Top 5 Winter Experiences in South Eastern Ontario
It’s official—winter is here! And while our natural instinct might be to hibernate, we can also discover how to enjoy and embrace all that winter has to offer with these top experiences in South Eastern Ontario.
1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Waterways
With 800 acres of forest, ponds and fields, Foley Mountain Conservation Area has so much to offer. Embrace outdoor activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You can see the countryside and get in a workout at the same time. Don’t miss the highlight of the trail, Spy Rock Lookout, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-covered trees and town of Westport below.
1000 Islands Gananoque
Take in the winter landscape from a birds-eye-view with 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours and see the St. Lawrence and Thousand Islands from a new vantage point. Guests can choose their own adventure with castle tours and historic views on one of the three tours offered. You can also add an ice fishing excursion. Dress warmly as you sit inside a hut with a wood stove and (of course) rods. Take the concept of ‘fresh food’ to a whole new level by having your own fish cooked out on the frozen lake.
Bay of Quinte
The next time a snowstorm gets you down, try and remember that more snow means more skiing and snowboarding! Situated roughly 15 minutes north of Trenton, Batawa Ski Hill is a destination perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors; the area offers a range of activities including alpine skiing, hiking and snowboarding. Learn the ropes and hit the slopes! The twelve runs vary in style, length and difficulty.
Kingston
Located in the heart of downtown Kingston, you can glide hand-in-hand with your friend or date at Springer Market Square, a large oval rink in front of City Hall, and then follow it up with a warm cup of hot chocolate, coffee or cider at one of the many delicious cafes located just across the street. Don’t worry about the cold as there are warming and changing areas, as well as lockers and skate rentals available in the Market Wing of City Hall.
Frontenac County
Frontenac Provincial Park in the winter is one of the most serene places to see the southern edge of the Canadian Shield up close. Visitors can enjoy 11 kilometers of track-set trails that are perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, skiing and wildlife spotting. Explore the park on the Big Salmon Lake Road, an easy 3.5-kilometre trail with gentle slopes and curves, or the Corridor Trail, a moderately difficult 4.5-kilometre trail bordered by trees with several steep hills. We recommend the Doe Lake Loop and the Arab Lake Gorge Loop for snowshoeing.
More Ontario-based adventures:
The Happy Camper: Winter Camping on Crown Land in Ontario
