Alumni Travel

MacPack Adventures

No previous experience is required to participate in MacPack Adventures and all ages are welcome. A moderate level of fitness, carry a daypack and ability to walk uneven terrain is required to meet the demands of most trips. The trips are designed to be suitable for beginners learning a new skill while the destinations offer such stunning scenery that experienced outdoor enthusiasts will find the trips satisfying. Trip leaders will be sure to adjust their instruction to the level of the group and will provide challenges to those seeking a little more. Don’t worry if you don’t own your own gear – aside from appropriate footwear and clothing, you will be able to borrow all the gear you will need for the trips. Pre-trip meetings are held to ensure that everyone is prepared for the trip and is a great way to meet fellow travellers and your guides.

MacPack Adventures – Summer ’08 Weekends:

Join McMaster’s certified guides for one of two great canoe trips this summer!

Algonquin Provincial Park Canoe Trip - **NEW SPACES OPENED**

Dates: July 16-20, 2008
Cost:  $325 + gst  (includes Weds. night accommodations, food, gear & camping)

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s oldest and largest parks, encompassing more than 7700 square kilometers of tranquil forests, ancient terrain, and a seemingly endless network of lakes and rivers.  Exploring Algonquin Park in a canoe is an experience you’ll never forget—or regret.  Visitors who travel the waterways of Algonquin are privy to a special world in which you’ll be rewarded by the sight of animals in their natural habitat.  Experience the enchanting call of a loon, watch the sun set on a secluded northern lake and enjoy stories around a campfire.

Join us for a wonderful summer experience of camping and canoeing in Algonquin lead by experienced guides.  The group will meet Wednesday, July 16th at the Wolf Den Cabins and Hostel outside the West Gate of Algonquin Park. Water taxi on Thursday up Lake Opeongo to the North Arm and portage to Proulx Lake before entering Little Crow Creek. Enjoying wildlife views along the way, the group will arrive at Big Crow Lake where the first campsite will be set up.  Spend the next two days on the water, paddling on Big Crow Lake to an old rangers cabin, hike to a look out and walk amongst Old growth forests before heading back to the portage to meet the water taxi on Sunday. You may opt to either carpool from McMaster on Wednesday July 16th for an additional $50 pp . *Note: Participants should expect approximately 4 hours paddling per day (with breaks) plus should be able to complete 200-800m easy portages carrying small packs. There is approximately a 4- hour drive to Algonquin (from Hamilton).

Canoeing in Temagami – Paradise Found - **SOLD OUT**

Dates:  August 21 - 24, 2008
Cost:  $325 + gst    (includes Weds. night accommodations, food, gear & camping)

Explore the wonders of Temagami, where moose, wolves, otters, and eagles roam free in crystal clear waters and majestic forests.   Spend the trip canoeing ancient routes where native pictographs remain on white rock cliffs, swimming under waterfalls at Paradise Lagoon in waters so clear you can see 30 feet down, and hiking up Wolf Mountain through the largest stand of old growth red pine forest in Ontario, blanketed by carpets of wild blueberries.

Join us for this memorable summer experience through Temagami lead by certified guides.  The group to meet Wednesday night and stay in a North Bay motel. Participants may choose to travel up with the leaders for an additional $50 pp. We will begin canoeing on Thursday at Lake Matagamasi and explore unforgettable areas of Wolf Lake and McCarthy Bay, all part of Temagami’s Chiniguichi loop.  *Note: Participants should expect approximately 4 hours paddling per day (with breaks) and should be able to complete 300m-500m moderate portages carrying small packs. Driving time to Temagami (from Hamilton is approximately 7 hours.)

To Register and for Details:

Registration: stuckey@mcmaster.ca or call Amber Stuckey at 905-525-9140, ext. 24882 in the Office of Alumni Advancement

MACPack Adventures Trip Leaders:

What to know about hiking

Gear:

Footwear is the most important item.  Running shoes are okay for light occasional hikes, but they don’t have much ankle support and tend to be slippery on wet trails.  The best option for long hikes and rough terrain is hiking boots. Remember to break in new boots or shoes gradually to avoid pain and blisters on trip.

Backpacks need to be comfortable and the right size. A backpack should not hang below your hips.  Hip and chest straps help balance the weight of the pack and avoid muscle strain.  Remember not to over pack your bag, you’ll be happier with a lighter pack than carrying around unnecessary items adding to the weight.  

Remember to bring a water bottle.  It’s important to stay hydrated even if it’s not hot out.  It’s also important to know when you will be able to refill your water bottle; you may have to take two if drinking water is not available for a long time.

Always bring some snacks even if you are not planning to have a meal on the trail.  Hiking is hard work and you may need some extra energy.

Hiking sticks can make your trek easier by giving more support on wet and uneven trails.  They also help reduce the strain on your legs when going up and down hills.

Clothing

If possible try to avoid wearing cotton.  When it gets wet (from rain or sweat) it takes a long time to dry and does not keep you warm.  Nylon, wool and synthetics (polar fleece) are better choices.  Remember to layer your clothing, so that it’s easy to remove a layer and put in it your backpack.

Hiking safety

• Never hike alone!
• Let someone know where you are going, your route and when you expect to return. (Depending on where you will be, you may not be able to rely on cell phone reception.)
• Stretch your muscles, especially your legs before you begin.
• Always carry water and a snack.

Questions/How to Book/Travel Mailing List

When you are ready to book, or if you have any questions about the trip or the travel program, please be in touch with Amber Stuckey by email at stuckey@mcmaster.ca, phoning 905.525.9140 ext. 24882 or toll-free at 1.888.217.6003.

To ensure you don’t miss any of the travel mailings or emails, be sure to be added to the Travel Mailing List by contacting Anne-Marie.  Brochures are mailed out 6-9 months in advance, while some trips are promoted solely by email. Be sure to check back to this website often to view upcoming trips.