Ontario Is A Winter Wonderland (If You’re Willing To Brave The Cold)
If you’re one of those Canadians who can bundle up and handle the coldest of weather, this post is for you. This is where your tolerance for cold will allow you to experience all the wonder of Ontario’s winter destinations. The destinations on this list are beyond beautiful.
Get your coat and toque and gloves and layers ready… these places to visit in Ontario in the winter are going to blow your mind.
How Cold Does Ontario Get In The Winter?
If you’re considering different places to visit in Ontario in the winter, you’re probably wondering: Ok, how cold does it actually get?
Depending on where you live in Ontario, you may get snow often. The temperature in most of the province is below 0 degrees Celsius both day and night. Further, temperatures can drop below -30 degrees Celsius. If you want to be ok in weather like this – especially exploring the outdoors – you’ll want to make sure you have the right clothing.
Layers help. A big fuzzy jacket and a toque are essential. Gloves are absolutely necessary, and you may want to pick boots a size bigger than normal to accommodate those thick socks you’ll need to keep your toes warm.
So, to answer the question… Ontario gets very cold in the winter. Be prepared!
The Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Ontario In Winter Time
1) Niagra Falls
The famous waterfalls are even more glorious in the winter. Not only does the water look different on a backdrop of snow, but the air feels like a whole, fresh new world. As far as winter in Ontario goes, Niagara is a must-see.
2) The Blue Mountains
Located in Grey County, southwestern Ontario, The Blue Mountains are a winter destination like no other. The scenery is so dramatic, you’ll remember it forever. Plus it’s quite close to Toronto, at only about 200 km away. Check out the village, ski the mountains, and enjoy this gorgeous resort, especially because its winter.
3) Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay is on Lake Superior, in northwestern Ontario. You can check out the Fort William Historical Park which recreates an 1816 fur trading post. Or you can walk the trail to the summit of Mount McKay. The spot of the Terry Fox Memorial, shown above, has especially beautiful views in the winter.
4) Rice Lake
Rice Lake is a beautiful recreational spot with boat docks, fishing spots, and really great shoreline eateries and shops. It has a special appeal in the winter, with beautiful vistas and a frozen surface that offers exceptional ice fishing.
5) Rideau Canal Skateway
The Rideau Canal Skateway is clean, soothing, and stunning in the winter. The views of the Ottawa skyline are pleasing, and the skating is casual and fun. Ottawa may be really cold in the winter, but places like this make that a good thing.
6) Muskoka Lake Cranberry Ice Trail
The Cranberry Ice Trail is a great way to get out in the winter. You can snowshoe and enjoy fondue, in addition to casually skating the trail. Everyone here is so friendly and helpful. It’s a beautiful spot with fascinating trails… and you can even warm up at the campfire at the end of the day.
7) Niagara Ice Wine Festival
The original ice wine festival, this sweet event happens the last two weekends in January. The event is called “Sparkle and Ice” and it happens in the ballrooms of the Old Courthouse. Enjoy premium wines and dancing until the end of the evening at this classy and exciting winter gala.
Related: These seven spontaneous day trips from Toronto will rejuvenate your love of travel.
