Tommy Thompson Fast Pace Silent Meditation hike

Start Point: Tommy Thompson Park (1 Leslie Street)

End Point: Tommy Thompson Park (1 Leslie Street)

Length: 10 km

Pace of hike: 6km per hour - Challenging

Difficulty: Advanced

Dog-friendly: No

Family-friendly:(suitable for young people 17 and under) No

Stroller-friendly: (paved trails accessible for strollers) No

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This hike will be a fast paced “silent hike” as we explore the full length of Tommy Thompson park. The purpose of this hike is threefold: to get an aerobic workout, enjoy the beauty of the park’s natural environment, while engaging in silence and meditative practice. As such, there will be limited talking on this hike which provides opportunity to be in the present, view nature and practice breath with tranquility.

The first half of the hike (5 k) will take approximately one hour as we walk briskly towards the park’s tip, hence the gorgeous view of Lake Ontario and Toronto. We will stop to view the scenery for approximately 5 minutes. Thereafter, we will turn around and follow an established and scenic trail to complete the route.

The entire hike will take no more than 2.5 hours. As mentioned, this hike is an opportunity to engage in an aerobic activity during early morning weekend, with other nature lovers.

Please dress warmly and bring water, as this time of the year can be chilly on the waterfront. Tommy Thompson is an open space natural environment, thus there is a cold breeze off the lake. Wear a hat and gloves with plenty of insulation for your upper and lower extremities. Also, since it is fast paced hike, wear shoes that are fitting and accessible for a quick-paced walk.

If you don't want to complete the entirety of this hike, you can always turn around during the first 5 k of the walk. Also, if you are unable to keep up, you are free to leave the group and turn back. That being said, we will maintain a consistent pace throughout the entirety of the hike, only stopping briefly at the midpoint for a short break. There is one portable toilet approximately 30 minutes into the hike, returning as well.

There is parking at Tommy Thompson park for vehicles. With TTC you can take the 83 to Donlands and Commissioner and walk from there.

Hoping to see you on this glorious peaceful walk!

Everyone and anyone is welcome, but Let's Hike T.O. has a focus on diversity and is keen to include newcomers, people of colour, and young adults aged 20-40.

What To Expect

Hike Leader: Susan (She/ Her)

Registration fee: $5+ Eventbrite fees though if you cannot afford it, please contact us at [email protected] to request a complimentary registration based on your circumstance.

COVID-19 safety: Hikers will be encouraged to keep socially distant where possible and to wear masks when 2 metres distance is not possible on the trails.

Limited tickets: This hike is restricted to 15 registrants. Tickets will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis and are non-refundable.

Pre-hike email: Registrants will receive additional details by email the day before the hike, such as what to bring on the day, what to wear, etc.

Weather precautions: The hike will take place regardless of rain, wind, or snow so please dress accordingly! We will only cancel or postpone the hike if weather conditions are considered extreme or dangerous, in which case registered hikers will be informed 48 hours in advance.

Questions? Email [email protected]

Host or Publisher Let's Hike T.O.