History, romance, and adventure await you in Huron County in the winter. Step into a fairy tale and plan your own romantic ending with a list of winter activities for everyone in your group or family. The shores of Lake Huron are transformed into crystalized works of art sparkling in the sunshine or illuminated by the searchlight of the nearby lighthouse.
- Huron Historic Gaol in Goderich is a former prison built in the first half of the 19th Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1973, this well-preserved building features a unique panopticon design and is also considered haunted.
- Menesetung Bridge offers a spectacular view of the Maitland River. A former railway track, this bridge connects the hiking trails on either side of the river. Come here at dusk when you can watch the sun slowly slip away into Lake Huron.
- The Tiger Dunlop Heritage Trail is actually a whole network of trails ideal for hiking and fat biking during the winter months. The adventurous type can cross over the Maitland River on the Menesetung Bridge.
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- A former Canadian Pacific Rail line, the 12 km Goderich to Auburn Trail is perfect for a family walk or a winter bike ride. Near Goderich it joins up with the Tiger Dunlop Heritage Trail.
- Goderich Main Beach is quieter in the winter months compared to the busy summer season. While the crowds of tourists are away, enjoy a serene walk along the shores of Lake Huron. The tree roots and rocks freeze into beautiful formations turning the beach into natural outdoor art gallery. Another beach you can check out is Christopher’s Beach, well known amongst local dog owners, since dogs became officially welcome here five years ago.
- Rent a fat bike from Goderich Bike Shop and enjoy a ride along the G2G Rail Trail. The Guelph to Goderich/Goderich to Guelph(G2G) rail trail runs from 401 corridor at Guelph to the shores of Lake Huron at Goderich and is 127 km in length.
- Watch the sunset from the bluffs near Goderich Lighthouse, which is located between Main Beach and Christopher’s Beach. Built in the mid-19th century, this lighthouse continues to illuminate the waters of Lake Huron after the sun goes down.
- While you are out and about there are several other beaches to check out along the shore of Lake Huron. These include Sunset Beach, Black’s Point Beach, and Rotary Cove Beach.
- Point Farms Provincial Park offers a wide variety of winter activities. Hiking trails ranging from 20 minutes to 1.5 hours, snowshoeing (bring your own equipment), snowmobiling trails, and plenty of birds and wildlife to see along the way.
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- Have you ever seen a fish jump? Port Albert Fishway is a man-made structure designed to lift the fish upstream in the fall and in the spring. Although you may not see any fish jumping in the winter months, Port Albert is a popular destination amongst anglers. Rainbow trout, coho salmon, yellow perch are just some of the fish that are commonly found in the streams, lakes and rivers in Huron County.
- The Village of Bayfield is a perfect place to spend a sunny winter afternoon. Whether you enjoy wondering the neighbourhood or prefer a more planned visit (via a self-guided tour), the beaches, trails, and town shops will immerse you in the serenity of this small town’s comforts.
- Enjoy a walk along the shores of Lake Huron. Breathe in some fresh crisp winter air while listening to the waves and the gulls at the Bayfield pier and beach.
- Pioneer Park in Bayfield offers another picturesque view of Lake Huron from atop a bluff. Once you climb the wooden staircase, the view and vastness of Lake Huron will take your breath away.
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- The Morrison Dam Conservation Area offers snow-shoe rentals and group lessons all winter long. If you are in the mood for some adventure, download the South Huron Trail Map and enjoy exploring the interlinking trails along the watershed.
- If you enjoy driving along scenic routes, cruise along Ontario Highway 21, also known as Bluewater Highway. Running along Lake Huron, the highway passes through the towns of Forest, Grand Bend, Goderich, Point Clark, Kincardine, Tiverton, Port Elgin, and Southampton.
- Inland from Lake Huron, the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area is a multi-use man-made marsh that’s popular in the winter for horseback riding, hiking birding, and even pheasant & waterfowl hunting.
- Huron County is known for some of the best perch fishing in the world. If you don’t mind dressing warm and staying in one spot for a while, you can come home with a tasty dinner.
- Bring your snowshoes, cross-country skis, and fat bikes to Wawanosh Valley Conservation Area (try saying that name ten times). Maps of the Maitland River Trail are available at the kiosk near the parking lot.
- The scenic 50km Maitland River Trail stretches from the shores of Lake Huron and runs along the winding Mailand River. Bring a companion or a four-legged friend and get ready to spend a few hours or even a full day hiking. Don’t forget to take an occasional break along the way to take in one of the many breathtaking views and listen to a birdsong or two.
- The Maitland Forest has the makings of a perfect fairytale setting. The romantic boardwalk, birds chirping in the trees, and arguably the most romantic sunsets on the planet are probably the reason why so many couples got engaged here.
- Discover the art in your locality. Localities throughout Huron county has several wall murals that make great backgrounds for a photo op.
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