Issue #26 - Ottawa Outdoors Magazine

outdoors ottawa

Your guide to the local outdoor adventure scene

Ottawa, Ottawa Valley, Gatineau, Quebec

Maybe you’re already a triathlete?

But you just haven’t realized it

Mountain bike orienteering The newest “thinking sport”

Sculling on the Ottawa River Get started

Cycling with kids Share that path

Where to find the honeys and hunks?

Cupid and Ottawa’s outdoor scene

Free

Summer/fall 2010

outdoors ottawa

Maybe you’re already a triathlete

Green camping

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~ Features

~ Articles

5 Maybe you’re already a triathlete 6 Mountain bike orienteering – the newest “thinking sport” 8 Sculling on the Ottawa River 10 Green camping is an idea whose time has come 12 Chi Running 14 The ‘right’ boot choice depends on where you’re hiking 18 Whitewater draws families to the Madawaska 20 Share that Path 22 If you’re lost, it’s not hopeless 24 Where to find Ottawa-Gatineau’s outdoors honeys and hunks 25 The outdoors is hinting – slow down!

32 Calabogie Peaks Resort 41 Backpacking fundamentals

4 4 17 30 34 37 38

Families on the Madawaska

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Cover Photo: corolanty.istockphoto.com

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

SUMMER/FALL 2010

Publisher’s Letter Contest announcement Featured Boat Cool Clothing Hot Clothing Brome-Mississquoi Wine Route Featured Artist: Shelley Leach The Ottawa Valley Outdoor Adventure List 40 Event Calendar 44 The Back Pages

Now you can get each issue e-mailed direct to your inbox!

Sculling on the Ottawa River

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Cool Gear Hot Clothing 30

it Readne!

onli

It’s TOTALLY FREE too! There’s loads of info, videos and more about the local outdoor adventure scene, all delivered in this extremely cool animated version.

Just go to www.OttawaOutdoors.ca to sign-up at the top right of the homepage and we'll send you a digital version of the print issue. ottawa outdoors 3

PUBLISHER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: DAVE BROWN EDITOR: ROGER BIRD CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Geordie McConnell, Sheila Ascroft, Craig Macartney, Mike Stashin, Kathleen Wilker, Gerry Godsoe, Allen Macartney CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Manuel Fortado, Clovis Durand, istockphoto, corolanty.istockphoto.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Dave Brown, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Ottawa Outdoors Magazine is an independent publication published seasonally every four months and distributed FREE at sports stores all over the region, as well as at 100 other locations.

E-mail: Advertising@OttawaOutdoors.ca Tel: 613-860-8687 or 888-228-2918 Fax: 613-860-8687 CONTRIBUTIONS Ottawa Outdoors Magazine welcomes story and photo contributions. All photos should ideally be shot with a high-resolution digital camera, but otherwise scanned at 300dpi resolution and burned onto a CD-ROM or e-mailed. No unsolicited contributions will be returned unless accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Publisher may publish any and all communications with Ottawa Outdoors magazine, and may edit for clarity and style.

Indexed in the Canadian Periodical Index ISSN No. 1204-69556. © Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any materials published in Ottawa Outdoors Magazine is expressly forbidden without consent of the publisher unless otherwise agreed between partners. Printed in Canada.

ENVIRONMENTAL PARTNERSHIPS Ottawa Outdoors Magazine aligns with local and international environmental groups. Recently Ottawa Outdoors Magazine joined and supports the following groups. We encourage you to do the same.

Leave No Trace Canada is a national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, research and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our wilderness areas. www.leavenotrace.ca One Percent for the Planet is a rapidly growing network of companies that give at least one per cent of their annual sales to environmental causes. Their commitment provides vital resources and awareness to organizations that work to keep us on a sustainable path. 1%FTP provides members with a straightforward and powerful way to become part of the solution. We are proud supporters of One Percent as a movement as well as their members which include Mountain Equipment Co-op and more than 20 other businesses across Canada. www.onepercentfortheplanet.org

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Publisher’s Letter This summer and fall weather forecast and Ottawa Outdoors Mag goes MONTHLY! I can’t get over the weather we’ve been having. It started off with an extremely warm winter and then an even warmer spring and summer. Who knows why, but I’m not complaining. Just be sure to stay safe out there, wear lots of sunblock and enjoying swimming in the cool water.

A few of the “coolest” things you can do in this heat include: caving at Lusk Caves; whitewater rafting at any of the regional spots; or go swimming at any of the highly-rated safe-for-swimming locations in Gatineau.

Do any or all of the above and e-mail us about your experience and we’ll publish it.

The biggest news I’d like to share with you is to encourage you to login with a registered username and password on our website. Why? Because now you’ll be able to get Ottawa Outdoors Magazine every month direct to your e-mail in-box! That’s correct. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading the magazine online with that cool page-flipping experience. The digital issues offer more photos, videos and much, much more. This move makes us a monthly magazine, bringing your extremely current articles, and event information on a timely, regular basis. Login and you’ll be all set, 12 months per year.

As to the rest of this issue, read articles on how you’re possibly already a triathlete; the craze of mountain bike orienteering; all you wanted to know about sculling on the Ottawa; safe bicycle tips for you and your wee one; backpacking fundamentals, and tons more!

Until our September digital issue, stay cool out there; okay?

Dave Brown, Publisher, Editor-in-chief

Enter the Camping Grill Contest

and win this great item

It’s that time again.

We’ll be announcing the winner of the bike and kayak from the sprinig issue draw on our website shortly.

To win this item, just email: pickme@ottawaoutdoors.ca for further instructions.

Draw is Sept 15th!

Enter today!

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who would like to contribute?

To submit articles or photos, all you have to do is e-mail us at: Editor@OttawaOutdoors.ca.

Maybe you’re already a triathlete But you just haven’t realized it

By Geordie McConnell

H

ammering up the legendary Mill Street climb, the break-away of cyclists are hoping they still have enough in the tank to make it to the finish.

Off their bikes and onto the run, heavy legs slowly find the goal pace till at last they dive into the cool water and swim towards the raft in the middle of the river. There, the endurance test is complete and these eight-year-olds can now enjoy playing around in the sun counting the remaining days of summer vacation.

Many of us share memories such as this. We didn’t call ourselves “Triathletes,” we called ourselves kids. In 1974, some adults in California decided to do the same thing over set distances and click a stop watch at the start. That’s when the term Triathlete was born.

If you have three hours a week for exercise, you can become a triathlete again and relive your childhood. I use the words “become a triathlete” because, apparently, it www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

holds some kind of cachet in our community or culture. At prerace talks, tongue firmly in cheek, I always recommend that when the athlete marks their body with their race number in magic marker (part of the strange culture that is triathlon) they put it on dark and thick so that it’s still visible at work the next week. When they then tell inquisitive co-workers that they were in a triathlon, their office cred skyrockets because the only association their colleagues have with triathlon is the Hawaii Ironman; they don’t know about the shorter stuff. There are triathlons that feature distances as short as a 100-metre swim, 10-kilometre bike and 2.5-kilometre walk/run. For some, this is their Ironman, and that is the beauty of the sport. Triathlon offers a suitable challenge for a very wide range of individuals.

Finding the right race distance for you is a simple process. How much time each week do you have available for exercise while

maintaining a balanced lifestyle with family, friends, work and other priorities? If you can fit in 360 minutes of exercise a week, a Super Sprint or even sprint triathlon is within your reach, depending on your starting fitness. If you have 10 hours plus available each week, an Ironman is not out of the question.

Personally, I have five to six hours a week for exercise. I have done many Olympic distance triathlons but now find that the shorter Sprint distance is perfect for life with a young family, work and community involvement.

Life was very different for me back in 1997 though, and my lifestyle at that time supported my Ironman year.

Everyone can enjoy triathlon as part of their balanced lifestyle. To paraphrase a friend: Get in the best shape of your life, but keep your life in good shape at the same time. We did it when we were kids so let’s get out and play again this summer. «oo ~ Geordie McConnell is head coach of the Ottawa Triathlon Club

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Mountain bike orienteering – the newest “thinking sport”

BY SHEILA ASCROFT If your mountain bike skills are pretty good and you want to take it up a notch, just try reading a compass and mapping a route while you ride.

If that ignites your adrenalin, then it’s time to try Bike-O. You already may be familiar with Bike-O (bike orienteering) if you’ve ever seen or tried an adventure race.

Bike-O is often one of the rugged race’s components, and now it’s a spin-off, done as a sport on its own.

Bike-O (or MTB-O, or MTBO) are mountain bike orienteering – the latest of the orienteering disciplines to come to Canada, joining its older brethren, traditional orienteering on foot, which is now called Running-O. And yes, there’s Skiing-O and Snowshoeing-O. Rorry Harding of the Ottawa Orienteering Club (OOC) says that, “Bike-O events are very big in Europe, but just catching on here. We had a meet two years ago but it was not well publicized and not many came out. We’re hoping Ottawa is now ready for this.”

So, what is Bike-O? “This” is an endurance sport with a “thinking” component. You need to be good at handling harsh terrain, including steep slopes up and down.

But you have to combine the muscle with the mental agility to navigate – by compass and map – along the designated route with a maze of path and track intersections. The goal is to hit all the checkpoints and return to home base the quickest.

The challenge comes from interpreting the map information and deciding which is the best way to ride from one checkpoint to the next – at 6 ottawa

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speed. Unlike traditional orienteering, you stay on the trails – no bushwhacking for environmental reasons.

“It is easier to learn than regular orienteering as it is all on trails, so the map work is simpler,” says Harding, who competed in a Bike-O organized by the Caledon Navigators last year at a cross-country ski area near Caledon, Ont. “You don’t have to be able to recognize subtle contours or try to figure out which hill or swamp you are at.”

Bike skills are important – “How important depends on how technical the terrain,” he says. “Our June 13 meet was held at the Kanata Lakes area, which was quite technical.”

Usually, the course checkpoints or “controls” are marked with orange and white flags. They’re on a distinct feature, such as a trail junction, fence corner or hilltop. Competitors carry a control card to be punched at each checkpoint, or the timing may be electronic with your times recorded on a chip carried by the rider.

Bike-O courses vary from about six kilometres to more than 30 and, depending on the terrain, can be ridden by mountain bikers of any age. Meets often have separate classes by age and gender, and there’s a mix of team events.

Administered by the International Orienteering Federation, Bike-O started in the late 1980s at club level in countries where mountain biking was popular. By 1997, many countries had established national championships, and the first Bike-O World Championships were held in Fontainebleau, France in 2002.

Bike-O in Ottawa Harding say Bike-O’s was slow to start locally because organizers couldn’t afford the insurance to cover

Bike-O Equipment Obviously, to start with you need some mountain biking skills. You also have to know how to read a compass and map. Bike-O then asks you to read the map while riding and follow the correct route.

BIKE: Competitors use robust mountain bikes. For safety reasons, the organizer before the start checks the condition of the bike (e.g. brakes).

HELMET: A hard helmet is compulsory.

MAP: The map provided by the organizer can be a special mountain bike map, a ski orienteering map or an amended foot orienteering map.

COMPASS: The compass is attached to the competitor’s arm or to the map holder.

MAP HOLDER: This map case is attached to the bike to make it possible to view the map at high speed without stopping. It will also keep the map in good condition even if it rains or you fall in the mud. You can buy a map holder online from Axis Gear or get one with a rotating plate from Orienteer.com .

Harding suggests using a large binder clip as it works better rather than the elastic straps. He also says to “take a few seconds to refold your map after every control! It is very easy with the simple binder clip.”

DRINK and FOOD: Need will vary according to course length and personal effort. events, but this year the Canadian Orienteering Federation (COF) is offered insurance at a reasonable rate, and he was planning to use it for a Bike-O and Running-O meet in June. After that, www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

there may be another meet in the fall.

Bike-Os are best in an area with a network of trails so you have to stay on top of every junction “so orienteering skills are important.”

The equipment (see sidebar) is a bit different, with the compass presenting an awkward challenge. “You can’t ride and check your compass if it is on a string around your neck, and you can’t use a thumb compass as you need your thumb free to shift gears,” explains Harding, who lashes a compass to his arm when he competes.

If biking single track and fire roads while dealing with compass degrees and squiggly map lines sounds like fun, check out Ottawa Orienteering Club, which is also hosting the 2010 Canadian Orienteering Championships, August 15-22. «oo Bike-O links: www. ottawaoc.ca www.orienteringquebec.ca www.orienteering.ca

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ottawa outdoors 7

Sculling on the Ottawa River “The perfect blend of elegance and strength”

By Sheila Ascroft While the canoe may be a Canadian icon, it’s still hard to beat the grace and beauty of perfectly synchronized oars silently sweeping through the twilight on the river beneath the Parliament Buildings.

From May to October, scullers and rowers in singles, twos, fours or eights impress locals and tourists with their quiet power and speed.

“For me, it’s a Zen thing, the perfect blend of elegance and strength,” says John Boyd, rowing coach at the Ottawa New Edinburgh Club (ONEC). He has been rowing and sculling for 45 years and describes it like flying. “You’re barely touching the water, leaving two swirling holes in the water where the blades had been. You really have to experience it – it’s my daily awakening.”

And you can experience it. The Ottawa River is such a great place for boating that our nation’s capital boasts two historic boat clubs: the Ottawa Rowing Club (ORC) and the Ottawa New Edinburgh Club.

You don’t need any previous experience – as long as you can swim and are over 12 – you can take a “learn to row/scull” course at either club. While the rowing season runs from May to late October, the courses run until the end of August.

Ottawa Rowing Club The ORC, founded in 1867, is Canada’s oldest rowing club and has more than a thousand rowing members from beginners to national team athletes. Besides its learnto-row, youth summer camps, adult rowing league, recreational and competitive rowing, this year the ORC also has RowSpin classes and private instruction.

The club offers coaching support at practices, sculling, coxing and boat maintenance clinics, weekly mentoring to improve your skills, friendly racing events and many social activities.

Ottawa New Edinburgh Club The ONEC was established in 1883 and originally called the Ottawa Canoe Club on the Ottawa River. Its historic Queen Anne-style boathouse is one of only four still in existence in Canada. It’s a nonprofit, volunteer club with about 400 members offering adult lessons, day camps and club memberships in rowing, sailing and tennis.

Its ambition is to become “the foremost distance sculling specialists in Canada and to be a friendly recreational, touring, and distance sculling club offering excellent training,”

Scull? Row? Before too much confusion sets in, some definitions. “Sculling” means rowing with two oars, one in each hand. “Rowing,” on the other hand (uh, sorry), involves only one oar.

Each rower uses both hands on one oar.

John Boyd says it is not necessarily better to learn to scull before learning to row, but “ sculling is definitely a kinder, gentler way to learn.” He says ONEC teaches proper sculling technique until the newbie’s version “is adequate,” at which point the student can work to their fitness level without injury. “Also, it’s much more fun, and more efficient when the technique is elegant,” says the man who was also head coach at the ORC in the 1980s.

One coach, Jennifer Shortall, says the Adult Rowing League is one of the club’s most popular programs and fills quickly. “It is designed to introduce new people and reintroduce rowers to the sport as well as having everyone participate in friendly races throughout July .”

A narrow boat like a sculler’s “shell” isn’t always tippier than a canoe. Those two long oars out either side of the boat act like outriggers for balance, a backup lacking for the canoeist who has only one paddle. Sculling boats usually only tip if the sculler lets go of the oars – be warned.

ORC Learn-to-Row Learning to row starts with learning safety on the water, and then picking up detailed knowledge about boats and oars. The first week’s instruction includes rowing machines in the clubhouse and a rowing simulator at dockside. The second week gets you out on the water so eight people learn how to balance a boat and move it through the water as a crew.

The ORC how-to beginners program has them “sweeping” in eights and fours with a coxswain (pronounced cox-n), who helps steer and sets the speed. The coach is in a motorboat alongside. The course involves five sessions on the water spread over two weeks: Monday-Wednesday-FridayMonday-Wednesday. The ORC also has beginner “learn to row” classes that start every two weeks and run to the end of September.

Since crews go out rain or shine (but not in lightning or high wind), you dress for the weather. This means snug, comfortable sports clothing, socks, running shoes, and a hat. Bring a water bottle and leave the jewelry at home – rings are uncomfortable on the oars.

After completing this how-to course, you can become an ORC recreational rower, where you join a crew and get better at rowing while enjoying social events. Recreational rowers practise three days a week on the water with a coach.

ONEC Learn-to-Scull Lessons run on Saturday and Sunday mornings for eight novice scullers at a time. You learn balance, good stoke movement, even hand levels, and manoeuvring. There are drills to help novices get a firm grip on the basics. Attention to water safety is a big priority (see SIDEBAR).

Novice scullers are coached from the dock. Boyd says he will add an extra adult learn-to-scull class in September if enough readers are interested. A Monday-to-Friday rowing skills camp for teenagers is scheduled for June and July.

Regatta Once you’re up to speed, the waterway to regatta racing is open.

The big local event is the Head of the Rideau Regatta on Sept. 26.

Sponsored by the Ottawa Rowing Club, this 5.5-kilometre race is like a time trial, where each rower or sculler is timed over the distance – the quickest wins. «oo

Green camping is an idea whose time has come

By Craig Macartney Garbage. Everywhere.

We’ve all arrived at campsites and started picking up the empty cans, cigarette butts, beer caps, broken bottles, even toilet paper. What ever happened to “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints”? Is this still a realistic expectation?

Should be, because “green” camping is not exactly rocket science, as these ideas for your next trip show.

A good time to start thinking green is before you leave home. If you usually camp with an RV, is this a trip which could work with a tent?

It may lack some of the luxuries of home but the change might be fun.

A tent requires less space, does little or no harm to the environment, and you won’t burn extra gas hauling it to the campground.

Closer to start time, pack extra garbage and recycling bags to haul out your trash. Recycling facilities at home are not as rudimentary as at some campgrounds. Hang your trash bag in a tree at least 100 metres from your tent. Cook some meals ahead of time and pack them in reusable containers so you won’t be stuck with cans and other packaging you have to haul out.

At your campsite, pick up other

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people’s trash. The previous camper may have been inconsiderate, but at least you or your kids won’t cut your foot on a can or broken glass.

For preservation of the terrain, use the same place others have used for your tent. Campgrounds often have levelled tent sites; using them can help preserve a site for years without damage. Leave roots and big rocks undisturbed. Digging them up is hard work, and there’s room for your tent without damaging the land.

Don’t cut living trees for firewood.

Buy it locally, or pick deadfall in the woods during a hike, if that’s OK under local rules.

Then there’s fire and human waste. Don’t poop in the woods. Use the portapotty, bathroom, latrine, outhouse or pit, even at remote campsites. If none of the above is available, dig a small hole at least

200 metres away from any water or your campsite. When finished, bury everything including the toilet paper.

No one wants a walk in the woods spoiled by your dump.

Fire is always dangerous, and a fire ban means business. Obey it.

Campers have ignored bans and ignited forest fires in Gatineau, Algonquin and LaVerendrye parks. The scars will remain for many years. Never leave your fire unattended. When putting it out, drown the coals. Then stir the ashes and douse again. And a well-tended fire is for more than warmth and atmosphere. Cooking over your fire is greener than camp stoves, and food tastes better grilled, or wrapped in aluminum foil and baked in the coals.

Don’t feed animals. They can end up dependent on camp food,

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and when the season ends they’ll face a food crisis and die. Feeding wildlife also makes some animals more aggressive, damaging gear in an attempt to get food. Enjoy your non-human neighbours from a distance.

Before leaving your campsite, do a walk-around to pick up the inevitable, soon-to-be-missing pack, sunglasses, bush pants, clothesline … you know the story. Then look around at an area in better shape than you found it. No-trace camping, no garbage left behind. «oo ~ Craig Macartney is an avid camper and canoeist.

r o o d t u O

Correction A Spring/Summer article included advice to new campers to dig a shallow two- or three-centimetre “trench” around their tent to divert rainwater. “Trench” suggests a heavy camping “footprint.”

A better way is “scratch a shallow line in the dirt to re-direct water.”

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Chi Running Putting gravity to work during your run

By Mike Stashin Imagine every time you ran there was this invisible force available to help pull you forward.

Align yourself with it, and relax your leg and feet muscles to cut resistance to its pull. What a boost in running pleasure that would be – an invisible force doing most of the work. And less damage, since relaxed muscles can’t be worn and injured through overuse.

Sound interesting? Well it’s easy to experience, because the invisible force is gravity and you’ve already felt how it can pull you forward when you run downhill.

Chi Running is a running style developed by ultramarathoner and Tai Chi practitioner Danner Dreyer.

Chi Running engages the forward pull of gravity downhill, uphill or on the flat. Here’s how. Align your posture to envision a straight line through your shoulders, hips and ankles. Then lean your entire posture forward from the ankles (not the hips or waist) to use gravity to propel you forward. It’s gravity,

not the muscles in your legs and feet that hauls you down the road. Legs and feet, simply go on supporting you the same way they do when you’re standing still.

If you stood up right now, aligned your posture, relaxed all the muscles in your legs, including everything from the knees down, and leaned forward from your ankles ever so slightly, your body would start to fall forward and down. Instinctively you would pick up one foot and place it in front of you to keep you from falling on your face. That’s your first Chi Running step!

If instead of putting that foot down and coming to a halt, put it down just momentarily – you’ll start the forward fall again, so use your other foot for momentary support … and you’re moving forward in a controlled fall from one foot to the other using gravity, not your muscles.

Your angle of lean is your gas pedal. If you want to run faster, lean more; run slower, lean less. In fact the more you lean and the faster you want to go, the more you have to relax your legs and feet to minimize the resistance to the forward pull of gravity. This is opposite from running techniques which use leg and feet muscles to move you, and where the faster you run the more those muscles work.

Chi Running eliminates body impact each time a running foot contacts the ground. This impact is a result of meeting the force of the road head on. It’s responsible for many injuries to the lower legs.

Aligning your posture and leaning it forward from the ankles is key to minimizing impact. In a leaned position your feet contact the ground underneath or slightly behind your hips and move to the rear in the same direction as the force without opposing it. Feet making contact with the ground in front of the hips meet the force of the ground with impact of up to five to six times your body weight.

How-to Chi Running books, DVDs and audio CDs are available through www.Chi Running.com. It also lists workshops and instructors who can provide hands-on experience with the technique. I’m one of them and you can check me out at www.runeffortlessly.com/. «oo ~ Mike Stashin is a certified Chi Running and Chiwalking instructor.

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The ‘right’ boot choice depends on where you’re hiking Multi-day backpacking, a day trip up the Escarpment, a portage . . .

By Kathleen Wilker

I bought my first hiking boots after heading up Tuckerman’s Ravine in New Hampshire’s White Mountains in sneakers. The ground was dry at the parking lot, but half way into our ascent, ankle-deep, wet snow covered the trail and my feet were soon cold and wet. This was Day One of a three-day camping trip with full packs, so we had to do something about my soggy feet.

First, back to the trailhead, then a drive to the gear store in Gorham, N.H., and a happy ending. I’ve had the Solomon boots I bought there for more than 10 years. Cracks in the leather uppers make them far from waterproof these days, but the sturdy soles and deep treads still serve for day hikes.

Carrying the canoe on a portage, these boots boost your confidence over rocks and roots, and down slopes to the water’s edge.

When I was carrying small children in front slings or backpacks, the Solomons could be counted on for grip over wet and uneven terrain.

Despite many adventures and sweaty feet, these old boots aren’t even too smelly. I won’t let them into the tent, even in a rainstorm, but they don’t stink up the vestibule.

All the same, it’s time to retire them. So what’s on offer that’s waterproof, offers the same excellent grip as the Solomons, doesn’t stink and isn’t too heavy? Fortunately there are plenty of choices.

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Hiking sandals Keen Newport H2 These airy sandals offer a protected toe which means high breathability without the mashed feet. They’re perfect for day trips, “hiking” around town and in and out of water.

Quick-dry nylon straps and an anti-microbial finish in the foot bed and lining are helpful if you’re in and out of the wet.

My husband brought these on a rainy paddling adventure and kept his feet warm in these sandals over wool socks. Not dry, just warm.

The non-marking outsole (the kind you want in a gym or on a tennis court so you don’t leave black scuff marks everywhere) with multi-terrain tread will help you keep your grip on trail. But without ankle support, I wouldn’t count on sandals if you’re planning to portage the canoe or are backpacking significant weight.

Keens come in men’s, women’s and children’s styles and sizes. If you can stomach paying $85 on a pair of kid’s shoes, these will keep a little hiker happy at parks around town and on trip.

Day hiking boots Scarpa Kailash Gore-Tex dayhiking boots To Gore-Tex or not to Gore-tex?

Waterproof and breathable, Gore-Tex is a great choice for spring and fall hiking or in wet weather. Limitations? Summer hikers may find them too warm. And if you wear your boots right into the ground with seasons of use, the Gore-Tex will eventually stop being waterproof and breathable.

Still, the Scarpa Kailash day-hiking boots are loved by all who wear them. Great ankle support and solid grip make this boot dependable in tricky terrain or shouldering a midweight pack or canoe. The outsoles are shock-absorbing, and at $200 a pair they’re worth it.

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Multi-day backpacking boots Zamberlan Vioz GT Gore-Tex backpacking boots A classic backpacking boot with stiff sole and excellent ankle support.

These boots combine the beauty and durability of leather with the performance of Gore-Tex. The uppers are leather with a Gore-Tex layer attached to an inner fixed bootie. Foot beds are removable and feature a top layer of wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable.

At $285 a pair, these boots are a serious investment, but will pay for themselves in years of serious backpacking trips. Avoid blisters by breaking them in around town before putting these boots to the test on the trail.

Hiking socks SmartWool Nothing beats wool for breathability, keeping feet warm even when wet, and natural antimicrobial properties – that’s gear talk for “doesn’t stink as much as cotton or synthetic.” As I discovered while cross-country skiing, those coarse hand-knit Grandma socks cause blisters on the trail, so leave them in the tent or at home.

SmartWool is my sock of choice for day hikes and longer trips.

At around $20 a pair, they aren’t cheap, but they’re designed with cushioning, ankle support and minimum seams for comfort.

I can usually rotate three pairs on a trip – one pair for the tent and the other two alternated on the trail.

Let SmartWool socks totally air out between wears, to keep your feet comfortable.

Available in many colours and styles, a pair – or two or three – will catch your eye.

Blister prevention 101 Shop for new hiking boots in the evening when your feet are slightly swollen. This will give you a realistic fit.

Blisters are caused by boots that are too big or too small, too tight or too loose, or by socks with too many seams. If you’ve tightened too much, or not enough and something starts to hurt, duct tape or moleskin will prevent blisters on heels or other sensitive spots.

Treat little blisters fast before they become big problems. «oo

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

ottawa outdoors 15

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Featured Boat: Frontenac Outfitters –Impex Kayaks Hatteras 16

New for 2010, Impex Kayaks Hatteras 16 provides a wonderful blend of playfulness, manoeuvrability and stability, while retaining its great tracking and efficiency characteristics.

The entire ‘Frontenac Outfitters Review Team’ loved the Hatteras - calling it “the best Impex kayak design since the Currituck”.

Paddler Fit: A higher deck and longer/wider cockpit contribute to its extensive fit range of small to large paddlers. A new redesigned seat pan is longer and the seat also slopes forward to maximize drainage.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Kayak Efficiency & Maneuverability: Surf kayaks manoeuvrability is often achieved at the expensive of sacrificing tracking and efficiency.

What separates the Impex Hatteras from its competitors is its ability to do both well! A slightly softer chine and moderate rocker provide a high degree of liveliness, while a sharp waterline and shallow Vee hull ensures great tracking.

Kayak Roll & Rescue: A phrase too-often abused by manufactures is that “their kayak rolls easily,” but in the case of the Impex Hatteras - it’s actually true! A slightly higher, more bulbous foredeck, low rear deck and redesigned seat pan make wet entries, wet exits and Inuit rolls easy. New ‘Vee Deck’ European Colour Schemes are available exclusively, a $150 value Free!

Kayak Stability: The Impex Hatteras Kayaks initial stability was rated as ‘high’.

To read more about this and other boats, visit www.frontenac-outfitters.com for a detailed list of specs and reviews.

ottawa outdoors 17

Whitewater draws families to the Madawaska

By Kathleen Wilker PalmerFest is 330 whitewater paddlers playing in the Madawaska River, 50 outstanding instructors, 28 canoe and kayak exhibitors, 30 kids in subsidized whitewater clinics and 14 others in free daycare.

Presented by Rapid Media (rapidmedia.com) and held at the Paddler Co-op www.paddlerco-op.com at Palmer Rapids southwest of Pembroke, it’s also tent city, dinner, live music and partying, and a weekend of fun and friendship.

When I heard it was $254 for the whole family for camping, Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast, free daycare and a four-course intro to tandem canoeing, I was sold.

My husband and I are flatwater trippers, but new to whitewater, so the intro clinic was perfect. We love including our kids (aged six and three) in our adventures, and

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were cautiously optimistic when we heard there was free daycare during clinic time. Yes, some guilt about kids in daycare while I played on the water, but camping with us was more fun than leaving them behind with Grandma. And when the kids met the young paddlers running the daycare, we knew we’d all be having a blast. The only weekend tears were when we picked up the youngest from daycare for lunch, and he wasn’t ready to leave.

Rapid Media’s founder, Scott MacGregor, explained why he thinks PalmerFest works: “We wanted to give back to the paddling community and grow the sport. So we hire top instructors. We’ve also taken away all the barriers in terms of childcare and expense that make getting into whitewater difficult for families.”

Our kids attended PalmerFest for free this year, but next year we’ll pay $65 for our daughter so she can take the clinics for seven- to 14-year-olds.

After seeing bigger kids don wetsuits and head out on the water, she asked me how long she’d have to save her allowance to buy her own kayak!

“Rapid Media isn’t a non-profit, but PalmerFest is definitely a nonprofit event,” MacGregor said. “But when you look around the paddling community, you see a lot of people in their mid-30s,” he added. “And we’ve got kids.”

Tonya Bruin of Chelsea attended PalmerFest without her kids, as a 10th-anniversary trip with her husband. As a new whitewater paddler, she liked the unthreatening mood of the place. But negotiating her way through a swarm of boats for her turn at the rapids was a “challenge.”

Paddling Etiquette 101 • Paddlers coming downstream have the right of way.

• Paddlers waiting on river left and on river right alternate entering the current.

• When it’s your turn to play in the current, go for it! Hesitate on the eddy line and you’ll confuse other paddlers.

• Share the eddy. Once you’ve entered an eddy, tuck your boat out of the way so the next boat can also enter safely.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

ting waterlogged with my husband in our tandem canoe, and following our instructor down the rapids.

Ashore we shuttled gear from car trunk to campsite via wheelbarrow and camped with no cars around where the kids could play hide and seek among hundreds of tents. We met exhibitors thanks to my social butterfly son, and had dinner with paddling celeb Paul Mason and family. Our friendly campsite neigh-

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Québec maritime is home to 13 species of whales. Keep your eyes peeled! (Côte-Nord - Manicouagan)

A vacation destination to see and feel!

By foot, bike or kayak, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy memorable encounters in Québec maritime.

Caribou – Gaspésie National Park

Plan your vacation online:

www.seeandfeel.ca/wildlife Northern gannets – Bonaventure Island and Percé Rock National Park (Gaspésie)

Atlantic puffin – Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada (Côte-Nord - Duplessis)

Photos: M. Loiselle/Tourisme Manicouagan, F. Klus/Sépaq, M. Laverdière, N. Boisvert

Post PalmerFest, she and her husband have embraced rapids running and are now the proud owners of a tandem whitewater boat.

“I’m heading back to Palmer Rapids in a couple of weeks with a bunch of girlfriends and we’re planning to head down the entire lower Madawaska,” Bruin said.

At Palmer Rapids the river runs hard all season long, so paddlers at the event can return another weekend and practise what they’ve learned. “Other paddling festivals are less structured gatherings that take place when the [Ontario] Power Authority lets the dam out upstream,” MacGregor said.

Our weekend highlights include being on canoe in a sea of hundreds of paddlers, learning the strong whitewater forward stroke and the stern “pop” from instructor Suzanne, being in on my first canoe-over-canoe rescue, sharing laughs and get-

bours partied far from the tents so we could fall asleep to the distant music of The Fireweed Company.

Now that we’re more experienced, we can skip the package deal and sign up for advanced clinics like stroke improvement next year. That will allow the kids more time on the water with us. I’ll also bring earplugs for sleeping just in case next year’s tent neighbours are noisier. And I’ll invite friends to join us. «oo

ottawa outdoors 19

Share that path

Tires up, favourite jersey on, warm and sunny outside.

Bike time!

By Kathleen Wilker

Along the Ottawa River and then up to Gatineau Park, but just before the Champlain Bridge, a snag. Up ahead, mom’s on her rollerblades, dad’s pulling a bike trailer and a little dude on training wheels is swerving erratically.

What to do?

Zoom past them in the passing lane, yelling out “Control your kids!”

Bad idea. Don’t do it. Instead, slow down, ring your warning bell and wait until the parents can corral their child before you pass. And a quick shoulder check for cyclists behind you is a good idea too before you pass slower recreational path users like these. Be nice. Say “sweet ride, buddy” to the little dude.

And if you’re a bit grumpy because not all cyclists are created equal, take the road the next time you ride up the Gatineau, so you won’t be delayed. Or, put up with the delay and remember that little dudes on training wheels are tomorrow’s cycling advocates and Lance Armstrongs. Remember too that we’re a nation struggling with childhood obesity, and a family out on bikes is a healthy choice in action.

Recreational pathways are designed for everybody, not just seasoned cyclists and everyone has to flex. For the moms and dads out there, if you’re on rollerblades or hauling a bike trailer, stay to the left of your learning-to-bike child so the kid doesn’t wander over the yellow line. Little kids learning to ride have 20 ottawa

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Derek Heffernan and Anna Sierra Heffernan-Wilker (age 6) demonstrating safe cycling on the shared path. Derek’s staying to the left of Anna Sierra so that she doesn’t accidentally wander across the yellow line.

a lot to think about, and crossing the yellow line puts them into oncoming traffic and surprises traffic behind them. Encourage your child to turn onto the grass to stop instead of braking suddenly – dangerous move – in the middle of the pathway.

As a serious cyclist and a mother of two mini-cyclists, I know both sides of this share-the-path issue.

When I’m out on a training ride, I slow down near parks or a beaches.

I’m a bell-abuser almost, knowing that children will wander into my path. I ring it way in advance of joggers or walkers so they don’t startle when I pass. And I go slow over the lunch hour behind Parliament Hill or the Museum of Civilization or Tunney’s Pasture where government workers are out for fresh air and a walk before returning to cubicle prison.

I love riding herd on my biking children but I avoid recreational pathways during commuting hours to make way for work- or home-bound cyclists who have been crowded off the roads by cars.

And if it’s a big day at the beach or a long tiring ride, I cut the risk to my kids and to other pathway users and take a trail-a-bike or our family tandem.

Need more room to share the path?

Alcatel-Lucent Sunday Family Bikedays run from to Sept. 5. More than 50 kilometres of roads are closed to traffic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers reinforce barricades so the following routes are car-free: The westbound lane of the Ottawa River Parkway from the War Museum to Carling; Colonel By Drive from Laurier to Hogs Back; and Rockcliffe www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Parkway from Aviation Parkway to St. Joseph Boulevard.

The Gatineau, Fortune and Champlain Parkways are closed to motor traffic from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sundays.

Get up to speed on safe cycling with kids Long after children have mastered riding in a straight line and braking, they still need clear instructions and

reminders about the tricky parts.

Here’s a couple of tips: • Show the child how to shouldercheck without swerving: Take the same hand as the shoulder you’re about to check over, off the handlebar.

• Practise together the art of passing pedestrians safely.

Have her follow you when she’s learning. Remind your child to ring the bell to warn pedestrians,

then check for oncoming traffic, and finally shoulder check to make sure it’s safe to pass. Even with safety under control, a child will likely need practice to gauge the speed of oncoming traffic accurately.

• Signal turns and stops. To signal safely, you have to be able to ride one-handed, so practise this on an empty parking lot before taking it to the pathway. «oo

General Safety Tips Be predictable Where possible, ride in a straight line.

Make sure that others know you are there and what your intentions are; use your bell, signal your movements.

Use appropriate lanes Know where you are going and look ahead to position yourself in the correct lane. Avoid being in a “right turn only” lane if you plan to proceed straight through an intersection.

Bicycle detection at lights Most intersections with traffic signals have detector loops in the pavement which control the sequence of lights. Your bicycle may not have enough metal in it to be detected unless it is right on top of the wired loop. The most sensitive part of the loop is marked with a series of three yellow dots on the pavement.

Stop your bicycle directly over these dots and the signal will be activated after a short wait.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Bic National Park

A vacation destination to see and feel!

Bas-Saint-Laurent offers ideal conditions for sea kayaking. Explore the majestic St. Lawrence River and discover islands and lighthouses. Paddle along the shoreline and share the water with numerous seabirds, seals and whales!

Plan your vacation online:

www.seeandfeel.ca/bsl For more information about Bas-Saint-Laurent: 1-800-563-5268

Kamouraska

Photos: M. Laverdière, P. Rambaud/Le Cyclope, É. St-Pierre, M. Dupuis/Sépaq

One-way streets with bus lanes When you use Albert or Slater, ride in the far left lane to reduce the conflict with turning vehicles and buses in the Reserved Bus Lane. To make a right turn, move to the right, lane by lane, by shoulder-checking, signalling and moving right when there is a break in the traffic.

ottawa outdoors 21

If you’re lost, it’s not hopeless Search teams know what they’re doing

By Gerry Godsoe When someone gets lost in the woods, professional search and rescue teams say every operation is the SAME – Search, Access, Medical attention and Evacuation. The search phase is usually the longest and hardest.

If a hiker or camper has told someone where they are going, when they will be back and what to do if they don’t show up on time, that’s a big help as people set out into the backwoods to track the missing. The alarm is raised faster and searchers know where to start looking.

Once an alarm is received (often via 911), the missing person becomes the responsibility of the police and is viewed as a potential criminal investigation until proven otherwise.

People go missing every day and resources are scarce so police will first figure out what they think is level of urgency and how much response is needed.

A child lost alone in the wintry woods of northern Ontario will gets immediate action. A bunch of healthy, well-equipped and experienced hikers on a pleasant day in July will probably have to wait a while.

Once a search is launched, a manager is assigned, with overall responsibility. As the search continues, dozens of people may be involved, in communications, getting resources (choppers, dogs, ATVs, boats) and just running the 22 ottawa

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operation, as well the actual searchers. Police often turn to volunteer ground search and rescue groups to assist.

Throughout a search, investigation and planning continue. The team needs to know where the person was last seen and where else might they have been. Has their car been found? Did they register at the trailhead or mountain summit?

Who’s missing, exactly? Searchers need to know age, clothing, equipment, mental state, medical conditions, past behaviour, familiarity with the area, etc. Based on this information, matching statistical profiles (e.g., young child, Alzheimer patient, hunter) are checked for possible similar patterns of behaviours – distance travelled, favoured terrain, response to searchers, and the like.

With this in hand, searchers can focus on the topographical features of the area and throw into the mix how far this person has likely travelled, toward what possible destinations, across or blocked by what kind of barriers, and down which travel corridors. The goal is target areas where the missing person is most likely to be found.

Searchers are always looking for clues. A person travelling a kilometre through the woods leaves thousands of footprints, broken branches, and discarded articles as well as scent. At first, small teams of searchers check

out the most likely spots (trails, attractions, scenic viewpoints, tricky trail junctions that led hikers astray in the past).

If that doesn’t work, larger teams may search an area by spreading out at fixed distances, based on the terrain and vegetation, and travelling to maximize the likelihood of finding clues and the missing person.

There are other techniques and tools. Teams driving roads or trails, or camping at trail junctions or on hilltops can contain the missing person in a fixed area. Sirens, lights and www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

and conduct, resource intensive and may destroy important clues.

However, no tool or technique is 100 per cent effective under all conditions and search managers are always dealing with probabilities. High probability areas may be searched by several teams or methods.

The longer the search, the more difficult it becomes because the target area is growing geometrically

and the chances of injury for the missing hiker may increase.

The best search is the one that does not happen, so do your part.

Tell someone where you’re going, take an emergency survival kit and know how to use everything in it.

And if you do get lost, stay put and help searchers find you. ~ Gerry Godsoe’s outdoor experience includes managing searches for Search and Rescue Global 1. «oo

Gaspésie National Park

even hot air balloons may be used to attract the missing person. You can even phone them on their cellphone if they have one.

Trained search dogs (not Rover from next door), especially early in a search, are valuable. Likewise, aircraft equipped with spotters and heat detectors are used when possible.

Only if all else fails will search managers line up dozens of untrained searchers to walk shoulder to shoulder through the woods. This “grid searching” is slow to organize www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Hike in the forest, through the mountains, along the shore or on a beach, with or without a guide, for several hours or several days—the choice is yours! Québec maritime offers all this and more.

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada (Duplessis)

Plan your vacation online:

www.seeandfeel.ca/hike Entry Island (Îles de la Madeleine)

Bic National Park (Bas-Saint-Laurent)

Photos: M. Dupuis/Sépaq, M. Deslongchamps/Tourisme Duplessis, S. Larose, M. Pitre - Enviro foto/Sépaq

A vacation destination to see and feel!

ottawa outdoors 23

Where to find Ottawa-Gatineau’s outdoors honeys and hunks Looking for love in all the right places

By Kathleen Wilker

Like wasps to a picnic, outdoor enthusiasts from across the country are drawn to Ottawa-Gatineau. If you’re a newcomer in a region full of all the outdoors fun you could ask for, we at Ottawa Outdoors thought we’d help you find a mate to share the trails, the rivers, the good times and the sore muscles.

And in case your pick-up lines are rustier than your winter bike, our sport-specific romantic openers will get you headed in the right direction.

Skateboarder Where to find him: Ottawa Skatepark, Baseline and Woodroffe, near Ben Franklin Place What to look for: Dude who lands his moves with style What to avoid: Dude who throws his board around when things don’t go his way What to say: “Sick tricks, bro!”

Best first date: Your half pipe or his, doesn’t matter.

Rower Where to find her: On the Ottawa River at dawn What to look for: At least one strong arm What to avoid: Someone who’s not pulling her weight What to say: Our mixed team needs another girl. Could you help us out?

Best first date: Ottawa Rowing Club classes in case your rowing skills are not as polished as your charm www.ottawarowingclub.com.

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Road biker Where to find her: Passing you on Fortune.

What to look for: Rock-solid calves What to avoid: Can’t change a flat What to say: “Mind if I draft you, baby?”

Best first date: Sharing Gatorade at Champlain Lookout while the sun sets.

Ultimate player Where to find him: Through the Ottawa Sport and Social Club www.ossc.ca where you can join as an individual or a team and play the sports you love. We’ve heard this isn’t a singles club, but “Recess for Adults” is definitely a great place for fit 25-40s to get to know each other.

What to look for: Can catch even the wildest throw.

What to avoid: Loves the game so much he eats his end-of-season burger off his disc.

What to say: “Sweet flick!”

Best first date: Picnic at Britannia Beach, followed by a little twoperson Ultimate game.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

The outdoors is hinting – slow down!

By Allen Macartney

Whitewater paddler Where to find her: Join the Y Canoe Camping Club www.yccc.ca and take a whitewater tandem course (members swear the YCCC isn’t a singles club but we know at least two couples who met here).

What to look for: She’s got a serious stern pry and not afraid to use it.

What to avoid: Blames the bow paddler when they dump.

What to say: “Let’s read this river together.”

Best first date: Playing in the rapids at Bate Island, halfway across the Champlain Bridge.

Lawn bowlers Where to find her: Wherever the grass is trimmed to perfection.

What to look for: Deep tan and white sneakers.

What to avoid: Can’t lift the ball.

What to say: “You bowl me over, lady!”

Best first date: Elmdale Lawn Bowling Club at 40 Reid Ave. Your grandkids can play while you bowl. «oo

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

When was the last time you arrived home from work, pulled into the driveway, turned off the key, and suddenly thought, “I don’t remember any of the trip home”?

The right side of your brain had been guiding your car through traffic, stopping at lights, turning corners, avoiding pedestrians, while simultaneously the left side of your left brain had been busily multitasking, listening to music, sketching a grocery list and sifting through domestic, aesthetic, financial, even romantic details. More fun than driving maybe.

But sometimes this scenario plays out when we arrive home from a day cycling or hiking. The day’s events are lost in a blur of movement and sound, with few relaxing memories to cherish months after.

Sure, you may have enjoyed the speed and adrenaline rush, but did you taste the tranquility? Were you really even “there”?

We live 24/7, ramped up on adrenaline in the workplace and caffeine in our culture, and we gulp it down in double doses, never savouring the exotic aroma we’ve paid for. Multitasking is our religion, helping us to whiz through more and more items on our To Do list. But as we bank off the high speed turns, it’s hard to down-shift when we enter the woods.

Stress lingers. A racing freight train can’t stop quickly and neither can people. We can’t just step out of our car at the trailhead and immediately connect with nature. The tranquility and serenity won’t

be there, even if we could hear the silence over the headphones. There’s too much adrenaline in our blood, too many lingering multi-tasking issues.

Bilbo Baggins, in Lord of the Rings, once said, “I feel thin, sort of stretched, like butter scraped over too much bread.” If that sounds familiar, here are some ideas for when you next escape the city.

Before even getting in your car, take deep slow breaths. Make a conscious effort to step away. Turn off your cellphone. Better yet, leave it at home. Try moving in slow motion as you back your car out of the driveway. And turn off the radio. Engage your five senses instead.

When you arrive, anchor your attention in the outdoor moment. Try to smell the earth under your feet, and hear the wind in the trees. Speak little, and listen much. Look for cloud formations. See any dragons? Pick a quiet spot by a brook and eat your sandwiches slowly, tasting each morsel, discerning the spices. If you do this, you’ll have a better chance of returning home with serenity, not feeling spent and bruised.

Robert Service’s poetry – or any of your favourites – is soothing when whispered beside a quiet lake. That’s a memory you’ll cherish for years. ~ Allen Macartney is planning a 2,000-kilometre solo canoe trip down the Yukon River. «oo

ottawa outdoors 25

Looking to rent a cottage?

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Enjoy Roy’s Retreat at Battle Lake - Val-Des-Monts – 35 minutes from Ottawa

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One stop shop for all of your event needs Our event planners can help

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• Waterfront, 3 bedroom family cottage newly renovated and decorated • Screened upper porch (12x24) offers beautiful lakefront views and lower deck for sunbathing • Property has sun from morning until evening, enjoy the beautiful sunsets from the dock • Private lake with gated boat access, private dock.

Lake is annually stocked with Rainbow Trout, Perch and Bass. Fishing Lisence required • Loons, herons and ducks are frequent visitors to the dock.

• Excellent swimming from dock, no beach.

• Take long walks thru the beautiful treed trails • Great for quiet couples, young children not recommended due to deep water at dock • Beautiful rock gardens to enjoy and outdoor chimenea for evening fires or toasting wieners or marshmellows (prongs provided) • 3 bedrooms, 2 w/queen beds, 1 double, newer matress’s, new hotel quality bedding provided • Flat Screen TV with DVD, VHS, Library of Movies, CD and AM/FM radio, Reading Library • Board Games, Outdoor Dart Board • Peddle boat, canoe and rowboat, adult life jackets, water toys

Visit the website to email the owner to book your relaxing escape.

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ottawa outdoors 27

Lawn Care Services • Weekly Mowing Service (for residential and commercial) • All lawn areas will be cut; tighter areas with a trimmer • All hard surfaces will be blown clean • Fertilizing, weed control • New sod, seeding, topdressing, re-leveling • Lawn Aeration, De-thatching • Hard surface power sweeping • Grub control and organic grub control • Spring clean-up, de-thatching, fall clean-up • Removal of annuals • Garden bed clean ups (perennial care, fertilizing, rose protection) • Eaves trough cleaning • Organic/Synthetic Blended Fertilizer Treatment

Maintenance Services • Weeding, bed edging, pruning, tilling vegetable gardens, planting and harvesting, and more

Landscape Construction • Interlocking stone and natural stone work • Patios, walkways, driveways, retaining walls, steps • Night lighting systems, Water gardens • Decks/fencing • Irrigation systems

Skilled Employees • Our employees are formally trained and have an extensive background in horticulture. Our staff are routinely updating their skills and knowledge through educational seminars and workshops.

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cool gear

keen voyageur – $139 The Voyageur like its cousin the Targhee II, is a rugged cruiser, but with its windows down and sunroof up for ventilation. Stripped of its eVENT in favor of mesh lining the Broken Top allows for more ventilation on hot and cool summer days. The aggressive outsole has 4mm lugs to bite into the terrain providing excellent traction. The ESS Shank provides torsion stability for a secure ride.

Look for it at Bushtukah.

gio e-scooter – $599 Guess what’s sweeping the country? These battery-powered E-Scooters. If you love biking around the city on the paths then you’ll equally love scooting along as well. It follows the same rules as a regular bike, so no licence is needed, but you must be 16 and wear a helmet. Sure it’s not as healthy for you, but it is a greener way to get around than taking your car (plus no parking fees). Loaded with safety features (horn, signal), limited in speed (24-32km/hr) to keep all safe, and loads of storage for your laptop or schoolbag...you can’t miss. So if you can’t pedal the bike, or don’t want to get too sweaty when you get to where you’re going (like your job), then this is your ticket to ride. Look for it at www.giobikes.com

horny toad clothing Women’s-Mali-Dress – $68 Turn heads and melt hearts in the Mali. All innocent charm and soft organic cotton, the only thing you need to add is you. Enjoy a slightly shaped fit, a flattering empire bodice, slender grosgrain straps that adjust via buttons in back, a concealed back zipper with square Toad buttons to finish. The floral print is fully lined with a second layer of organic cotton. Overall, it’s an open invitation for your best summer ever.

Men’s Puerto Shorts – $47 Looking sharp in summer can be a challenge.

Bermuda shorts are hard to pull off and pants trap more heat than a parked car. Predicament solved with the Puerto. The classic styling, including a 12” inseam and a button with hook-and-eye closure, has endless summers appeal. Better yet is the 100% organic cotton Palapa fabric that breathes with the breeze and comes in a trio of plaids to keep you looking chill.

Men’s Foster Shirt – $54 Light, loose and casually stylish the Foster Shirt pairs well with sun-bleached hair, a sun burned nose and a tan from the actual sun. Made of 100% organic cotton Contrail fabric, a textured slub jersey with vaguely retro stripes, the Foster is perfect for sunset happy hours of Coronas and fish tacos. Topped off with a classic, hammock-ready fit, three-button placket, contrast tape inside the neck seam and coverstitching throughout, the Foster exudes relaxed cool.

Look for these products at www.hornytoad.com.

Kiwi Choice: U-Powered – $49 Revolutionary solar and USB portable charger with built-in flashlight and magnetic feet.

Charge any mobile device while on the go. Charges using the sun, wall or car charger, and/or a USB port and features a built-in LED Flashlight and three magnets on back for sturdy connection to any metal surface and car. Look for it at www.kiwichoice.com. simple’s Men’s Sno Tire – $94.99 Made of suede made of hemp and certified organic cotton the men’s Sno Tire – Organic Cotton sneaker is made with hemp and certified organic cotton uppers; certified organic cotton laces; is a Vegan shoe with no animal products or even animal byproducts and has certified organic cotton linings. The “pedbed” (the cushiony and supportive stuff at the bottom of the shoe) is made of EVA with BIO-D to make it biodegradable. Look for it wherever SIMPLE shoes are sold.

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hot clothing switch tool – $68 Looking for the perfect pocket knife? The search is over.

Switch is the ultimate modular utility device, with 18 different attachments so you can mix and match your most frequently used tools. Customize your Switch’s width by swapping out the inner axles, or group your tools into different “themes” – home, office, outdoors, etc. However you choose to do it, Switch is your tool, your way.

The 18 tool attachments include: Standard Knife, Pliers, Scissors, Nail File, Tweezers, Thin Flathead Screwdriver, Phillips-Head Screwdriver, Eyeglass PhillipsHead Screwdriver, Eyeglass Flathead Screwdriver, Wood Saw, Serrated Blade, Corkscrew, Combination Bottle Opener/Flathead Screwdriver, Combination Can Opener/Wire Stripper, Pen, Magnifying Glass, LED Flashlight, 1GB USB Memory Stick. Look for it at www.quirkyinc.com.

Outdoor Research AirPurge DryComp Sack – $29-37 These combo compression sacks/dry sacks let you reduce the bulk of sleeping bags or insulated clothes, while protecting them from the elements. An air permeable, waterproof fabric band purges excess air from the sack during compression.Look for it at Mountain Equipment Co-op.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

remix light – $39.99 The Remix, a burly hybrid headlamp, uses two different sources/types of light utilizing 3 – 5mm LEDs and 1 Maxbright Rebel LED to pump out a bright 70 lumens with 200 hours of burntime. By “remixing” the existing Fuel headlamp, the new Remix is tightly packaged to the same dimensions of its predecessor but packs a brighter punch. The Remix is also water resistant and has four operation modes. Like a DJ mixes beats, the Remix mixes function, brightness and size.

Look for it at www.princetontec.com

funky coloured flames – $4.88 Funky Coloured Flames is an easy to use packet of crystals.

Place entire closed packets on top of fire to make a unique blend of three colours (Blue, Green & Purple). The crystals will then start to burn in the fire and create a show of colours that will radiate through the fire for approximately 30 minutes. It is safe for use in campfires, bonfires, indoor and outdoor wood fires.

For best results use up to three packets. Look for it at outdoor stores near you.

Hobie Mirage Adventure island – $3499.

The Hobie Mirage Adventure Island, a 16' Trimaran "Sail/yak" that incorporates the patented Hobie MirageDrive® into a unique sailing machine unlike any other sailing craft on the water.

Length: 16' Width: amas out: 112" amas in: 42" Mast height: 15'2" Hull weight (rigged): 115 lbs.

Capacity: 350 lbs.

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A family getaway right in our own back yard Calabogie Peaks Resort beckons Located about an hour west of Ottawa, Calabogie Peaks Resort is emerging as an all-season playground for people who love the outdoors.

Year Round Activities The Peaks, as it is called locally, is already known in Ottawa/ Eastern Ontario for its exceptional downhill ski terrain – 22 runs, highest vertical (760 ft.) in Ottawa region, tubing runs and state-ofthe-art snowmaking. Snowshoeing, x-country skiing, and ice fishing complete the winter experience.

However, the 600-acre resort has much more to offer. “Outdoor activities don’t end in the spring at the Peaks,” comments Carrie McCallum, marketing director for

the resort. “Kayaking, canoeing, beachfront activities and golfing on our family-friendly, nine-hole course are all available spring, summer and fall.” Chairlift rides to the top of the mountain offer more hiking venues every fall.

“The possibilities for active outdoor opportunities are limited only by how much you can load up in your vehicle,” says McCallum.

Open water swimming, cycling on the backroads of the Madawaska highlands or nearby mountain-bike trails, trail running and hiking are

just a partial list of the activities available at the resort.

One of the most impressive hikes from the resort is an upmountain walk to panoramic Eagle’s Nest lookout. Visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the Madawaska wilderness. Interpretative guides, available on the website (calabogie. com) or at the resort, provide info on indigenous flora and fauna along with insights on the first inhabitants of the area, the Algonquin and Ojibway peoples.

Hikers are often joined by climbers who come to challenge the rocky face of this ascent.

Dickson Manor One outstanding feature of the Peaks is its harmony with the natural landscape.

Dickson Manor, the resort’s country inn, features a stone and woodfinished exterior that blends perfectly with its outdoor setting, overlooks beautiful

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pool, hot tub, exercise room and Canthooks restaurant. Slopeside condos are also available with full kitchen facilities. The Manor’s country inn elegance makes it a perfect retreat after a day spent outdoors.

Calabogie Lake and flanked by Dickson Mountain. The Manor features 25 guest rooms and suites, along with an indoor swimming

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Canthooks Restaurant Be sure to visit the Peaks’ Canthooks restaurant, located in Dickson Manor, featuring casual fine dining. Hungry guests can enjoy a fabulous lunch and dinner menu complemented with our staff’s excellent knowledge of our wine cellar. Children’s menus are also available. Open to the public, reservations are recommended.

Many refer to Calabogie Peaks Resort as the best kept secret in the Ottawa Valley. With its perfect union of an exceptional natural landscape and a country inn experience – it won’t remain one for long. «oo

For more information please contact: Calabogie Peaks Resort 30 Barrett Chute Rd, Calabogie, ON 1-800-669-4861 peaks@calabogie.com www.Calabogie.com

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What could be more enjoyable than discovering the wine region on two wheels and taking the time to stop and admire the beauty of nature and its breathtaking views?

In the Quebec countryside of the Eastern Townships, Brome-Missisquoi offers the Wine Route, spanning 140 kilometres. The Wine Route allows you to discover 17 vineyards and their products, with numerous bicycling routes allowing you to make shorter excursions. These outings, ranging in length from 40 to 50 kilometres, meet the needs of intermediate and beginning cyclists alike. The region is adored for the surprising diversity of its glens and valleys, from which emerge picturesque villages, with the Appalachian Mountains as a backdrop.

A 50-kilometre Wine Route Circuit was created specially for cycling enthusiasts. Along the way eight wineries, as well as numerous agrotourism businesses, camping, B&B’s, bistros and patios, await discovery.

Bromont has a lot offer cyclists.

The National Cycling Centre is there, and several road routes are available nearby amid wonderful surroundings. The Centre allows the town to host many high-calibre cycling competitions and many athletes train there. Bromont, a well-known

Credit photo Manuel Fortado

The Wine Route on two wheels

four-season outdoor destination, offers a wide variety of activities.

By travelling the region’s bike paths, it is now possible to travel Bromont-Sutton-United States (Vermont) on Route Verte no. 4. From Bromont this route easily connects to Route Verte no. 1, for a magnificent outing surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and luxurious nature.

Throughout the region many quality lodgings, B&B’s, inns and condos offer cycling packages, some that include a visit to a winery and a box lunch. Other lodging facilities including camping, in Bromont, Lac-Brome and Sutton, even have “Bienvenue cycliste” (cyclists welcome) certification.

Credit photo Clovis Durand

Taxi-vélo service Too tired to continue riding, you had a breakdown or you don’t want 34 ottawa

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to retrace your steps? Call the bike taxi service offered, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on road and on bike path alike, for a reasonable cost. No need to reserve in advance, but expect a wait of up to 60 minutes. The taxis can take up to three cyclists and their bikes. Dial: 1 877 766-VELO (8356).

To discover the bike routes of the Wine Route or others tourism information, go to: www.tourismebromemissisquoi.ca Events for your agenda Bromont Open (mountain bike event) from August 14 to 22 – www.mondialduvelo.com Wine harvest in September and October (on the Wine Route) – A lot of activities: harvesting day, regional market and thematic visits – www.laroutedesvins.ca La Tournée des 20, an event where you can visit the studios of many of the region’s artists. Sept. 18, 19, 25 and 26, and Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10 and 11.

Follow them on Facebook and Twitter. Search for Région BromeMissisquoi. «oo

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

LODGING Le St-Martin Bromont Hôtel & Suites, Bromont 1 866 355-0044 www.lestmartinbromont.com Auberge du Joli Vent, Lac-Brome 1 866 525-4272 www.aubergedujolivent.com Condos & Hôtel Le Montagnard, Sutton 1 888 538-9966 www.montagnard.qc.ca Hébergement Sutton, Sutton 1 800 663-0214 www.hebergementsutton.ca

ON THE WINE ROUTE Vignoble La Mission, Brigham 450 263-1524

www.vignoble-lamission.com

Cycling the Wine Route Cycling the « Route Verte » Bromont-Sutton-USA (Vermont) Many packages available

Nature et Création, Dunham July 12 to October 11, 2010 150 sculptures at the vineyard Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise 450 295-2020

www.cotesdardoise.com

www.tourismebrome-missisquoi.ca | 1 888 811-4928 503-Pub_CLD_Ottawa_Outdoor_2010.indd 1

29/06/10 08:32:48

JLB Massage Therapy janet_bodner@rogers.com

613-867-7896 Serving Ottawa South, Barrhaven, Mooney's Bay Services offered are: • Therapeutic Massage • Medical Acupuncture • Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Vodder Certified) • Thermal Palms (heat) treatment

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

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Coleman Corner

Look for these items at Canadian Tire • • • • • • • •

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NEW Coleman® Elite Sundome 6 person tent NEW Coleman® All-in-One Trio Cooking System.

NEW Coleman® Rugged Rechargeable lamp NEW Coleman® Twin LED Lantern NEW Coleman® Deck Chair with Table Stearns® Adult General Purpose Vests Stearns® Puddle Jumper™ Deluxe Sevylor Party Platform

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

featured artist

Shelley Leach The Dumoine Rover ‘in paint’ Shelley’s future as an artist seemed destined. Born in Kingston, Ont., she grew up in a military family. Her father a career army officer, her mother a landscape/ military artist. Showing a keen interest in the arts, Shelley’s mother taught her the fundamentals of painting at a very young age. By seven Shelley was accompanying Canadian artists in the field.

Shelley’s goal is to seek, experience, and record the unique character of the Canadian landscape through artistic impression. In 2008 on a recreational trip, Shelley began to create the first series of oil paintings documenting Quebec’s Dumoine River’s wilderness qualities.

In 2008 and 2009 Shelley travelled the upper portions of the Dumoine River from Lac Dumoine through to Lac La Forge. The journey into Dumoine was done via logging roads. In 2010 Shelley will fly into the area on a DeHavilland DHC-2 Beaver, then travel out by canoe to continue her journey and series of paintings. Over a period of years, and methods of exploration, Shelley hopes to create a series of painting’s that not only document but leave a lasting interpretation of the Dumoine Wilderness for all present and future generations there by granting “access” to all. This is a continuing series.

The 2010 expedition to Dumoine is being made possible in part with support of material resources from Trailhead Adventure Sports and The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) through public display of works produced. To learn more visit www.shelleyleach.com/. «oo Tradenet Canada 1/3 Page Ad:Layout 3 6/24/09 6:03 PM Page 1

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A one world barter economy.

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www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

ottawa outdoors 37

Uncrowded affordable easily accessible The Ottawa Valley!

Famous for its stunning outdoors, cultural and heritage riches and, not to mention a welcoming and hospitable nature, the Ottawa Valley is Ontario’s Adventure Playground. Conveniently located west of the Nation’s Capital, “the Valley” stretches for 220-kilometre eastwest along the Ottawa River and is the Eastern gateway to Algonquin Park – the oldest and most renowned provincial park in Ontario.

Surrounded by woodlands, over 900 pristine lakes and four major river systems, the Ottawa Valley is a four-season outdoor destination filled with abundant snowfalls in the winter and roaring whitewater from spring to fall.

Known as the Whitewater Capital of Canada, the area is home to some of the fastest, cleanest, warmest and safest rivers in the country – perfect for serious kayak or canoe action. You’ll find rivers for all seasons and skill levels – the Ottawa, Madawaska, Bonnechere, Petawawa, Opeongo, Dumoine, Barron, Mattawa, Coulonge, Noire, Papineau Creek, York, Grant’s Creek and more. Rivers flow from March to the end of November making for a long paddling season. Each year the Ottawa Valley hosts a variety of international, national and provincial kayaking and canoeing championships, festivals and paddling events. It is also home to Canada’s best paddling schools – kayak, raft or canoe.

Several seasoned outfitters offer a variety of guided packages from screamin’ highadventure rafting to gentle family floattrips, sea kayaking and sport38 ottawa

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yaking, canoe clinics, slalom racing and whitewater rodeos. If racing down a Class III, IV or V rapid is not your style, then slow down and relax as you glide across one of the area’s many lakes. Be sure to pack your camera, the photo opps are endless.

OK, so maybe you’re not a paddler.

Don’t worry, there’s more. An amazing array of activities awaits you – from hiking to hunting to camping to horseback riding, expansive multi-use trails and small town walking tours. For the golfer in the family, there are more than a dozen world-class courses to choose from all guaranteed to suit both the discriminating tastes of a seasoned pro and the novice aspirations of a true beginner. If you are looking to catch your own dinner, there is no shortage of fish here with more than 20 species, including trout, walleye (pickerel), pike, bass, whitefish, muskie and catfish.

A unique blend of towns, villages and municipalities can be found scattered throughout the region, where you will find plenty of variety, from the urban centres to the rural areas. Many communities host literary, film and art festivals, concerts, live theatre and studio tours.

The Ottawa Valley’s premier fall touring event is the annual Rural Ramble.

Held over three weekends in September and October, under the themes of Adventure and Exploration, Agriculture and Food and Arts, Culture, History and Heritage, each weekend offers visitors

an opportunity to experience the Ottawa Valley at its best. With more than 30 sites participating this year, including attractions and museums, artists and galleries, local food producers, restaurants and agricultural farms, the Ramble is the perfect opportunity to explore the Ottawa Valley while enjoying the spectacular fall colours.

Over the years, storytellers and festivals, and not to mention the more than 20 museums found throughout the region, have helped to preserve and share the Valley’s rich heritage and culture for generations to come. A visit to the numerous communities will uncover many unexpected treasures. Urban hikers and cyclists can take a self-guided tour of the Pembroke Heritage Murals Canada’s largest outdoor gallery or bike the historic Opeongo Line to Foymount - Ontario’s highest populated point.

Celebrate Kashubian culture in Wilno – Canada’s First Polish Settlement, or visit Ontario’s last swinging bridge in Renfrew. Canada’s only clock museum can be found in Deep River, while Combermere is the site of the tragic sinking of the sternwheel steamer – the Mayflower.

Looking for some retail therapy? Shopping malls and professional services are available throughout the Valley; however, what keeps the visitors coming back are the numerous antique shops, boutiques, galleries and craft stores where the craftsmanship of artisans from across the region can be found on prominent display.

For a romantic getaway, family holiday, a day’s shopping, the great outdoors, whatever you choose, let your sense of adventure guide you to the Ottawa Valley. «oo www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

COMMUNITIES Town of Petawawa

Petawawa, ON

613.687.5536

petawawa.ca

Gateway to Algonquin Park

Town of Renfrew

Renfrew, ON

613.432.5813

town.renfrew.on.ca

Your shopping destination in the Ottawa Valley!

Sheenboro, QC

800.665.5127

pontiactourism.com

5km trail to the top of history-rich Oiseau Rock

OUTFITTERS & RECREATION Oiseau Rock Hiking Trail Opeongo Mountain Resort

Eganville, ON

800.565.9623

omresort.ca

On site trails, mountain biking, lake sports, fishing and more.

Renfrew County ATV Club

Pembroke, ON

613.735.8882

renfrewcountyatv.ca

Explore a 600km network of trails over classic Canadian shield.

Barry’s Bay, ON

888.652.5268

mkc.ca

Whitewater kayak and canoe school and family rafting trips.

WHITEWATER ADVENTURES Madawaska Kanu Centre OWL Rafting on the Ottawa River

Foresters Falls, ON

800.461.7238

owlrafting.com

1-day and 2-day high adventure and family whitewater rafting trips.

Barry’s Bay, ON

888.652.5268

mkc.ca

Whitewater kayak and canoe school and family rafting trips.

Eganville, ON

800.469.2283

bonnecherecaves.com

Our guided tours are suitable for all ages.

PADDLING SCHOOLS Madawaska Kanu Centre

ATTRACTIONS Bonnechere Caves Chutes Coulonge Aerial Park and Logging Interpretation Centre

Fort Coulonge, QC

819.683.2770

chutescoulonge.qc.ca

Experience history, culture and adventure in the great outdoors!

Hugli’ s Blueberry Ranch, Ice Cream & Gift Store

Pembroke, ON

613.638.1288

blueberryranch.ca

Pick your own blueberries. Family fun grows here!

Oiseau Rock Hiking Trail

Sheenboro, QC

800.665.5127

pontiactourism.com

5km trail to the top of history-rich Oiseau Rock

Ross Museum

Foresters Falls, ON

613.646.2622

rossmuseum.ca

Bring your family back in time to the Ross Museum!

Renfrew Swinging Bridge

Renfrew, ON

613.432.5813

town.renfrew.on.ca

Visit the only swinging bridge in Ontario!

Deep River, ON

613.584.4483

valleyartisans.com

A unique selection of locally handcrafted art and gifts.

ANTIQUES AND GALLERIES Valley Artisans’Co-op

GOLF COURSES Dragonfly Golf Links

Renfrew, ON

888.275.3838

dragonflygolf.com

Whitetail Golf Club

Eganville, ON

800.280.2179

whitetailgolfclub.ca

The Valley’ s best kep secret!

Various locations, ON & QC

800.757.6580

ottawavalley.travel

4 great themes, 3 exciting weekends, 2 diverse provinces, 1 extraordinary Ottawa Valley!

Barry’s Bay, ON

613.756.7162

charlieds.com

Enjoy our Slickers ice cream, chip truck, movies and Wi-Fi.

Petawawa, ON

613.687.2053

bbcanada.com/8535.html

Go to sleep to the lullaby of the rapids.

Experience value. Experience service. Experience Whitetail.

SPECIAL EVENTS Rural Ramble (Sept. & Oct.)

DINING Charlie D’ s

BED & BREAKFASTS & Portage Place Bed & Breakfast Vieux Moulin B&B

Bryson, QC

888.648.5422

augiteduvieuxmoulin.com

Overlooking the magnificent Ottawa River, minutes from Renfrew.

Wingle Inn

Palmer Rapids, ON

866.339.9909

wingleinn.com

A little piece of heaven on earth.

CAMPGROUNDS & COTTAGES Bonnechere Provincial Park

Killaloe, ON

613.757.2103

bonnecherepark.on.ca

Sandy beach, hiking trails, cabins, canoe rentals, kids programs, playground.

Opeongo Mountain Resort

Eganville, ON

800.565.9623

omresort.ca

On site trails, mountain biking, lake sports, fishing and more.

Red Wolf Retreat

Eganville, ON

613.754.5241

redwolfretreat.ca

Yurts and cottage rentals nestled in the peaceful and relaxing Opeongo Hills.

Sunny Hill Resort

Barry’s Bay, ON

800.494.6883

sunnyhillresort.com

Bark Lake, boat rentals, fishing, indoor saltwater pool/ hot tub

Pembroke Comfort Inn

Pembroke, ON

877.289.9008

pembrokecomfortinn.ca

Relax in comfort while enjoying the Ottawa Valley’ s adventure playground.

Petawawa River Inn & Suites

Petawawa, ON

800.573.9775

petawawariverinnandsuites.ca

Enjoy a weekend of fun and relaxation in one of our newly renovated suites !

HOTELS & MOTELS

LODGES & RESORTS Jocko’ s Beach Resort

Calabogie, ON

866.376.6285

jockosbeach.com

Stay and play on the shore of Calabogie Lake.

Opeongo Mountain Resort

Eganville, ON

800.565.9623

omresort.ca

On site trails, mountain biking, lake sports, fishing and more.

www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

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Event Calendar DATE

PURSUIT

Jul 17 Jul 17 Jul 17 Jul 18 Jul 25 Jul 25 Jul 31 Jul 31 Jul 31 Aug 6–8 Aug 7–8 Aug 8–13 Aug 14 Aug 15–22 Aug 15 Aug 17 Aug 21 Aug 29 Sep 4 Sep 4 Sep 4 Sep 4 Sep 4 Sep 11 Sep 12 Sep 18 Sep 18–19 Sep 18 Sep 19 Sep 19 Sep 19 Sep 25 Sep 19 Sep 19 Sep 25–26 Sep 30–Oct 4 Oct 9 Oct 9 Oct 24 Oct 24

Urban Racing Triathlon / Duathlon Cycling Running / Walking Cycling Cycling Running / Walking Triathlon / Duathlon Running / Walking Track and Field Cycling Cycling Triathlon / Duathlon Orienteering Running / Walking Running / Walking Cycling) Cycling Triathlon / Duathlon Paddling Running / Walking Running / Walking Triathlon / Duathlon Running / Walking Running / Walking Running / Walking Trail / Ultra Running Adventure Racing Running / Walking Trail / Ultra Running Running / Walking Trail / Ultra Running Triathlon / Duathlon Trail / Ultra Running Running / Walking Paddling Triathlon / Duathlon Running / Walking Running / Walking Running / Walking

EVENT TITLE

EVENT WEBSITE

Mitsubishi City Chase Presented By BlackBerry Mooney’s Bay Kids of Steel Ottawa Bicycle Club Grand Prix Hintonburg Centennial 5k The Voyageur Route The Voyageur Route National Capital 3km, 5km & 10km Runs National Capital Triathlon, Duathlon and Relays Wylie Ryan Surf & Turf 50m Swim/500m Run The Legion Canadian Youth Track & Field Championships RONA MS Bike Tour–Ottawa to Kemptville The By-Cycle Ride Westboro Kids of Steel Canadian Orienteering Championships Simply Fit 1K 5K and 10K Xerox 10K Run Cyclebetes National Bike Relay–Ottawa The Crazy Train TTT Canadian Iron 226 Triathlon Duathlon & Relays Canadian Iron Canoe/Kayak Triathlon The Canadian 8 & 3km Runs The Wylie Ryan Canadian Surf and Turf The Canadian Triathlon/Duathlon & Relays Ottawa Regional Parkinson SuperWalk AMS Wiggle Waggle Walkathon Blast Off Kids Runs & Family Fun Day for Children at Risk Ottawa International 24 Hr Endurance Run Quest For A Cure Canada Army Run & Expo Nepean Trail Runs–3 & 5km Quebec Regional Parkinson Superwalk–Gatineau 5 Peaks Ottawa/Gatineau & QuebecTrail Running Series The Last Chance Triathlon Wylie Ryan 1km Trail Run 6/12/24 Hour Self Transcendence Race Turkey Bowl Fall Colours Duathlon Michael Ryan's Most Excellent Turkey Trot 1km Run Ottawa International Walking Festival Rattle Me Bones

www.campuschase.ca www.ottawakidstri.ca www.ottawabicycleclub.ca/grandprix www.hintonburg.com/run10.html www.CycleCanada.com/Voyageur.htm www.CycleCanada.com/Voyageur.htm www.somersault.ca/eventnationalcapitalrun.htm somersault.ca/eventnationalcapital.htm somersault.ca/eventsurfnturf.htm www.athletics.ca www.mssociety.ca www.CycleCanada.com www.ottawakidstri.ca/ www.ottawaoc.ca www.shadirelandfoundation.org www.runningroom.ca www.cyclebetes.com www.ridewithrendall.com www.somersault.ca www.somersault.ca www.somersault.ca

www.somersault.ca

www.somersault.ca http://psc.r-esourcecenter.com www.runningroom.ca http://blastoffkids.ca www.ouser.org/races/2010_OUS.pdf www.questforacure.ca www.armyrun.ca www.somersault.ca http://psc.r-esourcecenter.com www.5peaks.com www.somersault.ca www.somersault.ca sanchita@goldenboat.net www.canoekayak.ca www.somersault.ca www.somersault.ca www.runningroom.ca www.eventsonline.ca

Outdoor Clubs GROUP NAME

WEBSITE

DESCRIPTION

Ottawa Orienteering Club

www.ottawaoc.ca

We organize and take part in orienteering events in the Ottawa area.

Ottawa Hostel Outdoor Club

http://ohoc.ncf.ca

A rec club with hiking, cycling, canoeing, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Rideau Trail Association

www.rideautrail.org

A hiking club dedicated to maintaining the trail from Kingston to Ottawa.

Ottawa Triathlon Club

www.ottawatriathlonclub.com

A recreational organization dedicated to teaching the enjoyment of tris.

Ottawa Bicycle Club

www.ottawabicycleclub.ca

Offers a range of cycling programs from novice to expert.

Kanata Mt. Bike Community

www.mtbkanata.com

We ride our bikes, then do something related to bikes.

Ottawa-Carleton Ultimate Assoc.

www.ocua.ca

The largest Ultimate (Frisbee) league in the world.

Ottawa Sport and Social Club

www.ossc.ca

A co-ed, rec sport league, with tourneys and social events for adults.

Ottawa Rowing Club

www.ottawarowingclub.com

Come see what rowing is like on the picturesque Ottawa River.

Liquid Skills Paddling Centre

www.liquidskills.com

Programs and clinics, kayak lessons, expeditions and teen camps.

Madawaska Kanu Centre

www.owl-mkc.ca

Kayak lessons in-city and on-site. Weekend clinics for the whole family.

Ottawa Sailing School

www.boattraining.com

They offer the highest quality sailing programs and on-the-water adventure.

Somersault Events

www.somersault.ca

Triathlons, duathlons, and running events for you or the entire family.

The Running Room

www.runningroom.com

Ottawa’s running and walking club for team fitness.

TriRudy

www.trirudy.com

Website and resource for duathlons and triathlons.

La RoccaXC Mt.Bike School

www.creativewheel.ca

Camp for boys and girls, women and men keen to enjoy mountain biking.

Wilderness Tours

www.wildernesstours.com

In addition to rafting they offer kayak lessons and adventure camps.

Owl Rafting

www.owl-mkc.ca

Rafting, sea-kayaking, lessons, plus adventure programs.

Esprit Rafting

www.espritrafting.com

Rafting, canoeing and several training and certification courses.

River Run Rafting

www.riverrunners.com

Rafting, family trips, kayaking, cabins and more.

Ottawa New Edinburgh Club

www.onec.ca

A non-profit organization of about 400 members

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www.ottawaoutdoors.ca

Backpacking fundamentals

By Craig Macartney Looking for the ultimate camping experience? Backpacking is a musttry. But don't let excitement carry you off unprepared. Backpacking is more challenging than camping. For the inexperienced, never fear. The following pointers will get you on the trail and back planning future adventures.

The first thing you need when planning a backpacking trip is suitable partner. Only the very experienced should try backpacking alone.

But let's face it, any adventure is better with friends by your side celebrating victories and sharing the load.

Good partners aren’t necessarily on the same level as you. If you do not have much experience, find a partner who has been on the trail before.

Most important, find someone with the same hiking goals. For example, some prefer hiking short distances at a relaxed pace, never far from the parking lot. Others love braving the wilderness with only a map and compass pointing the way. Some bring nothing but the essentials, while others pack as much as they can carry; including the kitchen sink.

Partners who share common goals will avoid many problems.

The next thing to consider – choose the right trail. Is the trail too steep? Does it pass through high and dry ground or meander through a marsh? (Marshy regions are often buggy.) Is your trail a loop or does it run end to end? If you chose a trail that doesn’t loop back to the car, make arrangements for a ride home.

Now it’s time to map your route.

Consider your water supply, what permits you need, special fire regulations, weather, and the duration.

Inexperienced backpackers should plan no more than 10 to 15 kilometres a day over flat ground. Camp near water supplies (e.g. lakes or

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flowing water) making meal preparation easier.

Bring clothes for all weather and pack extra socks. Hiking with wet socks is miserable and can cause blisters. Wrapping your clothes in plastic bags will keep them dry even in a downpour. Plan carefully what to pack and bring only the essentials.

A good way to cut extra weight is bringing an ultra-light sleeping bag, a single burner camp stove, and a small tent. Know ahead how much you can carry and distribute the heavy gear. Before leaving, check all your gear to be sure it's working. Never leave home without a small first aid kit, map and compass. These tools will prove invaluable if anything goes wrong. Know how to use them and track your trip on the map.

Experienced campers know you eat more out in the woods than at home.

This is truer still for hikers as they are burning so much energy. Compensate by eating plenty of high-energy snacks, and packing extra food. Stick with meals that weigh less like hot cereal, soup, stew and pastas. Avoid canned food at all costs. Not only are cans heavy but you have to pack the empty metal out. As with any camping, store your food well away from your tent to avoid attracting animals.

Finally remember, staying hydrated is absolutely essential. Always carry more water than you need. Although water is heavy, you are better off carrying too much than finding yourself swallowing the last drops wondering where to fill up.

Properly prepared backpacking offers exciting adventure every time.

How to Pack a Backpack Here’s what to keep in mind.

• If the weight is not balanced properly, neither will you. When too much weight is on one side, your pack will shift your weight and put you at risk going over rocky or slippery ground.

• Place your heaviest items closest to your back with only light and bulky items below the small of your back. Fill your pack evenly with the lightest things on the outside. Try to keep the centre of gravity as close as possible to the side with the straps.

• Tighten your straps. You want your pack to stay parallel to your upright body. The closer you can get it to line up with your back, the more control you will have and the better your balance will be.

ottawa outdoors 41

A few words on the green battery-charged E-Scooters In her recent press release, NCC CEO, Marie Lemay’s forward-thinking comments asked, “. . . do we want our National Capital Region to be bike- and pedestrian-friendly?” Obviously for Ottawa Outdoors readers, the answer is a resounding yes! Toronto we are not. We have our walking and biking paths and we love them. Should it be taken to the level being proposed in the downtown core, you will have your say when discussions begin. However, the rest of this article is for the praise of technology for another mode of transportation to get you where you’re going — the Gio Electric Scooter.

This GIO E-Scooter is the ultimate alternative for Ottawa commuters that need a quick way to travel but do not want the expense of operating a vehicle or motorcycle. Classified as an electric bicycle (since pedals can be used), you just have to think of Europe and other countries to get your head around the friendliness and quaintness of these electric bikes as they putter along quietly on our wonderful pathways. You don’t have to register it and can operate it without any driver’s licence, but you have to be 16 and must wear a helmet.

The Gio Scooter come fully equipped with safety features (signals, horn); they’re limited to only 24-32km per hour; they can travel up to 60-kilometres on a single charge of the battery, and the website www.giobikes.com regularly has these selling at auction for only $250! Further research showed many Canadians stating they’re getting the Gio E-Scooter for around $600 shipping included, and the reviews are great.

Each E-Scooter comes with front and rear lights, mirrors, and a soft plush carpet kit for your feet to rest on (if they’re not resting on the pedals). As well, an oversize seat and trunk box allows for plenty of storage (lunch, briefcase, laptop). It uses a key to start the battery, comes with a lock, and even has easy access storage to place your cell phone or iPod or any accessories you may have.

If you love biking around the city on the paths then you’ll equally love scooting along as well. Sure it’s not as healthy for you, but it is a greener way to get around than taking your car (plus no parking fees). So if you can’t pedal the bike, or don’t want to get too sweaty when you get to where you’re going (like your job), then this is your ticket to ride. «oo

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