Five Ways to Spend a Weekend Outside Without Going Far
A great outdoor weekend does not need a long drive or special gear. It needs a plan, a bag and a reason to step out the door.
There is a common idea that a proper outdoor weekend means a long drive, a full tank of gas and a trunk full of equipment. Sometimes it does. But most Canadians live within reach of parks, trails, rivers and lakes that are easy to get to and rarely explored properly. Here are five simple ways to spend a weekend outside without going far.
1. Follow an urban trail end to end
Most Canadian cities have multi-use pathways that follow rivers, ravines, old rail lines or shorelines. Many people use a short piece of one on their daily walk but never follow it from start to finish. Choose a trail, look up a map from your municipality, and make a day of walking or cycling it. Pack water, a snack and a light layer, and plan how you will get home if it is a one-way route.
Examples include river valley trails in Edmonton and Calgary, the Meewasin Trail along the river in Saskatoon, ravine trails in Toronto and rail trails in many parts of the country. Check trail conditions and closures before you go.
2. Spend an afternoon by the water
A lake, river or beach within an hour of home can feel like a small holiday. Bring a blanket, a book and something to eat, and give yourself permission to do very little. If you plan to swim, look for designated swimming areas and check posted water quality advisories, which many municipalities and health authorities publish online during the summer season.
3. Ride a route you have never ridden
Cycling turns familiar places into new ones because you can cover more ground while still noticing details. Look up your city's bike network map and pick a protected lane or quiet street route to a neighbourhood you rarely visit. Many cities have bike share systems for people who do not own a bike. Wear a helmet, carry lights if you will be out near dusk, and follow local rules of the road.
4. Have a proper park picnic
A picnic sounds simple, and that is the point. Choose a park you have not spent time in, pick up food from a local bakery or market on the way, and bring a ball, a frisbee or a deck of cards. Many larger parks have picnic tables, shelters and washrooms; some require permits for large groups or barbecues. Take everything you bring back out with you.
5. Get up early once
One early morning outside can change the feel of an entire weekend. Watch the sunrise from a hill, a pier or a nearby beach. Walk a trail before it gets busy. Listen for birds. In summer, mornings are cooler and quieter; in winter, a sunrise walk on fresh snow is one of the best free experiences the country has to offer.
Plan for the season
- Spring: Trails can be muddy and wet. Waterproof footwear helps, and staying on the path protects plants.
- Summer: Bring water, sun protection and insect repellent. Check for heat warnings and fire restrictions.
- Autumn: Days shorten quickly. Know when sunset is and carry a light.
- Winter: Dress in layers, cover exposed skin in the cold and wind, and never go onto ice unless it is officially marked as safe.
The best outdoor weekend is the one you actually take. Start close to home, and keep it simple.
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