Our most legendary hike returns...
Only a handful of people attempt this little-known through-hike each year—and for good reason. It feels utterly untouched, and you're more likely to encounter a moose, bear, or beaver than another human being. Preserved by its sheer inaccessibility, this trail is defined by the animals who inhabit it, transitioning seamlessly from game trails to beaver dams, through dense blackberry thickets into knee-deep marshland.
There's only a short, perfect window when the bugs have faded, the trails have dried, and the lakes are warm. This is when we take on what may be Ontario's toughest hike: The Devil's Gauntlet.
The Devil’s Gauntlet follows the Wilderness Section of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail—a challenging 35 km route through some of Ontario’s most remote terrain. Remarkably, this relatively short trail with minimal elevation change is so demanding it takes four full days to complete.
Prepare to traverse wild landscapes, often navigating by faint remnants of trail markers, becoming intimately connected to the wilderness around you. Even finding the trail doesn't make things easier—expect to climb over fallen trees, scramble across boulders, push through thorny brambles, and carefully balance across countless beaver dams. Water crossings that appear impassable will test your determination, and wet feet are guaranteed.
Yet, amidst the challenges, you'll discover breathtaking moments: swimming beside beavers in secluded lakes, resting under the brilliant Milky Way, and experiencing the profound peace that follows genuine exertion.
Those who rose to the challenge in 2024 describe it as one of their most extraordinary and bonding adventures. Are you ready to discover your limits—and surpass them?
You'll be led by guides who know the area well, have advanced wilderness first aid qualifications to keep you safe and have the experience to ensure you have an incredible time. They'll not only help you accomplish more than you knew you were capable of but also have real fun while you're doing it.
This is a particularly difficult trip to arrange and almost impossible to do solo. We're taking care of everything to allow you to accomplish something extraordinary
We'll have vegan/veg and meat options for meals with everything from dinner on the first night until lunch of the last morning fully catered. Please note, we may stop for a celebratory meal at a restaurant on our return that will be additional.
Sample menu
Breakfast - Fancy oatmeal, topped with nuts, dried fruits and cinnamon flakes
Lunch - Tortilla wraps with hummus, pepper, cheese and dried meat for carnivores
Dinner - Thai curry with chicken or tofu
Our most legendary hike returns...
Only a handful of people attempt this little-known through-hike each year—and for good reason. It feels utterly untouched, and you're more likely to encounter a moose, bear, or beaver than another human being. Preserved by its sheer inaccessibility, this trail is defined by the animals who inhabit it, transitioning seamlessly from game trails to beaver dams, through dense blackberry thickets into knee-deep marshland.
There's only a short, perfect window when the bugs have faded, the trails have dried, and the lakes are warm. This is when we take on what may be Ontario's toughest hike: The Devil's Gauntlet.
The Devil’s Gauntlet follows the Wilderness Section of the Ganaraska Hiking Trail—a challenging 35 km route through some of Ontario’s most remote terrain. Remarkably, this relatively short trail with minimal elevation change is so demanding it takes four full days to complete.
Prepare to traverse wild landscapes, often navigating by faint remnants of trail markers, becoming intimately connected to the wilderness around you. Even finding the trail doesn't make things easier—expect to climb over fallen trees, scramble across boulders, push through thorny brambles, and carefully balance across countless beaver dams. Water crossings that appear impassable will test your determination, and wet feet are guaranteed.
Yet, amidst the challenges, you'll discover breathtaking moments: swimming beside beavers in secluded lakes, resting under the brilliant Milky Way, and experiencing the profound peace that follows genuine exertion.
Those who rose to the challenge in 2024 describe it as one of their most extraordinary and bonding adventures. Are you ready to discover your limits—and surpass them?
You'll be led by guides who know the area well, have advanced wilderness first aid qualifications to keep you safe and have the experience to ensure you have an incredible time. They'll not only help you accomplish more than you knew you were capable of but also have real fun while you're doing it.
This is a particularly difficult trip to arrange and almost impossible to do solo. We're taking care of everything to allow you to accomplish something extraordinary
We'll have vegan/veg and meat options for meals with everything from dinner on the first night until lunch of the last morning fully catered. Please note, we may stop for a celebratory meal at a restaurant on our return that will be additional.
Sample menu
Breakfast - Fancy oatmeal, topped with nuts, dried fruits and cinnamon flakes
Lunch - Tortilla wraps with hummus, pepper, cheese and dried meat for carnivores
Dinner - Thai curry with chicken or tofu
Friday 29th August
06:00 - Van leaves from close to Keele Station
09:00 - Begin Hike
Saturday & Sunday
Continue hike
Monday 1st September
Emerge on the other side of the trail, triumphant. We'll stop for a celebratory meal on the way back and get back to Toronto some time in the early evening
Self Drivers
Note that there is no self driving for this trip because it's a one-way expedition. As a result your transport is included in the cost of the adventure.
Instalment Payments
You'll be able to pay for this trip in 4 interest-free instalments, making it easier to plan your summer fun budget! Look for the option to pay with Klarna at checkout.
Camping Gear Rental
We have affordable sleeping mats and sleeping bags available for rent at checkout for anyone who does not have their own. Tents, plates, cutlery and mugs are all included
Sleeping Arrangements
You'll sleep in spacious, shared tents, separated by gender.
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:
More than 10 days before the event: Will receive a full refund minus a 5% admin fee.
7–10 days before the event: 50% refund.
Less than 7 days before the event: No refunds.
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.
...
Experience Unique Landscapes
Journey through incredibly diverse terrain shaped by the animals who call it home, from extensive marshland and pristine lakes to dense forests and huge granite barrens. Each day brings completely new surroundings, immersing you in environments untouched by civilization.
Overcome Challenges as a Team
Face the physical and mental demands of this rugged trail together. Supporting each other through difficult terrain and celebrating each milestone will forge lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
Truly Remote Experience
Disconnect entirely from the outside world in one of Ontario's most secluded areas. Feel the deep solitude and rare tranquility that comes with being far from roads, towns, and other hikers.
What's the tent situation?
We will have comfortable shared tents, separated by gender. Due to space limitations, it's not possible to bring your own tent however you may sleep in your own hammock.
Why does it take 4 days to walk 35km?
This will be slow going, we're not exaggerating when we say this is a challenging trail. There are many points we'll be walking 1km/h or less.
How fit do I need to be?
A decent baseline level of fitness is important but you don't need to be an athlete. Most important is attitude - if you're motivated to make it, you will. Note that once you've started, there's no backing out... this is a one way trip with no easy exits.
What do I need to bring?
We supply most of what you'll need. Check out the linked adventure plan you receive after registration for a full packing list.
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately not for this trip.
