A L G O N Q U I N
Camping - something my high-school friends and I would do during the summer to escape suburbia. We would pack up a few things, usually forgetting the necessities, and hit the road northbound. Nowadays, these experiences are but nostalgic thoughts, since I somehow managed to escape camping for an entire decade.
All of that changed a few weeks back when Meghan Young asked if I wanted to go camping... in November... up in Algonquin Provincial Park. Meghan explained that the trip was in partnership with Mountain Equipment Co-op and that they would be sending experienced staff, equipped with camping essentials, none of which I would be responsible for packing. So... I said..., "N..o....ya..ass...ure!"
Here are some of my camping #musts, well....ones that I discovered along the way.
Photography: @JessBaumung
- MUST HAVE -
There is a massive list of #musthaves when it comes to camping. Must have food. Must have tent. Must have alcohol. Must have music. And on and on and on the list goes.
My first recommendation is the MEC Reactor 6.5 sleeping pad. This magical invention makes sleeping outside - inches above the hard earth's surface - feel like you're sleeping on a fluffy cloud. #Zzzzz. Another must is the MEC Commix Hoodie. When I first tried it on I was shocked, mostly because I immediately realized that I never wanted to take it off. It kept me warm over night and was extremely comfy.
- MUST DO -
There are lot of great activities to keep you busy while camping. Which did I do? A run through the wonderful wilderness. While we were in Algonquin, we did some incredible trail running. I mean it wasn't vigorous, or lengthy, but we got a taste and boy, was it visually and physically delicious.
- MUST SEE -
If you're headed up to Algonquin for a day trip, or if you're there to camp like we did, you #MUST make hiking the Algonquin trail, to the lookout, top priority. The hike is fairly accessible for all ages and physical abilities, and it took us less than 20mins from the nearest car park entrance. It was a beautiful sunny day and when we got to the top, it took my breath away. You normally don't get such scenic views in Ontario, so this one is definitely a must! I mean - you can't really tell how much we loved it. :D
- MUST EAT -
Ever since I can remember, traveling North on HWY 11 translates to eating at Webers. Their mouth watering burgers and delicious fries make this destination the ultimate burger joint.
Another reason you #muststop at Webers is for the old train cars they have on the property, you can eat in them, or just take ridiculous photos in them like us. #nightmares
The food at camp was delicious, but what is life without campfire s'mores? 'Nuff said. Ingredients included: bacon, maple cookies, marshmallows, shaved coconut, Graham crackers, grilled peaches, dark chocolate, and Reese's peanut butter cups.
