Unexpected winter experiences in Ontario you may not know about

While we wait for more snow to hit Ontario, it’s the perfect time to prepare for all the winter activities we’re going to take part in this upcoming season. Sledding, skiing, winter walks, snowboarding, but what else is out there? Believe it or not, there’s a world of fun, and at times questionable, winter activities that we didn’t know occurred in Ontario.

We’ve compiled a list of six winter experiences you didn’t know about in the province.

Winter experiences you may not have heard of in Ontario

Skijoring

This winter activity is a combination of dog sledding and cross-country skiing!

According to Destination Northern Ontario, those with mid-sized dogs, 30 pounds and up, and who love to pull and run, are best suited for this activity.

The site states that during the winter, Algonquin Provincial Park and Quetico Provincial Park offer trails perfect for this activity.

Climbing a frozen waterfall

This winter activity is one of a kind. Forget rock climbing, take on this thrilling adventure – ice climbing.

Northwestern Ontario is a top destination for ice climbing, and you can do that with Outdoor Skills and Thrills, even if you’re new to the activity. You’ll learn everything you need to know to have a safe and exciting climb.

It’s available from December through March.

Polar bear dip

Can you imagine jumping into a near-frozen lake, wearing close to nothing, to ring in the new year?

Ontarians love it, and some cities host their own events, gathering locals to partake in the winter experience. Visit Oakville will host their annual dip at Coronation Park at 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 1, 2026. Don’t miss out.

Snowshoeing to ice caves

Grab your snowshoes and explore the ice caves along the shores of Lake Superior.

Stokely Creek Lodge offers guided tours starting mid to late February. According to the official site, the experience is about 2 to 2.5 hours of snowshoeing along the shore and to the cliffs.

“Join us for a snowshoe trek up King Mountain with family and friends! A warm fire and hot chocolate await at the top,” shares organizers.

“Back at the Day Skier’s Cabin, enjoy Stokely’s famous chili, a cozy bar, and a day full of winter fun.” It’s all going down on Feb. 26, 2026.

Reaching the top of a mountain

For the best panoramic views of Ontario’s winter landscape, you’ll need to reach the top. And you can do so by embarking on a snowy hiking journey to the top of Killarney’s La Cloche Mountains.

According to Destination Northern Ontario, you can catch some of the most stunning vistas atop Killarney Ridge. Another great option is King Mountain in Sault Ste. Marie.

Make sure to do your research before embarking on this journey, especially if you’re new to this. Never go alone and make sure you’re prepared for anything. The winter season can be a harsh one.

Fat biking in the snow

If you can’t give up that bike for the winter, try out fat biking. According to Destination Ontario, Fat bikes, also known as snow bikes, are an off-road hybrid of the mountain bike design with oversized tires. It also has a wider handlebar that makes it easier to ride.

Places like Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Albion Hills Conservation Area, and Deerhurst Resort are the best places to enjoy this experience.

Now go out and try something new. We sure know Ontario definitely has a lot to offer.

Recent Posts:
There’s an ice skating trail that winds through almost 100 acres of woods in Ontario
Holiday pop-ups you have to visit before the season ends in Toronto