Pilgrimage in Ontario on the Elora-Cataract Trail
“The sacred art of pilgrimage is not about escapism or avoiding problems or forgetting where we come from. Rather, the way of the pilgrim is essentially about fostering greater connection between our pasts, our presents, and our futures.”
The Elora-Cataract Trail is a 50km trail located in one of the prettiest areas of southwestern Ontario. The trail rolls through forest and farmland and is a perfect place to slow down so you can wake up to what your soul is saying to you. The terrain is flat and even and perfect for most people.
NEW FOR 2024!
Walk a shorter distance on part of the trail on one day only, or complete the entire 50km over the weekend. Choose your own adventure based on your ability, schedule and finances! Descriptions of options are below.
This trip is perfect for singles, couples, small staff teams, or a weekend getaway with friends. We will be walking some of the time together, and some of the time on our own. And, we’ll walk rain or shine!
The entire pilgrimage will be supported by Christa as she offers helpful expert advice and resources to help you have the most meaningful experience possible. You’ll reflect on your life, gain insight into what your soul is wanting to say to you, and find a restoring calm as you walk yourself back to life!
Options for walking: Pick your own adventure!
#1 - Walk the entire 50km over 3 days beginning with 8km on Friday evening, and continuing on Saturday into Sunday. See the complete itinerary below. ( $250.00)
#2 - Walk 30km over 2 days - 8km on Friday evening, and 22km on Saturday. See itinerary below. ($160.00)
#3 - Walk 22km on Saturday only. See itinerary below. ( $90.00)
#4 - Walk 42km on Saturday and Sunday. See itinerary below. ($160.00)
#5 - Walk 20km on Sunday only. See itinerary below. ($90.00)
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Friday evening - July 12, 2024 (8km)
Consider spending the day before we meet exploring the iconic Elora Gorge & local artisans in the idyllic town of Elora.
We will meet at 6:00pm and begin our pilgrimage with a helpful orientation.
We’ll start off easy and enjoy an 8 km stroll together from Fergus to Elora ending with refreshments and a short debrief time. You’ll return to your accommodation and rest up for Saturday’s walk.
Day 2 - Saturday - July 13, 2024 (22km)
Today is our longest day at 22 km. We’ll start early and take our time strolling near two charming villages (Erin & Hillsburgh) as we make our way from Cataract to Orton. People generally take between 4-7 hours out on the trail - we want you to embrace your own pace!
For those starting their pilgrimage on Saturday, you’ll receive a complete orientation before you begin walking.
After your hike, you can spend the remainder of the afternoon exploring Fergus and Elora if you’d like.
Then, at 6:30pm people who are interested will gather together with Christa at one of Elora’s treasured restaurants and enjoy a meal together sharing moments, insights, and experiences about your pilgrimage journey thus far. (Note: Dinner together is optional - you also have the option to eat on your own at a time and place that suits you best, or if your pilgrimage is complete, you can return home after walking. )
Day 3 - Sunday, July 14. (20km)
With 20 km remaining of the trail, today we will begin where we left off yesterday, in Orton, and then make our way through Belwood Lake Conservation and finish in Fergus. People generally take 4-6 hours out on the trail.
For those walking Sunday only, you’ll receive a complete orientation before you begin walking. You’ll wrap up your pilgrimage in the afternoon with hearty snacks and refreshing beverages before saying goodbye.
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Where to Stay (if you’re walking two or more days)
There are plenty of places to stay locally. You’ll be responsible for booking your own accommodations in the Elora/Fergus/Guelph area. Christa will provide a list of options including hotels, Airbnb, and camping. You pick what suits you best!
What’s Included
pre-trip resource guide to support and help you prepare well for your pilgrimage (includes thoughtful pilgrimage resources, walking tips to get you ready to walk the distance, what to pack, etc.)
transportation to and from trail-heads on all three days
real-time logistical support while on the trail
on-the-trail contemplative practices and personal support to help you reflect while you walk
debrief conversations and answering any questions you may have so your pilgrimage is meaningful.
delicious snacks for the trail all three days
amazing trail lunch on Saturday and Sunday chock-full of the good stuff!
**Does not include accommodations, Saturday dinner, or your breakfasts.
Costs are based on what option you choose:
#1 - Walk the entire 50km over 3 days beginning with 8km on Friday evening, and continuing on Saturday into Sunday. See the complete itinerary below. ( $250.00)
#2 - Walk 30km over 2 days - 8km on Friday evening, and 22km on Saturday. See itinerary below. ($160.00)
#3 - Walk 22km on Saturday only. See itinerary below. ($90.00)
#4 - Walk 42km on Saturday and Sunday. See itinerary below. ($160.00)
#5 - Walk 20km on Sunday only. See itinerary below. ($90.00)
Payment for your pilgrimage is via Electronic Fund Transfer to this email address: soulplaynow@gmail.com.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR 2024!
If you have any questions before registering, do not hesitate to contact Christa. Enjoy the pictures from a previous year’s pilgrimage below!
The pilgrimage is operating in privilege on the traditional homeland of the Neutral, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee nations. We give thanks to and acknowledge the many Indigenous Peoples who call this region home. We hold with us in this space the recognition of the violence committed in the name of God against the Indigenous Peoples of this land, our fellow image-bearers of God, as we work and pray for shalom. Today, this area is home to many indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island and we acknowledge the Mississaugas of the Credit.
