Winter Day Trips

Winter day trips are a great idea for a variety of reasons:

- Escape the winter blues by getting out of the house and enjoying something new.

- Take the day to reset and reduce stress.

- Enjoy winter activities such as skating.

- Less crowded compared to summer vacations

- Enjoy the fresh winter air and take in the beauty of the season.

- Get cozy with a cup of hot chocolate after being outside all day.

Winter day trips can be magical, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cozy experiences, and stunning landscapes. Here are some ideas across the province:

1. Blue Mountain Resort (Collingwood)

Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, and après-ski relaxation and a spa nearby (Scandinave Spa).

Why go: Blue Mountain is one of Ontario’s premier ski resorts, offering a variety of winter sports for all skill levels. It also has a charming village with shops, restaurants, and spas to warm up after a day on the slopes.

2. Algonquin Provincial Park

Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Why go: Explore the snowy wilderness of this iconic park. You can enjoy the scenic beauty, see wildlife like moose or deer, or visit the Algonquin Visitor Centre to learn about the park’s history and winter ecology.

3. Niagara Falls

Activities: Ice skating, visiting the winter festival of lights, and enjoying the stunning frozen falls.

Why go: Niagara Falls transforms into a magical winter wonderland, with ice and snow surrounding the falls. The Winter Festival of Lights makes the area even more spectacular, and you can enjoy a scenic walk along the promenade or even take a boat tour (if conditions allow).

4. Muskoka

Activities: Ice fishing, snowmobiling, skiing, and winter hiking.

Why go: This picturesque region is famous for its winter beauty. Muskoka offers many outdoor activities, including exploring frozen lakes, scenic winter hikes, and cozying up at one of the region's resorts or lodges.

5. Ottawa

Activities: Skating on the Rideau Canal, visiting museums, and exploring Parliament Hill.

Why go: Canada's capital city has tons of winter charm, especially when you can skate on the world’s largest outdoor skating rink—the Rideau Canal. Visit the National Gallery or the

Canadian Museum of History to add a cultural touch to your day trip.

6. Kawarthas

Activities: Ice skating, snowshoeing, and exploring quaint small towns like Peterborough and Lakefield.

Why go: The Kawartha region is perfect for a laid-back winter day trip with lots of outdoor activities and charming lakeside villages to explore. Visit the famous Peterborough Lift Lock or enjoy a meal at a cozy lakeside restaurant.

7. The Bruce Peninsula (Tobermory)

Activities: Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking to see frozen waterfalls.

Why go: The scenic beauty of the Bruce Peninsula is stunning year-round, and in winter, it's even more magical. Explore the snowy trails of Bruce Peninsula National Park or take a hike to the frozen waterfalls.

8. Elora Gorge

Activities: Winter hiking, photography, and exploring the village.

Why go: Elora Gorge offers breathtaking views and frozen waterfalls during the winter months. The nearby town of Elora has picturesque shops and cafes to explore, making it a perfect day trip destination for nature lovers and those looking for a cozy experience.

9. Winter Hiking at Rouge National Urban Park

Activities: Snowshoeing, hiking, and birdwatching.

Why go: Just outside of Toronto, Rouge Park offers a large variety of winter trails, perfect for hiking or snowshoeing. It’s one of the largest urban parks in North America, offering plenty of wildlife and scenic views without leaving the city.

10. Toronto Islands

Activities: Winter walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the views of the frozen lake and city skyline.

Why go: The Toronto Islands are quiet in the winter, offering a peaceful escape just a short ferry ride away from the city. Explore the snowy trails and enjoy winter views of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario.

11. Winter Fun in Muskoka

Activities: Snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and spa visits.

Why go: Muskoka is known for its scenic lakes and charming winter resorts. Enjoy winter activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, or snowshoeing, followed by a visit to one of Muskoka's luxurious spas for a relaxing day out.

12. Stratford

Activities: Winter walks, visiting art galleries, and enjoying a cozy café.

Why go: Known for its theatre festival, Stratford also offers winter charm. You can take a stroll through the picturesque downtown, visit the Stratford Perth Museum, or enjoy a warm drink in one of the quaint cafés.

13. St. Lawrence Market & Distillery District (Toronto)

Activities: Shopping, visiting markets, and enjoying holiday events and lights.

Why go: For a winter day in Toronto, explore the St. Lawrence Market for local food and treats or take in the festive atmosphere at the Distillery District, which is known for its Christmas/Winter market, light displays, and historical charm.

14. Outdoor skating rinks north of Toronto

Activities: Skating

Here is the link to 5 different links to go to.

These destinations offer a mix of winter adventures, picturesque scenery, and cozy experiences that make Ontario a wonderful place to explore during the colder months!