Whether your idea of having a blast on a winter’s day involves the exhilaration of a downhill ski run or just kicking back in an outdoor hot tub, Northeastern Ontario has no shortage of cool winter fun activities.
Located just minutes from downtown Timmins, Porcupine Ski Runners is one of the largest cross-country ski clubs in Canada. With a new chalet, roughly 30 kilometres of groomed trails, and the chance to experience the great outdoors with lynx, moose, and a snowy owl, Porcupine Ski Runners offers a winter paradise for you to explore. There’s also a fully signed snowshoe trail system suitable for everyone from beginner to expert. No equipment? No worries! Ski and snowshoe rentals are available.
If the thrill of downhill skiing or snowboarding makes your heart beat a little faster, head to Antoine Mountain in Mattawa. Picture yourself in a new Doppelmayr quad chairlift as you climb 630 vertical feet up to a peak that reveals amazing views of the Ottawa River and surrounding mountains. Antoine Mountain also offers top notch ski and snowboard lessons. And the après-ski experience? There’s nothing like it after a brilliant day of blue skies, fresh air, and BIG snow at Antoine Mountain.Â
Location, location, location! Laurentian Ski Hill offers outdoor enthusiasts a family-friendly winter playground just minutes from downtown North Bay. Ski and Stay packages at local hotels, as well as private and group ski and snowboard lessons are just some of what make Laurentian Ski Hill North Bay’s favourite alpine destination.
Bring your friends, bring your family, bring the whole gang to Fish Bay Marina where ice fishing has never been more enjoyable. Spend your entire stay fishing from the warmth and comfort of Fish Bay Marina’s bungalows, complete with TVs and DVD players. They have bungalows to accommodate four, six, and eight anglers—and day huts too!
One of the truly rewarding experiences in life is to go stargazing on a crisp and clear winter’s night. The Canadian Ecology Centre (CEC) in Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park can make it happen with its Ski and Stars winter packages. Enjoy a two-night stay in a cozy cabin, take a guided snowshoe tour on trails along the historic Mattawa River; enjoy two days of downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, or tubing; and the main attraction—an evening session under the stars at the CEC observatory.
Experience the wilderness at Pine Grove Resort Cottages in Port Loring. Their private network of trails over 225 acres is for Pine Grove guests only who want to cross country ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile. Ask about Pine Grove’s dogsledding adventures for a real thrill! There are public trails for snowmobiling too with easy access to the Trans-Provincial Trail System.
If you’re looking for a new winter activity, give kicksledding a try at Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge in Mattawa. This traditional Scandinavian sport is a fun way of getting around on snow or ice that’s ecologically sound and suitable for all ages. But if it’s a real adrenaline rush that you’re after, slide down the tube toboggan run!
Book your guided snowmobile tour with Reality Tours and you’ll be riding with some of the best guides in Ontario. All you need to bring is your own warm clothing and a hankering for an unforgettable winter adventure. Reality Tours will take care of the rest—planning your trip, your stay in a log cabin, and your memories of exploring Wawa, Chapleau, and Timmins that will last you a lifetime. Packages include use of a snowmobile, trail pass, guide, fuel, oil, riding gear from head to toe, accommodations, food, and transportation.
