This year, satisfy your hunger for winter adventure by joining us in the snow of Gatineau Park, Quebec, just outside of Ottawa. As a group, we’ll cross country ski and snowshoe through Gatineau’s beautiful trails and stay at the nearby Pine and Birch ranch in a heated cabin. We will bunk, cook, and enjoy the ski trails, toboggan hills, and skating rinks together. Happening during Ontario’s Family Day Weekend, we invite you to bring your 5.5ers along for the trip. Learn strategies for adventuring in the snow with T1D. 

 This trip welcomes adults with Type 1 diabetes, as well as 5.5ers/T3s. Who is that, you ask? Our support networks and the people who help make life with diabetes just a little bit easier. Bring your partners, family members, or friend along to experience all that the CIM community has to offer in beautiful Gatineau.

Pine and Birch Ranch is located just 30 minutes outside of Ottawa surrounding a private 10-acre lake in scenic, rural Quebec. Pine and Birch Ranch is situated 2km from Gatineau Park, home of world class cross country ski trails and just a 5 minute drive from Wakefield, Quebec.

Of course! A detailed schedule will be forwarded to all participants closer to the event, but for an idea of what to expect, check here is a sample schedule:
FRIDAY
7pm – Arrival at Pine and Birch Ranch – Move in and relax.
8pm – Official Welcome
9pm – Snacks and Mingling

SATURDAY
8:30am – Breakfast
10am – Cross Country Skiing in Gatineau
12:30pm – Lunch on Trail in Gatineau
1:30pm – Cross Country Skiing in Gatineau
4:00 – Relax at the Ranch
6:30pm – Dinner
8:00pm – Pond Hockey/Skating at Ranch
9:30pm – Wine + Cheese Social

SUNDAY
8:30am – Breakfast
10am – Cross Country Skiing/Snowshoe Option in Gatineau
12:30pm – Lunch at Gatineau Ice Caves
1:30pm – Explore the Gatineau Ice Caves
4:00 – Relax at the Ranch
6:30pm – Dinner
8:00pm – Campfire

MONDAY
8:30am – Breakfast
10am – Pack-up and Head Out
11:00am – Optional group skate at Ottawa Canal

What do I need to bring with me?
The CIM team will forward a packing list with all of the details you need to be packed appropriately. You can expect to receive this 2 weeks prior to the event. We’ll expect that you’ll bring your own diabetes supplies, clothing, and toiletries. You’ll be responsible for your own cross country ski/snowshoe/skating gear. Don’t worry, we will help hook you up with rental locations and options to borrow closer to the event.

What is the vibe of the weekend?
This year marks CIM’s first winter adventure trip! The weekend will cater to various skill levels and abilities and will offer a range of winter outdoor activities. The emphasis will be on getting outside and having fun rather than breaking speed records. We’ll have lots of time to hang out at the ranch and to connect with other Type 1s and 5.5ers alike. This is a great chance to introduce your 5.5er (be that a friend, family member, partner) to the community.

I’m not super fit. I’ve seen some of CIM’s photos and videos – everything looks epic. I don’t know if I’ll be able to handle the Hut Trip!
Of course you will! The CIM team are trained educators and adventure guides. We work hard to make sure that everyone experiences success, defined on your own terms. Whether that’s climbing a mountain, or just strolling to the trailhead, we’ll mould the experience to suit all ability levels. We’ll encourage you to step to the edge of your comfort zone, but we won’t push you off!

I’ve never been to something like this before – Can I bring a friend?
Of course! This is one of CIM’s programs that welcomes the community to join in. Get in touch if you have any questions.

Where will we be sleeping?
The Pine and Birch ranch offers shared accommodation. It’s an upgrade from a tent, but we’ll still be sharing sleeping spaces. We’ll be warm and cozy! If you’re traveling with a 5.5er, expect to be paired in the same sleeping quarters. Traveling alone? No problem, we’ll pair you up, too!

I have a special dietary need – celiac, dairy sensitivity, allergy – Can the venue accommodate me?
CIM has plenty of experience catering to a variety of dietary needs. We’ll work closely with you to make sure that you’re comfortable with the food situation. We don’t want food to be a stress! You’re always welcome to bring your own food and snacks, as well!

Will there be low supplies on site, or do I need to pack my own?
Low supplies will be plentiful! We’ll supply juice boxes, glucose tabs, granola bars, etc. As always, if you have your own favorites, please bring them along! (Maybe they will become our favorites, too!)

Do you have a questions that you’d like answered? Send them to peter@connectedinmotion.ca with Winter Hut FAQ in the subject line and we’ll get your questions answered!