Winter in North Bay is an exciting, busy time—as the snow falls, the fun begins! Whether you enjoy feeling the wind on your face skiing downhill or the quiet of the forest as you glide along cross-country, this Northeastern Ontario town has a winter trail for you. (North Bay trails aren’t too bad in other seasons, either.)
Do you love the exhilaration of flying down the slopes or a slow, easy glide down the hill in fresh snow? Laurentian Ski Hill can offer all of that and a little more. This ski hill has something for every ski level, with rentals and beginner courses available. After a great day of skiing or snowboarding, stop in for a bite to eat and a relaxing drink at the licensed café in the Lower Lodge—or head into town for some of North Bay’s famous fare.
Laurentian Escarpment is a series of trails over 132 acres of land. Snowshoeing, hiking, or trendy fat tire biking can be done on these trails. The trails wind through the woods up a bluff and lead you to a beautiful view of North Bay and Lake Nipissing—what a fantastic way to spend a snowy afternoon!
The Nordic Ski Club maintains and offers trails for both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (they recently added two of these). Pick your route: a short course or an 11-mile (17.7-kilometer) groomed ski trail. The gold and yellow tracks are also lit for night skiing. If you love a challenge, the club also schedules races open to any age group.
The Wasi Cross Country Ski Club is a hidden gem that offers 26 miles (41.8 kilometers) of cross country ski trails and 5 miles (8 kilometers) of snowshoeing trails. A mix of hardwood and coniferous trees, these paths make for a trip through the forest. Markings and maps at different intersections of the course will keep you on track.
Like to ski at night? Nothing is more beautiful than the night sky in the north, and Wasi Cross Country Ski Club trails are open after dusk! However, they’re not lit, so be sure to bring a flashlight and a hot beverage. They also have an all-ages event called Moonlight Ski & Snowshoe, where you can go for a night ski or snowshoe in the moonlight. This evening event is guaranteed to be a fun time with family and friends!
Afterwards, come back to a bonfire for bannock (fried dough bread) and toasted marshmallows. Or head out on the town in North Bay.
All you need to enjoy this beautiful terrain is a pair of good winter hiking boots and a warm drink to go. The Pines Trail on Powassan Mountain will give you a relaxing hike through snow-sparkling rolling hills with beautiful views. The mountain top provides you with a spectacular scene of the surrounding highlands. These trails can also be used for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking—the choice is yours.
Want something a little different? Explore the beauty of Algonquin Park’s western border driving your own dog sled! Sugardogs Adventure Company is just south of North Bay and is great for all ages. Interact with big, beautiful dogs as they pull you through the snow on a half-day trail ride or an hour-long introductory course. If you have so much fun that you want more time, ask about a full-day tour. They even offer dog sled rides for those with mobility issues, limited abilities, or families with small children. When you’re off the trail, enjoy a hot chocolate in the warmth of a wall tent.
Northeastern Ontario is also the perfect place for snowmobile enthusiasts. It has over 2,000 miles (3,200 kilometers) of trails, and North Bay is right in the middle of it all. It’s the hub of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, and you will need a permit to travel the trails.
North Bay Snowmobile Club is an invaluable resource and grooms 120 miles (193 kilometers) of trails through woods and frozen lakes around North Bay. With accommodations and restaurants along the way, you can snowmobile for days! Power Sports and Marine is an excellent resource for your snowmobile needs as well.
Traveling even further north but still want to get in on the motorized fun? Why not take a snowmobile tour of Timmins?
Winter days in North Bay are best spent on the trails, but there’s plenty to do at night too. For more inspiration for your next trip up north, read our Northeastern Ontario Travel Guide.
