Believe it or not, winter’s final weeks are upon us, and soon, the icy landscapes will give way to signs of spring (fingers crossed). But before the snow melts and the season changes, there’s still time to take in Ontario’s winter beauty. And what’s one of the best ways to do that? Strolling along a scenic boardwalk trail.

We’ve rounded up a few must-visit boardwalks to explore before winter comes to an end.

Chapman Mills Conservation Area

Chapman Mills has a 1.5 km long trail with several lookout points along the way. As you embark on the trail, you’ll come across a few boardwalks. The trail itself leads through sensitive and beautiful habitats. You can enjoy these scenic sights at one of the many lookout points along the way. In the winter, it is even more magical!

Along your journey, you’ll also come across the Vimy Memorial Bridge on the Rideau River. There will be interpretive signs that tell the environmental story of the land. How fun!

Where: 253 Winding Way – Ottawa, Ontario

Goderich Boardwalk Trail

The gorgeous town of Goderich has a boardwalk trail that connects to various beaches and it’s totally worth a visit. It’s a hit in the summer but in the winter, it is mesmerizing. The boardwalk trail extends 1.5 kilometres along the waterfront.

Where: 270 Harbour St – Goderich, Ontario

Hunters Bay Trail Floating Boardwalk

If you find yourself in Ontario’s Muskoka region, check out Hunters Bay Trail for a long and leisurely hike through a boardwalk that looks as if it’s floating on top of the water. You’ll find this gem right in Huntsville! It’s said to be one of the most amazing hikes in the whole area.

Per Muskoka Tourism, the Hunters Bay Trail is a walking, running and cycling trail that spans 4.6 km in length.

Where: Main Street West (off Highway 11), Huntsville, Ontario

Island Lake Conservation Area

There are five trails to choose from, one of them being the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail. This is the park’s signature eight-kilometre trail, that circles around the lake. It’s a scenic wonderland in the winter!

There are several resting spots along the way so you can catch gorgeous vistas and even spot wildlife, if they’re out and about. This trail also guides you along a lakeside bridge that’s not only peaceful but also picture-perfect.

Where: 673067 Hurontario St South – Orangeville, Ontario

Kelso Conservation Area

This conservation area has a boardwalk that lines the perimeter of a lake, offering amazing views all around. The park’s hilly escarpment terrain is covered in snow, creating a striking winter landscape.

There are a multitude of trails along the escarpment and through Kelso’s old-growth forest. These sights can also be enjoyed here.

Where: 5234 Kelso Road – Milton, Ontario

MacGregor Point Provincial Park

This provincial park is home to several trails with scenic boardwalks! The trials to check out include The Tower Trail, Huron Fringe Trail, and the Lake Ridge Trail.

We’re sure you’ll find some enjoyment and solitude along these wonderful trails.

Where: 1593 Bruce Road 33, RR#1, Port Elgin, ON

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Located at this park is a fascinating 1-km boardwalk trail through lush marshland.

It is the largest protected marsh on the north shore of Lake Ontario and the vast landscape is truly breathtaking, especially from the wooden lookout towers. Feast your eyes on the snowy surroundings – it’s truly peaceful.

Where: 328 Presqu’Ile Parkway – Brighton, Ontario

Providence Bay Boardwalk

This wonderful walk is located on the southern shores of Manitoulin Island. According to Destination Ontario, the beach community of Providence Bay is home to a two-kilometre boardwalk, and it is a local highlight.

“The boardwalk provides stunning views of Lake Huron and breathtaking sunsets. It also helps preserve the precious ecosystem and the sensitive sand dunes formed thousands of years ago,” shares the site.

Where: Mutchmor Street – Central Manitoulin, Ontario

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area

It’s not hard to find this boardwalk inside Rattray Marsh Conservation Area. We recommend starting at Jack Darling Memorial Park. Follow the path that lines the beach to your left and you’ll come across the Pedestrian Trail.

In totality, this trail spans 1.1 km and takes about 20 minutes to complete. As you continue your journey, you’ll eventually come across the boardwalk about halfway through the Pedestrian Waterfront Trail. If you want to extend your adventure, walk along the Knoll Trail boardwalk. It is only 0.3 km long but it’s worth the mini adventure.

Where: 660 Bexhill Rd – Mississauga, Ontario

Enjoy the great outdoors, Ontario!

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Karen Doradea

Karen Doradea

Senior Staff Writer, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.

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