Travel and places

Stories

Skills and tips

Gear

Community news

Activities

Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

Patagonia had been on my bucket list for quite some time, so a friend and I travelled far south to this famously rugged region shared by Chile and Argentina. The challenging trek we did was well worthwhile. Even as seasoned hikers, it was our first time hiking past icebergs, drinking from glacier streams and watching condors soar above our heads.

Our trip took a lot of preparation, but we came back with even more advice for other travellers going to the region. If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia, be sure to keep these tips in mind.

### Where and when to go


Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Patagonia. Its moderate trails with limited elevation gain make it ideal for hikers of all skill levels looking for multi-day routes. It’s quite possible to meet other like-minded adventurers on these trails too.

Patagonian summers stretch from November to March, which makes this an ideal time to visit. January, the peak of Patagonia’s summer, sees on average 16 hours of sunlight per day and temps up to 20°C.

### Choosing a circuit
Choosing your circuit in Patagonia involves a few factors. You should take into account how long you’re going and how much gear you’ll be bringing. I can personally recommend the full “O” circuit or shorter “W” circuit in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, two circuits named for their shapes on a map.

The O circuit takes 6 to 10 days and covers around 110km. This trail is nearly twice as long as the W route, and sees only a fraction of the amount of hikers, so you can enjoy its other-worldly landscapes in near solitude.

For beginners or travellers with limited time, the W route is the best option; it takes four to five days and covers 60+km. This route passes more directly through the stunning Cordillera del Paine mountain range.

Regardless of the route you choose, the journey will likely involve some highs and lows. The rocky ridge trail to the Grey Glacier was difficult and left us with inevitable blisters, but the sight of the colossal glacier and the photo ops made us momentarily forget our aching feet and sore muscles.



### Where to stay
Once you’ve chosen your route, be sure to book your campsites in advance, which you can easily do online. If you don’t feel comfortable camping the entire time, you can always make reservations at the hotels (refugios). Either way, you’ll get to experience an amazing multi-day hike while taking in Torres des Paine’s glacial lakes, rivers and granite peaks.

### What to bring
You’ll need to decide whether you’re bringing your own gear, renting or doing a combo of both. If you don’t own everything, you can rent gear before you leave or when you arrive in the gateway towns of Puerto Natales (Chile) and El Chaltén (Argentina).

We found that sleeping bags, mats, down jackets and cooking supplies were all available to rent in town. You can also rent tents but keep in mind that they’ve been used by numerous campers and may not withstand heavy rainfall. To play it safe, you should consider bringing your own [lightweight option](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/tents-and-shelters/tents/backpacking-tents).

You don’t need a reservation for rentals, but remember that many stores will likely be closed on Sundays. We made the mistake of arriving late to the rental shops and the majority had run out of gear. We ended up wasting a bit of time trying to find what we needed in El Chaltén. (Lesson learned!)

Packing for a trek like ours involved a bit of strategizing so that we could always reach our essentials. My advice for organizing your gear:

- Pack your rain cover, waterproof layers, energy bars, first aid kit, moleskin and other emergency items somewhere easily accessible in your pack.
- Put everything in plastic bags to provide an extra layer of protection, as the weather can change rapidly from sun to rain to snow within the same day.
- Your vulnerable items, such as cameras or notebooks, should go inside a more [reliable dry bag](/en/products/watersports/canoeing/dry-bags) (which you can also use to hang your food up at night).
- … and don’t leave any food in your pockets or tent unless you want late-night rodents to chew holes through your gear and steal your snacks.

### Patagonia packing checklist:
Check out this [backpacking checklist](/en/explore/backpacking-checklist) and make sure to include some Patagonia-specific items:

- A [quality backpack](/en/products/packs-and-bags/backpacking-packs) and [rain cover](/en/products/packs-and-bags/pack-accessories/rain-covers-and-pack-liners?facets.Ideal%20for=backpacking). Caution: your rain cover may turn into an unexpected kite or parachute due to the powerful Patagonian winds.
- Waterproof-breathable outer layers and a compact insulated layer (the [Uplink jacket](/en/products/run-and-fitness/clothing/running-and-fitness-jackets?filters%5Bcustom_fields.features%5D%5B0%5D=stuffs%20in%20own%20pocket&brand=MEC) is great for Patagonian summer evenings and sunrise hikes). If you visit closer to March, you may want a [warm down jacket](/en/products/clothing/jackets/insulated-jackets/down-insulated-jackets) as nights get cooler.
- Well-fitting [hiking boots](/en/products/footwear/boots/hiking-boots) and [good hiking socks](/en/products/footwear/socks/hiking-socks). Talk to MEC staff about boot fitting and make sure your boots are broken in.
- Comfy shoes for the campsite.
- [Moleskin](/en/product/5029-766/moleskin-pre-cut-blister-dressings) and [blister care](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/health-and-safety/first-aid-kits-and-supplies). (I treated a blister with pre-cut blister bandages the second I felt it forming – they were a huge help.)
- Sturdy [hiking poles](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/trekking-poles-and-accessories/trekking-poles?facets.Ideal%20for=backpacking) for steep switchbacks and rocky sections – your knees will thank you.
- Chilean and Argentinian cash; it isn’t uncommon for Argentinian ATMs to run out of cash, especially in smaller towns.
- A camera to document the endless natural landscape, and a book for downtime.
- A positive attitude ready on the famously strong winds, unpredictable weather and any travel mishaps.

During our 5-day trek, we hit such heavy rainfalls that Torres del Paine had to temporarily close off certain trails, which rarely happens. Luckily we came prepared with waterproof gear and warm clothing. In the end, we were fortunate to have our trail reopen in time for our early morning sunrise hike to see the jaw-dropping Torres on our very last day. The sun even came out, making those rainy days we had to endure worth the final sense of accomplishment.



## Related articles
- [The time to travel is always now](/en/article/the-time-to-travel-is-always-now), by adventurer and author Bruce Kirkby
- [How to choose hiking boots](/en/explore/how-to-choose-hiking-boots-or-shoes)
- [How to pack a backpack](/en/explore/how-to-pack-a-backpack)

*Top photo: Shutterstock / Olga Danylenko*



Planning a hiking trip in Patagonia? Read these helpful tips for advice on how to make multi-day hike Torres del Paine National Park a success.

A first-timer’s guide to trekking in Patagonia

*MEC Ambassador [Louis Rousseau](https://vimeo.com/241918025) shares the story of an expedition in April and May 2017 with climbing partners Adam Bielecki (Poland), Rick Allen (Scotland) and Felix Berg (Germany). Written by Rick and Louis, with collaboration from Adam and Felix.*

## Video: Annapurna One


Annapurna One - Movie

## The story behind our attempt
Everything started in spring 2017. We’d planned to open a new route in alpine style (no fixed ropes, no supplemental oxygen, self-supported) on the north face of Cho Oyu in the Himalayan mountain range – the sixth-highest summit in the world.



Among the eight-thousanders (mountains above 8000m), Cho Oyu is generally considered the easiest to climb – if you go the normal route. But scaling the north or south face is a different story. The north face is steeper than Everest’s north face (45°) and about even with K2’s or Dhaulagiri’s north faces (+50°). In 1988, a [Slovenian team climbed the north face of Cho Oyu](http://publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/12199835202/Asia-Tibet-Cho-Oyu-New-Route) for the first time.

Since then, there have been only two other successes on the north side. With some research and help from members of the 1988 expedition, Louis put together a plan to establish a new line on the north face in the middle of the 4km-wide wall that’s about 2000m high, and invited Adam, Rick and Felix to join him.



## Rough start for the dream team
Before we started the expedition, a perfect storm of professional, personal and bureaucratic obligations put an end to our Cho Oyu plans. Our original expedition plan to the far end of the world ended before it even kicked off, but we wouldn’t let this setback stop us.

Since we were already in Katmandu, we sat in the hotel garden with a laptop and looked for a new line that would inspire us. What about Annapurna? According to the accident stats, it’s the most dangerous 8000m peak. But what about the northwestern flank? It was steep with mixed ice, snow and rock, but relatively safe.

So we made a new plan: the great Annapurna, 8000m, climbed for the first time in 1950. It inspired generations of climbers. We were on our way, smiling and highly motivated as the Cho Oyu dream slowly faded away.



Annapurna was our new goal, but we needed another mountain to acclimatize if we wanted to summit in true alpine style. We scanned the map to find a 7000m peak close to our main objective, something with a gentler slope where we could get in time with our ice axes and crampons, and also multiply our precious red blood cells to prepare for altitude. Tilicho Peak, at 7134m, had a ridge at 6200m followed by a long safe climb to the summit. This was going to be our prep for Annupurna.

## Getting to know Tilicho
We were relieved to leave Katmandu for the mountains with our new plan. It took 10 hours on a bumpy bus ride to reach Besishahar. At that time of the year, the road is passable by jeep past Manang (but it made the bumps from the day before pale in insignificance).



On April 18, we trekked to Tilicho Lake (the locals call it the highest lake in the world), which was completely ice covered. From there, we had a great view of Tilicho Peak, and admitted it was quite impressive, dominating the skyline northwest.

The next day, we left the comfort of the lodge and set out to reach the far end of the lake to establish our true basecamp for the next 10 to 12 days. But we’d underestimated how hard it was to trek in Nepal: it took a lot of effort to cross the 5340m Tilicho Pass in worsening weather with our heavy packs. After an 8-hour hike, we reached a fine spot close to the foot of our objective. We had huge respect for our porters who’d crossed the pass with heavier loads.



We spent April 20 resting and organizing basecamp, and the next day, we finally headed out to climb. The steep scree and snow slopes led to the first broken, rocky pillar, which we climbed quickly without touching the old, faded and unreliable fixed rope (indicating that this line had been followed by previous teams). We reached the ridge that was our goal for the day, and then set about finding a spot to establish camp. Climbing down about 80m on the other side of the ridge, we found a comfortable and safe site on top of a line of seracs (ice cliffs).



When we reached the windy crest, we quickly realized this was an inhospitable place to set up our second camp. Luckily, Adam found a canyon created by an old crevasse in the seracs. It seemed we couldn’t have asked for a better end to a good day, but at night, the wind shifted and our crevasse became a wind tunnel. We battled incoming snow in our prototype high-altitude tents, and our bodies suffered from the first night at 6150m. After sleepless hours and having accomplished our goal of acclimatization, we decided to descend.

Climbing down such steep terrain isn’t easy, and the safest option was a series of long rappels. We made good use of the pitons abandoned by previous expeditions that Louis had thoughtfully collected during the climb. Adam navigated the complex terrain and efficiently set up fresh anchors and we progressed quickly. We reached basecamp safe but tired, just in time for a late lunch. Sleep came easily. The next few days, we spent time in our newly installed mess tent that doubled as a perfect place to play chess.



## too optimistic
On April 27, we headed out again up Tilicho Peak to continue our acclimatization. About 9 hours later, we reached our wind-tunnel crevasse; most of us had a bad night and we postponed pushing further until the next day. We woke up at 2am, but the wind was even stronger and wasn’t relenting. Finally, at 6am, we reluctantly decided to begin the descent to basecamp, and were happy to reach it a few hours later.



For the next few days, heavy snow fell repeatedly and left about a metre of snow on the ground at basecamp. We spent the time resting and digging out our tents. At this point, we had to admit that our plan for a quick acclimatization on Tilicho Peak was proving to be too optimistic. Louis also had less time to complete the expedition than the rest of the team, and on May 3, he had to make the difficult decision to return home to Canada.

## The team continues on
After Louis left, the weather allowed the remaining team members to head straight on upwards, moving together over soft, deep snow patches and hard neve, over crevasses, through rock bands and around seracs to reach the summit of Tilicho. Satisfied with this fine, 7134m peak, the three of us – Adam, Rick and Felix – snapped some photos and saw our next destination: the northwest face of Annapurna.



We were sharing the open slopes above the north Annapurna glacier with small Italian, Spanish and Chilean teams who were all on the mountain, pushing for the summit via the 1950 French route. This period of low wind enabled the established teams to complete their ascents while the new arrivals could only look at the longer term forecast of strong summit winds (90kph) in frustration. When the successful pairs descended, their tales of avalanche risk and serac collapse confirmed the dangers associated with the classic route, and re-affirmed our team’s choice of Tilicho Peak for acclimatization.

The Annapurna line that we’d chosen beckoned: it was extremely challenging yet feasible. Acclimatized and ready to go, we hoped that mother nature would be kind to us and that the violent winds would die down before monsoon season began.



## 3 days, 2 sleepless nights
The team was waiting for a 3-day weather-window of low wind at 8000m, combined with little to no precipitation, to tackle the climb. As time passed, we realized this wasn’t going to happen. So we lowered our expectations and took advantage of a single day of low wind followed by a day of high snowfall. We set out on May 17 for a pure alpine-style attempt on the northwest face of Annapurna.

Our chosen route took us to the edge of the glacial lakes at the foot of the north Annapurna glacier (200m below our base camp at 4100m). From there, we slowly climbed over boulder-strewn terrain toward the moraines below our face. The glacier was extremely fractured and we toiled over alternating rocky ridges and abruptly icy slopes separating deep fissures of crevasses before we reached a snowy glacier in late afternoon. We pitched our tent on a flat spot at about 5000m and enjoyed the last few rays of the evening sun.



The next morning, after an hour’s walk, we arrived at the base of a huge triangular buttress and an icy couloir that ran up its right side. We crossed the bergschrund (major crevasse) which separated from the glacier face and began to climb.

The couloir started as a snow slope, but increasingly hard icy streaks predominated at an average of 55°. It was long – longer than we’d estimated – and afternoon snow showers didn’t help the situation.

There was no break in the angle to provide any relief for a bivouac site, so we cut a ledge in the ice at the foot of a rock wall where we could secure the rope. Torrents of spindrift poured intermittently down the wall. We were alert to the possibility that a full avalanche may develop.



At sunset, the snow relented and we had a glimpse of the sun and eastern flanks of Dhaulagiri. Finally, we had enough of a ledge for half a tent and we sat in a row, belayed inside our tent fabric with a single pole keeping it off our faces and our legs hanging free. We cooked a simple meal, brewed many hot drinks and lapsed into fitful rest. Through a tiny vent, we watched a clear, starlit night over the central Nepal Himalayas.

Getting moving in the morning was slow. We melted more snow for hot drinks, carefully unwound the safety lines that attached everything to the wall, and packed up. The icy slope angled right from the top of the couloir and we roped up; one climber led and placed ice screws as the other two followed simultaneously.

A mostly sleepless night, the efforts of the 2 previous days, and the brittle, thin ice over the rock made progress slower than before. Snow started falling again and at the end of the day we were in a place where there was nowhere to set up our tent.



Descending spindrift clouds added urgency to our search for a place to bivouac. An hour before dark, we tried to make something of a rock ledge at 6500m. It sloped alarmingly and gathered so much snow that we ended up hanging in our harnesses from our belay points, shrouded in tent fabric. There was no way to take off our boots to slip on dry socks or change into warmer clothes.

It took a lot of effort, but Felix did manage to melt some snow so everyone could have a little bit to drink. The previous night’s bivouac seemed like luxury compared to this one. We spent most of the night shivering and constantly disturbed each other as we shifted positions to mix up the pressure points from our harnesses.

When one careless movement created a rip in the tent (not designed to be hung like this) we suddenly had a new view of the world… through the hole in floor to the glacier far below. If that wasn’t enough, we lost a sleeping mat to the abyss overnight, and in the morning a sleeping bag slipped through the cellar door and disappeared as well.



In the morning, we seriously evaluated the situation and considered whether we should go on or turn back. On the one hand, we’d climbed half of the northwest face, had confidence we could handle technical difficulties, and had ample food and gas. On the other hand, the incessant afternoon snowfall was alarming, our progress had slowed and after 2 sleepless nights, we weren’t going to get any faster.

From here onwards, retreat would become much more serious and breaking through to the summit ridge would require full commitment. When you added on the loss of one member’s sleeping bag, it all tilted the decision firmly in favour of descent.



Nine hours, 20 rappels on Abalakov ice belays and several pitches of down-climbing later, we were back on the glacier, relieved and glad to pitch our wounded tent on flat snow. We cooked up our first meal in 2 days, and listened to the sound of powder snow avalanches pouring down the face, which confirmed our decision to descend. Another full day took us back down the glacier and its moraines to the welcoming tents of basecamp.

As we toiled back up from the glacial lakes, evening sleet continued to fall and it became clear that the weather window we’d needed to climb the northwest face of Annapurna never materialized.

*The decision-making on this kind of enterprise is crucial and most of us would say we would only contemplate seeking a route with someone we have climbed with extensively. Adam, Felix, Rick and Louis had never climbed together before but would gladly do so again. That is one measure of success.*

## Essentials Louis used on this expedition:


- [MEC Synergy Jacket](/en/product/6011-164/synergy-gore-tex-jacket)
- MEC Synergy Pants
- [MEC Talon -10 Down Sleeping Bag](/en/product/6005-007/talon--10c-down-sleeping-bag)
- MEC Light Obsession Hoodie (“It’s the best,” according to Louis.)
- [MEC Merino T1 Short Sleeve Crew](/en/product/6019-341/t1-merino-baselayer-short-sleeve-top)
- MEC Alpinelite 42 Backpack
- [MEC Reactor Sleeping Pad](en/product/6020-219/reactor-4-sleeping-pad-regular)



*Top photo:**Last vertical section before Tilicho Peak. Photo: Felix Berg*

## Related articles
- [Record-setting climb: Naomi Prohaska’s Mount Logan Sumit](/en/article/record-setting-climb-naomi-prohaskas-mount-logan-summit)
- [Who bolted that awesome line?](/en/article/escalade-le-travail-dans-lombre-des-ouvreurs-equipeurs)
- [About climbing ropes](/en/explore/about-climbing-ropes)



When it comes to 8000m mountains, things don’t always go as planned. Watch the video and read the story of MEC Ambassador Louis Rousseau’s team expedition.

Attempt on the northwest face of Annapurna | MEC Blog

Annapurna attempt: the northwest face

Locals know that there’s no shortage of outdoor havens in the Greater Edmonton area. From river ecosystems and accidental beaches to an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, Edmontonians have plenty of opportunities to get outside. I’ve raved about some of Edmonton’s best [day hikes before](/en/article/5-day-hiking-trips-near-edmonton), but what if you don’t have a car? Thankfully, the city’s transit system and Parkbus has you covered, so even without your own set of wheels, the great outdoors are still within reach.

## 1. Elk Island National Park
Located to the east of the Edmonton City Centre, [Elk Island National Park](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/elkisland/activ/experiences/a) is one spot you don’t want to miss. Grab your friends and spend the day exploring (and bison searching) on the park’s numerous trails, ranging from short and easy boardwalk loops to longer and more challenging tracks. Bring a picnic lunch to hang out on the beach after your hike, or rent a paddleboard on-site to float on the lake.

**How to get there**: Elk Island National Park is now accessible via [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/elkisland), an initiative supported by MEC that helps transport Canadians to their next outdoor adventure. And for 2018, it’s a free day trip shuttle! Be sure to make your [reservation online](https://www.parkbus.ca/elkisland) to guarantee a spot.

**Good to know**: The shuttle is free, but if you’re over 18 there’s a $7.80 national park entrance fee.

> “When we pick up people from the park, it’s great to see everybody’s smiling faces and hear all the stories from passengers on board as we make our way back to the city.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 2. Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park
A giant aquatic ecosystem right on the western edge of the Edmonton and St. Albert city limits? You got it! Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park is home to some of the best bird watching in the area, as well as an 8km lake and an interpretive boardwalk and wildlife viewing area. The best part is that it’s totally accessible via the Enjoy Centre stop on the St. Albert Botanical Loop.

**How to get there**: The [St. Albert Botanical Loop](https://stalbertbotanicpark.com/botanical-loop/) is a hop-on, hop-off free transit loop touring some of the best botanical themed locations in the area, and runs on Saturdays in summer. There are plenty of buses from Edmonton to the St. Albert Centre Transit Exchange where you can join the loop (check out the [ETS Trip Planner](https://www.edmonton.ca/edmonton-transit-system-ets.aspx) to plan out your day).

**Good to know**: The bus also stops at the St. Albert Farmers Market and the Enjoy Centre, two great places to spend some time after a morning of nature. More info is available on the [Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park site](https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/central/lois-hole-centennial-pp/).

## 3. Red Willow Trail System
The City of St. Albert has some really well organized trails and parks of its own. [The Red Willow Trail System](https://stalbert.ca/rec/parks/trails/) boasts over 85km of recreational use trails that link all of the city’s neighbourhoods and parks, many of which run along the Sturgeon River. The trails are multi-use, so you could also bring along your running shoes or your bicycle to start exploring.

**How to get there**: The Edmonton Transit system runs regular buses to the St. Albert Centre Transit Exchange. Download ETS’s easy-to-use mobile app, [ETS Live to Go](https://www.edmonton.ca/programs_services/apps_mobile/app-ets-live-to-go.aspx), for quick trip planning.

**Good to know**: The Red Willow Trail System is open and maintained year-round so brave hikers can get some steps in even on a brisk winter day.

## 4. Kinnaird Park Highlands Hiking Trail
How could I leave out the stunning North Saskatchewan River Valley? Famous for its well trafficked multi-use trails, this network of parks and paths – extremely accessible with public transit – is just waiting for adventures to be had. The area features about 160km worth of trails in total; the [Kinnaird Park Highlands trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/kinnaird-park-highlands-hiking-trail), a 4.3km inner city loop, is a great place to start.

**How to get there**: Kinnaird Park is accessible via a simple one-bus ride from the [downtown Edmonton MEC store](/en/stores/edmonton). Take the #2 heading east on 104 Avenue for less than half an hour. The bus will drop you off at 79 Street and 112 Avenue, which is just a short walk from the entrance of the park.

Not owning a car is no reason to miss out on experiencing some of Edmonton’s natural attractions, and whether you’re a seasoned or novice hiker, there is something for everyone in this pocket of Alberta.

Have questions about how to get ready for a day hike? Stop by the [MEC Edmonton Downtown store](/en/stores/edmonton) or the [MEC South Edmonton Common Store](/en/stores/south-edmonton) to chat with helpful staff.

## Tips before you go
Stay safe and be prepared. Check out the weather before you leave, tell a friend where you’re going and when you plan to return, and bring first aid supplies and proper clothing. For more tips, check out [day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners) and [how to plan for overnight hikes](/en/explore/planning-for-overnight-hikes).



## Related articles
- [The 10 essentials for hiking](/en/explore/the-10-essentials-hiking-camping)
- [How to choose and fit a backpack](/en/explore/choose-and-fit-a-backpack)
- [Hidden gems: 5 campsites to check out from Edmonton](/en/article/hidden-gems-5-campsites-to-check-out-from-edmonton)



How to escape the city limits and get into nature, even without your own vehicle. Edmontonians have plenty of opportunities to get outside, from river ecosystems to wildlife hotspots.

Discover the best hiking spots in Edmonton to visit without a car

Where to go hiking in Edmonton if you don’t have a car

Waking up to the call of the loon, jumping into clear waters, falling asleep under starry skies. You shouldn’t have to be a city escape artist to get out of Toronto and into Ontario’s wild.

No car? No problem. With MEC’s partner [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/), you and your friends can explore and experience 9 of the most scenic spots the province has to offer. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!

> “We’ve had so many Parkbus passengers who started as strangers and then quickly became friends after a full day of hiking and spending time outside together. We suggest you say hello and connect with others on board.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 1. Algonquin Provincial Park
People travel from all over the world to experience Algonquin’s lakes, rivers and wildlife. If you have an adventure bucket list, this park is probably on it. But how will you get there? What about the canoe? When will you get back? Parkbus has 6 different stops along Highway 60 that connect you directly with campgrounds, lodging, canoe rentals and launch points. They’ll even pick you up from the park on Sunday – now that’s full service!

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Algonquin trips](https://www.parkbus.ca/algonquin)



> “There are so many lakes in Algonquin Park – it feels endless! It’s also bigger than Luxembourg, Bahrain and many other countries.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 2. Killarney Provincial Park
If you’ve ever tried to get to this stunning spot without a car (and with a canoe), you understand – it ain’t happening. Enter Parkbus, stage right. Known for turquoise waters and white quartzite cliffs, this park is one where you’ll want to pack your camera along with your backpack or dry bags. If you’re interested in exploring this provincial park, you can get from Toronto directly to the lake, outfitter, town or campground. An awesome weekend mini-adventure.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Killarney trips](https://www.parkbus.ca/killarney)



Media Not Found

## 3. Grundy Lake Provincial Park
Looking for a white sand beach weekend getaway? Book a Parkbus, not a plane! This relaxing destination is quieter than some of its better-known counterparts, but equally as brilliant. Experience the quintessential Canadian Shield by boat or by boots right from the Grundy Lake campground. Starry night skies await.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Grundy Lake trips](https://www.parkbus.ca/grundy)



## 4. Bruce Peninsula
Dramatic limestone cliffs, vast turquoise waters, ancient cedars and rare reptiles. What more could you ask for? In this national park, there are loads of options for hiking, exploring, camping, and lodging. Let Parkbus deliver you to this serene and scenic Ontario gem.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Bruce Peninsula trips](https://www.parkbus.ca/bruce)



> “People are always amazed at how clear and crisp the water is in Bruce National Park.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 5. Georgian Bay Islands
No planes, trains or automobiles in this trip itinerary, but you will need to board a ferry. Once Parkbus drops you off at Honey Harbour, you can take a shuttle to Beausoleil Island where you’ll find campsites, hiking, mountain biking trails (plus rentals) and beaches galore. 30,000 islands is a lot of islands, so you’ve got a full weekend of exploring ahead.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Georgian Bay Islands](https://www.parkbus.ca/gbi)

## 6. Rockwood Conservation Area
Sneak off on a day trip to nature just an hour away via Parkbus. What to look forward to: canoeing on the lake (rentals are on-site), cliffs and ruins for photo opps, and hiking trails to get your feet off the sidewalk and on the trail. Pack a picnic lunch along to chill out on the beach and under the clouds.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Rockwood daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/rockwood)

> “One thing people are always surprised about in Elora, Rockwood and Kelso is how close the natural world is to Toronto.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 7. Elora Gorge
Bring your bathing suit and water shoes when you head to Elora Gorge on a day trip. There’s tubing down the Grand River and swimming at the Elora Quarry, about a 20-minute walk from the Elora town Parkbus drop-off point. Prefer dry land? You can also stretch your legs on short walking trails and soak in “gorge” views.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Elora Gorge daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/elora)



## 8. Christie Lake and Hamilton waterfalls region
Waterfalls: worth the chase. On summer weekends, the region around Webster Falls, Tews Falls and Dundas Peak is a popular place to visit thanks to its awesome scenery. “The great thing about this destination,” say Alex and Boris, “Is that while you can visit very popular waterfalls at Spencer Gorge, you can also find solitude and explore trails and waters of Christie Lake, which is connected to Spencer Gorge by a free park shuttle.”

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Christie Lake daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/christielake)



You could spend all summer scoping out hiking and camping from your homebase of Toronto, and you don’t need your own car to make it happen. Wherever you head out, make sure you’re prepared:

## Tips before you go
- If you’re not sure where to begin, or hesitant to go on your own, look into [Parkbus ActiveDays programming](https://parkbus.ca/activedays) for group outings, where you spend the day exploring together (and meeting new people).
- If you’re new to hiking, check out a [hiking or camping workshop](https://events.mec.ca/find-an-event?activity%5B%5D=40&type%5B%5D=13&city=%22Toronto%22+%22North+York%22&store=%22Toronto%22+%22North+York%22) to learn the essentials.
- Stay safe and be prepared. Check out the weather before you leave, tell a friend where you’re going and when you plan to return, and bring first aid supplies and proper clothing. For more tips, check out [day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners) and [how to plan for overnight hikes](/en/explore/planning-for-overnight-hikes).
- Tip: For overnight destinations, print your ticket. Phone batteries can run out and you may want a printed copy handy.



## Related articles
- [Hidden gems: 6 awesome campsites in Ontario](/en/article/hidden-gems-6-awesome-ontario-campsites)
- [Your guide to canoe trips in Algonquin Park](/en/article/your-guide-to-canoe-trips-in-algonquin-park)
- [Camping checklist](/en/explore/camping-checklist)



No car? No problem. See where to get into nature from the city, no personal vehicle needed.

9 sweet spots to hike, canoe and camp from Toronto without a car | MEC Blog

8 sweet spots to hike, canoe and camp from Toronto without a car

The verdict’s in (and it’s a good one): you don’t need a car to experience some of BC’s best parks and trails. Thanks to MEC’s partners at [Parkbus](https://www.parkbus.ca/) – a service that connects Canadians with national and provincial parks – and transit options, getting out of Vancouver and into nature has never been easier, even if you’re car-free. Which means the only question left is: where to this weekend?

> “If it’s your first time using Parkbus, look through our site to figure out which destination is right for you. Are you an experienced hiker? Or maybe you’re just looking for an easy daytrip to relax and take a small break from city life?” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 1. Alice Lake Provincial Park
Located in the Squamish region just off the Sea-to-Sky Highway is this swimming, floating, camping and all-round good times park. In summer, Alice Lake Provincial Park is a popular spot for Vancouverites who want to enjoy nice weather – so why not head out for a daytrip with Parkbus? The Four Lakes Trail is a relaxing 6km path that loops around Edith Lake, Fawn Lake and Stump Lake, and will have you work up just enough of a sweat for the cool waters of Alice Lake to seem inviting.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Alice Lake daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/alicelake)



## 2. Bowen Island
If you want a break from the mainland, Bowen Island is a natural playground just a short bus and ferry ride away. Once you land at Snug Cove, you’ll find a couple of hiking trails within reach. Killarney Lake loop is nice for beginner hikers, as it’s a short walk from the ferry terminal and about 10km in total around the lake and back.

If you’re more experienced and want a challenge, the hiking trail up Mount Gardner is a full-day option. The view from the top offers a whole different perspective of Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast, West Vancouver and Burrard Inlet, all in one.

**How to get there**: Jump on the [257 Translink bus](https://nb.translink.ca/text/route/257/direction/WEST) from downtown Vancouver heading west to Horseshoe Bay. The [ferry to Snug Cove](https://www.bcferries.com/schedules/mainland/biva-current.php) costs $10.45 for foot passengers, and has a super short crossing time of only 20 minutes.



## 3. Shannon Falls and Stawamus Chief
Hiking the Chief is no walk in the park, but this ever-popular ascent offers incredible panorama views of the Squamish Valley, with just a few hours of uphill effort. If you’re looking for an easy scenic picnic spot, spend the afternoon at Shannon Falls. The base of the falls is just a short stroll from the parking lot.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Stawamus Chief/Shannon Falls daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/shannonchief)



> “One thing people are always surprised about by Shannon Falls and Stawamus Chief is that you can hike from one to the other along the connector trail – you can visit two parks in one day!” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 4. Cypress Provincial Park
Cypress Park: so close to the city, but unless you have a car, so far… until now. Hop aboard Parkbus for a daytrip to hiking trails, refreshing lakes and bigtime viewpoints. Bowen Lookout, St. Mark’s Summit, Cabin Lake and Eagle Bluffs are a few of the dayhike options. Be ready for a workout – there are steep sections – and make sure you’ve got your route planned and know the conditions, since backcountry access is close.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Cypress Park daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/cypress)



> “There are so many places from Vancouver worth exploring, but if we had to pick an easy and beautiful daytrip it would be Cypress Provincial Park. It’s near the city, and offers plenty of hiking opportunities and stunning scenic views.” – Alex and Boris, Parkbus co-founders
>
## 5. Garibaldi Provincial Park
This challenging 18km round-trip to Garibaldi Lake rewards hikers some crazy alpine views (you may have seen it pop up in your Instagram feed). If you’re in good physical shape, you can do the full hike in one long day, but this isn’t a wise choice for new hikers or anyone slowly building up fitness. It’s a long climb with many switchbacks until you reach the payoff: Black Tusk above, lake scenery ahead, and remote wilderness all around.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Garibaldi daytrips](https://www.parkbus.ca/garibaldi)… make sure you’re ready before you sign up, as it’s a tough hike and you don’t want to miss the bus for its return back to the city.



## 6. Joffre Lakes Provincial Park
Well-loved for the 3 turquoise lakes along the trail – Lower, Middle and Upper Joffre lakes – this hike is a great way to experience the rugged alpine area north of Whistler. The trail to Upper Joffre Lake is 10km return, so it’s possible to tackle all 3 lakes in a single day.

Joffre is by far one of the most popular trails in the area, which means it’s extra important to follow the [principles of Leave No Trace](/en/article/7-ways-to-camp-and-hike-responsibly), and pack out everything that you bring into the park. “We’re working with BC Parks to make sure Parkbus is a positive force and part of the solution. One bus takes off up to 50 vehicles off the road, and Parkbus passengers are educated about Leave No Trace principles as well as safety info onboard the bus to help ensure they leave minimal negative impact in the park,” Alex and Boris from Parkbus shared.

**How to get there**: [Parkbus Joffre Lakes daytrip](https://www.parkbus.ca/joffre)



With so many destinations to choose from, don’t let the lack of a car discourage you from going on an adventure to the local mountains. As with any hike, it’s important to be prepared:

## Tips before you go
- If you’re not sure where to begin, or hesitant to go on your own, look into [Parkbus ActiveDays programming](https://parkbus.ca/activedays) for group outings, where you spend the day exploring together (and meeting new people).
- Stay safe and be prepared. Check out the weather before you leave, tell a friend where you’re going and when you plan to return, and bring first aid supplies and proper clothing. For more tips, check out [day hiking for beginners](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners).



## Related articles
- [Hidden gems: 6 awesome BC campsites](/en/article/hidden-gems-6-awesome-campsites-in-bc)
- [How to choose and fit a backpack](/en/explore/choose-and-fit-a-backpack)
- [How to pack a backpack](/en/explore/how-to-pack-a-backpack)



Thanks to Parkbus and transit, getting out of Vancouver and into the mountains without a car has never been easier.

Escape the city to these Vancouver trails, no car required | MEC Blog

6 Vancouver hikes that you can hit up without a car

On paper, in the comfort of my living room, the idea seemed simple: move two wheels from point A to point B along the Arctic Circle.

From the Russell Glacier, a tongue of ice extending off the Greenland Icecap, I’d bike roughly 200km west to Sisimiut, the second-largest “city” in Greenland. I’d do my best to follow the creatively named Arctic Circle Route, scratched into the landscape by cloven caribou hooves and the Vibram soles of a few European hiking boots, but otherwise I’d be on my own among sparsely shrubbed tundra, scoured gneiss rock slabs and gigantic lakes.

I had little information about the route and had heard no accounts of it being attempted by bicycle. The challenge was set.



## Getting to the start
Sure, I could have flown into Greenland, attempted the trail, and left – but where’s the adventure in that? Instead, I worked my way there aboard a vessel more like an iceberg than a ship, earning my keep with One Ocean Expeditions by driving zodiacs, interpreting the desolate landscape of the Northwest Passage, and keeping adventurous visitors safe in the land of *Ursus maritimus*, the polar bear.



Ship life took some getting used to. Confined to a rigid schedule on a mere 113 metres of ship, without the freedom to pedal away my front door, I felt antsy. Surrounded by enthusiastic guests hungry for insight into all things Arctic, I had to be “on” all the time.

My lone reprieve was out on polar bear patrol. Four of us would head off in separate directions with rifles for self-defence, acting as a sort of bear bait while making sure no unseen bears were sleeping in gullies or foraging behind boulders, before we brought our passengers to shore. With tight living quarters aboard the ship, this solo time on the land made me long for more.



After three weeks, we arrived in Greenland and I said goodbye to my passengers and fellow staff. After being surrounded by people 24/7 with few solitary moments, I expected the emptiness of the barren gravel road to be a welcome reprieve.

But the shift was too drastic, too quick and too complete. Almost instantaneously, my excitement was replaced by severe loneliness. Already, I longed for a companion who could share the burden of the unknown.



## Alone in the barrens
Feeling under-confident, overwhelmed and nervous about the violent storm looming in the forecast, I took stock of my food and bought more fuel for my stove. Then, surrounded by swirling dust clouds, I anxiously took the first pedal strokes toward the Greenland Icecap. The trail ahead was cold and uninviting. Low shrubs scattered patches of dull colour across the barren landscape, which looked like it had been carved from stone by a sardonic wind.



But towards the end of my second day, whether through a change in my mental state or a trick of the evening light, the hills burst to life with autumn colours. The bright reds and oranges of dwarf birch, scotch heather and blueberry bushes engulfed me. Tufts of cotton floated from the yellow leaves of miniature willow trees like a warm, gentle snowfall.

With a very short growing season, the flora in this part of the world put their energy into roots and leaves; century-old trees look like baby shrubs compared to their southern counterparts. I rode like a giant through the canopy of this pint-sized old-growth forest, lapping in a fast descent to my campsite for the night.

> “I rode like a giant through the canopy of this pint-sized old-growth forest, lapping in a fast descent to my campsite for the night.”
>


## Battling the land
The Inuit have no longstanding history of long-distance running or trekking, as most land travel in the Arctic occurs in winter – for good reason, as I was harshly discovering.

I measured my riding progress in ratios. A good day would have a 60/40 ratio of riding to hiking, or if I was lucky, 70/30. But I enjoyed the changes in movement. Hiking gave my lower back a reprieve from my heavy pack, and bike descents were an instant mood enhancer – that is, when the trail wasn’t frozen into an icy snake.



Pushing the bike came with its own set of challenges. Although it was only knee-high, the hearty tundra brush fought with a determined vengeance. Stout, rigid branches grabbed at my pedals, spokes and derailleurs.

Bog wrestling was even worse. Staring into sphagnum for hours on end tested my already strained sanity levels. Every slight depression in the ground bred thick, ruffled mounds of moss that sponged up every ounce of water – sometimes stretching for multiple kilometres. Every footstep was a game of Russian Roulette: would it end in firm footing and a sigh of relief, or a disagreeable, soggy squish?



## The final night
I’d been watching the lenticular clouds form ominously earlier in the day. Sculpted by high winds into alien spaceships, they hovered over the highest peaks, forecasting a violent storm. Hastily, I made for the hut marked at the edge of my map.

When the gale hit, I was grateful for the shelter, no matter how humble. As each violent blast of wind screamed down from the mountains, I knew it would have torn my ultralight one-person tent to shreds. The steel cables attached to the hut creaked and groaned under the strain of 100+ km/h gusts, and it sounded like the tin stove pipe would be torn out of the plywood roof at any moment. It might as well have, as there was no paraffin for the heater.

> “The steel cables attached to the hut creaked and groaned under the strain of 100+ km/h gusts, and it sounded like the tin stove pipe would be torn out of the plywood roof at any moment.”
>
I cinched my sleeping bag up underneath my armpits and boiled my nearly tasteless teabag for the third time. There would be no going out today. Pinned down in this tiny refuge, I was down to half-rations – rations which were insufficient to begin with. Cold, hungry and bored, I stared out the small window at the steep cliffs hemming in the tight valley. Frozen streams criss-crossed their faces like icy spiderwebs. My journal provided only a little solace, so eventually, I slept.





## A new dawn
As I forced open the top of the hut’s Dutch door in the faint blue glow of early morning, a thick sheet of rime released from the wall and crashed down onto the wooden steps. The storm had laid down 10cm of fresh snow, and the wind had sculpted it into long streaks and deep drifts. After cooking my last packet of oatmeal, I put on every stitch of clothing I had and waterproofed my feet with used zip-lock bags.

The sky was fearsome. Black streaks rippled among the grey cottonball clouds in the high winds. The rain came down in sheets, blowing sideways from the sea, but I didn’t care. I cinched my hood down, exhilarated by the weather.

Sliding, slipping and skidding my way down from the final pass, I grinned at the unpredictability of it all. And as I plowed through another tire-high snow drift, the colourful buildings of Sisimiut slowly appeared.



*In September 2017, Ben Haggar completed a 200km solo bikepacking expedition along the Arctic Circle in Greenland. MEC was proud to support him with an expedition grant as well as an *InReach SE*, *[*MEC Spark 1-Person Tent*](/en/product/6000-984/spark-2.0-1-person-tent?colour=Neutral+Grey%2FDeep+Navy)*, *MEC Talon -3 Sleeping Bag*, *[*Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm Sleeping Pad*](/en/product/6024-070/neoair-xlite-nxt-sleeping-pad)*, and *Power Traveller Powermonkey Extreme Solar Charger*. Way to go, Ben!*

***All photos by Ben Haggar.***



## Related articles
- [How to plan an expedition](/en/article/how-to-plan-an-expedition)
- [Mountain biking in northern India](/en/article/mountain-biking-in-northern-india)
- [Dempster Highway: biking, bonding and sour toes](/en/article/dempster-highway-biking-bonding-and-sour-toes)



On paper, it looked simple enough to bike from point A to point B. Then the adventure began.

Bikepacking the Arctic Circle | MEC Blog

Bikepacking the Arctic Circle

Want to try trail running near Montreal and don’t own a car? Start by checking out these 7 trail running destinations you can get to by transit. Before you head out, grab a running friend and pick up a few [gear essentials](/en/explore/essential-gear-for-trail-running) for safety on the trails. Have fun exploring!

## 1. Mont-Royal Park
“There’s no denying that the top spot is this great green oasis that’s an integral part of Montreal!” says Mathieu B., a trail runner with many medals to his name. The routes to choose from are almost endless on the mountain. Here are two interesting trails that you may not know:

Located between the Mont-Royal and Camilien-Houde belvedere, the 1.2km [Sentier de l’Escarpement](https://www.google.ca/maps/dir/45.5039308,-73.5872882/45.5058225,-73.5857001/45.5086405,-73.5858865/45.5099262,-73.5890515/45.5100766,-73.5918518/@45.5084298,-73.5915241,16z/data=!4m2!4m1!3e2) gives you great views of Montreal. Thibault C., MEC staffer and trail runner, suggests that you grab a run buddy to try running this section after dark to enjoy the lights of Montreal (remember your [headlamp](/en/products/run-and-fitness/headlamps/c/1306)!).

Another one to try is the [old ski trail](https://www.google.ca/maps/place/Belv%C3%A9d%C3%A8re+Outremont/@45.5079047,-73.6097171,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x4cc919894645f9c1:0x23c3b177e7a79ad9!8m2!3d45.5079047!4d-73.6075284) that starts behind the Cepsum and winds up to the Belvedere Outremont. The hardiest runners know this hill well – it’s a good spot to train for races. When you’re done, the prize for your effort is the view from the belvedere.

- **Transport**: To get to the Sentier de l’Escarpement, take bus 11 from Mont-Royal metro station. To get to the old ski trail, take bus 51 or 119 from Édouard-Montpetit metro station.
- **Don’t miss**: If you happen to be on Serpentin Road near Peel Avenue, don’t miss [the art piece commemorating the 40th anniversary](https://artpublicmontreal.ca/oeuvre/give-peace-a-chance/) of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Bed-In in Montreal. It features Give Peace a Chance written in stone in 40 languages.



## 2. Îles-de-Boucherville Park
This national park made up of five little islands in the middle of the Saint-Lawrence River offers 21km of trails to explore in a quiet and varied environment. The terrain is the ideal place to log some serious kilometres while keeping cool thanks to the freshness provided by the nearby river. Because this is a national park, there’s an entry fee of $8.50 per adult.

- **Transport**: From [Promenade Bellerive](https://goo.gl/maps/gnXA76tThpr) you can hop on a river taxi; there is also the Bus des îles, a [free ferry](https://www.sepaq.com/pq/bou/information.dot) that runs on Saturdays, Sunday and holidays in summer between Terminus Longueuil and the park entrance (check the ferry schedule before you go).
- **Don’t miss**: In this relatively wild environment keep your eyes open for all sorts of animals including white-tailed deer.



## 3. Île-de-la-Visitation Nature Park
This lesser-known park is on the bank of Des Prairies River. You can run 9km on a trail that follows the water and winds through a grove. The coolness from shade of the trees and the breeze coming off the river makes it the perfect destination for hot summer days.

- **Transport**: Take bus 69 est from Henri-Bourassa metro station and stop at rue de Lille.
- **Don’t miss**: A number of beautiful lookouts, the hydroelectric dam falls, and the ruins of the site des moulin that date back to 1726.



## 4. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park
Open year-round, this park has great views of the Des Prairies River and the Des Deux-Montagnes lake. It’s a little further from downtown, but if you make the trip, you’ll feel like you’re in the wilderness and you can run dozens of kilometres without covering the same ground twice. The trails might be flat, but their surfaces vary: dense rock dust, rocks, roots, dirt, grass and even sand.

- **Transport**: Take bus 68 ouest on Gouin boulevard.
- **Don’t miss**: A beach, an ecological farm and a general store where you can buy what’s produced on the farm and other biological products.



## 5. Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park
In the heart of Montérégie, this park has 27km of trails that run along lakes and through pretty forests. Some sections are ideal for the beginner runners (not too long and no hard climbs). One route for beginners to try is Le Seigneurial 7km loop trail. Looking for a more technical trail? Check out Le Montérégien, an 8.8km loop trail. Because this is a Sépaq park, there’s an $8.50 fee for adults.

- **Transport**: From Terminus Longueil (Longueil metro station), take bus 192 towards Promenades Saint-Bruno.
- **Don’t miss**: An orchard and a historical mill.



## 6. Mont Saint-Hilaire
If you’re looking to tackle some hills, this is the place! Mount Saint-Hilaire has 4 summits (Rocky, Dieppe, Pain de sucre and Burned Hill) around beautiful Hertel Lake, where you can spot hundreds of geese in the fall. In this park, you’ll also find narrow trails to improve your footwork on technical routes.

- **Transport**: From the Central train station (Bonaventure metro station), take train SH 814 to Mont-Saint-Hilaire, then hop on bus 21 to the intersection of Fortier and Ernest-Choquette streets. The park entrance is a 10-minute walk away.
- **Don’t miss**: The stunning 360° view from the Dieppe summit.



## 7. The western section of the Circuit TransTerrebonne
You might think that the suburbs don’t have anything to offer for passionate trail runners: you’d be wrong in this case! The [circuit TransTerrebonne](https://terrebonnemascouche.com/fr/attraits-et-activites/circuit-transterrebonne) is your escape from the urban bustle. The main trail surface is rock dust, but you can also literally get off the beaten trail. While there’s not much elevation gain, there is a nice mix of environment on this section of the circuit – here’s a [detailed map (.pdf)](http://www.ville.terrebonne.qc.ca/uploads/html_content/44793%201000x_TERREBONNE_DepliantTTRB_20X15.pdf).

- **Transport**: The circuit has many access points, but one recommendation is to you access the Western section via the De la Pommeraie Park in Terrebonne. From the Cartier metro station, take bus 28 to Terrebonne and exit at the intersection of Du Souvenir Road and Gagnon Hill, take bus 5 Terrebonne-Bois-des-Fillion and exit at the intersection of Terrebonne Hill, and De la Pommeraie Avenue, run up De la Pommeraie Avenue (about 10 minutes) to the park.
- **Don’t miss**: Lush nature awaits runners who venture off the main trail as well as water and mud puddles for the adventure seekers (yeah!).



How about you, what are your favourite running trails you can get to around Monteal without a car? Let us know on the [MEC Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/mec).



## Related articles
- [Trail running: beginner's guide](/en/explore/trail-running-beginners-guide)
- [15 things I wish I knew before I started trail running](/en/article/15-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-started-trail-running)


Popular spots and some lesser-known places in and around town, no driver’s licence required.

7 Montreal running trails you can get to without a car | MEC Blog

7 Montreal running trails you can get to without a car

Living in Canada’s biggest city can be a challenge when you love to run on trails – and it’s even harder when you don’t have a car. What’s a TTC-dependent trail runner to do?

Luckily, you can actually get to a bunch of scenic, challenging Toronto trails using TTC or Go Transit. Next time you’re about to resign yourself to another run on pavement, grab your transit pass (plus a running buddy and your [trail running essentials](/en/explore/essential-gear-for-trail-running)) and head to one of these rugged GTA trails.

## 1.  Don Valley Trails
Newer trail runners will love the [Don Valley](https://donrivervalleypark.ca/things-to-do/the-trails/)’s mostly paved trails that wind through urban forests and community green spaces. Convenient entries and exits make it easy to plan shorter runs from one TTC stop to another, or a longer out-and-back route.

If you’re running on a weekend, visit the Evergreen Brick Works farmers’ market to refuel or finish your run with a load of local veggies.

**TTC access:**

- **Ontario Science Centre:** From downtown Toronto, take the Yonge Street subway to Eglington Station, then take the 34 Eglinton East bus to Don Mills Road. From other start points, use [these great directions](https://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/Directions/#transit).
- **Evergreen Brick Works:** Take the subway to Davisville Station, then transfer to the 28 Bayview South bus. Or catch the free Evergreen Brick Works shuttle bus from just north of Broadview subway station.



## 2. Crothers Woods
Want to feel like you’re miles away from the city? Head for a run among the wildflowers and 100-year-old trees in [Crothers Woods](https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/recreation/skateboarding-bmx-mountain-biking/crothers-woods/). With 10km of trails to explore, you can practice tackling hills on an independent training loop, or add a little extra length to your Don Valley run.

**TTC access:** Take the 56 Leaside or 88 South Leaside bus and get off near Redway Road, then walk to the trailhead near the Loblaws.



## 3. Beltline Trail
Based on the path of an old railway, the [Beltline Trail](https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/884/index.html) traces the northeastern edge of the city. It runs from the Allen Expressway north of Eglinton, through Mount Pleasant Cemetery, down to the Evergreen Brick Works, where it connects with the Don Valley trails. With mixed terrain and mostly flat, wide pathways, it’s a good option for newer trail runners or those wanting to run intervals to boost their speed.

**TTC access:**

- **Allen and Eglinton:** Take the Yonge-University line to Eglinton West station, then run north on the pathway just east of Allen Rd.
- **Clair:** Take the Yonge-University line to St. Clair Station, then head east on St. Clair Ave E.



## 4. High Park
At 400 acres, Toronto’s largest park gives trail runners lots of room to play and train. [High Park](https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/77/index.html)’s natural and asphalt trails weave around a lake and offer tons of opportunities to train for distance, speed and hills. Plus, its proximity to Bloor Street means you can enjoy a leisurely brunch after your Sunday long run.

**TTC access:**

- **The Queensway:** Take the 501 Street Car to Parkside Drive or Colborne Lodge Drive.
- **High Park Station:** Take the Bloor-Danforth line to High Park Station, then walk south across Bloor into the park.



## 5. Kortright Centre for Conservation
It’s a bit of a trip from downtown, but the 555-acre [Kortright Centre for Conservation](https://kortright.org/plan-your-visit/) offers plenty of opportunities to explore. With 16km of trails ranging from wide limestone-covered paths to technical singletrack, it’s plenty of fun for new and seasoned trail runners alike. One spot to check out: Coyote Alley, where huge trees line the trail to create a shady green tunnel.

**TTC access:**

- The 4A Pine Valley and 85 Napa Valley busses stop just outside the conservation area.
- From downtown, take the Yonge-University Line to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre Station. Then catch the 20 Teston bus to Major Mackenzie Drive and transfer to the 4A Pine Valley bus.

**Admission:** $8.50 per adult, $6.50 per senior, $3 per youth (age 5–15). Parks members visit for free.



## 6. Humber Arboretum
More than 10km of gravel, grass and paved trails weave through the [Humber Arboretum](http://humber.ca/arboretum/)’s 250 acres, giving runners many options for loops and out-and-backs. As you travel through the wild areas and ornamental gardens, keep an eye out for the 1700+ species of trees and flowering plants – how many can you spot?

**TTC access:**

- Take the 96 Wilson from Wilson Station or York Mills Station (West) or Humberline Loop (East).
- Take the 191 Highway 27 Rocket from Kipling Station (North) or Steeles/Martin Grove Loop (South).
- Take the 186 Wilson Rocket from York Mills.



## 7. Rouge Valley
Incredible biodiversity and more than 79 square kilometres of marshes, beaches, forests and working farms await in the [Rouge Valley](https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge). Canada’s first national urban park offers everything from rolling flats to rugged, steep trails. In the fall, head to Vista Trail for a stunning view of the valley’s foliage as it changes colours.

**TTC access:** Take the Bloor-Danforth line to Kennedy Station, then the 86 bus to the Toronto Zoo and the Rouge Valley Conservation Centre.



## 8. Dundas Valley Conservation Area
It’s a little farther afield, but the [Dundas Valley Conservation Area](https://conservationhamilton.ca/conservation-areas/dundas-valley/) might be worth the trip for a weekend long run change of scenery – and yes, you can get there on public transit. The 6000-acre jewel includes trails of various lengths and types of terrain, so you can train for a [trail ultra](/en/article/19-canadian-trail-races-to-add-to-your-bucket-list) without having to head to the mountains.

**Transit access:** From Union Station, take the 16 Hamilton Go Bus to Main Street W. at Paisley Avenue S., then run 5km into the park.



## Related links
- [Your guide to trail running](/en/explore/your-guide-to-trail-running)
- [19 Canadian trail races to add to your bucket list](/en/article/19-canadian-trail-races-to-add-to-your-bucket-list)
- [Injury prevention tips for trail runners](/en/article/injury-prevention-tips-for-trail-runners)



Not having a car shouldn’t keep you from becoming a trail runner. To visit these Toronto trails, all you need is a transit pass.

MEC Blog