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Winter To Do Guide in the Northern Forest

We're in for a classic Canadian winter—here's how you can make the most of it.

Windy Lake Provincial Park; Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park • Credit: Northeastern Ontario Tourism


There really is something special about a classic Canadian winter in a Northeastern Ontario forest. Sure, the weather is cooler, but an entirely new world comes alive with its own unique sights and sounds. From the muffled soundscape after a heavy snowfall to the sharp crunch of snow on a particularly chilly day, it's a beautiful and peaceful new world. 

As you move through the forest, keep your eyes on the ground for tracks in the snow, because you never know who you'll meet. Moose, deer, lynx, foxes, squirrels, snowshoe hares, weasels, and more all call our forests home, and it's not uncommon for them to cross your path. 

The thrill of a fat winter fish striking your line, or cooking your meal on the ice; witnessing the clearest night sky you've ever imagined or breathing in the freshest, crispest air. Working up a sweat on a cold day, or taking the chill off in front of the fire at the end of it all. These are the wonderful experiences waiting for you. So bundle up—winter doesn't mean an end to your travel plans. It's the beginning of a bright new season of things to do in the Great Outdoors—one of the things Northeastern Ontario does best. 

Cross-Country Ski & Snowshoe Trails

North Bay Nordic - North Bay - (705) 495-0332
Porcupine Ski Runners - South Porcupine - (705) 360-1444
Temiskaming Nordic - Temiskaming Shores - (705) 679-5106
Kivi Park - Greater Sudbury 

Downhill Ski Hills 

Antoine Mountain - Mattawa - (705) 744-4754
Adanac Ski Hill - Greater Sudbury - (705) 688-3968 
Laurentian Ski Hill - North Bay - (705) 494-7463
Mount Jamieson - Timmins - (705) 268-9057

Horseback riding

Von Doeler's Ranch - Mattawa - (705) 477-6655

Ice Fishing 

We've created a full resource list for those of you who have always thought about giving ice fishing a try. Check it out here

Outdoor Events & Winter Festivals

Winter's not a reason to hibernate, but it is the perfect reason to celebrate! From art installations on Lake Nipissing to Kirkland Lake's two-week Winter Carnival, give something new a try "up north." 

  • Ice Follies - North Bay
  • Stars & Songs - Mattawa
  • Pond Hockey Festival on the Rock - Greater Sudbury
  • Cochrane Winter Carnival - Cochrane
  • Kirkland Lake Winter Carnival - Kirkland Lake
  • Friends of Killarney Park Winter Weekend - Killarney

Snowmobiler Resources

Our region is home to 11 OFSC-promoted Snow Tours and we're prepared to shout it from the rooftops! Many winter lodges and resort operators are located directly off of the groomed trail, so finding a place to stay and call home for the night is never a challenge.

Winter Camping

For outdoor enthusiasts, yurt or teepee "camping" might just be the new winter experience you've been searching for. The curious can read more about winter camping in Killarney Provincial Park, or visit each provider below.  

Killarney Provincial Park - Killarney -  (705) 287-2900
Windy Lake Provincial Park - Greater Sudbury - (705) 966-2315

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