The BMBTC offers a volunteer-run service for hikers wanting a shuttle between start and end points of a hike. Hikers with a single vehicle can arrange a shuttle in advance of a planned hike in the area. We make every effort to accommodate all requests, however cannot guarantee there will always be a volunteer available. Please send your request at least a week or two before you intend to hike. Once confirmed, a Trail Angel meets with the hiker(s) at their car, parked at the end of the planned route and takes the hiker(s) to the start of their hike.
Send your request to TrailAngels@bmbtc.org. Include the following details about your hike:
- Hike date.
- Pick up time. No earlier than 7 am please, for our volunteers.
- Finish point of the hike. State Map # and km from The Bruce Trail Reference: Maps and Trail Guide and include description of location (for example, parking lot description included in the guide). This becomes the pick-up location where you meet the Trail Angel.
- Number of people getting a ride (maximum 4 please)
- Where they are being dropped off (starting point of the hike)
The BMBTC will confirm the shuttle with you.
The Blue Mountains Trail Angels volunteer their time and gas with an expectation that their rider will make a donation to the Bruce Trail.
Prefered method is by e-transfer directly to the Blue Mountains club. e-transfers can be made to BMBTC Treasurer bmbtc.treasurer@gmail.com
This account is set up as autodeposit, no need for any passwords. Please include that you are doing the transfer as a result of using our Trail Angel service. If you would like a tax receipt for your donation (any amounts > $20) they will be processed at the end of the year, and please remember to include your full name, email address and mailing address so they can be processed appropriately.
Alternatively, you can make a donation online to the Bruce Trail Conservancy. On the BTC website, select “Donate Now”. Select a “Donation Amount’, and choose “Single Donation”. On the next page look for the “Comment” box. Enter “Trail Angel service by the Blue Mountains Club”.
Advance notice is required – *one-two weeks’ notice is recommended whenever possible* and shuttles are not guaranteed.
Hiking Safety
- Have a plan
- Take your maps
- Hike with a partner
- Let someone know where you’re starting and ending your hike with the approximate time of completion.
- Follow all signs posted.
- Sometimes the trail changes make it onto the trail before appearing on a website.
- Dress appropriately for weather and trail conditions.
- Layers are key.
- Well-fitting hiking boots/shoes and trekking poles help maintain stability.
- Keep an eye out for poison ivy, ticks, wet wood/rocks (slippery), and animals.
- Carry a small first aid kit and a whistle.
- Bring lots of water and snacks
- Leave no trace
- to pack out what you pack in- including dog poop!
Winter Hiking
Consider packing some of these items for your Winter hikes!!
- Snowshoes
- Microspikes (trail crampons)
- Trekking poles
- Gaiters
- Sunglasses/goggles
Extra clothing: Wear quick-drying fabrics that retain warmth when wet, like wool or polyester. Dress in layers to keep moisture to a minimum. Carry an extra set of socks, gloves, and base layers Sweat is not your friend in winter.
- Map / BTC reference maps
- Waterproof matches /lighter
- Foil Emergency Blanket
- Pocket knife
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- First Aid kit (include hot shot hand and feet warmers)
- Loud whistle
- Headlamp (fully charged/new batteries)
- Extra food: bagels, candy, high-calorie bars, nuts, dried fruit, sandwiches etc.
- Water: An insulated sleeve to keep from freezing. Avoid your summer water bladders and narrow-mouthed bottles, as these can freeze easily.
- Insulated metal bottle or small thermos, filled with hot drinks (tea, hot water). Access to a hot, sugary drink can help you warm up if you get chilled.
- Keep your cell phone close to your body to conserve battery. Bring a backup battery. Download What3Words ahead of time for emergencies.
