Fun Things to Do in Ontario in Winter – Places to Visit, Activities in the Snow
Skiing and Snowboarding in Ontario
One of the best activities in Ontario is skiing and snowboarding, with famous resorts like Blue Mountain offering a variety of downhill ski tracks for different skill levels. The provincial park’s ski slopes provide breathtaking views and thrilling experiences for winter adventure enthusiasts.
Located in Collingwood, Blue Mountain Ski Resort is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding in Ontario. The resort boasts over 40 ski trails and 15 lifts, catering to beginners as well as seasoned skiers. From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging runs for advanced riders, Blue Mountain has something for everyone.
Other ski resorts in the area include Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone. These resorts offer well-maintained slopes, professional ski instructors, and rental equipment for a complete skiing or snowboarding experience.
Downhill Ski Resorts in Ontario
| Resort | Location | Number of Trails | Lifts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Mountain | Collingwood | 40+ | 15 |
| Snow Valley Ski Resort | Barrie | 15+ | 8 |
| Horseshoe Valley | Barrie | 28+ | 8 |
| Hockey Valley Resort | Barrie | 10+ | 5 |
| Mount St. Louis Moonstone | Coldwater | 36+ | 13 |
Whether you’re a novice or an expert, skiing and snowboarding in Ontario offers an exhilarating winter experience. The diverse range of resorts and trails ensures that you can find the perfect slope to suit your skill level and preferences. So grab your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes for an unforgettable adventure in Ontario’s winter wonderland!
Cross-Country Skiing in Ontario
For those who prefer cross-country skiing, Ontario offers scenic trails at places like Arrowhead Provincial Park and Windy Lake Provincial Park. These parks provide the perfect backdrop to glide through snow-covered forests, immersing yourself in the peaceful winter landscape.
Arrowhead Provincial Park, located just north of Huntsville, features well-groomed trails that cater to skiers of all levels. The park’s 28 kilometers of trails wind through towering trees and picturesque frozen lakes, offering a tranquil skiing experience. It’s a great place to sharpen your skills or simply enjoy a leisurely ski among nature.
Windy Lake Provincial Park, situated near Sudbury, also offers fantastic cross-country skiing opportunities. The park boasts over 30 kilometers of professionally groomed trails that pass through rugged Canadian Shield terrain. As you ski along the trails, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of frozen lakes and snow-covered hills.
| Park | Location | Trail Length |
|---|---|---|
| Arrowhead Provincial Park | Huntsville | 28 kilometers |
| Windy Lake Provincial Park | Sudbury | 30 kilometers |
Both parks offer equipment rentals, making it easy for visitors to enjoy cross-country skiing even if they don’t have their own gear. So, grab your skis, embrace the crisp winter air, and explore the stunning cross-country ski trails that Ontario has to offer.
Ice Skating in Ontario
Lace up your skates and enjoy the thrill of ice skating on the Rideau Canal, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating trail in Ottawa, or try out other outdoor skating trails and rinks throughout Ontario. The Rideau Canal offers a unique experience, where you can glide across the frozen canal while taking in the beautiful winter scenery. It’s a favorite activity among locals and visitors alike.
Aside from the Rideau Canal, Ontario also boasts other outdoor skating trails and rinks that are equally delightful. The Bentway, located in downtown Toronto, offers a picturesque trail underneath the Gardiner Expressway. Skating here allows you to enjoy the urban landscape while surrounded by the magic of winter.
For those seeking a more tranquil setting, the RiverOak Trail in London provides a peaceful skating experience. Surrounded by nature, you can skate along the frozen river, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Ontario’s winter wonderland.
Outdoor Skating Trails and Rinks in Ontario
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Rideau Canal, Ottawa | The world’s largest naturally frozen skating trail |
| The Bentway, Toronto | Skate under the Gardiner Expressway in a urban setting |
| RiverOak Trail, London | Enjoy a peaceful skating experience surrounded by nature |
Ice skating is not only a fun activity but also a great way to appreciate the beauty of Ontario in winter. So, grab your skates and glide your way through the frozen landscapes of this remarkable province.
Snowshoeing in Ontario
Explore the snowy landscapes of Ontario with snowshoeing adventures at parks like Wye Marsh Conservation Area and Ball’s Falls. These parks offer guided snowshoe tours and have well-maintained trails that allow you to immerse yourself in Ontario’s winter wonderland.
Wye Marsh Conservation Area, located near Midland, is a nature reserve that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including snowshoeing. The park has over 25 kilometers of trails that wind through its diverse habitats, giving you the opportunity to discover its natural beauty while snowshoeing. You can rent snowshoes on-site if you don’t have your own.
For a unique snowshoeing experience, visit Ball’s Falls Conservation Area in Jordan. This park is known for its stunning waterfalls and picturesque landscapes. The snow-covered trails provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere for your snowshoeing adventure. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the frozen waterfalls along the way.
Snowshoeing Tips:
- Dress in layers to stay warm during your snowshoeing adventure. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add a insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
- Wear warm and waterproof boots to keep your feet dry and comfortable.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during your snowshoeing trip.
| Park | Location | Guided Snowshoe Tours |
|---|---|---|
| Wye Marsh Conservation Area | Near Midland | Available |
| Ball’s Falls Conservation Area | Jordan | Available |
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snowshoer, exploring Ontario’s winter landscapes through snowshoeing is an unforgettable experience. So grab your snowshoes and embark on a winter adventure in Ontario’s snowy season.
Relaxing Winter Activities in Ontario
If you’re looking for a more relaxing winter experience, take a romantic sleigh ride in Muskoka or venture to Hamilton to marvel at frozen waterfalls. Muskoka, known for its picturesque landscapes, offers a charming setting for a sleigh ride through the snow. Snuggle up with your loved one as you glide through the winter wonderland, taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature. It’s a magical experience that will create lasting memories.
In Hamilton, you’ll find frozen waterfalls that showcase the breathtaking power and beauty of nature. Webster’s Falls and Tew Falls are two notable spots where you can witness these frozen marvels up close. The cascading water frozen in time creates a stunning spectacle that is sure to leave you in awe. Bundle up and explore the trails that lead to these frozen wonders, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the winter landscape.
If you’re craving even more enchantment, a visit to Niagara Falls during winter is a must. As temperatures drop, parts of the falls freeze, creating an ethereal sight. The frozen sections glisten and sparkle, offering a unique perspective of this iconic landmark. Take a leisurely stroll along the Niagara Parkway, admiring the frozen beauty of the falls and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the natural surroundings.
Winter Festivals in Ontario
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with winter festivals like the Toronto Christmas Market, Casa Loma’s winter wonderland, and the Kingston Christmas markets. These vibrant events offer a magical experience for visitors of all ages, filled with holiday cheer and enchantment.
Toronto Christmas Market: Located in the historic Distillery District, the Toronto Christmas Market is a beloved annual event that transforms the area into a winter wonderland. Stroll through the cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, explore the holiday market stalls offering unique gifts and delicious treats, and enjoy live entertainment and festive activities. Don’t forget to stop by Santa’s House for a photo with the jolly old man himself.
Casa Loma’s Winter Wonderland: Step into a fairytale at Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival castle in Toronto. During the winter months, the castle is transformed into a magical wonderland, complete with stunning light displays, holiday music, and festive decorations. Take a self-guided tour through the beautifully decorated rooms, explore the outdoor displays, and warm up with a cup of hot cocoa in the castle’s cozy café.
Kingston Christmas Markets: In the historic city of Kingston, the Christmas markets bring a festive atmosphere to the heart of downtown. Stroll through the charming market stalls, filled with local artisans showcasing their crafts, food vendors offering delicious treats, and live entertainment creating a joyful ambiance. The markets are a perfect place to find unique gifts and embrace the holiday spirit.
| Festival | Location | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto Christmas Market | Distillery District, Toronto | November – December |
| Casa Loma’s Winter Wonderland | Toronto | December – January |
| Kingston Christmas Markets | Kingston | December |
These winter festivals in Ontario offer a delightful way to embrace the holiday season and create lasting memories. From enchanting light displays to delightful treats and unique gifts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So bundle up, bring along your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit at these magical winter events.
Winter Activities in Toronto
Experience the winter magic of Toronto by ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and exploring iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower. Toronto offers a variety of winter activities that are sure to make your visit memorable.
In the heart of downtown Toronto, Nathan Phillips Square transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Lace up your skates and glide across the outdoor ice rink, surrounded by the dazzling lights and vibrant atmosphere. Skating at Nathan Phillips Square is a classic winter activity that both locals and visitors love. Whether you’re a beginner or a skilled skater, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the joy of gliding on ice.
While in Toronto, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of its most iconic landmarks, the CN Tower. The CN Tower is not only a symbol of the city but also offers breathtaking views of Toronto’s winter landscape. Take the elevator to the observation deck and admire the snow-covered cityscape from above. On a clear day, you can see the vast expanse of Lake Ontario and the mesmerizing beauty of the surrounding areas. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that showcases the winter charm of Toronto.
Aside from skating and sightseeing, Toronto has a wide range of winter activities to suit every taste. From exploring the vibrant neighborhoods and indulging in delicious winter treats to attending winter festivals and events, there’s always something exciting happening in the city during the snowy season. So bundle up and embrace the enchantment of winter in Toronto!
| Winter Activities in Toronto | Location |
|---|---|
| Ice Skating | Nathan Phillips Square |
| Sightseeing | CN Tower |
| Winter Festivals | Various locations in Toronto |
| Neighborhood Exploration | Various neighborhoods in Toronto |
Winter Getaways in Ontario
Escape to one of Ontario’s many resorts or parks for a winter getaway and immerse yourself in a snowy wonderland. Ontario offers a variety of fun things to do in winter, with plenty of places to visit and activities in the snow.
One of the best activities in Ontario is skiing and snowboarding. The famous Blue Mountain Ski Resort in Collingwood offers a variety of downhill ski tracks for different skill levels. Other ski resorts in the area include Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone.
If downhill skiing isn’t your preference, you can opt for cross-country skiing at Arrowhead Provincial Park. This picturesque park has scenic trails that wind through snow-covered forests, providing a tranquil and awe-inspiring experience. Sudbury’s Windy Lake Provincial Park also offers excellent cross-country skiing trails for all levels of expertise.
| Winter Activities in Ontario | Locations |
|---|---|
| Downhill skiing and snowboarding | Blue Mountain Ski Resort, Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone |
| Cross-country skiing | Arrowhead Provincial Park, Windy Lake Provincial Park |
“Ontario’s winter wonderland offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.”
If you’re a fan of ice skating, the Rideau Canal in Ottawa is a must-visit. This world-famous skating trail is the largest naturally frozen skating rink in the world and offers a unique and enchanting experience. Other outdoor skating trails and rinks in Ontario include The Bentway in downtown Toronto, the RiverOak Trail, and Arrowhead Provincial Park.
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the snowy landscapes of Ontario. Parks like Wye Marsh Conservation Area and Ball’s Falls offer guided snowshoe tours and have well-maintained trails for snowshoeing, providing an opportunity to get up close and personal with nature.
For a more relaxing winter activity, you can take a romantic sleigh ride in Muskoka or explore the frozen waterfalls in Hamilton. Niagara Falls also becomes a peaceful paradise in winter, with the chance to see frozen parts of the falls.
Ontario is also known for its winter festivals. The Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery Historic District, Casa Loma’s winter wonderland, and the Kingston Christmas markets are just a few examples of the festive events that take place during the winter season.
| Winter Festivals in Ontario | Locations |
|---|---|
| Toronto Christmas Market | Distillery Historic District |
| Casa Loma’s winter wonderland | Toronto |
| Kingston Christmas markets | Kingston |
Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, or enjoying winter festivals, Ontario has plenty to offer for a fun-filled winter getaway. Just remember to dress warmly and dress in layers to make the most of your winter adventures.
Winter Attractions across Ontario
Discover the winter attractions that Ontario has to offer, from the exciting Cochrane Winter Carnival to the frozen beauty of Niagara Falls. The province comes alive during the winter months, providing a range of activities and places to visit that are sure to create lasting memories.
One of the highlights is the annual Cochrane Winter Carnival, a celebration of all things winter. This lively event features snow sculptures, dog sled races, ice fishing, and a variety of entertainment for the whole family. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the fun-filled atmosphere.
No trip to Ontario is complete without a visit to Niagara Falls, and winter offers a unique perspective on this natural wonder. As the temperatures drop, the falls transform into a stunning icy spectacle. Witnessing the frozen beauty of Niagara Falls is truly a sight to behold and makes for a memorable winter adventure.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Cochrane Winter Carnival | A vibrant celebration of winter with snow sculptures, dog sled races, and more. |
| Niagara Falls | Experience the breathtaking frozen beauty of one of the world’s most famous waterfalls. |
| Ontario Resorts | Enjoy a winter wonderland at various resorts across the province, offering activities and amenities for all ages. |
| Attractions in Winter | Discover a multitude of attractions in Ontario that are best experienced during the winter months. |
Ontario is home to numerous resorts that provide the perfect backdrop for a winter getaway. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin in the woods or a luxurious retreat, there’s an option to suit every taste. These resorts offer a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more, ensuring a fun-filled and memorable stay.
From winter carnivals to natural wonders, Ontario has something for everyone during the colder months. Bundle up, embrace the snow-filled landscapes, and embark on a winter adventure you won’t soon forget.
Outdoor Winter Adventures in Ontario
Embark on thrilling outdoor winter adventures in Ontario and immerse yourself in the beauty of snow-filled landscapes. The province offers a wide range of activities that allow you to make the most of the snowy season.
If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, Ontario has plenty to offer. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and snowshoeing, there’s something for everyone. Hit the slopes at Blue Mountain Ski Resort in Collingwood, known for its variety of downhill ski tracks catering to different skill levels. Other ski resorts in the area, like Snow Valley Ski Resort and Horseshoe Valley, provide excellent options for winter sports enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more serene experience, cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Ontario’s winter wonderland. Arrowhead Provincial Park boasts scenic trails that wind through snow-covered forests, while Sudbury’s Windy Lake Provincial Park offers picturesque routes for cross-country skiing.
To truly embrace the winter spirit, make time for ice skating on some of Ontario’s stunning outdoor rinks and trails. The Rideau Canal in Ottawa is an iconic frozen pathway, attracting skaters from around the world. The Bentway in downtown Toronto and the RiverOak Trail are also popular spots to glide across the ice.
To fully appreciate the snowy landscapes, try snowshoeing in parks such as Wye Marsh Conservation Area and Ball’s Falls. These parks offer guided snowshoe tours and well-maintained trails that allow you to explore the picturesque winter scenery at your own pace.
Don’t forget to indulge in the more relaxing winter activities Ontario has to offer. Take a romantic sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscapes of Muskoka, or marvel at the frozen waterfalls in Hamilton. Niagara Falls, a world-famous attraction, transforms into a serene winter paradise, with frozen parts of the falls creating a truly magical sight.
With its abundance of outdoor winter adventures, Ontario is the perfect destination for those seeking an unforgettable winter getaway. So, bundle up, embrace the snow, and dive into the thrilling activities that await you in this snowy wonderland.
| Outdoor Winter Activities | Locations |
|---|---|
| Skiing and Snowboarding | Blue Mountain Ski Resort, Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone |
| Cross-country Skiing | Arrowhead Provincial Park, Sudbury’s Windy Lake Provincial Park |
| Ice Skating | Rideau Canal, The Bentway, RiverOak Trail |
| Snowshoeing | Wye Marsh Conservation Area, Ball’s Falls |
| Relaxing Winter Activities | Muskoka (romantic sleigh rides), Hamilton (frozen waterfalls), Niagara Falls |
Enjoy a Memorable Winter Getaway in Ontario
Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, or enjoying winter festivals, Ontario offers a fun-filled winter getaway with a wide range of activities and places to explore. The province’s snowy season transforms it into a white wonderland, creating the perfect backdrop for your winter adventures.
One of the best activities to partake in is skiing and snowboarding. The famous Blue Mountain Ski Resort in Collingwood boasts a variety of downhill ski tracks suitable for all skill levels. Other ski resorts in the area, such as Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone, also offer thrilling slopes.
If you prefer cross-country skiing, Arrowhead Provincial Park is a popular choice. Here, you can ski through picturesque trails nestled in snow-frosted forests. Sudbury’s Windy Lake Provincial Park is another excellent option, with its well-maintained cross-country skiing trails.
For a quintessential Canadian winter experience, ice skating is a must. Glide across the frozen surface of the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating trail. Other outdoor skating trails and rinks, like The Bentway in downtown Toronto, the RiverOak Trail, and Arrowhead Provincial Park, offer additional opportunities to enjoy this classic winter activity.
Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Ontario’s snow-filled landscapes. Wye Marsh Conservation Area and Ball’s Falls both offer guided snowshoe tours and have trails suitable for snowshoeing.
If you’re in search of a more tranquil winter activity, consider taking a romantic sleigh ride through the enchanting Muskoka region or marveling at the frozen waterfalls in Hamilton. Niagara Falls also becomes a serene winter paradise, where you can witness the breathtaking sight of frozen parts of the falls.
Ontario’s winter attractions are not to be missed. From the magical Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery Historic District to the winter wonderland at Casa Loma and the festive Kingston Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone. Toronto itself offers numerous winter activities, including ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and exploring iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower.
So, whether you’re seeking the thrill of skiing, the elegance of ice skating, the serenity of snowshoeing, or the joy of winter festivals, Ontario provides the perfect setting for a fun-filled winter getaway. Bundle up in warm layers and embrace the snowy season as you embark on memorable adventures across the province.
FAQ
Q: What are some popular ski resorts in Ontario?
A: Ontario offers several ski resorts, including Blue Mountain Ski Resort, Snow Valley Ski Resort, Horseshoe Valley, Hockey Valley Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone.
Q: Where can I go cross-country skiing in Ontario?
A: Arrowhead Provincial Park and Sudbury’s Windy Lake Provincial Park are popular destinations for cross-country skiing in Ontario.
Q: What are some outdoor ice skating options in Ontario?
A: You can enjoy ice skating at the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, the world’s largest naturally frozen skating trail. Other options include The Bentway in downtown Toronto, the RiverOak Trail, and Arrowhead Provincial Park.
Q: Are there any guided snowshoe tours in Ontario?
A: Yes, parks like Wye Marsh Conservation Area and Ball’s Falls offer guided snowshoe tours and have well-maintained trails for snowshoeing.
Q: What are some relaxing winter activities in Ontario?
A: You can take a romantic sleigh ride in Muskoka or explore the frozen waterfalls in Hamilton. Niagara Falls also becomes a peaceful paradise in winter, with the chance to see frozen parts of the falls.
Q: Are there any winter festivals in Ontario?
A: Yes, Ontario hosts several winter festivals, including the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery Historic District, Casa Loma’s winter wonderland, and the Kingston Christmas markets.
Q: What are some winter activities in Toronto?
A: In Toronto, you can go ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and visit iconic landmarks like the CN Tower.
Q: Where can I find winter getaways in Ontario?
A: Ontario offers a variety of winter getaways, including resorts, Ontario parks, and the opportunity to experience a winter wonderland.
Q: What are some winter attractions in Ontario?
A: Some winter attractions in Ontario include the Cochrane Winter Carnival, the beauty of Niagara Falls in winter, and various attractions at Ontario resorts.
Q: What outdoor winter adventures can I have in Ontario?
A: Ontario offers a range of outdoor winter adventures, allowing you to explore snow-filled landscapes and engage in various outdoor activities.
Q: What can I expect from a winter getaway in Ontario?
A: A winter getaway in Ontario promises a fun-filled experience with a wide variety of activities and places to visit, ensuring a memorable winter adventure.
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