If you love winter, snow, and outdoor adventures, Ontario has some of the best spots in Canada to explore. With a mix of terrain, thousands of kilometres of OFSC groomed trails, and welcoming communities, it’s a snowmobiler’s dream. (Not to mention skiers, snowboarders, fat bikers, ice anglers, and all-season ATVers.) The province’s snowiest areas bring you the true experience of Canadian winter—cold, exhilarating, and full of adventure you’ll never forget.
Here’s everything you need to know about snow—and where to find it—in Ontario’s north.
Ontario’s snow cover has seen significant changes over recent years, driven by broader climate shifts. Research indicates that the province has experienced reduced snow cover and shorter snow seasons, particularly in southern regions where warming trends are most pronounced.
These changes are influenced by rising temperatures, which have led to a shift in winter precipitation patterns—increased rainfall has replaced snow in some areas, while snowstorms have become more intense in others.
In Northern Ontario, however, consistent snowfall remains a defining feature. The proximity to the Great Lakes in some regions contributes to lake-effect snow, creating opportunities for substantial accumulation even as snow seasons grow shorter elsewhere. Which means outdoor adventure awaits all who make the journey up here, just a few hours north of the GTA. Understanding these shifts underscores the importance of celebrating and preserving Ontario’s snowy destinations.
With that said, here are the top places in Ontario that get the most snow.
Ontario boasts regions where snowfall is both a feature and a lifestyle.
5. In fifth place for snowiest spot we've got Kapuskasing, in the Northeastern Ontario region. With an annual average of 307.6 cm (121.1 inches) of snow, Kapuskasing and neighbouring Hearst are hubs for snowmobile enthusiasts. The town's trails connect to loops like the Northern Corridor Adventure, Lumberjack Loop and Missinaibi Expedition Tour that take riders onto some of the best trails in the province.
4. Next up is Timmins, with 311.3 cm (122.5 inches) of snow annually. Located in Northeastern Ontario, Timmins is a snowmobiling paradise. The Gold Rush Tour, a celebrated OFSC loop, takes riders through a mix of challenging terrain and scenic vistas, combining history with thrilling outdoor fun.
3. The picturesque town of Wawa sees 319.4 cm (125.7 inches) of snow annually in the Algoma Country region.
2. For those who prefer urban charm mixed with winter excitement, Sault Ste. Marie boasts 320.7 cm (126.3 inches) of snow. Also in the Algoma Country region, the Soo is a gateway to vast networks of snowmobile trails, including the Trans-Ontario Provincial (TOP) routes.
1. At the top of the snowfall charts is Owen Sound, in the Grey Bruce tourism region, which receives 330.4 cm (130.1 inches) of snow annually. Known for its incredible snowmobile loops, Owen Sound provides access to trails like the Bruce Peninsula Corridor, where riders can experience everything from scenic farmland to dense forested paths.
North Bay (299.6 cm / 118 inches) and Chapleau (281.5 cm / 110.8 inches) offer serene escapes in the Northeastern and Algoma Country regions. These areas cater to snowmobilers with well-groomed OFSC trails connecting smaller communities and offering services like warm lodges and fuel stops.
The city of Sudbury, receiving 263.4 cm (103.7 inches) of snow annually, is a top destination in the Northeastern region. Sudbury’s local trails include the Cartier Loop, the Chiniguchi Loop and the Moose Loop.
Decent snowfall tends to reach southern parts of the province in French River and Huntsville, where snowfall averages 231.9 cm and 282.7 cm respectively. French River connects riders to tranquil trails with scenic views of frozen waterways, while Huntsville’s Muskoka trails are a gateway to some of Ontario’s most luxurious winter accommodations.
Ontario’s tourism regions—Northeastern Ontario, Algoma Country, and Grey Bruce among them—make it easy to plan a winter escape. From expansive OFSC trails to cozy community festivals, there’s something for every snow lover. Visit Northern Ontario Travel for trip planning resources and detailed trail maps.
Embrace the beauty of Ontario’s snowiest destinations this winter and discover why our province is a dream for those who love the frost and flurries.
