Snowshoeing in Algoma Country

In Algoma Country, there is so much to do and see especially during the winter season. I knew this winter I wanted to try many outdoor adventures, starting with snowshoeing. What better way to start the season than to purchase my first pair of snowshoes and get on the trails?

My cousin and I went to the Crimson Ridge Ski Trails. In the summer, Crimson Ridge is a golf course, and in the winter, it transforms into a winter playground for ice skating, snowshoeing, and fat biking.

It was a beautiful day, the winter sun was beaming down on us as we strapped our snowshoes on and off we went. (I have to mention that it was my first time snowshoeing and it definitely won't be my last!) There are five different trails that you can take at Crimson Ridge. All the trails were groomed and ranged from easy to moderate to difficult. Of course, we thought we could start off with the most difficult one. With that being said, it definitely was a challenge but a great workout! What I liked about Crimson Ridge was the fact that we didn't worry about getting lost because the trail network is well signed to keep us on their trails.

As our snowshoeing journey began, we couldn't help reflecting on how amazing it is to live in Northern Ontario. When I was younger, I used to think there was not much to do during those long four months of winter. I mainly was in hibernation mode because I thought it was too cold to do anything. This has changed over the years. As I've gotten older, outdoor adventures have become something my friends and I can do after work and on weekends together. Sometimes it might seem too cold to be out but we know how to dress warmly for the winter weather -- we are from the "great white north".

Going out and snowshoeing also made me realize how much I love Algoma Country and living in Northern Ontario. I have lived in Southern Ontario, which I truly enjoyed, but there's something about the North that you tend to go back to. Being able to go outside, and breathe in that crisp, fresh air really makes me appreciate and want to discover what we really have in our area during the winter months.

As we were exploring the wintery outdoors, the scenic views around us were very captivating. At one point of snowshoeing, we stopped at Hole 11, and we caught a glimpse of the city, Sault Ste. Marie and the views were absolutely breathtaking. There is lots of room on the trails so that everyone can enjoy winter activities at the same time.

Snowshoeing is something you can do by yourself or with family and friends. It's a great way to get everyone together and enjoy an outdoor experience. Although winter can sometimes feel like a long season there are many winter activities that you can enjoy doing here -- snowshoeing is just one of them.

It really was a fun day for my cousin and me. I now understand why snowshoeing is such a huge hit. Although it has been around for centuries, I can see why it has grown to be very popular. It's very easy to learn and is also affordable.

Sault Ste. Marie has a variety of different places where you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, downhill ski and snowboard, or fat bike. These businesses and trail networks often provide instructors to help you if you're a beginner, or if you want lessons to improve your skillset.

Please be respectful and mindful of others sharing the trails.

Groomed Trail Options

If you're from Sault Ste. Marie, planning a winter getaway, or in the city on business, here's a list of groomed trails and ski slopes not far from the city. Fees may apply. Rentals may be available - contact the trail system to inquire.

• Hiawatha Highlands - www.hiawathahighlands.com
• Stokely Creek Lodge - www.stokelycreek.com
• Crimson Ridge - www.crimsonridge.com/winter
• Sault Golf Club - www.saultgolfclub.ca

Ungroomed Trail Options in Sault Ste. Marie

• Whitefish Island (accessed from the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site)
• Bellevue Park
• John Roswell Hub Trail
• Fort Creek Conservation Area

Where to Stay in Sault Ste. Marie

Find hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, and cottages in the city at www.algomacountry.com

Shop for Snowshoes Locally

Great Lakes Outfitters
162 Old Garden River Road, Sault Ste. Marie
PH: (705) 253-2361
Web: www.greatlakesoutfitters.ca

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