Wilderness Union
Rating
Family of 4
$100-$250 CAD depending on the program
Duration
Half day to full day depending on program
Best Ages
Best for ages 5+
About
Wilderness Union at 500 Keele Street in Toronto offers nature-based programs and outdoor skills experiences for children and families. The organization focuses on connecting kids with nature through hands-on wilderness skills that most urban children rarely get to try.
Programs typically include bushcraft skills like fire-starting, shelter building, plant and animal identification, and outdoor cooking. Family programs allow parents and children to learn together. Programs are pre-registered and run at various outdoor locations in and around Toronto. The Keele Street address is the administrative base.
The instructors are experienced outdoor educators who know how to engage kids while maintaining safety. Group sizes are kept manageable. Programs run primarily spring through fall, with some winter-specific offerings. The Keele Street location is accessible by TTC (Keele station on Line 2).
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Not Available
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Spring through fall for most programs
Wait Times
Pre-registered programs — no walk-in wait
Nearby Food
Depends on the program location. The Keele Street area has restaurants along Dundas West and in the Junction neighborhood.
Why Kids Love It
They get to do real outdoor skills — fire building, shelter making, nature identification — that feel like survival training. The programs are run by people who genuinely love nature. Kids come home filthy and proud of themselves.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Register early — popular programs fill up
- Confirm the exact meeting location — activities happen at various outdoor sites
- Dress kids in clothes that can get dirty
- Family programs are great bonding experiences
What to Bring
- Clothes that can get dirty
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes or hiking boots
- Water bottle and snacks
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Rain gear if forecast is uncertain
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$100-$250 CAD depending on the program
Tips to Save
- Look for multi-session discounts or family packages.
- Some programs have sibling discounts.
