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Wilderness Hike

Hike & Swim the Canadian Shield

Cost:  
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Optional Transport:  
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Join a Wilderness Union Adventure
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Event Date
June 7, 2026
Destination
Georgian Bay
Duration
10 hours
Highlights
Pristine Backcountry Swimming. Wildlife Spotting. Panoramic Forest Views.
Trip eligible for credit -  
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Guest passes can be used -  
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Your Registration Details

Transport
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AdditIonal Add Ons
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Guests
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Difficulty Rating
★★★
Beauty Rating
★★★★
Solitude Rating
★★★

Description

Join us for this peaceful, day-long getaway spent exploring the trails, forests and waters of McCrae Lake!

Our morning begins with a gentle 3.5 km trek through the lush forest. These trails meander through and along the granite ridges that make the Canadian Shield so famous. 

We’ll eventually arrive at the famous Crow’s Nest Lookout with its amazing panoramic views of the lake and adjacent pine-covered hills. This is where we’ll stop to refuel and enjoy our lunch while soaking in the quiet atmosphere that you can only get when you get out of the city and into nature. 

After our meal, we’ll make our way down to the water’s edge for a few hours of pure relaxation. You can jump in for a swim in the clear lake water or simply find a smooth rock to lounge on and take in the rays. 

Once we’ve had our fill, we’ll finish the day by retracing our steps through the forest and heading back into the city.

Join us for this peaceful, day-long getaway spent exploring the trails, forests and waters of McCrae Lake!

Our morning begins with a gentle 3.5 km trek through the lush forest. These trails meander through and along the granite ridges that make the Canadian Shield so famous. 

We’ll eventually arrive at the famous Crow’s Nest Lookout with its amazing panoramic views of the lake and adjacent pine-covered hills. This is where we’ll stop to refuel and enjoy our lunch while soaking in the quiet atmosphere that you can only get when you get out of the city and into nature. 

After our meal, we’ll make our way down to the water’s edge for a few hours of pure relaxation. You can jump in for a swim in the clear lake water or simply find a smooth rock to lounge on and take in the rays. 

Once we’ve had our fill, we’ll finish the day by retracing our steps through the forest and heading back into the city.

Highlights

Pristine Backcountry Swimming - Escape the crowded city beaches to this amazing and secluded cool off spot. The water is refreshing and clear, providing the perfect reward after our morning hike.

Possible Wildlife Spotting - Otters, bears, beavers, eagles and loons are just some of the creatures that call this area home. You might even have a chance to spot some from a safe distance for a magical encounter.

Panoramic Forest Views - Look out from the famed Crow’s Nest panorama where you can see for kilometers across the green canopy and the shimmering blue waters.

08:30 - Ride leaves from close to Keele Station

10:30 - Hike to wilderness lake

12:00 - Swimming at McCrae Lake and picnic lunch

15:00 - Return hike

16:15 - Estimated return to the McCrae Lake car park

18:30 - Anticipated return to Toronto

18:30 - Optional drinks with the crew at a nearby bar

Food and Drink
You'll need to bring a packed lunch and water for any of our day trips that don't explicitly say we're making a stop at a restaurant. Where we stop at restaurants, you are responsible for the purchase of any food. Full details are available at the adventure plan, shared above on registration.

Carbon Offsetting
Wilderness Union offsets the estimated carbon emissions of every trip by investing in a global portfolio of verified carbon reduction projects.

Please read and understand this before registering

Cancellations made:

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Weather or emergency cancellations: If an event is canceled due to severe weather or other uncontrollable factors, members can receive a full credit to their account.

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What to Expect on a WU Trip

Is a Wilderness Union Trip Right for You?
We offer a unique alternative to commercial tours. We don't just show you incredible natural wonders, we teach you to become confident in nature so you can discover the life changing magic of the outdoors. You'll love it here if:
- You want to make real friends, not just small talk with strangers
- You prefer "off the beaten path" over "all-inclusive resort"
- You're happy to pitch in and learn new skills (e.g., helping with camp setup or group tasks)
- You value the journey and the company as much as the destination

Who Else Will Be There
WU is aimed at a younger generation of outdoor lovers who don't see themselves represented in traditional hiking clubs and our members are typically 20-40 years old. Whether you're brand new to the outdoors or have plenty of experience, you'll find something for you.

Our Guides
All of our guides are highly qualified, passionate outdoor lovers, just like you. They love to share their knowledge and will help you see our destinations in another light, often teaching you something along the trail.

Q&A

Got questions? Checkout our FAQ for answers to pretty much anything you can think of.

Where can I find important updates about this hike in the days leading up to it?

Please follow the Discord thread for this adventure under the ‘Upcoming Adventures’ channel, and reach out to us if you are having any issues.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?

You’re welcome to join us as long as you’re wearing a PFD while on the water. Just let our expert guides know - they’ll keep an eye out for your safety.

Want Access to Explorer Member Pricing?

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