Winter is in full swing in Toronto so why not make the most of it with a frosty road trip? Toronto's motto is "Diversity Our Strength" and this is reflected in the more than 180 languages and dialects spoken here. Located in the province of Ontario, winter is a magical time to experience everything this destination has to offer. Bundle up in your warmest clothes, fill up your thermos with hot cider and make sure your car is equipped with emergency supplies just in case. Here are five seasonal activities for an exciting wintery experience that you can drive to from Toronto.
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Hiking At Tiffany Falls Conservation Area
Tiffany Falls Conservation Area in Ancaster is about an hour's road trip from Toronto. It’s a great destination for hiking in all seasons but winter is especially thrilling as the waterfall freezes over. Tiffany Falls is located on the Niagara Escarpment and the trail that leads to the base of Tiffany Falls allows hikers to check out the natural rock formations and the forest. The falls are 21 meters tall and when I was there they were completely frozen in place. There are cliffs on either side with streams and nearby bridges. The actual hike to these cascade waterfalls from the parking lot is not far so I suggest combining it with a hike to nearby Sherman Falls. This curtain waterfall flows year-round and reaches 17 meters with great trail access leading up to it. Should you be seeking a bigger thrill, Tiffany Falls has ice climbing options when it’s cold enough if you attend a mandatory session through one of two organizations.
Snow Tubing At Blue Mountain
Invest in some snow pants and get ready to hit the slopes. Blue Mountain is a popular ski destination, but it’s also home to fun winter tubing. It’s a 90-minute drive to Blue Mountain from Toronto and 180 minutes if driving across the border from Buffalo, New York. It’s located along the shores of Southern Georgian Bay and spans the stunning Niagara Escarpment. Ontario’s largest mountain village resort, it's also a great weekend escape with multiple lodging options nearby. If traveling with kids snow tubing is the perfect winter activity as it’s suitable for all ages from toddlers to teens. You will also get in a winter workout when you hike up the mountain pulling your tube behind you.
Snowmobiling In Haliburton Highlands
Pack up and drive to Haliburton Highlands and stay for the day or overnight. There are several snowmobile trail systems in the region, including wintery loops near the cottage towns of Minden and Haliburton. This area is home to some of the best snowmobile trails in Ontario and includes hundreds of miles of groomed snowy options with stunning scenery. Several resorts in the region offer snowmobile packages, tours, and lessons for beginners. There is also the option to rent a snowmobile and gear, just ensure you get a trail permit, as they are mandatory. Haliburton County is about a three-hour drive from Toronto and will vary depending on your exact destination. For more information on the trails and winter conditions in the area head to the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC
Snowshoeing At Scenic Caves Trail
For a truly Canadian winter themed adventure consider a snowshoeing expedition at Scenic Caves. There are over seven miles of trails with varying difficulty, where you can snowshoe to your heart's content including their Suspension Footbridge that is 420 feet long, the longest in southern Ontario. You will be suspended 82 feet above the forest floor and feel as if you are floating. Have your camera ready as the 360-degree views of Georgian Bay are spectacular. Also located in the town of Blue Mountain, the Scenic Caves are about a two-hour drive from Toronto. The destination is packed with a long history dating back 450 million years and set within one of Canada’s 18 UNESCO biosphere reserves. Day trail pass tickets and rental equipment can be purchased on site at Scenic Caves Nordic Centre.
Skating At Arrowhead Ice Trail
Muskoka, often referred to as cottage country by locals, is located in Southern Ontario. The Arrowhead Ice Skating Trail in Arrowhead Provincial Park is about a two-and-a-half-hour road trip from Toronto. You will pass through Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, and head towards Huntsville, your destination. Years ago this special trail was a hidden Muskoka gem, but it’s become much more popular over the years and attracts visitors from across the province and beyond. If you have never skated through a winter forest you are in for a thrill. The magical loop winds through a winter forest of evergreen trees and is the perfect winter activity for families, couples, and friends. The stars come out at night and the ice-skating trail is illuminated by hundreds of tiki torches to light your way. Bring your own skates and ensure you book your daily vehicle permit in advance.
