By Christina Kaniewski, Build ON Program Coordinator
As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, Ontario transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a variety of exciting activities for those who dare to venture outdoors. From skating on frozen lakes to exploring snow-covered forests, the province is a playground for winter enthusiasts.
Ice Skating: Ontario boasts some of the most stunning outdoor skating rinks in the country. The iconic
Rideau Canal in Ottawa, stretching over 7.8 kilometers, is the largest naturally frozen skating rink in the world. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate and enjoy a Beavertail. In Toronto,
Nathan Phillips Square offers a picturesque backdrop for skaters beneath the city's picturesque skyline. You can bring your own skates or some ice-skating rinks allow you to rent them.
Snowshoeing: For a more serene winter experience, snowshoeing is the perfect choice. Ontario's extensive trail networks, including
Algonquin Provincial Park and
Gatineau Park, provide ample opportunities to explore the winter landscape on snowshoes. You can even find a few trails in your neighbourhood! The ambiance of the snow-covered forests is truly magical.
In the beautiful province of Ontario, skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts are treated to a wealth of thrilling opportunities to hit the slopes. Ontario's diverse winter landscape is adorned with an array of exceptional ski resorts, such as the renowned
Blue Mountain, the picturesque
Mount St. Louis Moonstone, and the scenic Horseshoe Valley. These destinations provide a comprehensive winter wonderland experience, featuring a plethora of meticulously groomed slopes that cater to every skill level, from the novice looking to take their first turns to the seasoned expert seeking an adrenaline rush. For beginners who are eager to delve into the exciting world of skiing and snowboarding, Ontario's resorts offer a fantastic solution – comprehensive ski lessons. These lessons are designed to impart the essential skills and techniques needed to conquer the slopes with confidence. So, whether you're a newbie eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned pro looking for an exhilarating adventure, Ontario's ski resorts are your gateway to a world of winter sports excitement.
Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding in
Northern Ontario. Mush through pristine snow-covered wilderness with a team of huskies, immersing yourself in the timeless tradition of this northern mode of transport.
Escapade Huskimo is a 75-minute drive from Ottawa. They offer dog sledding as well as snowshoeing.
Winter Festivals: Embrace the chilly season by attending one of Ontario's vibrant winter festivals. The
Winterlude festival in Ottawa, the
Icewine Festival in Niagara, and the
Bala Cranberry Festival are just a few of the celebrations that make the most of Ontario's winter charm.
Snow Tubing: For those seeking family-friendly excitement, snow tubing is a hit. Resorts like
Chicopee Tube Park and
Horseshoe Resort offer thrilling tubing experiences for all ages.
Snowmobiling: Ontario's vast network of snowmobile trails covers thousands of kilometers, offering a thrilling way to explore the winter landscape. Remember to familiarize yourself with regulations and safety guidelines before hitting the trails.
Christmas Tree Farm: A cherished winter activity that truly captures the holiday spirit is going to cut down a Christmas tree. The annual excursion to a tree farm or forest, with the scent of pine in the crisp winter air and the promise of a festive centerpiece. Bundled up in warm attire, families embark on a quest to find the perfect tree, whether it's a towering spruce or a charming fir. With saw in hand, the adventure begins as you search for the ideal evergreen, eventually bringing it home to adorn with ornaments, lights, and memories, creating a heartwarming symbol of the holiday season. You can learn about Christmas traditions across the provinces by clicking the link
here.
Renting a chalet: Experience delightful moments of fun and relaxation in cozy chalets nestled in the province's stunning natural beauty. Escape the city hustle and bustle to wake up to tranquil nature sounds, enjoy warm cocoa by a crackling fireplace, and take in breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes. Whether it's a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a group retreat, Ontario's chalet rentals are perfect for creating lasting memories. From cozy nights with board games and hot chocolate to exploring picturesque surroundings, renting a chalet in Ontario is an enchanting and fun-filled way to embrace the winter wonderland
Ontario's winter activities provide a unique opportunity to embrace the beauty of the season. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer a peaceful escape into the snowy wilderness, the province has something for everyone. So, bundle up and discover the magic of winter in Ontario.
If you would like to learn more about winter in all of Canada, we invite you to read a previously written blog from Build ON. You can find the link
here.