’s the longest cycling network in the country, weaving past farming communities, cities and riversides (you can even spend the night in a lighthouse). Grab a [Quebec cycling guidebook](/en/product/5061-221/Le-Quebec-Cyclable-13e) (in French) to plan your trip.



## 7. Geocache along the Confederation Trail
Stretching along the island from east to west, the 435-km Confederation Trail is PEI’s portion of the Trans Canada Trail. The path’s gentle gradient makes it accessible for a variety of fitness levels, and there are over 1,600 caches along the route, making it prime for explorers who never travel without their [GPS](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/electronics/gps-navigation/handheld-gps/c/1249).

## 8. Climb Gros Morne Mountain
Staring down from the 806-m summit of Newfoundland’s Gros Morne is a humbling endeavor (and proof that you don’t need to travel to Scandinavia for stunning fjords). The 16-km James Callaghan Trail leads through forested paths and a bit of loose rock scrambling before you reach the top.



## 9. Camp under the midnight sun
At summer solstice, experience sunlight for a full 24 hours in northern regions like the Yukon and Northwest Territories. The extra daylight give you lots of time to explore before you set up camp in spots like Kluane National Park. If you want to go all out, visit remote Ivvavik National Park, which has guided Arctic base camp trips from Parks Canada.

Canadians are lucky. Extensive trails, mountains next to cities, and a seemingly endless network of rivers and lakes are ready for us anytime we want to take on a little adventure. It’s your move, explorers.



## Related articles
- [Travel packing checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)

*Originally published in 2016. Updated in 2019.*



Must-do trip inspiration for travelling in Canada, from biking La Route Verte to hiking the Bruce Trail. How many of these have you ticked off your list?

The bucket list for adventurous Canadians

With warmer temperatures gearing up across the country, it might seem like a strange time to be making plans for winter. Many guided adventures in December and January book much earlier, so you’ll want to lock in plans if you plan to go with a group tour.

Read on to see why cresting waves, rafting rapids or summiting mountains beats wrapping gifts this winter.

## You can scoop up some sweet deals
If you’re not picky about travelling on certain dates (say, just off the top of our heads, December 25) you can nab some fantastic airfare deals when you book ahead. Plus, for many of us, it’s a built-in break from school or work, so it’s the perfect time to travel without eating too far into your precious vacation days.

You can also make your travel expenses do double duty around the holidays with a little creative planning. “I live in Vancouver, but my family is in Newfoundland,” says MEC staffer Susan. “It’s an expensive trip any time of year. I visited Germany in December a few years ago, and I was able to add on a stopover in St John’s for very little extra cost. It was an amazing trip, and I got my family time and my adventure time in on the same itinerary.”

## See what the season’s like somewhere else
Whatever and however you celebrate, winter travel is a good opportunity to take a break from your own traditions and see what goes on in another corner of the world. Cheers Nochebuena with tamales on a Costa Rica trip, or ring in the New Year with the view from the top of a Mount Kilimanjaro trip (guaranteed to blow any fireworks display out of the water).



“My most memorable holiday season has to be when I camped out in a bell tent on the Raglan Coast in New Zealand with my partner and two other travellers we met on the road,” says MEC staffer Sarah. “We hiked through the forest to the beach and spent an afternoon watching the surfers. New Year’s Eve was spent befriending a pair of pet pigs on a vegan permaculture farm and taking in an impromptu ukulele show from the farmer, Rex. Best New Year’s ever!”

## It can be a great stress buster


If you tend to feel like you need a vacation after your vacation, a guided trip might be the thing for you. With the itinerary, accommodations and meals taken care of, all that’s left is to enjoy the experience. Some examples? Instead of cooking dinner for the whole extended family, sit down for authentic Som Tam on a food-focused trip in Thailand. Or rather than making up the guest bedroom, get a tent-side view of the sunrise from Stella Point on a Mount Kilimanjaro trip around New Year’s Day.

“Last year was a super busy year,” says MEC staffer Allison. “I was working full-time and going to school part-time, and the only time I could get away was winter break. I joined a small group exploring the Mayan ruins in Yucatán, Mexico. We ended the trip on Isla Mujeres with scuba diving and turkey dinner on the beach. It was absolute bliss, and was all the more special sharing the holiday with new friends.”

## Experiences last longer than stocking stuffers
If you’re working your way down the list of gift ideas, consider adventure travel as an out-of-the-park alternative to kitchen appliances or home reno projects. Travelling together can be an awesome way to reconnect with a partner, friend or family member – and the memories will last longer than a new toaster would have anyway. If you bring the kids along, it can be a chance for the whole family to rack up some stories to tell around the table for years to come.



## Start 2020 off with a bang
If you’re the resolution-making type (or even if you’re not) what better way to ring in a new year than by trying something you’ve never done before? It’s the perfect way to set the tone for the new year. Try your paddle at whitewater rafting, traverse a canyon by zipline or climb an active volcano, to name a few ideas. It could just be the start of a new tradition.



## Related articles
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now)
- [Travel packing checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)



It’s never too early to plan your winter escape. Read on for our top 5 reasons to spend this winter break ticking your bucket list.

Winter travel ideas to take you far, far away

Thinking of heading out on a road trip? Have visions of chasing waterfalls? There are plenty of falls in BC that are off the beaten path and ready to be explored in the northern region. Plus, you won’t need to wait your turn in line for the best viewing spot to take a photo.

All these photogenic waterfalls are located along Highway 16 from Smithers to Prince Rupert. Some of them require just a short walk to reach them, while others involve a little more effort to end up at the reward. Bonus: Prince Rupert is just a ferry ride away from [surprising things you can discover on Haida Gwaii](/en/article/surprising-things-youll-discover-on-haida-gwaii) too.

## Exstew Falls


**Location**: Near Terrace
**How to get there**: Drive on service road, then walk on a modest forest trail
**Time to explore**: 1–2 hours

[Exstew Falls](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/exstew-falls) is a beautiful and more remote waterfall outside of Terrace, BC, along Highway 16. It’s an ideal option if you want to stretch your legs beyond some of the more parking lot accessible hikes. The waterfall has two sections: one lower and one upper that are both fairly easy to access from the same trailhead. Both sections are visible from the base, but if you have the time and energy to hike to the upper level, it’s worth the climb as the falls are steeper and resemble a more classic waterfall shape.

The lower falls are more graduated and a nice spot to explore with groups or children as there’s more space to check things out safely. Kids will like to practice their balance on small rocks and logs (and keep an eye out for frogs too). There are no human-made structures at these falls, but it’s still an excellent place to pack a lunch to enjoy on the rocks at the lower level.

The sky in both sections is open and lots of light shines through on a sunny day. Conditions for rainbows are promising, especially at the upper falls. The upper level will put you in the “I can’t hear you” zone and allow you to really soak up and experience the power of the falls. It’s a great stop after a long morning driving to your next campsite or town on your road trip.

## New Hazelton lookout and waterfall


**Location**: New Hazelton
**How to get there**: Short walk along a flat forest trail from the municipal parking lot
**Time to explore**: 30 minutes to an hour

New Hazelton is a small mountain town in northern BC, and is surrounded by mountains of the same name, the Hazeltons. Its local waterfall and town lookout are great choices if you’re checking out the area on a trip or want to take a short detour from the main route between Smithers and Terrace.

The [trailhead](http://salmontrails.com/culture/new-hazelton-lookout-and-waterfall-trail) to both the town lookout and the waterfall are located off Laurier Street. You can park in the lot or along the street and be at the trailhead in just a few steps. From there, you can choose to do the full trail to the lookout to get a view of the town and ridgelines or go straight to the falls. The path to the falls is short with little to no incline through a shady treed area. Ferns and moss-covered rocks are all over, and the growth around the falls gives you cool shade, dappled light and an overall relaxing setting.

## Rooster Tail Falls


**Location**: Exchamsiks River Provincial Park
**How to get there**: Boat-access only, plus some mild route-finding and creek-hopping
**Time to explore**: Varies, depending on tour

If you’re looking to check out a waterfall accessed by few, Rooster Tail Falls is a unique pick. Since you’ll need to book a locally guided tour to get there (or have your own boat), you’ll likely be able to experience it in your own company. This braided set of falls is small, misty and tucked away along the Exchamsiks river between Terrace and Prince Rupert along Highway 16. Beds of spongey moss are at the base of the falls, and water trickles past in a small tributary towards the river.

Trusty rain gear – [waterproof jackets](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025), [rain pants](/en/products/clothing/bottoms/pants/rain-pants/c/1012) and [boots](/en/features/waterproof/products/footwear/c/1184) – are recommended as there’s some creek-hopping involved to get to the falls once you’re on shore. While these aren’t the easiest falls to access, they’re chase-worthy if you have the means and the time. The boat ride along the river adds to the experience, including the chances to see black bears feeding along the banks.

## Kleanza Creek Provincial Park


**Location**: Near Terrace
**How to get there**: Walk from campground parking lot
**Time to explore**: 1–2 hours

[Kleanza Creek](http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/kleanza_crk/) is a nice choice for families or anyone who wants to stretch their legs after driving. While technically not a waterfall, the creek comes out from a canyon to create a falls-like experience, with forceful water settling in ice-cold pools at the base. While there’s no access into the canyon itself, there is a loosely marked hiking trail near the creek that offers views from above. The lower pools are accessible to explore closer up.

Kleanza may not be a classic waterfall scene, but it’s worth it for its easy access and relaxed atmosphere. Pick a scenic spot to unpack lunch and sit in the sun, or try dipping your toes if you’re feeling brave. On a quiet day, you can hear the water running through the canyon in the distance.

## Tips before you go
Wherever you visit, make sure to brush up on your [Leave No Trace skills for hiking and camping](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly) before you explore the trails and parks. When you’re taking photo of waterfalls, remember to watch your footing – the ground can be slick – and check them out from a safe distance; never go directly under falls since the water is definitely powerful.

## 5 things to pack for a waterfall chasing trip
- Grippy footwear, like [hiking boots](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/hiking-footwear/hiking-boots/c/1497?b=100-1184-1189) or [trail runners](/en/products/run-and-fitness/running-and-training-footwear/running-shoes/trail-running-shoes/c/1730?b=100-1184-1195-294), to help get traction on trails and rocks.
- [Rain jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025) and [rain pants](/en/products/clothing/bottoms/pants/rain-pants/c/1012), since misty days with drizzle add to the vibe. Pick a bright colour that pops in photos, like red, pink or blue.
- [Daypack](/en/products/packs-and-bags/daypacks-and-school-bags/daypacks/c/1333?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) to keep your camera, maps and snacks handy. If you’re planning a day hike, make sure to pack along the [10 essentials](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping).
- [Maps and guidebooks](/en/products/travel-gear/books-maps-and-dvds/maps/c/936) to find other cool stops along your road trip route.
- [Portable snacks](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/snacks-and-energy-bars/snacks/c/1182) and a [reusable water bottle](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/water-bottles/c/1233), so you can hang out and enjoy the view for a while.

Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out a full list of [BC road trip ideas](https://www.hellobc.com/travel-ideas/road-trips) to explore routes that include hiking trails, lakes, surf spots, caves, hot springs and lots more waterfalls.



## Related articles
- [Hidden gems: 6 awesome campsites in BC](/en/article/hidden-gems-6-awesome-campsites-in-bc)
- [Travel checklist](/en/explore/travel-checklist)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)



Heading out to explore the province? Add these photogenic northern BC falls to your list.

Hidden gems: 4 BC waterfalls worth a roadtrip stop

Hidden gems: 4 BC waterfalls worth a road trip stop

Did you know that MEC chooses expeditions to support twice a year? As part of [MEC All Out](/en/explore/community) (our community program), we give ambitious members gear and funding to make their wild outdoor adventures a reality.

See where your fellow MEC members are planning to go this summer – it’s pretty inspiring stuff. It might just spark you to try something new yourself, whether it’s an overnight bike trip, a human-powered vacation, or tackling a climbing project you’ve had your eye on.

Of course, if you have a bigger goal in mind, check out our [expedition support page](/en/explore/expedition-support). Grant applications are open until August 7, 2019 – we can’t wait to see what members are planning to do next.

## IceSend: Iceland by bike


**MEC members**: Oliver Jorgensen, Kieran Evans, Jalen Sekhon
**Follow along**: [@icesend.exp](https://www.instagram.com/icesend.exp/) and [IceSend on Vimeo](https://vimeo.com/icesend)

The mission: a bikepacking expedition from the northernmost tip to the southernmost tip of Iceland, on a never-done-before route across the spine of the country. Two members of team IceSend also happen to be MEC staffers, and when they’re not helping members, they’re on their bikes. This team wowed us with their application, and they also ended up getting support through the [MEC Adventure Grant](https://vimff.org/mec-adventure-grant/) with VIMFF – keep an eye out for their presentation on this largely undocumented traverse at next year’s festival.

Some gear going along for the ride:

- [MEC Uplink Vest](/en/product/5053-430/Uplink-Vest)
- [MEC Bolt Bib Tights](/en/product/5052-537/Bolt-Bib-Tights) and [MEC Crinkum Shorts](/en/product/5035-503/Crinkum-Shorts)
- [MEC T2 Zip-T](/en/product/5057-792/T2-Zip-T)
- [Garmin InReach SE+](/en/product/5053-915/inReach-SE%2B)

## The Great Coast Mountains Bikepacking Expedition


**MEC members**: Michael Ford, Alyssa Stapleton, Matthew Janeway
**Follow along**: [@mikegoesupanddown](https://www.instagram.com/mikegoesupanddown/) and [@janesway_](https://www.instagram.com/janesway_/)

This self-supported, human-powered multi-sport epic is seeking first ascents along a new 1572km predominantly off-road cycling route that spans the entire length of BC’s Coast Mountains. The trio created the expedition with the intention of accessing remote mountain areas while remaining both self-propelled and self-reliant. It’s a novel approach to a climbing expedition, and combines bikepacking, climbing, camping, mountaineering and paddling as they travel from Prince Rupert to Vancouver, while seeking first ascents in the Howson Range, Ts’yl-los Provincial Park, Terrace, Bella Coola and the Sea to Sky region along the way.

In their expedition application, they also noted that, “Bikepacking this route instead of driving will save 588kg of CO2 emissions and allow us to take greater environmental responsibility for the landscapes we intend to explore.” Along the journey, they’ll cross three of the four road access points through the Coast Mountains to the ocean, traverse two dirt road mountain passes above 1200m, and packraft across the Nechako Reservoir.

## Outside Passage Paddle


**MEC members**: Owen Enright, Andrew Green, Gordon Kerslake, Arden Schiller, Alex Morrow

This team of seasoned paddlers plans to travel from Alaska to southern Vancouver Island entirely self-powered by sea kayak. Although most paddlers would complete this trip by travelling through the Inside Passage, they aim to paddle the entirety of the coast on the outside passage. This route ups the ante – they’ll be dealing with rugged coastlines that are exposed to extreme weather, have few landing spots, and require surf landings at most beaches. The team will be completely self-sufficient, and will fish and forage to help supplement their food rations.

While there’s no Instagram account to follow for this one, it’s a good reminder that this is prime paddling season. Always wanted to try kayaking? See what [paddling events](https://events.mec.ca/find-an-event?&activity%5B%5D=3&organization=mec) are happening near you.

Some gear going along for the journey:

- [MEC Tonquin GORE-TEX Rain Jacket](/en/product/5050-728/Tonquin-GORE-TEX-Rain-Jacket)
- [MEC Fulcrum Guide PFD](/en/product/5034-115/Fulcrum-Guide-PFD)
- [MEC TGV 2-person 4-season Tent](/en/product/5047-590/TGV-2-Person-4-Season-Tent)
- [MEC Deluxe Pillow](/en/product/5046-842/Deluxe-Pillow)

## Fellowship of the Klite


**MEC members**: Travis Foster and Drew Leiterman
**Follow along**: [@drewmagoo66](https://www.instagram.com/drewmagoo66/)

The objective: three granite spires that rise like gothic cathedrals out of the remote Klite basin in BC. This area’s been whispered about for many years, but surprisingly has still gone untouched. In their own words, Travis and Drew said:

“The southeast buttress of Klite, at 1400m from base to summit, would be a world-class objective in any location around the globe. Complemented by the central spire and eastern spire at 1200m and 1000m vertical relief respectively, this is a truly remarkable location. To quote John Clarke, ‘Klite Peak is a triumph of granite architecture. The appalling looking southeast buttress is a classic and will be climbed someday.’ These are no light words coming from John Clarke, and still the call has yet to be answered.

The north-facing walls climbing out of Klite basin are serious objectives in their own right. John Baldwin said, ‘The narrow ridge is wild alpine granite dropping over 1000m on both sides.’ To think that coming to the headwaters of the Klite River will be almost synonymous to the first climbers visiting Sam Ford Fjord is really quite a dizzying notion. It honestly feels to good to be true – but then again, so did the Daniels River Valley…” (The Daniels River Valley was one of their previous climbing expeditions, shown in the photo at the top.)

Some gear going along for the climb:

- [MEC Synergy GORE-TEX Jackets](/en/product/5047-705/Synergy-GORE-TEX-Jacket)



*Travis in the [MEC Synergy Jacket](/en/product/5047-705/Synergy-GORE-TEX-Jacket) as he leads Thunder Corner on their previous expedition, where it rained four out of nine days on the wall. “It kept me dry and more than that, its 70-denier face fabric held up against all sorts of crazy chimney stemming abrasion,” he said in his review. Photo: Drew Leiterman*

## The Great Trail on foot


**MEC member**: Bonnie Thornbury
**Follow along**: [@bonnbury](https://www.instagram.com/bonnbury/)

Bonnie grew up in a bush town of 200 people. As a queer non-binary person, they found solace in the outdoors and have trekked and travelled in over 30 countries. The plan for this journey? A six-month walk across Canada via the Great Trail (formerly known as the Trans-Canada Trail) from west to east. This 5000km trip is as much about the epic challenge of self-propelled transportation and uninterrupted nature as it is about reconnecting with Canada.

In their words, “Like many folks, I’ve struggled with what it means to be Canadian in recent years: How do we tap into our greatest gift – this unimaginably vast and varied land – while acknowledging the hard truths of our nation’s past, and actively show up for reconciliation? How do we make space for new Canadians and new imaginings of Canada? How do we celebrate our incredible diversity while creating connections and community across a land as enormous and spread out as ours? I can’t think of a better way to fall back in love – and inspire others to fall in love with our country and each other – than setting out on foot, taking in the experiences and encounters, and sharing them with the world.”

Some gear trekking across Canada with Bonnie:

- [MEC Spark 2 Tent](/en/product/5036-964/Spark-2-Person-Tent)
- [MEC Talon Light +5C Down Sleeping Bag](/en/product/5047-739/Talon-Light-%2B5C-Down-Sleeping-Bag)
- [Scarpa Kailash Trek GTX Hiking Boots](/en/product/5057-412/Kailash-Trek-GTX-Hiking-Boots)
- [MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Pants](/en/product/5053-813/Hydrofoil-Stretch-Pants)

## K2 southeast face: new route attempt


**MEC member**: MEC Ambassador [Louis Rousseau](https://meccms.imgix.net/wp-json/ambassadors/louis-rousseau)

K2, the Savage Mountain, is a massive summit of the Karakoram. At 8611m, it’s the second highest peak in the world. No routes on K2 have been ascended in pure alpine-style. Louis’ team’s proposed route will start from the base of the southeast face and go directly up an untouched buttress: the southeast buttress. “This southeast buttress is an amazing objective,” Louis noted in his expedition application, “The steep and highly technical character of this southeast buttress offer good opportunities for a major new alpine style ascent.” The line would take them on a highly technical mixed ground and a crux section below 7000m. Opening a new route, in a clean single push, will be a significant and bold alpinism achievement. While there’s no Instagram account for this attempt, we’ll be watching for his trip report to come in.

Gear Louis ordered before he left for K2:

- [MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Jacket](/en/product/5053-432/Hydrofoil-Stretch-Jacket)
- [MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Pants](/en/product/5053-433/Hydrofoil-Stretch-Pants)
- [MEC Uplink Vest](/en/product/5053-430/Uplink-Vest)

*Top photo: Travis Foster on the summit of Super Unknown, part of their 2018 climbing expedition to the Big Wall Belt in the Daniels River Valley near Powell River, BC. Photo: Drew Leiterman*



## Related articles
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now)
- [Award-winning gear: 20 top picks from the pros](/en/article/award-winning-gear-20-top-picks-from-the-pros)
- [Trekking to Everest Base Camp? Read this first](/en/article/trekking-to-everest-base-camp-read-this-first)



MEC members are going places, like bikepacking a new route in Iceland, walking the Great Trail, climbing in the Klite basin and more.

Inspiration alert: expeditions to follow this summer

If you live by the expression, “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” cycle tours are the way to go when you’re travelling. When I was in Cuba, biking was one of the only ways to get away from the typical resort-town experience. In Taiwan, cycling gave me the chance to visit remote mountain towns and drink tea with local farmers. Travelling by bike offers you a totally different experience than backpacking or riding a tour bus – and not just when it comes to getting from point A to point B.

## 1. You make real connections


Let’s be honest – being stuck on a tour bus and breezing in and out of a town with barely enough time to get a selfie isn’t fun. Exploring a city by bike slows things down and gives you a lots of opportunities to connect with locals. In countries where cycling is the norm, people will stop to chat about your route or gear. And in places where long-distance cycling is less common, people may approach you to ask, “Why?!” Either way, cycling opens the door to all kinds of cross-cultural adventures.

## 2. You go at your own pace


Being on a bike gives you complete control over the pace of a trip. It’s easy to pull over and stop when you see something interesting or just feel like taking a break. While cycling through Taiwan, I often stopped at small temples, neat-looking rock formations and roadside fruit stands. You can choose to take a slow, leisurely ride, but you can also push your body – you might even surprise yourself, as your fitness levels improve along the way. And you don’t have to be an extreme athlete to experience the joy of cresting the next hill.

## 3. You get to refuel (lots)
One of my favourite things about cycle touring is that you’re hungry all the time. It’s the perfect excuse to try new foods, so you wouldn’t do wrong to pick a bike touring location based on cuisines you want to try. Countries like Taiwan and Vietnam are known for fast, affordable and delicious food that can you can pick up at roadside stops. And I’ll admit that a double scoop of authentic Italian gelato tastes a lot better when you feel like you’ve earned it.

## Why cycle with a group?


Travelling by bike isn’t always easy, and yes, on some days you’ll likely feel pushed to your limits. But joining a group tour increases your chances of riding safely and comfortably. Here are just a few reasons why setting out on a group bike tour can be great:

- **Mechanical help**: Sometimes you get lucky and can go hundreds of kilometres without so much as a flat tire. Other times, you may feel plagued by mechanical issues which can be frustrating if you don’t have the skills or tools to get yourself going quickly again. Travelling with a group tour removes this stress, so you can focus on the ride.
- **Excellent route choices**: Large highways, steep grades and distances that seem doable as a day ride but can actually be much more difficult (especially when you’re carrying a lot of weight) are a few things to be aware of for route planning. Reading blogs or hiring a local guide can help you find more enjoyable (and realistic) routes.
- **Extra support:**Before you head out, you should practice riding with loads similar to what you’ll be carrying on a cycle tour – fill up those panniers! Check in with your tour company to find out what kind of support is available. Many of them provide vans that carry your gear to lighten your load.
- **Logistics sorted:**There’s nothing wrong with wanting to have a hot shower and a comfortable place to sleep at the end of the day. Booking ahead or riding with a group tour can help with those details.
- **Advice from other riders**: Even small pinches or strains can feel different after several hours in the saddle, so it’s important that you listen to your body. Getting your [bike properly fitted](/en/explore/fitting-your-bike) (whether it’s a touring bike, mountain bike, or recumbent bike) is helpful before a long tour, but fellow riders will be able to share their tips and tricks along the way, too.

When you’re travelling by bike, you get to immerse yourself in the surroundings (the smells, the weather, the bumps in the road), connect with the locals, and move at your own pace. But most of all, you get to appreciate how you got there, feeling the subtle changes in terrain and climate along the way.



## What to pack for a cycle tour
Bike tours force you to be practical with your packing – these are a few basics you’ll need to be comfortable on and off the road:

- A lightweight, [long-sleeved jersey](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-tops/cycling-jerseys/long-sleeve-jerseys/c/289) for sun protection
- [Bike shorts](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-bottoms/bike-shorts/c/1668) and a [rain jacket](/en/features/durable-water-repellency/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-tops/cycling-jackets/c/1021) for unpredictable weather
- Thin [merino base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/base-layers-and-underwear/c/273?f=CFfabricContent%3AMerino+wool) and a [down jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/c/270) for higher altitudes and colder climates
- Comfortable [riding shoes](/en/products/cycling/cycling-footwear/cycling-shoes/c/1496), plus a pair of [sandals](/en/products/footwear/sandals/c/1192) for when you’re not on a bike
- [Fingerless gloves](/en/products/cycling/cycling-clothing/cycling-clothing-accessories/cycling-gloves/c/1542?f=CFhandweartype%3AFingerless+gloves) for stronger grips and fewer blisters
- A small [handlebar bag](/en/products/cycling/panniers252c-bags-and-racks/handlebar-frame-and-seat-bags/handlebar-and-frame-bags/c/1371) or [backpack](/en/products/packs-and-bags/daypacks-and-school-bags/daypacks/c/1333?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACycling&b=100-1549-1564) for easy access to valuables and snacks



## Related articles
- [Travelling with your bike](/en/explore/travelling-with-your-bike)
- [How to fix a flat bike tire](/en/explore/how-to-fix-a-flat-bike-tire)
- [How to choose bike bags and panniers](/en/explore/how-to-choose-bike-bags-and-panniers)



See how travelling by bike offers you a totally different experience than backpacking or riding a tour bus – and not just when it comes to getting from point A to point B.

3 reasons to explore a new country by bike

If you’ve never travelled to Vietnam, then you’re in for an unforgettable trip. Be prepared for delicious seafood, fantastic coffee and jaw-dropping scenery. The country is great for roaming travellers, and you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your days. Go armed with these tips, which are also helpful for backpacking in other Southeast Asian destinations, like Thailand, Malaysia or the Philippines.

## 1. Bring H2O wherever you go
The general rule of thumb in Vietnam is to avoid tap water. Some people stick to bottled water, but you can be more environmentally friendly by bringing your own [reusable water bottle](/en/ideal-for/travel/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/water-bottles/c/1233) and [water treatment system](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/water-filters-treatment-and-tablets/c/1236?b=100-1549-1267-1563).

It’s so easy to get dehydrated when you travel, especially in hot climates. If you notice yourself feeling cranky, light-headed or dry in the mouth, then you’re probably already dehydrated.

**Pro traveller tip**: [Electrolyte tabs](/en/brand/nuun/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/food-and-drink/beverages/c/1176) are a quick way to give your water some flavour, which will entice you to keep sipping and stay hydrated. And fresh coconut juice is a good way to stay hydrated, too! Bến Tre is a hotspot for coconuts in Vietnam, and is known for its tasty coconut desserts.

## 2. Learn to say hello and thank you
If you speak English and don’t have experience with the Vietnamese language, it can be tricky to pick up. Many locals will have a good grasp of the English language in touristy areas, but finding English-speakers in more remote areas of Vietnam is difficult. Try a few basic Vietnamese words – it goes a long way. You’d also be surprised at how much you can communicate simply by hand signals and body language (and don’t forget to smile). Feeling motivated? Get some basics before you go with a language learning app, like [Duolingo](https://www.duolingo.com/), or start here:

Hello: Chào (pronounced *chow*)
Thank you: Cám ơn (pronounced *gahm un*)

**Pro traveller tip**: You may find some locals, especially older citizens, speak French (great for bilingual Canadians).

## 3. Stock up on sunscreen and repellant
Sure, you can find [sunscreen](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/sun-protection/c/1216) and [bug repellent](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bug-spray-and-bug-nets/bug-spray-and-insect-repellent/c/500) once you land but they’ll be much more expensive and of varying qualities. If you’re taking your backpack as a carry-on, don’t forget to follow the 100ml rule for liquids and gels.

**Pro traveller tip**: If you burn easily or are running low on sunscreen, avoid the sun from 11am to 3pm (peak scorching hours).

## 4. Combine history with activity
One of the best ways to take in all the ancient structures and scenery? On the move. Sign up for a cycling tour (bikes are big in Vietnam) to combine the expertise of a local guide with enough activity to work up an appetite for *bún chả* (BBQ pork with rice vermicelli) or *cà phê trứng*(fluffy egg coffee). Roll past pagodas and temples, eucalyptus forest and rice fields, as you explore cities and countrysides.

**Pro traveller tip**: Bring a daypack with you to carry your essentials. Look for a [hydration-compatible daypack](/en/features/hydration-compatible/products/packs-and-bags/daypacks-and-school-bags/c/1332) so you can sip water on the move.

## 5. Be prepared to do some bargaining
Bargaining is part of the culture, so don’t be shy. There’s usually no fixed price in Vietnam’s tourist industry, which means the price is often decided by whatever you’re willing to pay. Study up on general prices, make an offer (try 20–30% below asking as a starting point) and be prepared to walk away if you don’t get a fair deal. Be alert that prices in the tourist areas are usually very high, but don’t let it prevent you from experiencing Vietnam’s unique adventures or connecting with the locals.



## Related articles
- [How to stay sun safe](/en/explore/sun-safety)
- [The ultimate travel pants](/en/article/the-ultimate-travel-pants)
- [How to choose a travel adapter](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-travel-adapter)



If you’ve never travelled to Vietnam, then you’re in for an unforgettable trip.  Use this tips to make the most of your visit.

5 tips you need for travelling in Vietnam

There are tons of reasons to travel to Peru – the quinoa, the lush green scenery, the llamas, not to mention the Andes. A small group tour is a great way to see it all, especially if you’re going to hike Machu Picchu. Are you ready to explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World?

## Getting to Machu Picchu
You’ve got options when it comes to your hike. There are a few ways you can reach Machu Picchu, and two of them are the famous Inca Trail or the lesser-known Salkantay trek:

### Inca Trail


The Inca Trail, a 43-km trek that takes you through high-altitude jungles, is a bucket-list classic. Hikers who choose this route can expect to climb rugged stairs, walk on sacred pathways and pass through a stone tunnel, usually over four epic days.

**The hike:**Though generally considered moderate, some parts of the hike can be challenging, especially as you gain elevation to reach the highest point of nearly 4200m. On the last day of your hike, plan to wake up before dawn to reach the Sun Gate before sunrise. You’ll forget all about the morning cold and tired feet as you watch the sun stretch over the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu.

**Where you can sleep:**There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars on the Inca Trail. With small group tours, you’ll have a team of porters and cooks to carry your gear, prep delicious meals and help with tent set-up and tear-town.



The Salkantay Trek, considered the back road to Machu Picchu, is almost twice as long as the Inca Trail, with most tours lasting five to six days. Since it brings hikers to a higher altitude, it’s more physically demanding – but many people say the scenery is even more impressive than what you see on the Inca Trail, and your chances of spotting wildlife, like foxes and deer, are higher too.

**The hike:**The trek begins with gentle rolling hills, but you’ll face a steep climb towards the peak, where the landscape changes from a village to a full-blown lunar landscape. It’s here that you’ll also get a view of the snow-capped Salkantay and Umantay mountains. From the top, the trek continues (mostly) downhill through thick, lush forests.

**Where you can sleep:**Something that makes the Salkantay a neat experience are the mountain lodges along the trail. Hikers who are looking for a bit more comfort on a multi-day trip can hike from lodge to lodge as part of this journey.

## When to go
April, May, September and October are the best times to hike to Machu Picchu. These months tend to have more moderate temperatures during the day and there will be fewer people wandering the trails and camps.

June, July and August boast the best (read: clear days and hardly any rain) weather, but bring the busiest crowds. The rainy season stretches from November to March, and the Inca Trail is shut down every February for recovery and maintenance; the Salkantay Trek stays open year-round.

## What to know before you go


#### Preparing for the climb
You don’t need to be a world-class athlete to hike Machu Picchu, but both treks require a moderate level of physical fitness. Start training a few months before leaving for Peru, and remember to add strength and conditioning to your cardio workouts to prep for the elevation gain.



#### Preventing altitude sickness
Many doctors will prescribe Acetazolamide (also known as Diamox) to help you keep altitude sickness under control, but the Peruvian locals swear by coca tea and candy – always check with your doctor before you go to see what they recommend for you to hike at high altitudes.

#### Staying hydrated
Altitude and dry mountain air will dehydrate you quickly if you’re not drinking enough water. Water bladders are the best option for hiking, but they can freeze if temperatures drop below zero. For demanding, multi-day treks like these ones, I use a bladder for plain water and a bottle for an electrolyte mix.



#### Maintaining an appetite
Since altitude can slow down your digestive system, you might not be very hungry on the trek, so you need to be extra mindful of maintaining your energy. [Honey Stingers](/en/product/5026-981/Energy-Chews-Limeade) are my personal favourite snack. They’re high in carbohydrates, electrolytes and caffeine – plus they taste great!



## Packing tips for hiking in Peru
A well-packed bag sets you up for a good trip. Here are some pointers:

#### For your feet
Since your feet are your main mode of transportation on a multi-day trek, you’ll want to make sure they’re well-taken care of. Bring:

- Well broken-in waterproof [boots](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes) (the first day of your hike is *not* the time to break in a new pair of boots)
- [Quality hiking socks](/en/products/footwear/socks/hiking-socks/c/1518), and maybe even [liner socks](/en/products/footwear/socks/liner-socks/c/612) – don’t wear cotton socks
- [Blister care](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies/first-aid-supplies/c/1211?text=blister) just in case
- [Hut booties](/en/product/5055-859/Hut-Bootie?org_text=hut) or [slip-on sandals](/en/products/footwear/sandals/c/1192) to wear around camp or a lodge after a long day of hiking

#### For your body
Mountain weather is notoriously temperamental. Dress in layers so that you can quickly adapt to whatever mother nature throws at you. Bring:

- A warm [down or synthetic puffy jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/c/270) that packs down small
- Freshly re-waterproofed [rain gear](/en/products/clothing/jackets/rain-jackets/c/1025?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) that you can easily slip over your layers
- Fleece [or](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/gloves-and-mittens/gloves/c/400?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking)[ waterproof gloves](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/gloves-and-mittens/gloves/c/400?f=CFIdealForSimple%3ACamping+and+hiking) to protect your hands

#### For your head
Apart from your hands, your head and face will be most exposed to the elements. Bring:

- A [toque](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/headwear/toques/c/1000) for cold days and nights
- Wrap-around [sunglasses](/en/products/travel-gear/sunglasses/c/1171) and [sunscreen](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/bath-and-sanitation-products/sunscreen/c/810) to protect yourself at altitude
- A [neck gaiter](/en/products/clothing/clothing-accessories/neck-gaiters-and-scarves/neck-gaiters/c/697) – wear it over your ears or around your neck for protection against the sun, over your mouth on particularly dusty days, or around your wrist to easily wipe away sweat

#### For your well-being
The basics you need to stay well-fed and well-hydrated as the altitude increases:

- A [water bladder](/en/products/packs-and-bags/hydration-packs-and-accessories/bladders-reservoirs-and-accessories/c/1229?b=100-1552-291-640) (plus one or two reusable [water bottles](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/water-bottles-and-water-treatment/water-bottles/c/1233?f=CFbottleMaterial%3AStainless+steel))
- [Electrolytes](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/drinks/energy-and-recovery-drinks/c/1176) or drink crystals
- [High-calorie snacks](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/kitchen-and-hydration/food-and-drink/snacks-and-energy-bars/c/281) to keep you going



## Related articles
- [How to choose hiking boots or shoes](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [All about clothing layers](/en/explore/clothing-layers)
- [How to choose and fit a backpack](/en/explore/choose-and-fit-a-backpack)



The Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek – how do you want to get to Machu Picchu?

A beginner’s guide to hiking to Machu Picchu

Ready for the long weekend? Maybe some deals will help

Free store pickup and returns. Find out more

Phone: (902) 421-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






Bike shop

Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:

### Local events
Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you see what’s happening in store, learn new outdoor skills from friendly staff instructors, and spark ideas for your next outdoor trip.

### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email hal_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



Community

If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Halifax for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC arrived in the Atlantic region in 2001 with our Halifax store. We moved into an existing building and used as many of the on-site structural elements as possible. While this store wasn’t built from the ground up, we still found ways to make small changes that add up to energy savings over time. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor and ceiling coverings.
- We’re replacing some of the conventional lighting with energy saving LED fixtures.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Green building features

For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Repairs and recycling

Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

Buy two of the big three – board/skis, bindings, boots – from MEC and we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of snowboard and ski equipment sold at MEC. If you’re shopping online, take advantage of this deal by calling your store to arrange an appointment to mount your bindings before you visit. Our ski techs get busy, and we don’t want to let you down.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement| $15/unit|



Ski services

Store Pickup

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.



**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Safety measures
- Number of people inside stores is limited and controlled at all entrances.  
- Social distancing guidelines are posted outside and inside stores.
- Lineup areas have two-meter markers on the floor.
- Staff are required to wear personal protective equipment, including masks.
- Hand sanitizer stations are set up for members and staff to use.  
- Staff practice and promote everyday preventive behaviours including frequent hand washing and social distancing.  
- Common areas including doors, staircases, cash desks, and bike fitting areas are regularly disinfected.  
- Cleaning processes are enhanced for the entire store. 
- Restrictions on the type of clothing and gear members are permitted to try on.  
- Plexiglass shields are installed at cashier stations. 

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Welcome

Phone: (613) 729-2700

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:



### Local events
Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you to see what’s happening in store, make connections with interesting people and get active outdoors. Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings.



### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Ottawa for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Ottawa opened in 2000. Before we started construction, there was a 40-year-old building on the site. We carefully dismantled it and then reused as much material as possible for our store. In the end, about 75% of the existing building (by weight) was incorporated into our store. To add to that accomplishment, this was the first retail building in Canada to comply with Canada’s C2000 Green Building Standard. Here are some of the green features:

- 80% of all the material travelled less than 500km to the site, which cuts down on transportation emissions. For example, rock excavated from the site was used in cladding.
- The floor is made from timber reclaimed from the St. Lawrence River and the previous building.
- During construction, we used panelized material and screwed connections, so the building can be taken apart, reused and recycled more easily when it’s reached the end of its life.
- One of the walls on the upper floor is infilled with bailed straw, a natural, renewable resource. (Check it out in the viewing portal.)
- Rock Wool insulation in other walls have 50% recycled content.
- The heating system uses a 94%-efficient natural gas hydronic boiler system to heat water.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- A skylight and roof monitor means we don’t need as much artificial lighting.
- To keep landscaping looking good, the irrigation system uses non-potable rainwater that gets gravity-fed to plants.
- Electric vehicle charging stations have reserved parking spots.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Recycling and repairs

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (604) 872-7858

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).





#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $


More than just a place to get gear – this store is a hub for your outdoor community. As a flagship, it’s home to a couple of cool extras, like a bouldering wall and a special space for events.

*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all community events for the moment. We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings.*

### Local events
Basecamp is our open-concept community space.  Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you

### Outdoor impact
This year, we’re  donating $1 million to Canadian outdoor organizations to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces and grow the communities of people getting active outside. Funding  supports groups across Canada with avalanche safety training, outdoor programs for youth, conserving wilderness and more. [Learn more about community partnerships](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)

### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email van_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Vancouver for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC was born in Vancouver in 1971. Over the decades, we’ve moved through a number of spaces, and our current flagship store in Olympic Village was designed with sustainability from the ground up.

Here are some of the green features:

- **Wood is good**. In fact, when it’s a mass timber superstructure like this flagship store, wood is great. The timber is a composite, which means it doesn’t use old-growth sources. It’s also a renewable building material, stores carbon, and can easily be reused at the end of its life.
- **Drip, drip, drip**: It rains 150+ days a year here, so we make the most of it. The roof captures rainwater that funnels into an underground cistern to provide up to 80% of the water used for flushing toilets.
- **Less is more**: 30% less s’mores around the campfire? Not so good. 30% less energy used by a building? Brilliant. This space is designed to use almost one-third less energy than the standards set out by the national energy code for buildings.
- **A renewable day in the neighbourhood**: We’re connected to an innovative energy system that recovers heat from untreated urban wastewater (a sanitized way of saying sewage). It’s renewable and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
- **Behind the scenes**: Some of the biggest energy savings come from things you can’t see: heating and cooling systems. The building envelope has more insulation than most and the HVAC units are high-efficiency.
- **Carbon neutral**: Like all MEC buildings, this space is operationally carbon neutral. We buy renewable energy certificates (wind and low-impact hydro) to match the electricity we use in this location.
- **Safe for salmon**: It’s official: this building is certified as Salmon-Safe, thanks to its progressive water management practices. It’s only the second Salmon-Safe urban site in BC – [MEC Head Office](/en/explore/head-office) was the first.

MEC aims to minimize environmental impacts and make our buildings healthy, inviting spaces. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Household batteries (no broken or corroded ones please)
- Bicycle tires and tubes
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Canada Day

Labour Day

Thanksgiving

Remembrance Day

Christmas Day

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.


Phone: (250) 448-7637

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Kelowna for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Located in the heart of the city, MEC Kelowna is a prime location for Okanagan residents and visitors. The store opened in 2016 after doing extensive renovations to an existing building, which included updates to make the space more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- Significant updates to the roof insulation, since that’s a major spot to cut down on heat loss (just like people, buildings can lose a lot of heat through their highest point).
- Rooftop solar system pre-heats the hot water for the building to cut down on energy required.
- Upgraded to a high-efficiency HVAC to reduce energy use, and a heat recovery ventilator reduces the amount of energy required to heat the building.
- Furniture is certified by Level, a third-party sustainability certification program that looks at environmental and social impacts.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor coverings.
- To reduce energy consumption, we use predominately high-efficiency LED lighting controlled by auto dimmers and occupancy sensors in some areas, and on automated schedules elsewhere.
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations, and doesn’t need irrigation except for in drought conditions.
- Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, urinals and shower heads reduce overall water consumption.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Alpine| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (514) 788-5878

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email mon_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly. *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Montreal for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Montreal opened in 2003, and was our first store in Quebec. It was also the first retail building in Quebec to meet the national C2000 Green Building Standard, and the amount of energy it consumes is nearly 70% less than was required by the Model National Energy Code at the time of construction. Here are some of the green features:

- The wood deck inside the curved roof was salvaged from the Seagram’s distillery in Ville Lasalle. Salvaged wood is also used in the entrance canopy and railings.
- To reduce material waste, the concrete slabs contain 27% blast furnace slag (a by-product of steel manufacturing).
- 50% of the materials used in the building are made of recycled content, by weight.
- Walls are insulated with cellulose fibre from recycled newsprint to cut down on energy consumption (they provide about twice as much thermal insulation as conventional retail buildings from the same era).
- Captured precipitation (stormwater run-off) from the roof is stored in a 45,000L underground cistern, and is used for landscaping and toilet water – this cuts our potable water use in half.
- To keep energy usage down, the concrete floor acts as a thermal reservoir that’s warmed or cooled by fluid pumped through embedded piping. Twelve geothermal wells pump extracted heat in winter and disperse heat in summer.
- There’s mostly natural ventilation with fresh air coming in through underground tunnels. In summer, warm air rises and escapes through roof vents and motorized window openings.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- Lots of daylight reduces the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have shut off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Easter Monday

Phone: Call(905) 333-8559

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email bur_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Burlington for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Burlington opened in 2008, and was designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. Compared to conventional retail buildings from the same period, it was made to be 70% more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- A photovoltaic system generates energy that’s fed into the power grid.
- The structure and envelope are designed to be disassembled and repurposed when the building reaches the end of its useful life.
- There are separate systems for heating, cooling and ventilation to maximize energy efficiency. For heating, there are high-efficiency gas boilers with radiant in-floor heating. For cooling, there’s an ice storage system that uses off-electricity. And for ventilation, there’s a fan-assisted displacement system with heat recovery.
- Many high clerestory windows at roofline reduce the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have turn down or off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).
- The combo of low-flow fixtures and grey water usage cuts potable water requirements by half.
- Captured precipitation (stormwater) provides water for all non-potable uses, like toilets and garden watering. Stormwater gets retained and infiltrated on site and won’t discharge water to municipal storm drains (except under extraordinary circumstances, like an enormous storm).
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance)

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Empty CO2 cartridges used for bike tires and avalanche safety.
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement – per rivet| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement – per strap| $15/unit|



Phone: 450.688.2712

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email lav_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email lav_aa@mec.ca at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits up to 35
- Equipment: wall-mounted TV with HDMI, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Laval for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with extensive use of wood on both the inside and outside of the building. Green building features will include a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Laval will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The Laval store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Laval.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

When you buy 2 or more of the big 3 items (skis, boots or bindings), we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of ski equipment sold at MEC, and proof of purchase is required. If you’re shopping online, you can take advantage of this deal by placing your order via phone at 1.888.847.0770 or 604.876.6221.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (416) 340-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $20 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Toronto for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|



| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Friday

Sunday

Thursday

Christmas Eve

Boxing Day

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

New Years Eve

New Years Day

**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Phone: 519.896.4972

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike Fitting services are temporarily paused.

## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits 15–20, large windows, natural light
- Equipment: Wall-mounted TV with HDMI, projector with HDMI input, mobile projector display, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



MEC Kitchener is a new purpose-built store that has been constructed to our specifications. The store will join the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Kitchener will be no different. Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store will be operationally carbon neutral.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Green building features will include:

- A high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system
- A high R-value thermal barrier, allowing for superior insulation and energy savings.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow fixtures throughout the store.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Kitchener. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



(418) 522.8884

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Welcome back! MEC in Quebec is open with limits to the number of people inside, plus reduced hours and services. We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

Note, we are not yet accepting returns in person. For the safety of MEC staff, we are accepting returns by mail only.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Québec City for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC’s new Quebec City store will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The new Quebec City store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC’s Quebec City store.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires and tubes – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|
| Base cleaning| $10|
| Base binder application| $10|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: 519.668.6657

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC London for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we have taken over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The completely refurbished building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Our new architectural design is featured in the building and improvements include a new roof with R40 thermal protection and a high-performance heating, cooling and ventilation system.

As part of MEC’s extensive green building program, the store operates on renewable energy.



Phone: (416) 221-0030

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Bike services

Every purchase at MEC supports your community. From helping people get to Rouge National Urban Park, to leading nature walks and teaching families how to plan their first camping trip, these local organizations and programs make getting outside just a little bit easier. MEC works with many groups in the North York community, including:



Never camped before? Don’t know where to start, or just want a refresher before your next trip? With support from MEC, [Parks Canada’s Learn to Camp program](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc) introduces you and your family to the basics of camping in Canada’s beautiful natural settings. Through overnight experiences and daytime workshops, you’ll learn camping skills like how to set up a tent, plan a camping menu and cook outdoors.



MEC and the Canadian Wilderness Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) are working together to create community support for conservation in Rouge National Urban Park and around the GTA. As a chapter of CPAWS, [Wildlands League](https://wildlandsleague.org/)’s mission is to protect the natural world that supports us with a connected network of wild lands and protected natural areas, and to promote recreation and resource use in ways that are sustainable for nature, communities and the economy.



MEC partners with [Parkbus](https://parkbus.ca/index) to help thousands of Canadians visit national and provincial parks from major cities across Canada – including a free shuttle from Toronto to Rouge National Urban Park. From day trips and family camping weekends to wilderness expeditions, Parkbus offers accessible transportation options to help city dwellers connect with nature.



[Healing in Nature: Bereavement Network](http://bereavementnetwork.ca/) (HNBN) is a non-for-profit project that provides grief support for youth and young adults through nature walks. They host walking groups on local trails for youth and young adults who are grieving, including newcomers to the community and refugees.



### Grants and donations
Our grant program has given tens of millions of dollars to conservation and the outdoor community in Canada – everything from product donations and advocacy projects to activity funding and land acquisitions. Find out if your community project is eligible and learn [how to apply for support](/en/explore/apply-grant-support).



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC North York for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Events

MEC North York is part of the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings. All MEC facilities are designed to meet these performance standards as part of our internal green building program.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Like all MEC buildings, MEC North York is operationally carbon neutral. The store is designed to be almost 50% more energy efficient than a comparable commercial building, based on Model National Energy Code for Buildings [MNECB] 1997.

Green building features includes a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system, as well as extensive LED lighting. In addition:

- The high-performance building envelope includes structural insulated panels (SIPs), which allow for superior insulation and energy savings.
- The HVAC system features a heat recovery ventilator with underfloor air distribution, and energy-efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting is installed in 80% of the retail areas.

MEC North York is spread over two floors, with a feature stairwell connecting the two levels. The space is marked by a saw-tooth roof lined with clerestory windows that flood the retail floor with natural light.

MEC North York meets the Tier 1 level of the Toronto Green Standard (TGS).

We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in all our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (403) 269-2420

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $120
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $160
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $240
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email cal_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly. *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Calgary for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

When we build a store, we try to recycle or reuse buildings and/or building materials wherever possible. There were fewer opportunities to do this at our Calgary site than at our other stores, but we’ve found ways to improve where we can. Here are some of the green features:****

- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor and ceiling coverings.
- To let in as much natural light as possible, we have energy-efficient double-paned windows.
- Since there’s not a lot of natural light in this building, we use energy efficient fluorescent tubes for base lighting and have replaced some of the accent lighting with energy saving LED fixtures.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Victoria Day

Phone: 705.792.4675

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email bar_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Barrie for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Located on the way to northern Ontario’s outdoor playgrounds, MEC Barrie opened in 2010. Compared to a conventional retail building about the same size, it was made to be 70% more efficient than those built during the same period. Here are some of the green features:

- A high-efficiency building envelope reduces the amount of energy needed, and has significantly more thermal insulation than conventional buildings.
- The wood, concrete and steel structure is designed to be disassembled and repurposed when the building reaches the end of its useful life.
- To cut down on the amount of energy required for heating and cooling, a concrete slab floor acts as a thermal reservoir which is warmed or cooled by a geo-exchange system that pumps fluid through embedded piping.
- The sawtooth-shaped roof is oriented so the less-intense northern light can help naturally light the store. The more-intense southern light hits the long side of each “tooth” and gets captured by a photovoltaic array.
- Many high clerestory windows at roofline reduce the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have turn down or off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).
- A solar thermal collector on the roof preheats hot water used in the kitchen and bathrooms. The residual heat from this grey water is partially captured and used to preheat other potable water.
- The combo of low-flow fixtures and grey water usage cuts potable water requirements by half.
- Captured precipitation (stormwater) provides water for all non-potable uses, such as toilets. Stormwater gets retained and infiltrated on site and won’t discharge water to municipal storm drains (except under extraordinary circumstances, like an enormous storm).
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations, and doesn’t need irrigation except for in drought conditions.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (204) 943-4202

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.



### Free display space
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment. We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.*



Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email win_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



### Parking
You can park for free for 1 hour with a $10 minimum purchase at MEC at two locations:

- Indigo Lot, [329 Hargrave Street ](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/Indigo/@49.8947446,-97.1463099,17.18z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x52ea715901e7f247:0x6dac33c6723994fe!2s329+Hargrave+St,+Winnipeg,+MB+R3B+2C3!3b1!8m2!3d49.894627!4d-97.145302!3m4!1s0x52ea7158e285aa9d:0xa9d729f4ba97e0f7!8m2!3d49.894627!4d-97.145302)
- Impark lot, [125 330 Smith Street](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/330+Smith+St+%23125,+Winnipeg,+MB+R3B+2H1/@49.8948779,-97.1449574,17.18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x52ea71596edf24cb:0xc27fb7c2e7abff06!8m2!3d49.8948779!4d-97.1430291)



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Winnipeg for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Blog