Toronto 
Make the most of this winter and explore the far reaches of this dynamic province.
From polar bears to Scandinavian spas to snowmobile adventures, there’s something for everyone. So shake off your winter blues, pull up your long-johns, and see what Ontario is made of with one of these Epic Winter Getaways in Ontario (Arranged in no particular order.)
1. Ice Caves of Lake Superior
Explore stunning ice caves and frozen cliffs at Saw Pit Bay and Coppermine Point on the shores of Lake Superior, which begin when the temperature falls below freezing for more than 24 hours. As the waves from Lake Superior continue to wash over the primary ice that was formed, extraordinary ice creations are formed, rewarding you with stunningly beautiful ice caverns.
If you want to enjoy a getaway, head to Stokely Creek Lodge, just 40 minutes from these icy wonders. They also offer guided tours.
Photo Credit: Sheri Minardi/northernontario.travel
2. Ice Climbing Frozen Waterfalls
Discover the thrill of ice climbing with expert-led adventures in Elora with One Axe Pursuits or with Liv Outside in Bracebridge, Muskoka, and Haliburton Highlands.
Beginners can scale frozen waterfalls with ease, thanks to quality instruction and top-notch equipment. Bracebridge boasts five challenging routes, while Haliburton offers 75-foot chandelier ice climbs amidst stunning forests.
These experiences provide unforgettable outdoor excitement in Ontario’s breathtaking winter landscapes. No prior experience is needed — just bring your sense of adventure and conquer the ice!
3. Ice Fishing: Angler’s Haven Ice Fishing Adventure
This getaway is not for the faint of spirit! With Angler’s Haven, spend 2 nights in an Executive Ice bungalow in Nipissing, angling for that prized catch. Angler’s Haven will provide you with transportation to and from the bungalow, a dozen minnows per person, drilled holes, tip-ups, hooks, lines, sinkers, daily waste removal, gas fireplace, gas bbq, propane stove, and dishes. What you do with your time is up to you!
Annual Ice Fishing Derby at Island Lake Conservation Area
Hook a big catch at Island Lake’s Annual Ice Fishing Derby held during February! Compete for cash prizes in adult and youth categories for pike, crappie, and perch. Registration fees are $35, with on-site bait and license-free fishing during the Ontario Family Fishing Weekend.
4. Snowmobile & more at Haliburton Forest
Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve combines adventure, relaxation, and wildlife education, creating an unforgettable winter retreat for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
The site offers a stunning winter getaway across 100,000 private acres. Enjoy guided snowmobiling on groomed trails, ice climbing for beginners, or ice fishing on over 100 lakes teeming with trout and rainbow fish. The Wolf Centre provides an educational experience with exhibits, observatories, and a resident wolf pack. Explore the serene forest on snowshoes or book a stay in cozy holiday units.
5. Snowshoe Eco Tour at Wye Marsh Conservation Area
Staying indoors may be tempting in the grip of winter, but you’ll be happy you got outside after this Eco Tour.
For 3 hours, snowshoe across areas of the Wye Marsh Conservation Area not generally open to the public. In addition to your snowshoeing lesson, you’ll learn to identify trees in winter, interpret bird songs, and search for animal tracks. You might even have a chickadee eat from your mittened hand!
6. Dog Sledding
Experience the magic of Algonquin and Muskoka with thrilling winter adventures!
Voyageur Quest offers dog sledding, backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, paired with cozy off-grid log cabins, gourmet meals, and sauna access in Algonquin.
In Muskoka, North Ridge Ranch invites you to mush with over 60 Alaskan Huskies through pristine landscapes. Guided by seasoned experts, these unforgettable getaways blend breathtaking wilderness, timeless sports, and cozy comforts for a perfect winter escape. Adventure and serenity await!
Seguin Sled Dog Mail Run
The Seguin Sled Dog Mail Run is an annual winter festival centred around dogsled races and various other winter activities. 2026 is the festival’s 41st anniversary, having begun in 1985. The races and “sledvelope” letter deliveries, or the Mail Run, take place over a 17km course between Humphrey and Rousseau. Celebrations take place in both the starting town and at the finish line. Visit Seguin for a unique weekend getaway during the festivities.
7. Winterlude & Rideau Canal Skateway
The coldest month of the year is the best time to party in the great outdoors! Glide along the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal, the world’s largest skating rink, spanning nearly 8km. With rest stops featuring fire pits, food, and cozy facilities, it’s a day of unforgettable winter magic in Canada’s capital!
Every February, Ottawa transforms into a winter wonderland of free family fun during Winterlude, the signature winter festival by Canadian Heritage! Take part in exciting outdoor activities, including a kickoff party, an international ice-carving competition, a snowflake kingdom, and more!
8. Cranberry Marsh During Winter
Photo Credit: Muskoka Lakes farm and winery
Embrace the beautiful winter months with a visit to Muskoka Lakes farm and winery, home of the Johnston Cranberries.
Skate a scenic 1.2 km ice trail amid cranberry fields, enjoy snowshoeing on 10 km of trails (including night options), and savour mulled wine by a roaring campfire. Dive into the “Bog to Bottle” Canadian Signature Experience with a wine-tasting and cranberry tour. Warm up with seasonal goodies like hot cider, espresso, and indulgent desserts.
9. Stay in an Igloo at North Adventure Inn
Who doesn’t want to stay in an igloo, like Yvonne of the Yukon?! You can experience this unique lodging while still enjoying modern comforts like a kitchenette, double bed, sauna, and restaurant and bar, and more. For even more adventure, there’s also an on-site driving range and endless snowmobile trails.
Make a weekend of it and take in nearby attractions like the Polar Bear Habitat (Here you can view rescued polar bears in their enclosures, educate yourself at the learning centre, and feel good knowing that you’re supporting polar bear conservation, education, and research), while you’re here visit the Cochrane Heritage Village and Snowmobile Museum.
10. Fat Biking
Fat Biking +HORSESHOE RESORT – Like the sound of that???
Fat Biking is an excellent way of experiencing the natural landscapes of Ontario – in the winter! And Horseshoe Resort is a winter lover’s dream. Take advantage of Canadian winters and Ontario snow as you explore the mountain’s skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing, lessons, racing, and snowshoeing.
Located in Barrie, sleeping in luxury by night and carving the slopes by day will be a chilly breeze! If you want to add a newer dimension to your trip, try this fast-paced way to explore your surroundings!
11. Icewine Festival
Known for its selection of fine wines and wine tours, Niagara Falls region also holds a winter Icewine Festival. Spend the evening cozying up to your loved one or sampling with friends as you sip your way to over 15 of Niagara’s most exceptional wineries.
The evening is filled with live music and dancing. Be sure to also try food pairings from some of Niagara’s top chefs. When you need a break from the party, walk through the Icewine Winter Wonderland, complete with lights and ice sculptures.
Ontario Winter Festivals: Make a trip to various Ontario towns and cities as they celebrate winter to the fullest. Explore interactive ice displays, enjoy snow tubing, maple taffy, horse-drawn wagon rides, taste ice wines and more!
12. Winter Hike in Ball’s Falls
Fill your travel mug and add an extra pair of woollies for a wander through winter wonderland.
At Ball’s Falls, experience the timeless natural beauty and breathtaking views of Twenty Mile Creek and Upper Lower Falls.
Finally, warm up in the Conservation Centre while admiring their permanent and temporary galleries and interactive displays focusing on nature, conservation, and the area’s cultural history. Ball’s Falls Centre for Conservation was designed to have a limited impact on natural resources while bringing attention to the spectacular scenery and natural beauty of the Niagara Peninsula.
13. Winter Adventures at Algonquin Park
Visiting Algonquin Park in the winter provides unrivalled wildlife views and vistas. The deep snow and quiet solitude are a welcome getaway from life in the city. The most appealing part of Algonquin in the winter is the vast cross-country ski trail network and untouched outback.
The winter recreation at Algonquin also includes snowshoeing, skating, and snowmobiling. The Mew Lake Campground offers campsites year-round and can be booked up to five months in advance. Winter backcountry camping is on a first-come-first-served basis. Be sure to get a permit before your visit!
14. Cross Ontario’s Longest Suspension Bridge on a Night Snowshoeing
Experience the magic of Scenic Caves Nordic Centre after dark with guided night snowshoe hikes. Traverse moonlit trails, Southern Ontario’s longest suspension bridge, and stunning lookout points while listening for nocturnal wildlife.
Guided by experts and adorning headlamps and snowshoes, enjoy night views over Georgian Bay. End the adventure by the firepit with a hot drink. If snow is sparse, explore more trails with ice cleats. Under starry skies, this unforgettable journey blends nature, adventure, and serenity.
15. Glide Down a Snowy Hill
Snow tubing in Ontario is an exhilarating winter activity for all ages!
From River Valley Golf Course’s 800-foot hills with snowmaking technology to Boler Mountain’s 70 km/h runs, there’s fun for everyone.
Chicopee Tube Park offers 90-minute sessions, including night tubing. Explore Horseshoe Resort’s longest tubing hill or enjoy family-friendly options at Snow Valley, Mount Baldy or Blue Mountain’s Hike and Tube.
16. Fire & Ice Nights
Whether you need a winter getaway for yourself and a significant other or for the whole family, heading north to Arrowhead Provincial Park in Hunstville is exactly what you’re looking for. As one of the prime locations for various winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, tubing, and skating, the winter adventures are endless.
Skate the 1.3 km trail winding through Muskoka’s snowy forest for an enchanting experience. Open daily with midday maintenance breaks, the trail also features enchanting Fire and Ice Nights, where tiki torches light up the path for a magical nighttime experience on Fridays and Saturdays. Enjoy this unique outdoor adventure, weather permitting!
If you plan on spending the night, camping is available at the camp cabins only during the winter months.
17. Escape to Nordic Spas
Embrace winter relaxation at Ontario’s top outdoor spas and blend winter magic with wellness and unforgettable luxury.
Cedar Meadows Resort offers tranquil Nordic baths, infrared saunas, and cozy rooms with fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs in Northern Ontario. Millcroft Inn in Caledon pairs country elegance with warm outdoor spring pools.
Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain offers classic hydrotherapy amid stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment. Vettä Nordic Spa near Barrie boasts North America’s largest commercial sauna, heated floors, relaxation rooms, and exquisite dining, creating a luxurious escape from nature.
18. Enchanting Illuminated Night Hiking
Experience the enchantment of winter nights at two breathtaking illuminated trails in Ontario!
Mountsberg’s Winterlit features two 1 km trails adorned with sustainably sourced art installations, cozy fireside lounges, and a magical celebration of nature and community.
Meanwhile, Terra Cotta Conservation Area’s Ignite the Night transforms 485 acres of forest into a 2 km illuminated wonderland, offering unforgettable Saturday night hikes through the stunning Niagara Escarpment. These luminous adventures promise whimsical, serene, and unforgettable winter memories.
19. Skiing and Snowboarding
Ontario offers a range of exceptional ski resorts for winter enthusiasts.
Calabogie Peaks, near Ottawa, is Ontario’s tallest public ski resort, with skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
Hockley Valley Resort, near Orangeville, features 14 trails, night skiing, and staycation packages.
Hidden Valley Highlands in Muskoka provides 14 trails, night skiing, and a terrain park.
Snow Valley, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone, near Barrie, boasts 37 slopes and 13 lifts. Horseshoe Resort offers diverse activities, including fat biking and lantern-lit cross-country skiing. Blue Mountain is a top destination with 42 trails and tubing.
Mount Jamieson Resort in Northern Ontario has family-friendly slopes, long runs, and après-ski experiences.
20. Maple Syrup Farm Tours
Welcome spring and satisfy that sweet tooth with a visit to an Ontario Maple Syrup Farm. Maple farms are open from mid-February to mid-April. During March Break, there are horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides daily; any other time, visit to explore the maple farm, taste the goods, and of course, check out the sugar shack. Is there anything more Canadian than rolling hot maple syrup on fresh snow and calling it taffy?
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