Modern Travel - 3 One Tank Trips For Wonderful Winter Adventures
/Getting out in nature in the winter requires considerably more effort and definitely more clothes. But not only do winter activities prove you are a true Canadian, they can also improve mental and physical well-being.
Here are a few suggestions for some fun outside this winter:
The Bruce Peninsula
Separating Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, the Bruce Peninsula receives the highest snowfall in Southern Ontario with an annual average of 2.5 to 3.5 metres over two months, so it’s well-loved by snowmobiling and snowshoeing enthusiasts. Historically, snowshoes were as important as the canoe as a means of transportation for First Nations in the area. Without them, there are times you’d sink down to your waist in snow. With them on, you can go virtually anywhere. An excellent option is the Bruce Trail, Ontario’s largest and oldest footpath. The section in this region that stretches from Wiarton to Tobermory is arguably the most scenic, with dramatic limestone cliffs and panoramic views.
Taylor-Made B &B in Lion’s Head caters to Bruce hikers, and the owners are happy to make recommendations. Eco-Adventures offers guided snowshoeing tours in the region, including treks through Bruce Peninsula National Park in Tobermory to see its famous grotto. Or enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh through a winter wonderland with Dual Acres.
MacGregor Point Provincial Park
Located on the shores of Lake Huron near the town of Port Elgin, this wilderness park has a slew of winter activities but is best known for winter camping and their yurts. There are 16 of these basic accommodations, which can best be described as a cross between a cabin and a tent with a hard floor, heater, an electric outlet, bunk beds and a table and chair. Outside, there’s a gas BBQ and a fire pit. Toilet and shower facilities are available at a nearby comfort station, and campers must supply their own bedding and all other supplies. Don’t forget birdseed. Chickadees will feed from your hands, and against the pure white snow, it’s easy to spot other colourful birds, like blue jays and cardinals.
Another great feature is the 400-metre skating trail that winds through the mixed hardwood and evergreen forest, an enchanting experience, especially under the evening stars. Other activities include snowshoeing the Old Shore Trail for atmospheric views of the frozen lake and cross-country skiing.
Algonquin Provincial Park
At 7,653 square kilometres, Algonquin is Ontario’s largest provincial park and is home to 55 mammal species and more than 140 species of birds. One of the benefits of visiting in winter is the opportunity to see and identify the animal tracks that criss-cross the snowy paths. You’ll see the footprints from small creatures, like squirrels and rabbits, as well as the larger mammals, including deer, moose and wolves. Over 3500 moose and 35 wolf packs live in the park, so the chances of seeing their large prints are high.
Seven yurts are available at the Mew Lake Campground, which can be booked through the Ontario Parks website up to five months in advance. Outfitters like Voyageur Quest offer excursions, and all-inclusive two-night stays in the Algonquin Log Cabin with guided snowshoeing, all meals and equipment.
Finally, if you’re looking for a shot of adrenalin with your winter adventure, why not try:
Dog sledding: Hike up! Mush! Let’s go! Haliburton Forest offers dog sledding adventures along with other winter activities in their 80,000-acre private conservation area.
Snow kiting: A cross between snowboarding, windsurfing and waterskiing, snow kiting will have you flying across a frozen lake in no time. iKite Canada will supply all the gear you need and a kite and lesson, so you’ll be flying across the frozen lake in no time. Lake Simcoe is one of the most popular locations as it freezes over early.
Ice Climbing: Another activity that is gaining in popularity is ice climbing. Elements Guiding and Yours Outdoors offer lessons and excursions in the Haliburton Highlands that will get you into crampons and scaling icy heights.
