Family Day Sledding in Temiskaming Shores

It’s crazy to think that it’s been 14 years since Family Day was first observed in Ontario. To many people outside of Canada, the day doesn’t have much meaning at all and, to others, it’s just another day off work (or maybe it isn’t).

Regardless, for those of you who are fortunate to have an extended weekend in the middle of February, now is the time to take advantage of it and start planning for a bit of R&R and family time.

In Southern Ontario, it’s been another tough winter for us all. With unseasonably warm temperatures, lack of snow, and lots of germs floating around, many of us are ready for a change. As we all know Northeastern Ontario is not having the same problem this year with ample amounts of snow and perfect conditions. This year I’m itching for my sled and snow fix, and so I’ve decided to pack up and head north for a nice mini vacation.

Where am I headed? This time it’s to the Temiskaming Shores area of Northeastern Ontario. I’ve been keeping an eye on the weather, snowmobile trails, and activities, and the area looks like an awesome place to road trip to for the Feb 19-21 weekend. 

Located just over five hours from Toronto, the Temiskaming Shores region includes New Liskeard, Haileybury and Cobalt, and is located near Lake Temiskaming. Trails in the area are overseen by the Timiskaming Abitibi Trail Association (TATA OFSC District 14), which consists of nine volunteer snowmobile clubs that maintain trails in the area.

The region boasts hundreds of kilometers of groomed snowmobile trails, which makes this area a snowmobilers paradise. While researching the area, I came across Jeff McGirr’s article about the Gold Rush Tour, which includes a 710-km loop of trails A107C, Top C to A111C, to Top A and then back to the Temiskaming area on A108. With a looming snow storm on the way, this loop is expected to be in pristine condition for the coming Family Day weekend and is one I may explore.

So with the big weekend quickly approaching, I have already booked a few nights at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites New Liskeard. My boyfriend Casey is joining me for the trip, and we’re hoping to connect with a few other friends in the area. The truck is prepped, and my Ski-Doo Renegade X 850 is ready and waiting patiently to get some snow in its track. I couldn’t be more excited to get my dose of crisp, winter snow, combined with Northern Hospitality and adrenaline.

For more ideas on planning your snowmobile trip up north, click HERE.

And before you head out, please check to make sure that the trails are available, using the OFSC's Interactive Trail Guide. Happy riding! 

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