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Paddle Board vs. Kayak: Choose Your Ride

July 24, 2023 No Comments

When it comes to getting out on the water this summer, two popular water sports stand out: kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP).

I took up kayaking when my kids were young. At the time, it was less “sport” and more “escape.” Never underestimate the paddle power of a mom looking for an hour of solitude.

More recently I tried stand-up paddle boarding. After a few spectacular backflips (to the delight of those watching from the beach), I eventually got the hang of it. However, even if you feel like a pro, never brag about how easy it is. If you do, an unexpected wave will come for you. Your sunglasses will end up at the bottom of Lake Ontario and your husband will mutter, “I told you so,” under his breath.

A friend asked me if I had to choose SUP or kayaking, which would it be? First of all, what kind of question is that? That’s the Sophie’s Choice of water sports. I adore them both equally. Each has unique characteristics and are the perfect way to explore nature and move your body.

Fortunately, we don’t need to make such a difficult choice. There are plenty of opportunities to try both. So let’s dive into the exhilarating world of SUP and kayaking and compare their level of exercise, speed, learning curve, cost and a few local paddling spots.

Exercise level

SUP engages your entire body, especially your core (and muscles you never even knew existed). The constant balancing act on the board adds an element of stability training. Kayaking provides an excellent upper body workout, focusing on your arms, back and shoulders. Exertion levels for both sports can vary from intense, depending on how hard you paddle, to downright leisurely. FYI… it’s easier to pack (and conceal) a book and a bag of chips in a kayak versus a SUP.

Speed

Kayaks are designed for efficient gliding through the water, allowing you to cover more distance in less time. Stand-up paddle boarding, though not generally as quick, allows for a pace that’s perfect for taking in the surrounding scenery and enjoying a more relaxed experience on the water.

Learning Curve

Both SUP and kayaking have relatively easy entry points, but do require some degree of technique. You may need a bit more practice to find your balance (tell me about it) and develop a comfortable stance on your SUP.

“SUP has taken the world by storm for very good reason,” says Maria Gerow from Burlington Beach Rentals. “It offers a unique vantage point to see into the waters below you and allows you to explore almost any waterway with ease.”

Balance is less of a concern when kayaking, making it more accessible for beginners. Inflatable kayaks, though more affordable and easier to store and transport, can be more sluggish in the water and trickier to handle than hard kayaks.

Cost

SUPs and kayaks can vary in price, depending on the quality and features. Both sports offer rental options, which can be a more affordable way to “test the waters” before purchasing your own equipment.

“With all things water, have fun, but be safe,” says AJ Leeming, senior manager, programs & services Conservation Halton. “Have a plan, always tell someone you’re going out, and have the proper equipment to do so safely so you can do it all again another day.”

Note to self:

Order one of those buoyant sunglass holder neck-straps and a waterproof phone pouch.

Local Spots

Oakville
Coronation Park, Busby Park, Bronte Public Boat Launch and Shipyard Park Boat Ramp are popular launching locations, with SUP rentals available nearby at Oakville-based Paddle Sport Performance.

Burlington
Launch from Spencer Smith or Lasalle Park, or join the local paddle club and take out a high quality SUP on Burlington Beach.

Port Credit
Port Credit Marina and the waterfront parks along Lakeshore Road are popular, with SUP and kayak rentals at Paddle On and Port Credit Adventure Rentals nearby.

Halton Conservation Areas
Kelso offers kayak and SUP rentals. Area 8 offers canoe and kayak rentals that include a life jacket and safety kit. Bring your own kayak or SUP to launch at Mountsberg Dam.

By Lisa Thornbury

Local Links

Burlington Beach Rentals

Burlington Beach Rentals

Conservation Halton Boating

Conservation Halton Boating

Paddle Sport Performance, Oakville
pspsupspecialists.com

Sail, Burlington
sail.ca

MEC, Burlington
MEC.ca

Decathlon, Burlington
decathlon.ca

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Dog Days of Summer: The Family Pooch Brings Us Joy – Plus So Much More

July 10, 2023 No Comments

They might be known as man’s best friend, but there are many reasons dogs make great pets for all members of the family.

The Ultimate Playmate

Every child at some point probably begs for a dog. While parents may be worried about the added responsibility and expense, a dog can provide your child with endless hours of entertainment and companionship. Want to keep the kids away from screens? Taking their favourite playmate to the park for a game of fetch may just be the way.

Teach Responsibility

Taking care of a pet is a simple way to teach children the concept of responsibility – and it’s a lot more fun than washing dishes. Basic tasks, such as feeding the dog or giving the dog a bath, can help instill a sense of caring for another living being and reinforces the importance of being reliable.

Lower Stress

A dog can actually put your family in a better mood. Studies have shown dogs can have a calming effect on humans by reducing levels of cortisol (the hormone that makes us feel stressed) and by increasing oxytocin (the feel-good hormone). Dogs provide companionship to kids which can help lower anxiety. This is especially valuable to those who struggle socially with human peers.

Keep Your Family Active

Having a family pup helps improve your family’s health. All those walks around the block mean it’s not just your dog getting exercise, but you too! Just 30 minutes of walking every day can improve your cardiovascular fitness and reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

The best perk of all is the unconditional love and loyalty our dogs give us. Is it any wonder we consider them a part of the family?

Cool pups

“Dogs need to have access to shade and cool, fresh water when they are spending time outside in the summer,” says Dr. Dianna Stewart, DVM at Orchard Animal Hospital in Burlington. If your dog is panting excessively with a very wide, flat tongue hanging out that could be a sign of overheating. If overheating worsens, your dog could become weak or unsteady on their feet. Their gums may turn bright red or even bluish purple.

If your pet is exhibiting these symptoms, remove them from the heat and offer cool water immediately. “You do not want to cool too quickly, so avoid very cold water or ice,” says Stewart. For more serious symptoms of possible heat stroke such as collapse or loss of consciousness, see a veterinarian.

Prevention

Heartworm season is June to November, and preventing this potentially fatal disease is essential – especially if you spend a lot of time on trails and in fields. Flea and tick prevention is recommended year-round, but especially from spring to fall.

Hot Paws

Walking on hot pavement can cause paws to burn. If the sidewalk is hot to the touch, Stewart recommends walking on grass or trails. “If a dog’s paws are getting too hot, they often start ‘dancing’ and trying to pick their feet up as they walk,” she says. Check your pup’s feet for burns which usually look raw and may bleed.

Grooming

Certain breeds may require more grooming in the summer. “Shedding dogs may benefit from a thorough de-shedding groom at the beginning of the summer to fully remove that dense winter undercoat,” says Stewart. Dogs that are clipped regularly may enjoy being clipped short, but Stewart says not too short – skin exposure may increase the risk of sunburns.

By Lisa Evans

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How Does Your Family Grow? Easy Tips to Grow A Vegetable Garden With Your Kids

June 16, 2023 No Comments

Kids love to play in the dirt. Caring for a garden can turn playtime into a fun learning experience and, psst, it may even help you sneak veggies into their diet.

Check out the many benefits of making gardening your family’s new hobby.

Appreciation of where food comes from

Growing a garden not only helps kids connect with nature, but introduces them to sustainable living. “Seeing that growing fruits and vegetables can have challenges, such as weather, animals and insects, makes us more aware of the effort that farmers put into producing the products that fill the produce aisles in the grocery store,” says Valerie Kristjanson at Connon in Waterdown. Kids may be less inclined to let food go to waste, as a result.

An outdoor science classroom

While kids are digging in the dirt, they learn about weather, soil, plant classification and how food grows. It’s a safe way to experiment (without worries about kitchen explosions) and see the “fruits” of their labour.

If they grow it, they will eat it

Looking for a way to encourage your kids to eat their greens? A garden might be your gateway. Cutting herbs or plucking string beans are both easy ways to get kids to help in the kitchen. “Harvesting your salad for dinner is rewarding and a good way to involve kids in the meal prep and, hopefully, encourage them to want to eat what they’ve grown,” says Kristjanson.

Watch your patience grow

Patience is a virtue, but not an easy skill to develop in this age of video streaming and instant messaging. Gardening provides an opportunity for kids to exercise their patience muscle as they wait for seedlings to mature and bear fruit. Crops take time to harvest; just make sure you involve them in the garden’s progress or they’ll lose interest.

Kid-friendly plants to grow

Some plants are more challenging than others. When gardening with kids, you’ll want to choose plants that are relatively low maintenance and yield a crop quickly. To save time, consider buying seedlings at your local garden centre.

Beans and peas

These kid-friendly vegetables are delicious and quick-growing. Beans and peas emerge from the soil after about a week of planting from seed and are ready to harvest in about six weeks.

Lettuce

Lettuce grows quickly and allows for planting more than one crop per season. You may even get your kids to enjoy eating a salad! Just be sure to wash thoroughly, bugs love to nestle in the leaves.

Carrots

This simple crop is one that most kids love to eat. They take around 60 days to germinate but are easy to grow from seed.

Cherry tomatoes

A kid-favourite for their size and sweetness, cherry tomatoes are easy to grow as long as they are given lots of sun and water. Consider buying seedlings to cut kids’ waiting time.

Sunflowers

These larger-than-life flowers are easy to grow and have great appeal for kids.“It’s fun for kids to stand beside them and watch them get taller,” says Samantha Harvey, manager at Terra Burlington.

Gardening tips for kids

Keep it simple. A small raised bed or a few potted plants in a sunny spot is all you need to get started. You may even want to give your child one pot to take care of to foster responsibility.

Skip the plastic tools. Give kids real metal tools and kid-sized gloves so they can work effectively. Having real tools acknowledges the work they’re doing and helps build independence.

Kids can enjoy the benefits of gardening at any age. This summer, consider nurturing a lifelong appreciation for nature, fresh veggies, and (if you’re lucky) cooking with a family garden.

By Lisa Evans

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What’s On this Summer in Downtown Oakville: Your Guide to Fun, Food and Fabulousness

June 12, 2023 No Comments

The sun is shining, the weather is warm and Downtown Oakville has everything you need to create lasting memories this summer! Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there are endless opportunities to explore this lakeside gem. Experience the charming downtown vibe and its lineup of new businesses, outdoor events and picturesque patios. Always buzzing with activity, this is the place you’ll want to visit, time and again this sunny season. So, get ready to sizzle this summer, Downtown Oakville style!

Upcoming summer events (you won’t want to miss)

Downtown Oakville’s summer schedule is packed with events every weekend. Mark your calendars to avoid missing your favourites (some require pre-registration).

For fitness enthusiasts

Summer Sweat should be on your radar. This open-air fitness series, led by health and wellness experts from Downtown Oakville, offers free workouts for the mind and body in Towne Square every Saturday in June and July.

For a schedule of classes, visit oakvilledowntown.com/summer-sweat

For music lovers

Enjoy live performances every weekend in Towne Square. Tap your toes to Friday Night Jazz, 7–9 p.m. or the TD Summer Music Series every Saturday and Sunday at 3–7 p.m., showcasing various musical genres brought to life by a diverse range of talented musicians.

For families

Look out for pop-up events that offer one-of-a-kind interactive experiences to entertain the whole family.

Celebrate Canada Day on July 1
Starting at 3 p.m. at Towne Square with Canadiana music, a patriotic photo pop-up and giveaways to the first 250 visitors.
Get sweet on International Ice Cream Day on July 16
In Towne Square. Grab a free gelato at 11 a.m. courtesy of Nyla’s Room (while supplies last).
Starting August 12, explore Los Trompos
An immersive and interactive art exhibit featuring five larger-than-life, three-dimensional spinning tops. For the young and young-at-heart, this exhibit gives new meaning to the art of play.

To plan ahead and stay up-to-date on what’s happening downtown, visit the Downtown Oakville Community Calendar at
oakvilledowntown.com/community-calendar

New Downtown Oakville Business Openings

Downtown Oakville is thrilled to welcome many new vibrant businesses. The summer is an ideal time to try one (or all) of the latest additions to the culinary scene.

Nadège Patisserie

Indulge in delicious pastries at this new patisserie by fourth-generation French pastry chef Nadège Nourian. A game-changer in Toronto’s pastry scene, this latest Oakville boutique is already a favourite among many.

Avani Rolls & Bowls

If you want to experiment with Indian cuisine, this fast-casual restaurant can be a good start. Whipped up with fresh ingredients, its signature curries or rolls are worth a try.

Mercato Sociale Italian Market

For the days you crave traditionally prepared Sicilian food, sandwiches or salads or look for fresh pasta, lunches, meals to go, or even pantry items to make an Italian meal at home, this market is your saviour.

Oakberry

New to the neighbourhood, it offers a healthy fast food option with delicious açai bowls and smoothies. The açai used is 100% natural, and the recipes are free of preservatives, dyes, trans fats and cholesterol.

Mochi Girls

For some sweet goodness on a dry summer day, you must try signature donuts like strawberry cheesecake, churro, and earl grey at this gourmet Japanese donut shop. You can just walk in to try their in-house daily specials.

Kung Fu Tea

If you are a fan of Boba tea, you must pop by this latest spot featuring freshly brewed tea. They have all kinds of toppings – bubbles, milk cap, beans and jellies – you just name it!

Hōseki Sushi

If sushi is more your style, this fine dining restaurant will soon serve a daily selection of 25 menu items made with freshly prepared seafood imported directly from Japan. (Coming Soon!)

Fresh Kitchen and Juice Bar

To satiate your vegan palate, this popular spot from Toronto is opening its Lakeshore Road outlet this summer, offering plant-based and healthier options. (Coming Soon!)

Maverick’s Donuts

Soon, you’ll experience the “Maverick” of donuts at this store, where gourmet flavours will transport your taste buds to new heights and make the summer sweeter. (Coming Soon!)

Check out the complete listing at oakvilledowntown.com and follow @oakvilledowntown to stay in-the-know on the latest openings.

Al fresco dining is back with 30+ Downtown Oakville patios

From brunch with friends to date night, Downtown Oakville’s collection of idyllic patios offers the perfect setting for outdoor dining. Take your pick from chic, trendy spots to intimate and cozy nooks. The downtown has a patio that caters to every mood and occasion. Check out the Downtown Patio Guide at oakvilledowntown.com/patio-guide for a complete listing.

Ready, set, summer!

With a menu of tempting events, budding new businesses, and stunning patios, Downtown Oakville promises an unforgettable summer experience. Whatever your preferences, this bustling downtown hub has something for everyone. It’s time to catch the summer vibe, gather your friends or loved ones and make your way to Downtown Oakville. You’ll surely be back for seconds!

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Fun On The Farm: Fall Activities For The Family

October 7, 2022 No Comments

The hot sunny days of summer may be over, but the crisp cool air and vibrant fall colours make the perfect combination for family fun at the farm. Whether you’re picking your own pumpkin or apples, getting lost in a corn maze, petting a goat, or taking a hay ride, Halton region’s farms have tons of fun activities in store for the whole family.

Andrew’s Farm Market & Winery

9365 10 Side Road, Milton | andrewsscenicacres.com

This pick-your-own farm is a great place to get your apples and pumpkins this fall, but aside from the produce, it’s an excellent destination for family fun. From peaceful walking trails to wagon rides, playgrounds, farm animals, straw mountain climbs, and miniature straw mazes, the kids may never want to leave. Don’t forget to pick up a yummy pie for dessert at the Farm Store.

The Apple Orchard

1668 Highway 6, Hamilton | theappleorchard.ca

With over 10,000 apple and pear trees, The Apple Orchard is a great place to explore the beautiful agriculture of Southern Ontario. This farm offers way more than pick your own fruit. There are wagon rides, farm animals, a corn maze, retired tractors for kids to sit on, walking trails, a corn pit, and who can resist a candy apple and sweet apple cider?

Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm

9528 Regional Road 25, Milton | chudleighs.com

A full day of fall fun awaits at Chudleigh’s. Enjoy a scenic tractor ride, visit the farm yard’s pigs, goats, sheep, alpaca, and other animals, and enjoy the vast slides and hay bale jumps in the play area. Or, for some quiet family time, enjoy the scenic nature trail. Plus, there is an incredible outdoor kitchen featuring barnboard pizza’s, hard cider, and so much more. This farm requires pre-booking. You can reserve a 3-hour timeslot on the farm’s website.

Bronte Creek Provincial Park Playbarn

1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville | brontecreek.org

Located in Bronte Creek Provincial Park, this 150-year-old barn has been transformed into a play loft for kids to climb, jump and burn off some energy. The play barn is located across from the Nature Centre, which features interactive exhibits, live reptiles, hands-on displays, and even costumes. Gnome Road is also located nearby, where you’ll find little wooden fairy houses along a stroller-friendly path. Bronte Creek is home to many animals, including chickens, sheep, goats, cows, and horses. Staff often hold informative workshops where kids can learn how to milk a cow or groom a horse. Check with the park for details.

Hanes Corn Maze

1001 Highway 5 West, Dundas | thehanescornmaze.com

You can easily spend an entire day in this place! Take a trek through Canada’s largest corn maze – over 20 acres of cornfields shaped into a new challenging maze each year. Collect clues at various checkpoints to solve the puzzle as you make your way through the maze. Younger kids will love running through the maze to find the checkpoints, and older ones will enjoy decoding the clues at the end to win a prize. Visit the farm animals on your way to the farmland play area full of swings, slides, a sandbox full of diggers, and even pedal carts. Bring your lunch and camp out at a picnic table while the kids play. Don’t forget to visit their delicious bakery on your way out.

Springridge Farm

7256 Bell School Line, Milton | springridgefarm.com

Springridge Farm is packed full of fun farm adventures for younger kids. A newly renovated giant sandbox filled with diggers and buckets will surely be a hit with the little ones. Red Muskoka chairs surround the sandbox for adults to lounge in while the kids play. The farm yard includes tube slides, a spider web climber, farm animals, antique tractors, pedal tractors, farm hoppers, a singing chicken show, and a wagon ride. During Harvest Weekends (Sept 17th – Oct 30th), explore the 5-Acre Corn Trail (special admission prices apply). Springridge also serves delicious baked goodies and has a marketplace with country-chic home decor and gifts.

By Lisa Evans

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Taking Fun to New Heights

July 22, 2022 No Comments

If you’re afraid of heights, skip ahead a couple of pages. For those who find heights thrilling, this is for you! From rock climbing to sky diving and ziplining, our region has all kinds of activities that take fun to new heights. Grab your bucket list and check off these adventures of a lifetime.

Rock Climbing

We may not have the Rocky Mountains in our backyard, but Halton region does have some pretty stellar indoor rock-climbing facilities that offer several types of climbing for all experience and age levels.

Climbers Rock, Burlington (https://www.climbersrock.com)

This indoor climbing gym offers three types of climbing: bouldering (climbing on short walls without ropes and harnesses), Top Rope (climbing tall walls with a rope and harness as security), and Lead for experienced climbers who provide their own ropes and grigris. Climbers Rock offers youth programs as well as a summer camp.

Gravity Climbing Gym, Hamilton (https://www.gravityclimbinggym.com/)

This indoor climbing gym offers climbs for adults and kids starting at age five. This facility offers 57 separately roped climbs. The tallest routes are 50’ high. They also have a huge 100’ long bouldering area.

Both indoor climbing gyms offer day passes as well as membership options.

Kids Adventures

Treetop Trekking Hamilton – https://treetoptrekking.com/park/hamilton/

Kids will love tapping into their inner Tarzan at this adventure park high in the sky. Treetop Trekking offers various adventure courses for all ages and abilities.

Their Treewalk Village is for kids of all ages and allows them to climb from tree house to tree house through tall hammocks, nets, and wood bridges, then descend to the ground on slides.

The Discovery Kids Course for ages 5+ lets kids test their balance on wood bridges, balance logs, net walkways, and mini zip lines all suspended three to five feet above the ground.

The Zipline and Aerial Game Trek for ages 9+ offers the opportunity to swing from tree to tree on a suspended bridge, swinging log, cable traverse, or zipline. Participants are outfitted with a harness and helmet as they climb and zip through the forest canopy.

Hot Air Ballooning

Whether you’re looking for a romantic adventure in the sky, or just want to soar above the trees, a hot air balloon ride might be for you.

Skyward Balloons, Kitchener/Waterloo – https://skywardballoons.com

Skyward Balloons offers riders a bird’s eye view of the gorgeous Kitchener-Waterloo landscape while floating at 500 – 3,000 feet over forests, ponds, and lakes. Enjoy a sparkling beverage celebration upon your landing, a ballooning tradition. Skyward Balloons offers individual rides as well as romantic rides for couples; many a proposal has happened in these balloons!

Skydiving

If sky diving is on your bucket list, check out these locations for your sky-high adventure.

Skydive Swoop, Dundas – https://www.skydiveswoop.ca

This skydive school offers a learn-to-skydive program as well as a tandem skydive. The tandem jump provides first-time skydivers and bucket-listers with the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. In a tandem jump, both the student and instructor are attached to the same parachute system, meaning training is minimal and done on the same day as your jump. If you become addicted and want to jump on your own, Skydive Swoop offers a Progressive Free Fall Course where you can learn to skydive independently.

If you want to get the feeling of falling from the sky without actually jumping from a plane, IFly World, Oakville (https://iflyworld.ca) offers indoor sky diving where you can enjoy the adrenaline-pumping experience of a freefall without a parachute; just you in a wind tunnel flying on a cushion of air.

With so many exciting options to choose from, is this YOUR summer to fly high?

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Let’s Get Cookin’

July 6, 2022 No Comments

Summer’s here, and it’s time to fire up the grill—but don’t stop there. From smokers to pizza ovens and everything in between, there are plenty of great options for drool-worthy outdoor cooking all summer long.

Where there’s smoke, there’s fire

Everyone who’s ever turned on the Food Network knows that smokers are popular at the moment, and just about any homeowner with a backyard has had the perennial “gas or charcoal” debate about barbeques. So, where do you begin if you’re new to outdoor cooking?

We feel that the best backyard cooking method is the one you enjoy most — try a few options, figure out what you like best and get ready for some incredible dinners on the deck or patio.

“This summer, we’re seeing a lot of people venture out of the traditional gas barbeque,” explains Ashley Côté of BBQs Galore. “They want an authentic smokey flavour, so they’re looking at getting charcoal barbeques. These are available in many sizes, from table-top to very, very large.”

And if old school isn’t your thing, or a large charcoal grill feels too intimidating? Start with baby steps. “Charcoal has a bit of a learning curve, so some people have also taken an interest in Pellet Smokers. Pellet Smokers have been a trending category in the barbeque world for a few years now,” says Côté. “They’re basically a ‘set it and forget it’ solution—until you need to refill your pellets or take your food out — and many connect with apps where you can monitor your grill from your phone.”

Other in-demand products include pizza ovens (BBQs Galore carries the Alfa One Wood Fired Pizza Oven, among other options) and high-end backyard smokers like the Big Green Egg.

Create an outdoor dining space

Once you’ve set up your grill area or outdoor kitchen, it’s time to create a comfortable, relaxing outdoor dining space that everyone can enjoy. BBQs Galore has high-quality patio heaters, fireplaces, and more, and Oakville Home Leisure has an amazing selection of patio furniture and accessories.

When setting up your dining space, consider things like multiple seating options (for example, a table and chairs plus a conversation area, Muskoka chairs, or a hammock) and items that provide privacy and shade. You’ll also want to consider various lighting options (built-in, patio, or string lights) as well as a heat source such as a fire pit or patio heater. You may also want a small fridge or even an outdoor bar for all those fancy summer cocktails. Finally, add both functional and decorative touches like colourful textiles, outdoor glassware and serving dishes, stylish planters, and more. Make it your own — your yard is an extension of your home, after all!

Cheers to summer

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if you’re flipping burgers on a classic charcoal grill or experimenting with something trendy and new — the point is to make the most of every beautiful, sunny day. As Côté notes, anything goes when you cook outdoors — just have fun. “We honestly are a fan of both classic grilling and new techniques and encourage people to get experimental when it comes to the grill!”

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Show Yourself a Little Love – It’s Solo Date Days!

July 6, 2022 No Comments

The Burlington Downtown Business Association (BDBA) is preparing to launch its exciting new Solo Date Days digital passport program.

The Solo Date Days pass takes you through Burlington Downtown on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation. Stop in at 11 different downtown businesses and enjoy some shopping and pampering while discovering and supporting local.

The pass is free to sign up for and easy to use. Once you have signed up for your pass, you will receive an email or text notification to your phone, allowing you to easily save the pass to your phones home screen. Simply open the pass when visiting a participating business to check-in and start your experience! Participating businesses include retail businesses, personal and wellness services, casual dining and more.

Contest prizing is available to those participating in this pass. The first user to complete all 11 check-ins and / or redemptions will win a $100.00 Burlington Downtown GIFT CARD. The second and third users to complete all 11 check-ins and / or redemptions will win a $25.00 Burlington Downtown GIFT CARD each.

“The Solo Date Days pass encourages residents and visitors alike to enjoy some pampering and self-love while supporting downtown businesses,” says Alison Policicchio, Marketing Manager for the BDBA, adding “whether you’re ending a long week, getting ready to start a new one, or just looking for some quiet personal time, there is a stop on this pass for everyone. You get all the feel-good vibes while making a powerful impact in your community, and that’s really something.”

The Solo Date Days pass will run from July 4th, 2022 to August 7th, 2022. Sign up today for free at: https://burlingtondowntown.ca/the-solo-date-days-pass-is-here/

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Geocaching – The Ultimate Scavenger Hunt

April 6, 2022 No Comments

One of the most positive spinoffs of the pandemic has been the increase in the number of people hitting the trails. There’s a fun activity identified as the world’s most giant scavenger hunt for those who want to add another dimension to their hikes. It’s called geocaching.

What is geocaching?

Geocaching is an outdoor treasure-hunting activity that uses GPS-enabled devices to find a particular spot. Those spots can be in parks, on trails, or anywhere around your town or city.

The goal is to lead you to a spot where one of three things can happen; you may come upon a beautiful view or a special happening or find something special hidden in the cache. Not knowing what you’ll find is part of the fun.

There are more than three million caches situated worldwide and an estimated 6,438 geocaches hidden around the Hamilton area alone. There are only three rules to geocaching; take something from the cache, leave something in the cache, and write about it in a logbook.

How do you start?

You can start your scavenger hunt by creating an account through a geocaching website like Geocaching.com or Conservation Halton. There is also an app called Geocaching®, where you can see a map of geocaches near where you live.

You then use the app to locate the cache. Caches should not be placed in an area that could put the person searching in danger.

Conservation Halton has some great spots for geocaching enthusiasts. You can also visit Geocaching.com to track caches in Oakville and Burlington, including some in Bronte Creek and even your own neighbourhood.

What is in a typical cache?

The most common items in caches are toy soldiers, coins, jewelry, keychains, maps, books, CDs, and rain ponchos. The cache itself can be a waterproof bucket that’s big enough to hold the logbook and other objects. Caches range in size from tiny to multi-caches and can include mystery caches that involve puzzle solutions. This is what turns the experience into a treasure hunt.

What do I do when I find a cache?

Hidden inside the cache is a logbook and sometimes a pen or pencil. It’s essential to bring your own pen in case there isn’t one. Once you find it, sign in (with your established code name), date the logbook, then put the geocache back where you found it and log your experience online. You can also include information on nearby attractions, coordinates to other caches, or even a funny joke in the logbook.

How do I place my own cache?

If you want to put a cache somewhere on land that is part of Conservation Halton, there are some basic rules. You must first obtain approval from Geocaching.com and have a permit granted by Conservation Halton. Then you must include an explanation of the Geocaching activity in the cache container.

Putting your items in a clear plastic bag is recommended to protect them. When deciding where to place the cache, it’s important to note that no digging is allowed. That means you cannot disturb any wildlife habitat or hammer any screws or nails into trees.

The cache owner must monitor the site monthly and make sure the contents are still there. No webcams are allowed as it impedes an individual’s right to privacy.

Geocaching can be a fun way to learn about the environment, and it can teach your kids about nature and add a surprise element to your hikes.

Local Link

Conservation Halton: Conservationhalton.ca

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Icy Conditions Make for Warm Memories: Ice Fishing Local Waters

January 31, 2022 No Comments

The winter months can feel pretty long – especially if it’s a winter heavy with snow. Thankfully, our landscape allows for endless winter adventure. You can hit the slopes for downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Kelso Conservation Area, or venture to Bronte Creek Provincial Park to enjoy a pristine cross-country ski. Then, there are our lakes and waterways. When frozen over, they serve as the perfect setting for any angler to drop their line. Fishing doesn’t have to stop when the cold weather rolls in. In fact, ice fishing is perfect for both avid anglers and families alike.

Are you ready to cast into the cold waters? Fifty Point Conservation, Valens Lake Conservation, and Binbrook Conservation in Hamilton all offer ice fishing when the conditions allow. However, the conservation authority doesn’t supply ice huts, equipment, or bait. If you’re looking for a full-service ice fishing experience, you may want to venture just a little bit further from the city.

Sarah Paireo from Simcoe Ice Fishing in Lefroy (Innisfil) says, “Typically, our bay freezes over in January, but the timing is variable. We wait for a solid 4-6 inches of ice before it’s safe to head out.” Generally, you can head out onto the lake as soon as the ice is frozen and thick enough – it all depends on the weather. There are several factors that determine ice thickness—the type of water, location, air temperature, water temperature, water depth, the size of the water body, and the presence of underwater springs or currents.

Summer Dream Ice Fishing in Orillia has been fishing Lake Couchiching for over 38 years. They also have heated ice huts and are conveniently located near Elwood Epps Fishing Store where you can obtain everything for your fishing needs (including a fishing license which is required for everyone between the ages of 18 and 65). While the huts are warm, Summer Dream says, “Ice fishing is a winter sport so you will need to dress accordingly in warm outdoor clothing, including boots, mitts, and a hat.” However, Sarah from Simcoe Ice Fishing adds, “Hut rentals are wonderful to provide a shelter with comfy padded benches, predrilled holes, minnows, and a cooking stove for those who want to prepare food.”

Elwood Epps in Orillia has everything you need when it comes to fishing gear. If you don’t want to use live bait, their Baby Guppy Ice Fishing bait mimics a live minnow. They also have an ice fishing line – which is actually different from the line you would use in the warmer months. The ice fishing line has a special compound to keep it from freezing to your rod. If you’re completely in the dark about the sport, the experts are ready to help. Debbie Martin from Summer Dream says, “For guests who have never experienced ice fishing we will teach you how to set up your fishing rod and the techniques on how to catch fish. For those who already know how to ice fish, we will guide you to where (hopefully) the best ice fishing spots are.”

As for what you can expect to pull out of the water – think big. Both Sarah and Debbie say ice fishing is the perfect time to pull out giant perch, pike, pickerel, and crappie.

Fish on!

Local Links:

Elwood Epps || Elwoodepps.com

Summer Dream Ice Fishing || Summerdreamicefishing.com

Simcoe Ice Fishing || Simcoeicefishing.com

Adam Goy Fishing || Goyfishing.com

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