Winter has arrived across Ontario, transforming the natural landscapes and inviting adventure enthusiasts to explore the great outdoors. From cross-country skiing trails to mesmerizing snow-covered environments, the province boasts various winter recreation opportunities. Here’s what Ontario has to offer this season.
One of the winter gems, Murphys Point Provincial Park, has become a sought-after destination for those eager to experience the serenity and beauty of winter. Located about three and a half hours east of Toronto on the shores of Big Rideau Lake, this park showcases dramatic wildlife habitats, including forests and wetlands. According to Ontario Parks, the park is “a must-see in any season,” but it particularly shines during winter.
The park offers excellent cross-country skiing options, collaborating with the Tay Valley Cross-Country Ski Club to groom trails extensively. Skiers can choose from 4 km designated for skate skiing, 14 km for classic skiing, and another 8 km for backcountry skiing. Trail enthusiasts can enjoy notable paths like the Hardwood and Fallows Loops, and of course, the Hogg Bay Loop for breathtaking views. For warmth and rest, two cozy warm-up huts are provided along the trails, ensuring comfort between skiing sessions.
If skiing isn’t on the agenda, visitors can opt for snowshoeing, exploring non-groomed hiking trails, such as the Beaver Trail and the Silver Queen Mine Trail. These routes provide stunning views of the winter scenery, allowing outdoor lovers to connect with nature. Just keep in mind these trails are unmaintained during winter, so caution is advised. Access to the Silver Queen Mine Trail may be limited, but visitors can still enjoy its natural beauty on their self-guided excursions.
Located at 2243 Elmgrove Road, R.R. 5 – Perth, ON, Murphys Point Provincial Park is the perfect spot for both adventure seekers and those desiring a peaceful day out.
Meanwhile, another winter paradise, Rushing River Provincial Park, offers eager visitors 18 km of groomed cross-country ski trails. About two and a half hours from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Rushing River is known for its stunning snow-covered landscapes and tranquil ambiance. Even though it requires significant travel from Southern Ontario, nature lovers will be rewarded with pristine winter views and well-maintained terrain.
This park is rich with wildlife, and visitors might even catch glimpses of squirrels or the elusive lynx. According to Ontario Parks, “there’s something about winter’s quiet beauty” prompting folks to escape the daily grind for peace and serenity.
Walking along the park entrance/exit loop road provides the chance to soak up the surroundings. Signs throughout the park indicate safe walking areas, helping avoid conflict with the trails, which are prioritized for cross-country skiers.
Rushing River offers various ski trails to cater to all skill levels, ranging from beginner to intermediate. The trails travel alongside Dogtooth Lake, offering loops and scenic views, including the 6 km Trail “D” — perfect for those seeking picturesque settings.
All visitors are invited to purchase day passes for Rushing River, available up to five days beforehand. At only $6.50 after tax, skiers can secure their place to enjoy the winter wonderland. A longer-term option is the 2024/25 Winter Day-Use Vehicle Permit, at $67.80, which grants access to anyone planning to visit multiple times.
Those who prefer skiing will find Ontario’s local ski resorts just as appealing. With fantastic snowfall reported at various locations, resorts like Snow Valley Ski Resort and Devil’s Glen Country Club are highlighting impressive conditions for winter sports. A recent Facebook post emphasized conditions were “absolutely EPIC” at Snow Valley, boosted by 30 cm of fresh powder.
Across Simcoe County, the Horseshoe Valley Resort boasts 115 cm of snow, with trails available for all skill levels. Mount St. Louis Moonstone and Blue Mountain Resort also report excellent conditions, with all slopes remaining open, encouraging enthusiasts to carve their way through and enjoy the thrill of winter sports.
For families seeking fun-filled activities, the Recreational Outdoor Campus (The ROC) and Dagmar Ski Resort are open for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Each location offers immersive experiences and challenging terrain suitable for every age group. Now’s the time to embrace winter and enjoy Ontario's outdoor offerings! So grab your skis or your snowshoes — adventure awaits you!
Whether it's the tranquility of Murphys Point and Rushing River or the thrills offered at the southern ski resorts, Ontario is rich with winter recreation opportunities, offering both adventure and serene winter landscapes. Don’t miss out on exploring one of these winter escapes this season!