Though winter’s freezing temperatures have been delayed in southern Ontario, that doesn’t mean we’re not in for some snowy weather. It’s definitely on its way and that means we need to start planning our winter activities. There are so many magical things to see and do in Ontario from natural wonders to annual events. These hidden gems will remind you just how incredible this province is all year round and you’ll surely love them.
Here are 7 of the most incredible hidden gems you might not know about in Ontario!
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Snowshoe, waterfall, and wine tour
Snowshoe your way to one of the most impressive waterfalls on the Niagara Escarpment, Hoggs Falls.
Then, sample some of the region’s finest cool-climate wine and delicious charcuterie while overlooking the gorgeous Blue Mountain area.
Kingstonlicious
Embark on a culinary journey through menu creations by local chefs and special guests. Kingstonlicious kicks off in Kingston, Ontario this January 15th through March.
Check out the city’s local restaurants and their special menus during this event.
Winterlude ice sculptures
Every February, Ottawa-Gatineau celebrates the winter season with its iconic Winterlude festival from February 2nd to 29th.
In addition to the bustling Rideau Canal Skateway and outdoor adventure park with a zipline, one of the standout attractions of the festival is the ice sculpture competition.
Expect over 200 activities to enjoy at Winterlude.
Frozen waterfalls
Ontario is a province full of waterfalls and they’re just as majestic in wintertime as they are in any other season.
Check out Tiffany Falls Conservation Area for its stunning display of frozen cascading waterfall.
Ontario Parks recommends, Kakabeka Falls as it looks breathtaking when it freezes over at a soaring 40 m above the ground.
Skating trails in the woods
Ontario’s vast forests are just as fun to explore in the winter as in the summer, especially on skates. North of the city, you can glide on frozen trails among towering trees that glow by torchlight when the sun goes down.
The Fern Resort’s skating trail spans a whopping 1.5 kilometres.
Arrowhead Provincial Park’s frozen trail gets super popular in the winter for its picturesque setting among snow-covered trees.
The park’s Fire and Ice skating nights are one of the major attractions, as well as the nearby skating loop around 12 acres of cranberry fields lit by hundreds of tiki torches.
Lake Superior ice caves
These caves are so spectacular that the New York Times named them one of the 52 best places to visit in the world back in 2019.
The ice caves are a rare and magical phenomenon that occurs when the waves of Lake Superior in northern Ontario freeze over and form fascinating shapes.
According to the Great Lakes Guide, the crashing waves of Lake Superior can reach over 6 metres high. The bitter cold, intense wind and waves are what allow these ice caves to form.
These ice caves change from year to year depending on the conditions, but there is still ample opportunity to see these majestic caves. You just have to know where to look and be prepared for a serious trek.
The Northern Lights
You may not know that you could get an amazing view of the Northern Lights right here in Ontario. You just have to know where (and when) to look!
According to Destination Canada, the best time to see this phenomenon is on chilly winter nights, between 11 PM and 3 AM, when the skies are darkest.
You’ll want to trek way out to see this spectacular sight, like Manitoulin Island, which is the only Dark Sky Preserve in northern Ontario.
With its inky black skies and peaceful atmosphere in the off-season, you could be treated to a breathtaking Aurora Borealis show without the crowds.
