Toronto 
Don’t let the winter blues get you this year! If you’re looking for things to do in the Durham region this season, you’re in luck. Here are 25+ fun outdoor winter activities to keep you busy in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington, Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge.
Credit: Purple Woods Maple Syrup Festival
You may like:
Things to Do During Winter in Ontario
1. Visit Darlington Provincial Park
Located between Oshawa and Bowmanville, you’ll find this stunning provincial park sitting on Lake Ontario. Grab your skis or your snowshoes and start exploring the park. Or just put on your warmest boots for a lovely walk!
Address: 1600 Darlington Park Rd., Bowmanville
2. Explore Sculptures at Home Place
Located within Alex Robertson Park – 48 acres of the 134-acre Hydro Marsh in Pickering at the mouth of Duffins Creek – the Home Place features various structures and totem poles designed by Canadian artist, Dorsey James. The park is a unique place to visit during winter, and you can easily get to Frenchman’s Bay/Millenium Square for a long walk along the waterfront.
Address: 700 Sandy Beach Rd, Pickering
3. Explore Downtown Oshawa
There’s plenty to do in downtown Oshawa, even in the winter. Spend some time window shopping (buy something and support local), or just go for a walk. If it gets too cold, pop into one of your favourite cafes for coffee!
4. Walk the Waterfront Trail
The Waterfront Trail goes across Lake Ontario and traverses many cities. Take a walk along the stunning lakeshore, which is just as beautiful in the winter.
You might like: 27 of the Best Hiking Spots & Nature Parks in the Durham Region
5. Identify Animal Tracks at Altona Forest
Maintained by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), Altona Forest is a 53-hectare environmentally significant area that provides essential habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals native to Southern Ontario. Hike the many trails over winter with kids and go on a wildlife-spotting scavenger hunt.
Address: 1883 Altona Rd, Pickering (various entrances)
You might like: 100 Adventures in Ontario Provincial Parks
6. Explore Ganarska Forest
Rent snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore Ganaraska Forest. If there is no snow, enjoy a walk in the woods.
Address: Municipality of Clarington
7. Go Horseback Riding
Is there anything more fun and romantic than a horseback ride? Visit Kuzenko Riding Stables and saddle up for a fun adventure! You’ll get to enjoy the stunning winter scenery as you go.
Address: 4507 Courtice Rd., Hampton
Kuzenko Stables
8. Ski at Brimacombe
Whether you’re a beginner skier or you’ve been skiing your whole life, Brimacombe is a great place to hit the slopes. You can take private lessons, or just ski down the trails alone. There are trails for all ages and levels, so why not take advantage of winter and get a season pass?
Address: 4098 Regional Rd. 9, Orono
9. Explore Orono Crown Lands
Located in the Municipality of Clarington, the Orono Crown Lands is a great place for a hike. You’ll have a fantastic time exploring the unique landscape of the park. Don’t forget to pack your camera to document your adventure!
Address: Ochonski Rd, Clarington
10. Go Skating in Ajax
Ajax is home to a great outdoor skating rink. Throw on your coat, lace up your skates and visit Pat Bayly Square! Here, you can practice your moves on the ice by yourself or invite a friend to tag along.
Address: 55 Bayly St. W
You might like: 25 Ontario Provincial Parks to Visit During Winter in Ontario
11. Hike Greenwood Conservation Area
This park is a great place to spend an afternoon. Located in Ajax, you’ll have a fantastic time walking or snowshoeing along the trails. Even in the winter, this park holds up!
Address: 2290 Greenwood Rd., Ajax
12. Cycle Around Ajax
Ajax is one of the most bike-friendly communities that you’ll find. Even in winter, you’ll have a great time riding on the trails! They’re kept in tip-top shape, so don’t hesitate to start riding.
13. Check out the Heber Down Conservation Area
Located in Whitby, the Heber Down Conservation Area has 5 km worth of trails, as well as an off-leash dog area. You can head there for a hike or some snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Marvel at the Lake Iroquois shoreline as you explore this beautiful conservation area!
Address: 500 Lyndebrook Rd., Whitby
View this post on Instagram
14. Hike Lynde Shores Conservation Area
Exploring the city is fun, but sometimes it’s nice to get away from all the people. Spend some time in nature at the Lynde Shores Conservation Area. Pack your snowshoes and start exploring!
Address: 1225 Victoria St W, Whitby
You might like: 15 Family Winter Getaways in Ontario
15. Explore the snowy shores of Lake Simcoe
Brock’s township is situated on the east shore of Lake Simcoe. While you’re in the township, spend some time exploring the lake. It’s beautiful even in the winter!
Lake Simcoe is one of the most popular ice-fishing destinations in Ontario. Visit during the family day weekend and enjoy free fishing.
View this post on Instagram
16. Explore the Grounds of Brock University
If you’re a fan of learning, you’ll want to visit Brock University. Whether you’re a prospective student or just someone who likes to explore architecture, this is a great place to go. Spend some time wandering the grounds, and pop into one of the buildings if it gets too cold!
Address: 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way
17. Visit one of Brock’s Parks
Brock is home to several local parks. Grab your skis for some cross-country skiing, or dress warmly for a walk. No matter which of the 10 public parks you choose, you’ll have a great time!
18. Go Snowmobiling in Scugog
Scugog has two snowmobiling clubs. Join the Port Perry Snowmobile Club or the Cartwright Dyno’s Snowmobile Club and start hitting the trails! You’ll have a great time exploring the Scugog area on your snowmobile.
19. Check out Durham East Cross Forest
Get back to nature by spending some time in the Durham East Cross Forest. The trails are available for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. The forest is also dog-friendly, and your dog will love exploring!
Address: 4531 Boundary Rd, Nestleton Station
20. Explore Crow’s Pass Conservation Area
Although the trails in Crow’s Pass Conservation Area aren’t maintained in the winter, they still make for great hiking. You might also want to consider grabbing your snowshoes or cross-country skis for your adventure! Keep your eyes open for the wildlife native to the area as you go.
Address: 231 Middle March Rd., Port Perry
21. Snow Tube at Lakeridge Ski Resort
Credit: Lakeridge Ski Resort
Head down to this beautiful ski resort and spend a few hours on the slopes. It’s always fun speeding down the ski trails! Or you can go tubing or snowboarding for a few hours.
Address: 790 Chalk Lake Rd., Uxbridge
22. Walk Through Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest
It’s fun to visit urban areas, but nature has its own perks. Spend some time exploring Walker Woods and Glen Major Forest in the Uxbridge area. The woods are still beautiful in the winter and have great walking paths.
23. Go Downhill Skiing at Dagmar Ski Resort
Get your adrenaline pumping at any one of the downhill ski trails at this ski resort. With slopes of varying levels, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just a beginner, Dagmar Ski Resort has everything you need!
Address: 1220 Lake Ridge Rd., Uxbridge
You might like: 20+ Epic Winter Getaways in Ontario
24. Go Winter Biking
The Durham Mountain Biking Association is your go-to for all your biking trails and advice in the Uxbridge area. Check out their website for the best trails in the area. Then, pack up your bike and get ready for a winter ride!
Discover Uxbridge
25. Check out Uxbridge’s Public Art
One of the best ways to get to know a place is by looking at the local art. Uxbridge has plenty of outdoor art installations! Hit the streets and see how many art pieces you can find!
26. Visit Downtown Port Perry
Learn a little about Scugog’s history by checking out Port Perry’s downtown. This historic area is full of cultural locations and fun things to do. There are plenty of shops to stop at, and it’s a great place for a walk! Lakefront Skate, located at 57 Water St in Port Perry, operates on select dates. Most weekends, the rink will be accompanied by vendor kiosks, adding to the festive atmosphere.
27. Go Winter Bird watching
Protecting two wetlands, Bowmanville Westside Marshes Conservation Area is a great place to enjoy birdwatching in winter. The short 1.6 km trail makes it a great place for a winter walk with young kids. If you want to enjoy a longer walk, the park provides access to the waterfront trail.
Address: 191 W Beach Rd, Bowmanville
28. Explore Oak Ridges Moraine
Long Sault Conservation Area boasts 18 km of trails of varying difficulty traversing 1,650 acres of mature forest, plantations, wetlands, and meadows of the Oak Ridges Moraine. Spend a weekend or two checking out all six trails on foot, skis or snowshoes.
Address: 9293 Woodley Rd, Bowmanville
View this post on Instagram
29. Welcome Spring with a Trip to Purple Woods Conservation Area
Home to a large and actively tapped 150-year-old sugar maple forest, Purple Woods Conservation Area hosts the annual Maple Syrup Festival every March. Get tickets to the festival and discover how maple syrup production has changed from the early Indigenous Peoples’ methods to the modern methods used today. Do not forget to get yummy maple treats!
Address: 38 Coates Road East, Oshawa
Upcoming Events
Pickering Museum Village, 3550 Greenwood Road, Greenwood
May 30, 2026 To September 19, 2026
905-683-8401
$107.68
Join us for a special edition of Plot to Plate, where you’ll learn to grow, harvest, and care for heirloom vegetables. This hands-on gardening experience allows ... »
Pingle's Farm Market, 1805 Taunton Rd., Hampton
June 20, 2026 To August 31, 2026
9057256098
$6 to $15
Sunshine, blooms, and berry-filled fun – that’s what Summer Days at Pingle’s are all about! 🌸🍓🌻 Explore the very best of summer on the farm with vibrant ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
June 23, 2026 To October 17, 2026
905-683-8401
165.15
6-session series. Everything old is new again in this outdoor baking program series! We’ll take grandmother’s recipes (and older ones, too) and give them a ... »
Millenium Square, Pickering
July 2, 2026 To October 22, 2026
905-683-8401
$25.52
Join us at Pickering’s picturesque waterfront, where not everything is as it seems. Led by a PMV guide, guests will step back in time to explore ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
July 5, 2026 To September 27, 2026
905-683-8401
$16.48
Mr. Dressup had Casey and Finnegan, and now you can have a new best friend, too! Join this hands-on workshop and learn how to create your own ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
July 5, 2026 To August 27, 2026
905-683-8401
$20.57
Whisk up some summer magic with our Kids’ Cookie Club, a hands-on baking and crafting adventure for kids ages 5 to 12, set in the heart of our museum ... »
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
July 10, 2026 To December 23, 2026
905-683-8401
21.80
A Taste of Science: Sensory Explorers Children dive into the science of food and the senses through hands-on experiments, creative crafts, and weekly visits to the Taste ... »
The Sunflower Farm, B24430 Sideroad 17, Beaverton
July 25, 2026 To August 25, 2026
$5 to $12
Experience life on a farm in our stunning 20-acre sunflower field – the first-ever and largest sunflower farm in Durham Region. Take a stroll and grab that perfect ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 9, 2026 To September 5, 2026
905-683-8401
16.48
Step into a world of wonder as young wizards craft their very own magical wand! In this hands-on workshop, children will explore the art of wand-making, learn ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 15, 2026 To September 12, 2026
905-683-8401
$16.48
Dive into the magical world of potion-making! Mix, stir, and watch your creations bubble and fizz! This hands-on workshop combines imagination, creativity, and a splash of museum ... »
Historic Leaskdale Church, 11850 Regional Road 1, Leaskdale
August 20, 2026 To August 23, 2026
$25
Maud of Leaskdale Returning to the Stage at the Historic Leaskdale Church! The Lucy Maud Montgomery Society of Ontario’s signature production Maud of Leaskdale is back ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 22, 2026 To October 30, 2026
905-683-8401
$51.04
Join us for an unforgettable evening in the heart of our historic village museum, where every creak, shadow, and whisper tells a story. Guided by professional psychic ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 23, 2026
905-683-8401
$16.48
You and your little one will connect with nature in this interactive parent and tot program. Join us for a guided walk where you will engage in ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 29, 2026
905-683-8401
75.18
Celebrate the shift into fall by painting a porch sign that welcomes guests for both everyday autumn days and upcoming Thanksgiving festivities. Learn stenciling basics, create your ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
August 30, 2026
905-683-8401
$16.48
Introduce your little one to the wonders of nature in this fun, hands-on program! Explore PMV’s garden spaces through free-play, sensory learning activities catered to curious ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 3, 2026
905-683-8401
$25.52
Join us at Pickering’s picturesque waterfront, where not everything is as it seems. Led by a PMV guide, guests will step back in time to explore ... »
Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, 3233 Concession Rd 10, Bowmanville
September 4, 2026 To September 6, 2026
$40 & up
CTMP’s 65th anniversary major event season comes to a close with a big co-feature line-up on September 4–6, as the NASCAR Canada Series and the Trans Am ... »
Brooks Farms, 122 Ashworth Road, Mount Albert, Uxbridge
September 5, 2026 To October 25, 2026
905 473 3246
Come out and enjoy the beautiful autumn season Brooks Farms style! Fall Fun Festival runs weekends beginning September 10 – November 1 and Yes! We are open on Thanksgiving Monday. ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 5, 2026
905-683-8401
36.67
Visit the Museum after-hours each month for a summer adventure the whole family will love! This monthly event offers fresh activities, creative crafts, and, of course, delicious ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 5, 2026 To September 6, 2026
905-683-8401
$37.59
Transform old metals into a stunning, one-of-a-kind keepsake in this hands-on workshop, located in the historic Greenwood Blacksmith Shop. Discover the rich history of jewelry as an ... »
Pingle's Farm Market, 1805 Taunton Rd. E, Hampton
September 12, 2026 To October 31, 2026
9057256089
$8 to $29
Harvest Fest at Pingle’s Farm is our favourite time of year—and we’d love to share it with you. If you’ve never been, imagine ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 12, 2026
905-683-8401
$32.96
Unlock the secrets of spellcraft! In this creative workshop, young witches and wizards will design and decorate their very own spellbooks, filled with imaginative charms and magical ... »
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 12, 2026
905-420-4620
Free
Celebrate Pickering’s diversity with unique tastes from local food vendors, interactive activities, live entertainment, roaming performances, and a vendor market. Who is it for? All ages ... »
Columbus United Church, 3285 Simcoe St. N., Oshawa
September 12, 2026
9057187795
$Free
The famous Columbus United Church Annual Yard and Craft Sale is on Saturday, September 12th. Come out for a day of Bargains, Hidden Treasures and Fantastic Deals. ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 13, 2026
905-683-8401
$48.88 - 1 adult and 1 child.
Enjoy a magical tea party fit for fairies! Little guests will delight in a charming afternoon tea service featuring a selection of kid-friendly teas and sweet treats, ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 16, 2026 To September 23, 2026
905-683-8401
$21.80
Inspired by the beloved children’s entertainer, this session invites kids into the exhibit experience to dress up, act out stories, and create their own characters through ... »
Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm, 1070 Concession Rd 5, Sunderland
September 19, 2026 To October 31, 2026
905-409-4626
$10
Buzzing Bees Adventure farm is a family fun farm that features a 10 acre corn maze with the traditional “Find your way out” path or take part in ... »
Uxbridge Museum Historical Centre, 7239 Concession 6, Uxbridge
September 19, 2026 To September 20, 2026
(905) 852-5854
FREE
Over 30 artists, live music all day and amazing food – all in one place. Check out the amazing lineup of over 30 artists at this year’s Uxbridge Art ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 19, 2026 To September 20, 2026
905-683-8401
$36.67
Step into a world of wonder and enchantment at the Pickering Fairy Tour! Explore the Museum Village, search for beautiful fairy homes, engage in themed crafts and ... »
Dorsay Community & Heritage Centre, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 20, 2026 To November 9, 2026
(905) 420-2222
$222.40
Step into the past and taste your way through history! In this immersive 8-week cooking workshop, participants will explore the bizarre, bold, and beautiful flavors of bygone ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 26, 2026
905-683-8401
75.18
September sets the stage for cozy gatherings and early Thanksgiving planning. Craft your own charcuterie board – perfect for serving fall cheeses, harvest fruits, or your holiday appetizers. ... »
Greenwood Conservation Area Parking Lot, 2290 Greenwood Road, Ajax
September 27, 2026
Free
Get ready to explore the great outdoors and discover the beauty of salmon at Greenwood Conservation Area! Join us as we explore the headwaters of Duffins Creek ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
September 30, 2026
905-683-8401
$16.48
You and your little one will connect with nature in this interactive parent and tot program. Join us for a guided walk full of fun activities perfect ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 2, 2026 To October 3, 2026
905-683-8401
$28.84
As darkness creeps over the village, wicked creatures come out to play! Explore the history of mysterious creatures like sirens, fae, and changelings, and learn the true ... »
Audley Recreation Centre, 1955 Audley Road, Ajax
October 4, 2026
FREE
The Progress Travel Show is BACK by popular demand. The event is designed to bring together a wide range of notable travel brands, hotels, cruise lines, and ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 8, 2026 To October 31, 2026
905-683-8401
$25.52
Led through the Village by lantern-light, this spine-tingling tour will turn even the toughest cynic into a believer of the supernatural! Learn about the paranormal investigations that ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 17, 2026
905-683-8401
$75.18
Get your porch ready for Hallowe’en by designing a custom seasonal sign. Learn stenciling basics, craft your own autumn or spooky‑themed design, seal it, and ... »
Millennium Square, 590 Liverpool Road, Pickering
October 17, 2026 To October 24, 2026
905-420-4620
Free
Fall Fling celebrates all things Fall with pumpkin painting, photo stops, fall décor, miniature train rides, Halloween costume contests, trick-or-treating, hands-on crafts, and local artisans in ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 24, 2026 To October 25, 2026
905-683-8401
0-$36.67
Get ready for a spooktacular time at the Pickering Museum Village! Enjoy a variety of Halloween-themed games, activities, crafts and treats that are sure to delight visitors ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 29, 2026
905-683-8401
$25.52
Join us at Pickering’s picturesque waterfront, where not everything is as it seems. Led by a PMV guide, guests will step back in time to explore ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 31, 2026
905-683-8401
$75.18
From spooky Halloween snack tables to sparkling to winter holiday treats, craft a charcuterie board that carries you through the whole festive season. In this hands-on workshop, ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
October 31, 2026
905-683-8401
$48.88
Enjoy a hauntingly delightful afternoon tea to celebrate this spooky season. Partake in tasty treats made by PMV’s own baking team and learn all about the ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
November 7, 2026
905-683-8401
$75.18
As the days grow cooler, design a porch sign that brings warmth to your entryway for winter visits and holiday gatherings. You’ll learn stenciling techniques and ... »
Tyrone Community Centre, 2716 Concession Rd 7, Tyrone
November 7, 2026
Free
The fifth annual Tyrone Holiday Market is taking place on Saturday November 7th 2026 from 10am-3pm at the Tyrone Community Centre. The event will feature 30 local artisans ... »
Esplanade Park & Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex, 1867 Valley Farm Rd, Pickering
November 13, 2026 To November 14, 2026
905.420.4620
Free
Join us for our annual winter season celebration! Watch as we light up Esplanade Park with festive lights and fireworks. Enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, art installations, ... »
Dixie Road and Glenanna Road, Pickering
November 21, 2026
905-420-4620
Free
Santa Claus is coming to Pickering! With extravagant floats from Pickering businesses and community groups, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself, the Santa Claus Parade is the ... »
Millennium Square, Liverpool Rd, Pickering
December 5, 2026 To December 12, 2026
905-420-4620
Free
Celebrate the season at Pickering’s Waterfront! Experience the magic of the holidays in Nautical Village and Millennium Square. Enjoy live ice carving displays, festive music and ... »
Pickering Museum Village, 2365 Concession Road 6, Pickering
December 12, 2026 To December 13, 2026
905-683-8401
$50.12
Deck your halls with a traditional evergreen swag – made by you! Join our Museum Interpreter and harvest fresh greenery from our museum site. Then create two of ... »
You may like:
