In this issue

A welcome to new members from your Club Manager, Cheryl McCarney

From December 1st to February 28th we had 40 new members join our Club and I would like to extend a warm welcome to all – you have joined a dynamic, inclusive, non-competitive and social club that is “active and energized together outdoors”. 

Make sure to frequently visit the website at www.haltonoutdoorclub.ca, as events are continuously added throughout the month in all sports. I suggest you check the Events Calendar every couple of days so you don’t miss a scheduled activity. If the event registration is full, make sure you join the waitlist. Typically, registration for most events opens 2 weeks in advance of the start date, however, if there is a cost associated with the event, then the registration open date will be further out. Check the event for the specific date that registration will open.

Consider trying something new: if you joined for cycling, consider joining a hike. We offer various levels/distances in our activities so we can appeal to a novice as well as the experienced. Be sure to read the general description of the activity and what to bring before registering. If you have questions or aren’t sure if you should sign up for an event, reach out to me or the trip leader for further clarification. 

Ask questions, we are here to help you in any way we can!

Some useful tips about our website:

“Home Page” provides a general overview of what the Club has to offer. Lessons are available for paddling and cross-country skiing. Consider trying out a new sport and participating in the lessons – even the best paddler/skier can improve on their technique, and we offer various levels of lessons for that reason. 

“Attend Events Tab” includes the Events Calendar, but also a wealth of information on how to self-cancel a registration, extended trips, sport guidelines, information about lessons, etc. 

“Members Tab” includes a wealth of information about the Club as well as access to Club Forums. Subscribing to the Forums will keep you updated on Club happenings (instructions are on the Forums page):

“HOC Talk” is an online discussion forum to chat with other members and is often used to announce new events added late to the event calendar.

“Marketplace” is the place to buy, sell or trade gear with other members

Mobile App  We encourage all members to take advantage of the "Wild Apricot for Members" mobile app, to make your Halton Outdoor Club experience even more convenient. Further information and guides on how to use the app can be found on our website under the Members Tab. 

You will receive the Club’s Newsletter quarterly. You will also find an Updater in your Inbox every few weeks. As the name implies, the Updater provides up-to-date information about current and future events. Make sure to update your profile so that you receive these publications. Contact me if you require help doing so.

Please don’t hesitate to email me with any questions or concerns at manager@haltonoutdoorclub.ca  905 332 4318

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Message from the Chair, Maureen Healey

What a glorious Winter season it’s been! 

Thank you to Jim Blair and volunteers who have made this a ski and snowshoe season to remember. Whoever was responsible for ensuring amazing snow conditions gets an extra brownie point. 

And kudos to Patti Blair, Debbie Martin and many trip leaders for offering winter hiking options. Members are getting out in large numbers to enjoy this short but beautiful season. 

For cyclists and paddlers, plans are well underway for the upcoming season so stay tuned. If you’ve participated in these sports with the Club and are ready to lead or co-lead an activity, reach out to the Directors. The more volunteer leaders we have, the more trips we can offer. 

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Fond memories of Frank Cooney

by Bonnie Quinn with the help of Cheryl and John McCarney and Jim Blair

During the week of Jan. 21, 2025, Club members were heart-broken to learn of the death of Frank Cooney. Frank and Susan Cooney first joined the Halton Outdoor Club in 2005 where they actively engaged in all of the sports the Club offers. In addition, Frank was a member of the Club’s Board of Directors from 2009 to 2021, where he served as Publicity Director, Vice President, President and Past President.  

If you are reading this article and you know Frank, I know there will be a smile on your face as you recall your memories of him. Immediately after Frank’s funeral, a few Club members  gathered at the local pub to offer up some toasts to our dear friend and to recount some of our favorite memories (I know Frank would approve!).

In addition to the 12 years of service to the Board, Frank annually offered to lead ski, hike and cycling trips. Many of us will remember those trivial pursuit games, usually involving sport themes, held on the return ski trips. When Frank was leader, he was always out of his seat on the bus, going up and down the aisle schmoozing with all of the participants.

In addition to being a constant source of mirth, Frank could be very persuasive and always took it upon himself to find and encourage potential leaders and potential Board Directors from amongst the members-at-large. He was persistent at this, especially if he believed that one’s talents could be put to Club use.

Frank established a few long-standing traditions at the Club. As Social Director, he established the Recognition Awards to honour individuals who gave freely of their time to lead trips, work on special events and/or become members of the Board of Directors.   Frank and Leydon Macdonald, a former bus driver and Club member, established an annual winter tailgate party, which initially was problematic. However, this event soon morphed into the annual Winterfest held at Highlands Nordic; it was and is a highly successful event. For members of the Board of Directors, there were many years when Frank, as President, and Susan hosted Christmas parties for the Board members at their home. These were great fun.

Frank’s most endearing trait though was his ability to engage with others. When he saw someone he knew, he always gave them a huge smile, a warm greeting and a big hug. He made everyone around him feel special. He was a kind, fun-loving gentleman who enjoyed life to the fullest.

Frank leaves to mourn his wife Susan; sons Shane (Morana) and Todd( Monika); and four loved grandchildren: Amelia, Finley, Kingsley and Golden.

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Remembering Francis Vrillaud

by Bonnie Quinn

Many Club members were saddened to hear of the death of Francis Vrillaud on January 10, 2025.  Francis and his wife Magali were members of the Halton Outdoor Club for about 35 years. They loved the outdoor experiences that the Club had to offer and were both highly skilled skiers and hikers.  Francis and Magali also loved to skate and rollerblade. They enjoyed their interactions with other Club members.  

During my time as Club Manager, I found them to be very supportive and always willing to lend a helping hand. In particular, many Club skiers will miss this energetic couple on the ski bus and on the trails.

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New member perspectives

Editor’s note: We love hearing about new members’ early experiences with the Club. Please share your perspectives with us! See elsewhere in the Newsletter for how, where and when to submit your comments.

My first experiences with the Club: A new member’s perspective

by Kathy Wang

As someone new to the Club, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect at first, but my initial experience on a hike as a non-member had been nothing short of welcoming and exciting. Right after I finished the hike led by Sharon, I decided to join the Club without any hesitation! From the moment I participated in the trial event, I’ve felt like part of a community that truly values outdoor adventure, connection and shared experiences.

The first event I attended was well-organized and filled with people who genuinely love being outside. I was a little nervous at the beginning, but the members were incredibly friendly and open. It didn’t take long to feel like I was in the right place. Everyone was eager to help each other out and share their knowledge and enthusiasm. It’s clear that the Club isn't just about the activities; it’s about the people and building lasting friendships.

What I appreciate most is the diversity of events. There’s something for everyone, no matter your experience level or fitness. I’ve already learned new skills and made memories I won’t forget. I’m really looking forward to more adventures with the group and continuing to connect with others who share the same passion for the outdoors.

A huge thank you to the hike and snowshoeing leaders who volunteer their time and expertise to make these events happen. Their dedication and guidance have made my experience so much richer, and I’m grateful for all they do to create these opportunities for us.

The Club has been a fantastic way to explore new places, meet great people, and grow in ways I never imagined. I’m excited to see where the next adventure takes me!

From another new member, following the Near North winter sport trip

by Joanne Penney

This was an amazing, wonderful, magical adventure.  Winter wonderland at its ultimate best. What a fantastic group. Inspiring, kind, fun. Organized, helpful, encouraging. The best birthday gift ever!!

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New Years Day hikes 2025

by Nancy Stevens

We walked along Mississauga waterfront, starting in drizzle and ending with lunch in a great cafe!

What a great way to start the New Year!  Here’s to many more…

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Hiking Hamilton weekly waterfront walks

by Tammy Ross

“Hiking Hamilton Weekly Waterfront Walks” is a regular entry on the Halton Outdoor Club Events Calendar. And we have a pretty regular following! (I wonder…is it the picturesque location, the cheerful leaders, or the coffee stop afterwards…hmmm?) With my co-leaders Jim Blair and Heather Wilson, we are able to offer these weekly walks from the beginning of September until the end of June. Although we walk rain or shine, we seem to have been lucky over the years with pretty favourable weather.

Hamilton Bayfront Park offers excellent walking on a paved pathway that is maintained year round. Our usual walking route is the path towards Princess Point, which is about 6 km, with an extension offered either midpoint or at the end to increase our distance to 8 km. However, we are known to change it up every once in a while and head over towards Dundurn Castle or the Hamilton Municipal Cemeteries, both of which offer some spectacular views.

In the spring there is a lovely stand of cherry trees with their beautiful blossoms. We have been fortunate to watch the progress of a pair of swans as they nested and hatched their family of cygnets. Waterfowl are plentiful and a regular sight. Cormorants, swans, Canada geese, hawks, hooded mergansers, coots and mallard ducks are among the birds we may see on a regular basis. 

And as previously mentioned, a coffee stop at Williams Fresh Café at Pier 8 is the finale of the outing for all who are available to join. It’s a lively place with lots of seating and an awesome shaded patio when the weather is warm.

If you have never joined our Wednesday walk or maybe haven’t been out in a while, we would love for you to join us. We’re always happy to see new faces joining us at Hamilton’s waterfront. Hope to see you on the trails!

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How popular are the Club’s ski lessons? Hugely…

Once again this winter, the Club offered a variety of ski lessons: classic skiing Levels 1, 2 and 3 and skate skiing. And this year the snow gods cooperated and all sessions went ahead as scheduled! Instructors Patti Blair, Sandra Redfearn and Collette Somerville led the lessons, assisted by Dave Somerville.

And our members spoke up! Here are some of their reactions to the lessons:

From Wendy Ruffle-McDonald:

“I was completely impressed by the level of organization and the friendliness of the members on yesterday’s ski excursion. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience! As it turns out, not having skied in nearly 40 years, yesterday was a strong reminder that skiing did not come naturally. The lessons were hugely needed and extremely helpful. Most of all, I had a ball.”  

From Ken Besser:

“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed up for Sandra’s Level 2 ski lesson but wasn’t disappointed. It was fun and informative, and despite being a cold, cloudy day Sandra kept us warm with plenty of practical exercises to help engrain our new learnings.

I walked away, or I should say skied away, with great takeaways, and not just for use out on the trails either. For example, I now brush my teeth standing on one foot, inspired by Sandra to help improve balance.

Thanks Sandra, for a fun and informative session.” 

From Kathy Grant-Munoz:

“Thanks to Sandra Redfearn for a great Level 2 cross-country ski lesson. She was patient and encouraging as she taught us various skiing techniques. Our group had a lot of fun together and in just those few hours, we could see how we all were improving!”

From Oscar Munoz:

“I thoroughly enjoyed my Level 3 cross-country ski lesson with Patti Blair. She was great at demonstrating the techniques and had many valuable insights for the group on how we could improve. Thanks to Patti and the Club for organizing!”

From Cora MacLeod:

“I was so excited about how Level 3 reinforced and built on the skills I had learned in the amazing Level 2 lesson taught by Sandra the week before.

The emphasis in Level 3 lessons was on diagonal striding and double poling techniques. There was lots of time for practice and observation. Patti made this so much fun! She gave me tips and made suggestions, teaching this old dog some new tricks! Some appreciated examples were her pointing out how planting my foot forward could help me shift my weight. She stressed the importance of leaning forward while tightening my core. I worked on the rhythm.

My next steps are to practice the techniques I learned on my day and overnight trips. I plan to attend gym classes to build up my endurance and strengthen my core and leg muscles.  

I will take a Level 3 lesson again next year to get more feedback and tips. We are never too old to learn and improve! Thank you Halton Outdoor Club for offering such great lessons.”

From Vince Ye:

“I took a skate ski lesson with Patti Blair this season. She was very experienced and patient, and I found the lesson quite helpful in regards to my skill improvement, especially the technique re how to lift your foot effectively when doing the side kick. 

I would definitely recommend the course to anyone who's interested in learning skate skiing.”

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Huntsville mid-week getaway, January 15-16

by Jane Walker

“Nature is as important to human health and wellness as food, water and exercise”, or so says a sign recently seen at a Hamilton Conservation Area. We sure get plenty of nature as Halton Outdoor Club members!

With beautiful blue skies and fresh snow welcoming us to the near north, 44 enthusiastic members spent two glorious days at Arrowhead Provincial Park exploring the many cross-country ski, snowshoeing and skating trails.

Trail highlights included the view from Big Bend Lookout, remembering our grade 9 geography class on how an oxbow lake forms; overlooking Stubb Falls on the bridge at the bottom of a long staircase; and the glorious 1.3 km skating trail that reminded us to practice balancing and stopping, especially since there was a bit of a slope on the homebound part! The fearless snowshoeing group enjoyed the trails and the challenge of finding them! Once on the trails, we experienced an enchanted forest of nature’s quiet beauty.  

The large comfortable Visitor Centre had lots of room for all to eat our packed lunches (and enviously spy at what others had brought – trading was allowed) and the well-equipped park store allowed for that all-important mid-afternoon pick-me-up of chocolate bar or chips.

There was lots of time to catch up with old friends and make new ones at dinner on Wednesday night. Huntsville has plenty of dining choices, and when our tired legs said we couldn’t possibly make the 35-minute walk back to the hotel, friendly and efficient taxi drivers were right there to help us out.  

A huge shout-out of thanks to our wonderful leaders, Pete and Tammy Ross. A great time was had by all – thank you from our nature-full hearts!

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An exhilarating ski/snowshoe adventure at SilverStar

by Sue Mansfield

This adventure, shared by twenty-six enthusiastic members of the Halton Outdoor Club, was an experience filled with excitement, camaraderie, and breathtaking landscapes that none of us will soon forget. As we arrived at SilverStar, we were greeted by a winter wonderland that looked like it was plucked straight from a postcard. The air was crisp, and the snow-covered pine trees created a magnificent backdrop for our adventure. Our trip leaders, Heather and Ralph, planned and executed an amazing week-long experience; if there were any hiccups, we did not see them. Their addition of a WhatsApp group chat created a communication channel that kept everyone in touch. 

If you have experienced SilverStar firsthand, you will know that the large variety of routes is perfect for beginners to expert skiers and snowshoers. This year, I tried something new: I joined Frank and Sue Elias on one of their snowshoe outings, something I will definitely repeat! We meandered for almost 10 km through winding trails with beautiful views, all enjoyed in excellent company. Thanks Frank and Sue!

Beyond the physical thrill of skiing, this trip was an opportunity for us to bond as a group. The sense of community within the Halton Outdoor Club is strong, and this trip only served to strengthen those ties. We enjoyed two group dinners, full of laughter and storytelling. Some brave folks tried tubing! A big shout out to Mike and Kristine for sharing their wonderful pictures and videos (check out the HOC FaceBook page to watch a Tubing video that Mike shared!)  Hot chocolate and treats at Bugaboos, night walks and more filled our week with opportunities to cheer each other on, create memories and make new friends.

At our farewell dinner, we could not help but reflect on all that we had experienced. Thank you to our group for making the trip so memorable.

Returning home, tired from physical exertion, the smile on my face will linger for weeks to come as I think back to the fantastic adventure that was SilverStar 2025. Thank you, Halton Outdoor Club!

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Snowshoeing at SilverStar

by Debbie Martin

It’s a good thing that while snowshoeing I didn’t try to keep track of how many times I said “WOW” “This is breathtaking” “This is beautiful” “This is stunning” “This is amazing”, as I would have lost count the first morning!

I had heard great things about SilverStar and seen many pictures from previous trips, but as a first-time visitor I was in complete awe. It really is a magical place!

I would like to extend a huge thank you to Heather McClintock and Ralph Gardave for organizing and leading this trip. From the flights, shuttles and accommodation to the group dinners it was so well organized. And you kept us all well-informed!

I also want to extend a huge thank you to Sue and Frank Elias who provided guided snowshoeing treks each day. They carefully mapped out routes and took us on amazing trails to show us as much of the beauty of SilverStar as they could!

As well as it being my first time visiting SilverStar, it was also my first time visiting a ski resort for a winter vacation. Imagine sitting at the hotel front door putting on your snowshoes and crunching across the snow to the start of the trails! It was such a unique experience!   

As you can see from the pictures, the scenery is everything I said at the beginning of this article. From the snow-covered trails to the giant fir trees covered in snow, to the bright blue skies, to the magnificent vistas with views of the mountains and the gorgeous sunrises, it is stunning! And to think while enjoying this amazing scenery you are also getting a good workout! It was exhilarating!

To the 25 others I joined on this trip, thank you for being a positive fun-loving group! It was great to make new friends and spend time with old ones. You made the week even more special!

I could go on and on but I better stop. Let me say in closing I am hoping the trip will be offered again in 2027 and if you get the chance, visit this magical place! You will be filled with wonder and awe! 

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Hiking the ET&T (Escarpment Trails and Treks) Revisited Series: City View Park to Smokey Hollow, Burlington, Ontario

by Ellen Kennedy

The ET&T Revisited Series offers hikes that follow local trails compiled by a group of hikers into a guide book entitled "Escarpment Trails and Treks: Two-Hour Hikes in Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara" authored by Chris Parr and Sharon Tkacz. Between January and June 2025, the Club is offering these 24 two-hour hikes highlighting the natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario, and feature waterfalls, cliffs, historic ruins, wildlife, caves, and panoramic views. 

On a beautiful winter morning in February, HOC members spent 2 hours hiking the stretch of the Bruce Trail between City View Park and Smokey Hollow in Burlington. From City View Park, the Bruce Trail's main route veers westward along a relatively flat, well-marked forested trail that offers a smooth start for avid winter hikers. As we set off, we were able to take in the surrounding views of the city and the escarpment. One of the highlights on this route is the Burlington Heights Lookout, a spot with a view of the surrounding countryside and Lake Ontario.  

As the trail continues, we came across an interesting feature: a Bruce Trail Conservancy Seed Orchard. One of our members highlighted the Conservancy’s efforts to support native species with specifically selected plants used to create seeds or plants to be used in future restoration projects for the surrounding area.

We then started to descend toward Smokey Hollow Falls, a charming valley known for its waterfalls and serene natural surroundings. Smokey Hollow was a perfect spot to pause and take in the beauty of nature at its finest, with water flowing under the frozen canopy of the waterfalls set into the snow-covered forest. This out-and-back hike offered scenic views and a peaceful connection to nature.

Join us on the ET&T Revisited Series, a collection of scenic hikes that showcase beautiful landscapes with variable terrains, and the best of Ontario's natural beauty. These hikes are a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy a couple of hours outdoors, and connect with fellow nature enthusiast Club members.  

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Newbie snowshoer turns pro …

by Simone Bates

Or so I’d like to believe! My first time snowshoeing was with the Club on a recent February day trip. As someone who didn’t grow up with winter sports (being from the Caribbean), I had some anxieties before the day — the forecast was for a very cold day (feeling like -24C) so do I really need to do this? What do I wear and pack? And most importantly, how do I even put on snowshoes?!

Thankfully, the Club members were incredibly supportive. The day before the trip, when panic was setting in, I called the Club office and Donna answered my questions about what to pack and wear. While online videos helped me understand what snowshoeing entailed, nothing beat guide Maureen’s two-minute crash course before we started. On a previous occasion,  Jim also gave me great advice regarding winter boots, gaiters, and important factors when purchasing gear… not to mention how to wear my trail pass on the actual day!

With six snowshoers setting off on the trails at Wasaga Dunes, we encountered gentle hills, stunning scenery and the unexpected sighting of deer. Snowshoeing felt like hiking (which I have also learned to enjoy tremendously with the Club) — except that the trails were free of roots and rocks, making it easy to gaze and soak in the beauty around me. 

This experience made me realize that nothing ventured, nothing gained could not be truer!

My next snowshoeing trips are booked, so I hope to see y’all on the trail!

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The Near North winter sport trip, February 7-9

By Sandra Redfearn

Day 1

On Feb 7, shortly after 8:00 a.m., we set off to Georgian Nordic for our first ski day. The stars were aligned in terms of our itinerary because we managed to miss accidents on highway 11 that may have sabotaged our weekend away.

Upon our arrival, the Club received a warm welcome from Georgian Nordic as we gathered in the chalet to gear up. The wood stove was stoked and the firepit outside also had a roaring fire. Conditions for skiing and snowshoeing were fantastic!

Cora (for skiing) and Deb (for snowshoeing) won the Paul Lewis “be active to the last minute award”. Dave had to look at the replay video to see who actually unclipped last, so it was definitely a close race.

Day 2

When we hopped on the bus on Saturday morning for the drive to North Bay, we sure felt the near north cold because the bus was freezing inside! We layered up with our coats, hats, buffs and gloves until we regained blood circulation. Upon arrival at North Bay Nordic, there was a flurry of activity as everyone prepared for their snowshoe/ski adventure for the day. A few people learned some hard lessons at this location, because green does not necessarily designate a beginner trail. In fact, the green 18 km loop at North Bay Nordic is classified as difficult. Needless to say, upon completion of their morning experiences both skiers and snowshoers felt they earned their chili lunch. The lunch that North  Bay Nordic put on was absolutely delicious. Again, the staff were so accommodating and friendly that an enjoyable time was had by all. This turned out to be another stellar day for all.

On the way home Dave almost got himself into trouble because, in trying to determine a prize winner, he ended up with multiple possible winners for each category. Luckily he was able to think on his feet!  Angelo was awarded the 13 km ski prize; Joanne the most fun snowshoe/ski prize; and Daphne the 6.5 km snowshoe prize.  These were the ‘random distance’ awards. 

Day 3

On Sunday, our final ski and snowshoe day was spent at Arrowhead Provincial Park and did not disappoint. As we made our way along the winding trails, we found fluffy white pillows of snow covering picnic tables and tree stumps. The lightly falling snow and the trees laden with snow created a feeling of being inside a snow globe. By 3:00 pm we all loaded onto the bus with our fill of nature after such a fabulous weekend!  Sharon won the photo prize for having a photo with the most HOC members in it. 

Thank you Dave and Collette for being our leaders for this trip.  Thank you Sharon for looking after the snowshoe portion of the weekend away.  Also, thank you to Jeffrey, our bus driver for navigating through snow squalls and bad traffic. All parties involved in carrying out this weekend adventure did a great job!

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Ottawa 2025 ski & snowshoe trip

by Marlis Butcher

Ideal weather, lots of snow, 33 outdoors enthusiasts and 5 fabulous days of fun!  

Our hotel in Ottawa’s ByWard Market was conveniently situated for restaurants, pastry shops, museums, parliament buildings, Sparks Street pedestrian mall, the Chateau Laurier (with its famous photo of Churchill), and an Ottawa Charge (PWHL) game. And those were just for rest and relaxation!

The deep snow at Nakkertok Nordic in Quebec, just 20 minutes away, was perfect and everyone enjoyed the snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. Hilly trails led us through pretty hardwood forests, frozen ponds, and snowy fields. Despite the -15C, we stopped to watch horses out for the fresh air and kids building quinzhees (snow shelters) as part of their wilderness survival skills training. Some of us even had an adventurous slog at back-country skiing. 

Then our bus broke down – well, almost. But everyone was in good spirits and shared stories, which grew more outrageous as we pondered an overnight on the bus. What would we eat? The Stone Soup folktale came up, and those wild turkeys on the road ahead of us plus some leftover carrots would make tasty additions. Eventually the bus got started again, but the drive back to the hotel in first gear took over an hour. 

Although everyone was hungry, we had to endure another ultra-slow drive to our group dinner at Meule et Caquelon. Our patience was rewarded with tasty raclettes and fondues, with more vegetables and meats than most of us could eat. Many of the leftovers were tossed into one of the fondue broths, creating our “stone soup” (mini potatoes simulating the stones) that was absolutely delicious! After a long, lively dinner, a new bus arrived for the rest of our trip.

The Nordic skiing and snowshoeing in Gatineau Park was also awesome! Some skiers covered over 25 kilometers each day, eating their lunches in posh cabins along the trail. One day the snowshoers hiked 11+ kilometers through the deep snowy trails to eat at a cabin in the woods, before returning to the bus. Some skiers and snowshoers followed trails that got them back to the bus for lunch, and then went out again (perhaps swapping skis for snowshoes, or vice versa). All trails were well-marked, winding through the deciduous forests of western Quebec. The more challenging trails led through steep passes, while the easier trails followed the closed-for-the-winter parkways. No matter which sport or which trail we did, we enjoyed beautiful views of the snow-covered trees and frozen lakes and met many others out enjoying the winter.  

And if that wasn’t enough, many of us also managed to go skating on the Rideau Canal in the evening before dinner. The Canal skateway is the largest (but not longest - Winnipeg claims that) skating rink in the world. We laughed while trying to steer a rented kicksled some used to skate or walk with on the ice! A few people even skated the entire 7.8 kilometers and back. And of course, we enjoyed hot chocolate, hot apple cider and beaver tails at the kiosks.

Finally, on the long bus ride home, we slept and excitedly discussed plans for our next HOC adventure. 

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From your Paddling Co-Directors, Ed Brunato and Paul Leppik

Paddle planning 2025

Although most of us are enjoying the fabulous winter that Mother Nature has provided, I know that many are anxious for another exciting paddling season…me included!

To that end, we had a great turnout of enthusiastic leaders for our paddle planning meeting on February 1^st.

After a recap of last year’s achievements and opening remarks from Co-Director Ed Brunato, we began to field offerings from the attendees, coordinated by Gabriela Sebestyen and Ken Besser.

I’m happy to say the response was overwhelming and we look forward to having a robust calendar of events – ranging from day trips to multi-day car camping and back-country trips – that will appeal to all skill levels.

We are currently in the process of coordinating with the various leaders to get the trip sheets (and budgets where applicable) approved for inclusion on the Club Events Calendar…stay tuned!

Without giving away too many details, we’ll be offering the Wednesday night paddles throughout June at 16 Mile Creek and Bronte Creek, and despite the snow and construction fencing, it looks like the Credit River launch is ready for the upcoming season!

Practice and play at Kelso will be happening again on Wednesday nights in July.

We are also in discussions with 3^rd party organizations to possibly include exclusive offerings for HOC in regard to skills development.

As you can imagine, we have a lot of balls in the air right now, so please be patient. Keep checking the Events Calendar over the coming months, focusing on the registration dates for each offering.

We are intending to have a spring Paddling Social in April at the Port House in Burlington to allow new and existing members to get together for a fun evening and to discuss what’s in store.

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Please consider writing a short piece for your Club Newsletter: 

Share your thoughts, experiences and photos with other members.

Newsletter submissions are welcome at any time - share your experiences, photos or thoughts about the Club with your fellow members. And we like it short – no more than 500 words!! Preferably with some photos.

The Newsletter is published 4 times a year with submission deadlines of February 12, May 12, August 19 and late November (1-2 weeks after the AGM). 

Details, including where to send, can be found  at Guidelines For Newsletter Submissions. 

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