Hike, Fish & Paddle - 2026 - Gros Morne, NL

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Gros Morne Hike, Fish & Paddle, 24 - 28 August 2026 is now open. The application deadline is 29 May 2026.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:  
Join fellow Soldier On participants for an unforgettable multi-day experience in the stunning wilderness of Newfoundland. The program will focus on the Tablelands Full loop in Gros Morne National Park. The Tablelands Full Loop is a challenging and rewarding trek through one of the most unique terrains in eastern North America. Barren backcountry meadows, sheer cliffs and stunted rare vegetation. This full-day hike spans approximately 15+ kms of rough, rocky terrain, offering a thrilling adventure for advanced hikers.  This opportunity will include other additional recreational and cultural activities to enhance the overall experience, subject to weather related conditions and confirmations.

Designed to challenge and inspire, this event offers a powerful mix of physical activity, natural beauty, and peer connection. 

Please note: This is a physically strenuous event, and participants should be prepared for demanding outdoor activities as outlined in the mental and physical requirement section of this application.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 18.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from all regions within Canada who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

All selected participants will be required to track their hike training using a smartphone app (Strava) in the lead-up to the event as a condition of participation. We strongly encourage all applicants to begin preparing and building their fitness in advance.

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
***All activities are weather dependant and subject to change for safety reasons

• 24 Aug -Travel day
• 25 Aug - Cod fishing, Back country ride, Tablelands geology walk - Discovery center
• 26 Aug - 15 - 18 km Hike Tablelands loop
• 27 Aug - Guided Sea Kayak paddle in the Fjords
• 28 Aug -Travel Home

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS: 
Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate up to 8 hours of moderate to high paced activities for 3 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. Participants must have the mobility and endurance to hike up to 15–18 km with various ascents and descents over uneven, rocky terrain for extended periods, including inclines and potential exposure to variable weather conditions. A moderate to high level of physical fitness is recommended, along with appropriate hiking footwear and clothing for wet or slippery conditions. The hike may include a steep scree slope, light bouldering and/or scrambles. While rewarding, the route includes challenging sections that may be steep and wet. Participants should feel comfortable with heights and maintaining balance on rugged ground. 

Kayaking requires the ability to enter and exit a low-seated watercraft, shoulder mobility, maintain balance, and paddle for sustained duration. Participants should also be comfortable around or near the water and be prepared to tolerate exposure to sun, wind, and water.  Sea kayaks have a maximum weight capacity of 220 lbs as we will use tandem kayaks, and the limit is based on the combined total weight of both paddlers plus any gear.

Cod fishing may also be included and will require participants to be comfortable standing for extended periods on a boat, managing light gear, and tolerating motion on open water.

Selected participants will be asked to prepare for the Newfoundland opportunity by building overall fitness and confidence through regular cardiovascular activity (such as hiking, biking, or swimming), strength training focused on the legs, core, and upper body, and mobility exercises to support flexibility and injury prevention. Balance and coordination drills, such as yoga or agility work, are also recommended to handle uneven terrain and kayaking. 

Mental readiness is key—participants should set personal goals, practice mindfulness, and be open to group challenges. If possible, trying local hikes and paddling in advance can help build familiarity and confidence. Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. All accommodations are shared.

All selected participants will be required to track their hike training using a smartphone app (Strava) in the lead-up to the event as a condition of participation. We strongly encourage all applicants to begin preparing and building their fitness in advance.