10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Ontario in Winter (From an Ontario Local)

I’ve lived in Ontario for most of my life, which means I’ve experienced a lot of Canadian winters.

And while I understand why some people would rather stay indoors when temperatures drop below freezing, winter is actually one of my favourite times to get outside.

I especially love visiting Ontario’s parks during winter.

Trails that are busy throughout summer and fall can feel completely different when they’re covered in snow. And there are some experiences, like skating through a forest, that you can only have during the colder months.

Of course, enjoying winter in Ontario takes a little preparation. You need the right clothing, and it’s important to be realistic about the weather. Some activities depend on snowfall or ice conditions, so plans sometimes need to change.

I’ve put together this guide to 10 of my favourite places to visit in Ontario in winter, including provincial parks, small towns, and cities. I’ve included ideas for what to do in each place, along with practical tips to help you plan.

1. Arrowhead Provincial Park

Location: Near Huntsville, Muskoka, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from Toronto
Best for: Forest skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing

Arrowhead Provincial Park is one of my favourite recommendations for anyone who wants to experience an Ontario winter outdoors.

The park is particularly well known for its 1.3-kilometre ice skating trail, which winds through the forest. Instead of skating around a traditional rink, you follow a maintained ice path between the trees.

If you can, try to visit during one of Arrowhead’s Fire & Ice Nights, when the skating trail is illuminated for evening skating. These special events are very popular, so you’ll want to plan ahead.

There’s plenty to do beyond skating, too.

Arrowhead maintains cross-country ski trails for different experience levels, along with snowshoeing routes. Equipment rentals are available in the park, making this a good option if you don’t own winter sports gear.

Another thing I appreciate about Arrowhead is that it’s relatively accessible for a winter day trip from the Greater Toronto Area, although I’d recommend staying overnight in Huntsville if you want to spend more time in the region.

Huntsville is only about a 10-minute drive from Arrowhead Provincial Park, and makes a great base for a winter weekend in Muskoka. The town has a walkable downtown with restaurants and independent shops, so there’s plenty to do after a day outdoors.

Another nearby option for winter activities is Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve, which has an extensive network of trails through forest and around lakes. Limberlost is privately owned but allows free public access to its trails. 

During winter, it’s a popular place for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, although you’ll want to check current trail conditions before heading out.

If you’re spending a few days in Muskoka, you could also visit Hardy Lake Provincial Park, near Gravenhurst. The park has hiking trails through forest and around Hardy Lake, including a shorter loop of approximately 3 kilometres.

If you need winter sports equipment, Algonquin Outfitters has locations in the Huntsville area. Check which rentals are available during your visit.

For accommodation, consider a locally owned cottage or lodge. Cedar Grove Lodge is one option worth looking into if you’d like a traditional Muskoka lodge experience. Deerhurst Resort is another option, with a range of seasonal activities.

I’d also encourage you to spend some money in the surrounding communities during your stay. Stop into town for a meal, visit independent shops, or purchase supplies locally.

My tip: Arrowhead gets extremely busy on winter weekends. Reserve a daily vehicle permit in advance, ideally for a weekday visit. Check the park’s snow report before leaving, since skating and skiing depend on conditions.

2. Orillia

Location: Approximately 1.5 hours north of Toronto
Best for: Snow tubing, winter hiking, and a weekend getaway

Orillia is a historic small city in Ontario, located between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching. It’s also one of my favourite places to recommend for a winter weekend, especially if you’re travelling from Toronto and don’t want to spend too much time driving.

Luke and I visited Orillia in January 2025, and we had such a fun weekend trying different winter activities and spending time in the city’s downtown.

One of the highlights was going snow tubing at Horseshoe Valley Resort, about 20 minutes from Orillia. The resort has multiple tubing lanes and a magic carpet lift that takes you back up the hill.

Luke and I had a blast going down the hill together, sometimes having the staff send us spinning! It’s a fun activity even if you don’t ski or snowboard.

Another activity I recommend is winter hiking at Scout Valley, a 230-acre park just outside Orillia. There are three marked loop trails, each approximately 2 kilometres long, which pass through forest. You can also go snowshoeing here when conditions allow.

After spending time outdoors, head into downtown Orillia to browse the independent shops along Mississaga Street.

One place I especially recommend is Mariposa Market, which I actually remember visiting when I was a kid! The historic building houses a bakery and shops selling a variety of foods and gifts.

For breakfast or lunch, stop at Poppies Bagel Company. Luke and I had their smoked salmon bagel during our visit, and it was delicious.

The Hog & Penny is another good option for a meal. And if you enjoy craft beer, consider visiting Quayle’s Brewery in nearby Oro-Medonte.

Where to stay: We stayed at the Champlain Waterfront Hotel, a historic hotel in downtown Orillia. Its location makes it easy to walk to restaurants and shops after spending the day outdoors.

For more recommendations, read my full guide to winter in Orillia, Ontario.

3. Toronto

Best for: Outdoor skating, museums, and winter events

As someone who lives in Toronto, I think the city deserves more attention as a winter getaway.

There are plenty of things to do here during the colder months, and many of my favourite activities are either free or relatively inexpensive.

One of the classic Toronto winter experiences is skating at Nathan Phillips Square, directly in front of City Hall.

You can bring your own skates or rent a pair. The rink typically operates from late November or early December through March, depending on the weather.

Another skating option is The Bentway, where a skating trail runs beneath the Gardiner Expressway. It’s a pretty unique urban skating experience.

If you’re visiting in December, head to the Distillery Historic District for its seasonal holiday market.

The pedestrian-only streets are lined with historic industrial buildings, and the holiday event brings additional vendors and seasonal programming.

Toronto also has some excellent museums for days when the weather isn’t cooperating. This is often what I find myself doing on weekends where the weather is super cold. I just hop on the subway and visit a local museum!

The Royal Ontario Museum is a good choice if you’re interested in natural history, while the Art Gallery of Ontario is worth visiting for its collections of Canadian and international art.

I’d also recommend spending some time in Toronto’s neighbourhoods beyond the downtown core. Winter is a good excuse to spend an afternoon browsing independent shops, stopping for coffee, and eating in local restaurants.

If you want to spend some time outdoors, consider visiting Rouge National Urban Park in eastern Toronto.

Rouge has trails through forests, wetlands, and river valleys, and you can go hiking, birdwatching, or snowshoeing during winter.

The Vista Trail is a good option to consider if you’re looking for a shorter walk. Just keep in mind that Parks Canada doesn’t maintain Rouge’s trails in winter, so bring traction cleats when conditions are icy and check for closures before visiting.

Rouge is also an interesting place to learn about the relationship between conservation, agriculture, and urban development. The park includes working farms and has a long history of Indigenous presence and stewardship.

One of the things I appreciate about Toronto is that you can enjoy winter here without needing a car. Many attractions are accessible by public transit.

4. Point Pelee National Park

Location: Near Leamington, southwestern Ontario, approximately 4 hours from Toronto
Best for: Winter hiking and birdwatching

Point Pelee National Park is one of the more unusual places to visit in Ontario in winter.

The park occupies a peninsula extending into Lake Erie and includes the southernmost point of mainland Canada.

During winter, the shoreline can develop interesting ice formations, although the appearance changes depending on temperatures and lake conditions.

One of the best activities is walking the Marsh Boardwalk, which passes through the park’s freshwater marsh. You can also visit the Tip, where Lake Erie meets the end of the peninsula.

I recommend bringing binoculars if you’re interested in birds. Point Pelee is known for its birdlife, and winter offers opportunities to see species that remain in the region during the colder months.

The park’s forests and marshes support a variety of wildlife, so even a relatively short walk can be worthwhile.

Good to know: Point Pelee operates with reduced services in winter. For the 2026–27 season, its winter hours are 7 a.m. to dusk. Trails are not maintained, and some access routes may close after snowfall.

Never climb onto ice formations along the shoreline. They can be unstable, especially near open water.

If you’re planning to spend a weekend in the area, consider staying in nearby Essex County.

There’s plenty to do beyond Point Pelee National Park, including visiting the wineries along the Lake Erie North Shore, browsing local shops in Kingsville, and stopping at the independent restaurants and cafés in Essex and Leamington.

You can also visit Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens in Ruthven, which has indoor greenhouses that are particularly nice to visit during winter. Just keep in mind that some businesses in the region operate on reduced winter hours.

5. Ottawa

Location: Eastern Ontario, approximately 4.5 to 5 hours from Toronto
Best for: Ice skating and winter festivals

Ottawa is one of the best Canadian cities for winter activities, largely thanks to the Rideau Canal Skateway.

When conditions allow, a 7.8-kilometre section of the historic Rideau Canal becomes an outdoor skating route through the city.

Skating is free, although rentals cost extra. You can also stop along the route for food and hot drinks.

One important thing to know is that the Skateway doesn’t open on a fixed date. It needs sustained cold temperatures for safe ice conditions. The skating season typically begins in January and can extend into early March.

Ottawa also hosts Winterlude, an annual winter festival with activities and events across the National Capital Region.

Winterlude typically takes place in February and includes snow sculptures, outdoor activities, and family-friendly programming. The specific locations and events change from year to year.

If you’d like to spend some time indoors, I’d recommend visiting the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, just across the Ottawa River.

The museum has exhibitions covering the history of the land now known as Canada, including the histories and cultures of Indigenous Peoples.

For a relaxing afternoon, you could also book a visit to Nordik Spa-Nature in Chelsea, Quebec, about 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa.

My tip: If skating the Rideau Canal is your main reason for visiting, keep your plans flexible. Check the National Capital Commission’s ice conditions updates before your trip.

6. Algonquin Provincial Park

Location: Central Ontario, approximately 3 to 4 hours from Toronto
Best for: Winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and camping

Algonquin Provincial Park is somewhere I’d recommend visiting in every season.

The park is especially popular during summer and fall, but winter gives you a completely different experience.

Cross-country skiing is one of the main winter activities. The park has designated ski trail networks, including the Fen Lake, Leaf Lake, and Minnesing trails.

These routes vary in length and difficulty, so it’s worth researching which one is appropriate for your experience.

Winter hiking and snowshoeing are also possible, although it’s important to check which trails are suitable for your activity. Some routes are reserved for skiing, and winter conditions can make hiking more challenging than it appears on a map.

The Spruce Bog Boardwalk is one shorter trail to consider, depending on conditions.

If you’d like to stay overnight, Mew Lake Campground operates year-round and offers winter camping options.

There’s also an outdoor skating rink at Mew Lake when conditions allow.

Good to know: Algonquin is a large park with limited services in winter. Make sure you have enough fuel, check road conditions, and choose a route appropriate for your experience.

A valid park permit is required, and winter trail conditions should be checked before visiting.

7. Niagara Falls

Location: Niagara Region, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Toronto
Best for: Waterfall views and a winter city break

Niagara Falls is worth considering for a winter trip, especially if you’ve only visited during summer.

One of the most interesting things about seeing the falls in winter is the ice that accumulates around the surrounding rocks and railings.

The waterfalls continue flowing throughout winter, even when the surrounding landscape is covered in ice.

You can view the Horseshoe Falls from the public promenade near Table Rock Welcome Centre. It’s an easy way to see the waterfall without booking an attraction.

If you’d like a different perspective, Journey Behind the Falls gives you access to tunnels and viewing areas near the waterfall. Check its seasonal operating schedule before visiting, since access and experiences can change during winter.

Niagara Falls also hosts the Winter Festival of Lights, which typically runs from November into January. The festival features illuminated displays throughout the tourist area.

I also think Niagara Falls works well as an overnight trip. Staying for an evening gives you time to see the falls after dark and visit some of the city’s restaurants.

If you have an extra day, I’d recommend visiting nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake, which is about a 20 to 30-minute drive from Niagara Falls.

The historic downtown has independent shops, restaurants, and accommodation options, and the surrounding Niagara wine region has wineries that offer tastings throughout the year.

Winter is an especially interesting time to learn about Icewine, which is produced using grapes that freeze naturally on the vine.

The Niagara region is one of Canada’s major Icewine-producing areas, and many wineries offer tastings where you can learn more about how it’s made.

If you’re visiting in January, look into the Niagara Icewine Festival. Event dates and programming vary each year.

I’d also recommend making time to walk along Queen Street and browse the independent businesses.

For accommodation, the Prince of Wales Hotel is a historic option in the centre of Niagara-on-the-Lake. There are also smaller inns and bed-and-breakfasts worth considering.

My tip: The mist from Niagara Falls can freeze on nearby surfaces, making walkways slippery. Wear boots with good traction, especially if you’re visiting during a cold spell.

If you’re planning winery visits in Niagara-on-the-Lake, book tastings ahead of time, particularly on weekends. Winter hours can be more limited than during peak tourism season.

8. Mono Cliffs Provincial Park

Location: Near Orangeville, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from Toronto
Best for: Winter hiking

Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is one of my favourite places to recommend for hiking near Toronto.

The park is part of the Niagara Escarpment, and its trails pass through forest, alongside cliffs, and into a narrow canyon.

The Spillway Trail is particularly interesting because it connects with the park’s canyon area. You can also incorporate the Cliff-Top Side Trail for a longer walk.

One of the park’s most recognizable features is the narrow canyon, where wooden stairs descend between tall rock walls.

Winter changes the experience considerably. Snow can make the trails quieter, but ice can also make the stairs and rocky sections more difficult.

I’d strongly recommend bringing traction cleats if you’re visiting after a freeze-thaw cycle.

Depending on your route, you can spend anywhere from an hour to several hours hiking in Mono Cliffs.

Important: Mono Cliffs is open for winter day use, but trails are not maintained. Visitors must purchase a daily vehicle permit in advance, and entry is controlled by automatic gates.

9. Collingwood and the Blue Mountains

Location: Georgian Bay, approximately 2 to 2.5 hours from Toronto
Best for: Downhill skiing and winter sports

Collingwood and the Blue Mountains are among Ontario’s most established winter recreation areas.

Blue Mountain Resort is the main draw for downhill skiing and snowboarding. It has a range of runs, with lessons and equipment rentals available.

The resort is located along the Niagara Escarpment, overlooking the Georgian Bay area.

Even if you don’t downhill ski, there’s plenty to do nearby. Scenic Caves Nordic Centre is another option to look into for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, depending on conditions.

Collingwood itself has restaurants and independent businesses, making it a good place to stay if you want to spend some time away from the resort.

For a relaxing afternoon, you could book a visit to Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain, which offers outdoor thermal baths surrounded by forest.

I also recommend spending some time walking around downtown Collingwood. It’s a good place to stop for a meal or browse local shops.

My tip: Accommodation and resort activities can be expensive during weekends and school holidays. If your schedule allows, consider going midweek instead.

10. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Location: Near Tobermory, approximately 3.5 to 4 hours from Toronto
Best for: Experienced winter hikers and winter camping

Bruce Peninsula National Park is one of Ontario’s most recognizable parks, particularly because of its limestone cliffs along Georgian Bay.

I’ve included it on this list because winter can be an interesting time to visit, although it requires more planning than a typical summer trip.

Some trails around Cyprus Lake and the Grotto remain accessible during winter. These include the Georgian Bay Trail and other routes in the area.

However, the trails are not maintained, and ice can make the rocky shoreline especially dangerous.

The park’s location along Georgian Bay means conditions can change quickly, particularly when strong winds and lake-effect snow are involved.

Winter camping is also possible through specific park programs and designated areas. Availability and reservation requirements vary by season.

My advice: Only plan a winter hike here if you’re properly equipped and comfortable assessing conditions. Check the Parks Canada website before travelling, and don’t approach icy cliff edges or unstable shoreline ice.

If you’re planning to stay overnight, look into accommodation options in Tobermory or nearby communities, keeping in mind that many businesses operate seasonally.

Where to Go in Ontario in Winter: Quick Comparison

If you’re still deciding where to go, here’s a quick comparison of the places covered in this guide.

What Is Winter Like in Ontario?

If you’re visiting Ontario from somewhere with a milder climate, there are a few things worth knowing about our winters.

Ontario is a very large province, and winter conditions vary considerably depending on where you are.

Southern Ontario tends to experience more freeze-thaw cycles, while northern regions generally have longer periods of sustained cold and snow cover.

When Does Winter Start in Ontario?

Winter in Ontario generally runs from December through March, although snow and cold temperatures can arrive earlier and stick around into April.

In northern Ontario, winter conditions can begin as early as November. In southern Ontario, particularly around Toronto and Niagara, December doesn’t always bring consistent snowfall.

If you’re hoping to experience snow-covered landscapes, January and February are generally more reliable months.

How Cold Does Ontario Get in Winter?

Winter temperatures in Ontario vary considerably by region. In Toronto, average daytime temperatures during January are generally below freezing, with colder temperatures overnight.

In northern Ontario, temperatures can fall below -20°C during cold spells, sometimes considerably lower.

Wind chill is another important factor. Even when the actual temperature is relatively mild, strong winds can make spending time outdoors uncomfortable.

I’d recommend checking the forecast for the specific region you’re visiting rather than relying on a general Ontario weather forecast.

What Is the Best Month to Visit Ontario in Winter?

For activities that depend on snow and ice, I generally recommend January or February. These months usually provide the most reliable conditions for outdoor skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

December is a good time for holiday events, particularly in cities like Toronto and Ottawa. March can also be a good month for winter activities, especially farther north, where snow often remains on the ground longer.

Just remember that spring temperatures can arrive quickly in southern Ontario, affecting trail conditions and outdoor activities.

Tips for Visiting Ontario in Winter

Dress for the Weather

I can’t emphasize enough how much of a difference proper winter clothing makes. If you’re planning to spend several hours outside, dress in layers.

A moisture-wicking base layer is useful for activities like hiking and skiing, while an insulated jacket helps retain warmth when you stop moving.

For winter hiking, I also recommend waterproof boots and traction cleats. It’s worth bringing an extra pair of socks and gloves, particularly if you’re spending a full day outside.

Check Trail and Activity Conditions Before Travelling

A lot of winter activities in Ontario depend on the weather.

Outdoor skating trails need sufficiently cold temperatures. Ski trails need snow, and hiking trails can become dangerous after freezing rain.

I always recommend checking official park websites and weather forecasts before leaving. Ontario Parks publishes trail condition updates for many parks that offer winter activities.

If you’re planning to visit a national park, check the Parks Canada website for seasonal access information.

Prepare for Winter Driving

Winter driving conditions can change quickly, particularly during lake-effect snowstorms. If you’re renting a vehicle, ask about winter tires. Give yourself extra travel time and avoid driving during severe weather warnings.

Ontario’s 511 service provides information about road conditions and closures, which is especially useful when travelling outside major cities.

If you’re heading somewhere remote, make sure your vehicle has enough fuel and carry basic emergency supplies.

Respect Trail Closures and Protected Areas

Winter doesn’t make it okay to leave designated trails or enter closed areas. Snow can hide sensitive vegetation, and wildlife still needs space during the colder months.

Follow posted signs, keep dogs under control, and pack out everything you bring with you. I’d also encourage you to be mindful of the communities you’re visiting.

Winter tourism can provide important income for local businesses, but it’s still important to respect residents and their neighbourhoods.

Embrace Winter in Ontario This Year!

I know winter isn’t everyone’s favourite season, especially when it feels like it lasts half the year.

But living in Ontario has taught me that there’s a lot to enjoy about it, particularly when you have opportunities to get outside.

I also think it’s worth remembering that enjoying winter doesn’t have to involve expensive equipment or a weekend at a ski resort. Some of my favourite winter activities are simple walks through local parks.

If you’re planning a winter trip in Ontario, I’d encourage you to choose a place that suits your interests and comfort level, then check the conditions before heading out.