Athletic Brewing Co., a U.S.-based producer of non-alcoholic beverages, is encouraging outdoor activity in Canada by supporting the Trans Canada Trail. The company has announced a pledge to donate one Canadian dollar for every kilometer logged on the trail from September 20 to October 19. The goal is to collectively hike, bike, paddle, or roll a total of 30,000 kilometers, which is roughly the length of the trail. If successful, this initiative could result in a $30,000 donation to support trail development and maintenance.
The initiative is part of Athletic Brewing's ongoing commitment to outdoor activities, inspired by co-founder Bill Shufelt's love for hiking. His tradition of bringing two beers to enjoy at summits led to the creation of the "Two for the Trails" program, which generates approximately $2 million annually for trail maintenance and development. Athletic Brewing is also a regular supporter of the Trans Canada Trail.
Among the company's popular brews are outdoor-themed options like Run Wild IPA, Free Wave Hazy IPA, and Upside Dawn Golden Ale, all available through Designated Drinks in London.
In addition to Athletic Brewing, other breweries are also embracing outdoor themes. Upper Thames Brewery in Woodstock offers Backpaddle, a blonde ale named for canoeists, and Take a Hike, a fruity pale ale. Their Backcountry lager pays tribute to camping. Manitoulin Brewing features Cup and Saucer English Ale, named after a local trail, while Muskoka Brewery offers Tread Lightly, a low-alcohol lager, and Windbound Campfire, a smoked lager with a canoeist on the label.
Meanwhile, Beertown, Ontario's largest distributor of Belgian beers, is hosting Belgian Week, which ends on September 14. This event showcases 50 family breweries and features popular brews like Orval and Chimay Blue. Beertown has two locations in London, and its directors have been recognized by the Knighthood of the Brewers’ Paddle for their contributions to beer culture.
The craft beer selection at Costco is also expanding, with locations now stocking Elora Borealis, a pale ale from Elora Brewing. Other craft beers available at select Costco locations include offerings from Great Lakes, Manitoulin, Muskoka, and Steam Whistle.
At Cowbell Brewing, the Oatmeal Vanilla Black Lager is gaining popularity, especially during the Dawg Days of Autumn event on September 28. For sour beer enthusiasts, Anderson Craft Ales has introduced a Nectarine Sour made with locally grown nectarines, while London Brewing offers a Resolution Organic Hibiscus and Haskap Sour. Storm Stayed Brewery has a radler called London Pineapple, perfect for those wanting to savor summer flavors.