We welcome all to explore and appreciate the Oak Ridges Moraine with us. We hike mostly on the Oak Ridges Trail, but visit other trails too. We try to offer a variety of outings - short, long; flat, hilly; fast, slow; hike, ski and snowshoe.

Newcomers, after you have enjoyed a couple of hikes, please become a member of ORTA. (Annual membership fees are only $20 - $30.)

The average hike attendance is 15 people of all ages and we often have newcomers. Attend on your own or bring a friend. Tell the hike leader if you're a newcomer. All activities are led by members who donate their time, so please become a member and perhaps volunteer with us to build the Trail and our organization.

We're a friendly group, we help each other out, and we have fun, so please join us! You don't need to RSVP, unless requested - just show up at the meeting place 15 minutes ahead of the hike start time.

Please note that we have several hike leaders this season who are offering hikes on different days during the week, as well as offering hikes of shorter lengths and slower speeds. Enjoy the variety of hikes which the ORTA hike leaders offer. 

Hike Speeds
Hikers, once again we are changing our hike speeds to coincide with Hike Ontario's newly revised speed ratings. Please refer to ORTA's revised hike speeds listed below to help you select the hikes which are most suitable to your ability.

General Notes

• In case of storm, call leader to confirm hike.
• It is the hike leader's decision whether to allow dogs on hikes. Hikers should call first if the hike listing is not specific.
• Roads are on Ontario Official Road Map & other good maps.
• ORT map references are to the Guidebook, second edition.
• ORT = Oak Ridges Trail, CA = Conservation Area, T&B = There & Back

Tips for Spring Hikes

• Wear comfortable hiking boots. Some trail conditions may be icy. "Icers" or similar footwear attachments are recommended on some early Spring hikes - especially in hilly areas or where there has been a recent thaw and conditions have become frozen again. In icy conditions, hiking poles are also recommended. The trails may also be very wet once the thaw is in full swing.
• Dress in layers, so you can be comfortable climbing hills or standing exposed to the wind.
• Bring lunch & snacks (unless hike starts in afternoon).
• Wear a hat and sunscreen.
• Bring at least 1 litre of water and a hot drink if it's cool.

Tips for Summer Hikes

• Wear comfortable hiking boots, hat, sunscreen as well as mosquito repellant.
• Bring lunch (unless hike starts in afternoon) & snacks.
• Bring plenty to drink - 2 litres plus of water on a warm day.

Tips for Autumn Hikes

• Wear comfortable hiking boots.
• Dress in layers, so you can be comfortable climbing hills or standing exposed to the wind.
• Bring lunch & snacks (unless hike starts in afternoon).
• Wear a hat and sunscreen.
• Bring at least 1 litre of water and a hot drink if it's cool.

Tips for Winter Hikes

• Wear comfortable hiking boots. Some winter trail conditions may be icy. "Icers" or similar footwear attachments are recommended on some Winter and early Spring hikes - especially in hilly areas or where there has been a recent thaw and conditions have become frozen again. In icy conditions, hiking poles are also recommended. Snowshoes have become popular, as they make hiking through heavy snow easier.
• Dress in layers, so you can be comfortable climbing hills or standing exposed to the wind.
• Bring lunch & snacks (unless hike starts in afternoon).
• Bring water and a hot drink.

See you on the trail!