Last updated on November 3rd, 2023
Looking for things to do in Ontario this winter? Here are the top Ontario winter activities this year!
Ontario is an excellent winter destination to live out your wildest winter dreams. As someone who loves exploring winter activities, I’m giving you the best things to do in Ontario winter.
You will learn about hidden gems in Ontario winter, fun winter activities to do with your family & friends, and much more.
After learning about all these fun winter activities, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Ontario this year.
This post is all about things to do in Ontario winter.
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Things to Do in Ontario Winter
Winter Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a blast, but you haven’t had the whole experience until you’ve done it in a snowy wonderland.
The snow-covered trails hide the sound, the world falls away, and you enter a fairytale. Just you and the horse (maybe some friends or significant other) in the snowy forest. I would definitely recommend horseback riding as a peaceful activity in Ontario.
SnowShoe to Ice Caves
Another thing to do in Ontario winter is snowshoeing to the ice caves near the Lake Superior shoreline. During the cold winters, high winds and big waves create these insane ice formations like the caves.
Stokely Creek Lodge offers guided tours to guests, but you can also tour them on your own. Famous areas to see the ice caves include Saw Pit Bay, Hibbard Bay, Pointe Des Chenes, and Coppermine Point.
So, grab a pair of snowshoes and explore these impressive ice caves!
Drive a Dog Sled
Dog sledding is popular on many peoples’ bucket lists, and Ontario is a great place to try it out. The well-behaved and friendly dogs make this a thrilling experience for the whole family & friends. And it’s super simple to schedule a tour.
Dog Sledding Companies in Ontario:
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See the Northern Lights
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon unlike any other in the world. Seeing them is one of the most unforgettable experiences ever. (I may be a little biased, though; I am a sucker for pretty views!)
Here are some of the best places to see the northern lights in Ontario:
- Lake Superior Provincial Park
- Cree Village Eco Lodge
- Manitoulin Island
- Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
Go on a Sleigh Ride
Nothing says it’s the holidays like a good ‘ole sleigh ride! And what better location to get into the holiday spirit than the winter wonderland of Ontario?
Sleigh rides provide an opportunity to see the countryside, all while spending some intimate time with your loved ones. Sleigh rides are also a genius idea for a romantic date if you’re significant other is okay with the cold.
Here are some areas to get those sleigh bells ringing!
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Looking for a nice rush of adrenaline? Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are just what the doctor ordered. And they are some of the best things to do in Ontario winter.
Skiing or snowboarding are wonderful ways to enjoy quality outdoor fun with your loved ones. And there are plenty of spots to spend the day on the slopes!
Popular areas to Ski or Snowboard in Ontario:
SnowTubing
Another fun winter sport that’s popular in Canada is snow-tubing.
While snow-tubing is like snowboarding or skiing, in that you’re going down a mountain at high speeds, that’s where the similarities end. Instead, snow-tubing offers an entirely different experience going down.
Snow-tubing opportunities can usually be found at skiing resorts like the ones mentioned above.
Please note: While snow-tubing is loads of fun, it can also be dangerous if not done correctly. So make sure to read up on the dos & don’ts before trying.
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Skate on Rideau Canal
Ice skating is a popular winter activity in just about any cold city. But, here in Ontario, you can ice skate on one of the world’s largest skating rinks, which happens to be a Unesco World Heritage site!
And if that’s not enough to convince you to go, it’s FREE. Ice skating on the Rideau Canal is a perfect way to spend the day with family or friends. Just make sure to bundle up.
Ice Climbing
Another thrilling winter activity in Canada is ice climbing. I must say I don’t know if I’m brave enough to do this one.
But if you’re up to the challenge and love to climb, this is your activity. Get a chance to climb 70-100 vertical feet on the ice that clings to the cliffs. If anyone is looking for an unforgettable experience, this is it!
The best companies to go on an ice climbing tour include Outdoor Skills & Thrills, Liv Outside, and One Axe Pursuits.
Ride a Snowmobile
Ontario is known to be the snowmobile capital of the world. So, naturally, you must ride one at least once while visiting. But you’ll probably want to go more than once!
Riding or driving on a snowmobile is the perfect excuse to spend the day outdoors, goofing off with friends or family. And it’s definitely a great way to relieve stress and have fun.
Please note: there are strict laws on what you need & where you can drive the snowmobiles. So make sure to read up on the current policies.
Check out What You Should Know About Ontario Snowmobile Laws.
Camp out in a Yurt
Camping out in a yurt is the last activity on the list of best things to do in Ontario winter this year.
A yurt is a happy medium between a cabin and a tent and, in my words, another form of glamping. You get to experience the outdoors without being directly outdoors.
In Ontario, yurts come with beds, tables, and chairs; you’ll have to provide the rest. However, you can find some that provide more than the basics, but naturally, those will cost a little more.
All in all, camping out in a yurt is a great bonding time for the whole family!
This post is all about things to do in Ontario winter.
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