Doorstep Adventures
Written by Professor Sean Price
While we are still in the grips of pandemic restrictions the desire to get outside and do something... anything at all... seems to be a mentality shared by many of us. Without the ability to plan a Himalayan trek we are left with the prospect of our own backyard to fulfill our yearning for adventure.
I have curated a list of adventures that exist right at your doorstep and some tips to help you explore the local area while we wait for the world to reopen.
TREETOP TREKKING
I tried this out last Autumn as a way to see the fall colours while adhering to public health guidelines. Treetop Trekking is an aerial course in the forest canopy. You and your group (ideally your COVID-19 bubble) are rigged up in harnesses and given a crash safety course on carabiners and high ropes. They have an easy-to-learn/use system that retains the sense of adrenaline while removing the fear. This spring they are opening on April 2nd and have several locations in and around the GTA. They have great options for kids and adults alike! Try out Stouffville or Brampton if you're in the GTA or, for those in the west, Hamilton has a new course! For the best experience book something for mid-May when the leaves in the canopy are JUST beginning to open and the vibrant lime green of the new foliage is at its most intoxicating.
ALPACA WALKS
I'll level with you here; alpacas and llamas are melt-worthy obsessions for me. Since travelling to Peru, I have become a big fan of these camelids and any opportunity to have a visit with these curious critters is one I don't want to miss. Back in December I found an alpaca farm about an hour and half from where I live. The farm offered walks with their herd of alpacas (and a couple llama sidekicks). Each member of your social bubble would be 'loaned' an alpaca for an hour walk down a dusty country lane. I mean, could I possibly resist? During the walk you learn about the social habits of these animals and that each one possesses a unique personality. I was paired with a handsome alpaca named Royce. A bit hot-headed and fiercely independent, Royce ran the show; sensing my inexperience as he dragged my euphoric self across the country lane(and I didn't mind one bit). Check out Sylvan Alpacas for something west of the city and Kickin Back Alpaca Ranch near the Barrie area for a unique (and Instagram-worthy) outing.
WATERFALL CHASING
You can't really beat a waterfall. Humans seems attracted to waterfalls with a curious magnetism. Maybe it is the soothing sounds of the water, or perhaps the power of nature that humbles us, whatever the reason, we love them. If you're looking to snap a few interesting shots or simply marvel at Mother Nature’s prowess, take a day and head to the Hamilton area, Canada's waterfall capital (check out the City of Waterfalls website for more info). With names like Devil's Punchbowl and Smokey Hollow, there are over a dozen high-profile cascades to take your weary mind for a refresh. This winter I checked out Tew Falls andTiffany Falls to catch the frozen spectacle of these waterfalls. As spring starts to settle in and the forests around brighten the landscape, a day trip with a picnic basket may be on the agenda. Pop into famous Donut Monster for contactless, walk-thru pickup of some seriously sweet and devilishly delicious treats.