One of the most iconic places in Ontario is a park & it’s not just a summer destination

Algonquin Provincial Park is known as one of the most iconic places in Ontario and if you’ve been there, it should come as no surprise to hear that. The park spans a whopping 7,635 square kilometres and while it gets busy here in the summer, the winters at Algonquin are just as magical.

From trails with views of scenic winter vistas to cozy yurts you can snuggle up in at night, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t planned a winter trip here sooner.

 Winter adventures at Algonquin Provincial Park

“With so many activities to try, the vast winter landscape is an opportunity for you to choose your own adventure,” shares Ontario Parks.

Time to try your hand at cross-country skiing if you haven’t before.

Algonquin has 71 km of groomed and track-set ski trails spanning three trail networks. The trails vary in length and difficulty, meaning there’s something for everyone whether you’re a seasoned vet or a beginner.

Want to take in some of the best views in the park? The Fen Lake Trail system “winds through hardwood forests typical of Algonquin’s west side.” The trees are covered in snow during the winter making for some gorgeous scenery as you glide along.

If you’re looking for something that’s beginner-friendly, an easy multi-purpose trail starts at Mew Lake and doesn’t feature difficult terrain.

Don’t forget to pack your skates! Part of the parking lot in the Mew Lake Campground area is turned into a skating rink when the weather gets cold.

You can use the rink to just skate, or if you want to get a game of hockey going, the park offers sticks, nets, and pucks that can be borrowed.

Winter biking, ever heard of it? I hadn’t, but at Algonquin, it’s a popular winter activity. If your bike is winter-ready, take it for a spin along The Old Railway Bike Trail.

Booking a yurt at Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is so great you’re going to want to stay overnight, and how could you not when it offers cozy yurts among the vast winter landscape?

There are seven yurts available to book located at Mew Lake Campground. Each yurt comes with two bunk beds that can sleep up to six people, electrical heat, fluorescent lighting, and one electrical outlet.

A table and chairs are also provided.

An overnight stay in one of these homey delights starts at $144.90 and any bookings can be done online. 

If you’re just heading to the park for the day, day-use fees start at $12.25.

Bundle up, take some photos and enjoy your snowy adventure.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Where: Highway 60, P.O. Box 219, Whitney, ON

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