Experience Skiing and Snowshoeing in Marathon, Ontario This Winter

A North Shore Town Shaped by Winter Travel

Like many communities that dot the north shore of Lake Superior, winter has always been part of life in Marathon, Ontario. Long before groomed routes and modern equipment, residents broke trail through the snowy landscape on wooden skis and lace-up snowshoes, out of necessity. That spirit of winter travel and outdoor adventure lives on today through the Marathon Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Club, a volunteer-driven organization that has, over decades, quietly shaped how the community experiences winter.

The Marathon Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Club: Trails Built by Community

Founded in 1987 by passionate local skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, the non-profit club was created to ensure that residents had safe, accessible, and well-maintained trails to enjoy throughout the winter months. Over the years, it has grown into a hub for recreation, physical fitness, and social connection.  All built on a shared appreciation for the season many northerners love best.

The club’s trail system reflects the character of Marathon itself: welcoming, scenic, and grounded in the natural landscape. Whether you’re a family looking for an outdoor activity to enjoy together, a newcomer looking to change up your fitness routine, or an avid enthusiast from the region seeking new terrain, the Marathon Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Club is ready to welcome you. 

Cross-Country Skiing for All Ages and Skill Levels

Cross-country skiing is at the heart of Marathon’s winter trail system. The area’s rolling terrain, boreal forest setting, and reliable snowfall create ideal conditions for both classic and skate styles. When the weather allows, trails are groomed regularly by dedicated volunteers who take pride in providing a high-quality ski experience. It’s a labour of love that shows in the consistency and care of the trail system.

Whether you’re heading out for a quick fitness ski or a long, meditative glide through the woods, Marathon delivers a satisfying and scenic experience for all ages and skill levels.

From Jackrabbit to Olympic: Ski Trails for Every Ability

The “Jackrabbit Trail” is a 7.4 km system perfect for beginners and families. It includes loops that range from under 1 km to 2.9 km in length. For intermediate skiers who are looking for more climbs and descents, the 3 km Challenge Trail is a great choice. More experienced users will love the Olympic Trail, a 5 km black diamond-rated route that challenges the skills and fitness level of technical skiers.

Each trail has loops of varying lengths that make it easy to customize your outing, whether you have 30 minutes or 3 hours. Check out the club’s map to plan out your route. Busy all day and can’t get out until the evening? Areas of the Jackrabbit and Challenge Trails adjacent to the chalet are lit up for night skiing. For those who are brand new to the sport or want to hone their skills, the club even offers lessons. Equipment is available for rent, too. Especially helpful for children or beginners who are just trying the sport for the first time. 

Step Off the Beaten Path: Snowshoeing Through Marathon’s Boreal Forest

Snowshoeing offers a different, but equally rewarding way to experience Marathon’s winter trails. Ideal for all ages and fitness levels, snowshoeing requires minimal technical skill and provides immediate access to the outdoors. For many, it’s the perfect gateway activity into winter recreation.

The Marathon club maintains a total of four snowshoe routes that allow participants to explore the snow-draped boreal landscape at a slower, more contemplative pace. They range in length from the 2 km “Cascade” to the ½ km “Big S.” Snowshoers can pause to take in views, listen to the birds, or simply enjoy the physical satisfaction of moving through fresh snow.

Snowshoeing invites people to engage with winter on their own terms. There’s no rush, no pressure to perform, just the simple pleasure of being outdoors and moving your body in a way that feels natural and restorative.

Rentals and Passes Make Winter Recreation Accessible for Visitors and Families

As with skiing, equipment availability helps make taking up snowshoeing easier. Rental snowshoes are available for those who want to try the activity before committing to a purchase. This is especially appealing for families, visitors from nearby communities, or anyone looking to add variety to their winter routine.

Day passes and memberships are typically priced to be affordable, reflecting the club’s commitment to keeping winter recreation accessible for the whole community.  Members can use the trails anytime, day users must purchase passes either at the chalet during operating hours or online via their website. 

Need a new idea for a corporate team building outing or a celebration? The club offers group rates for trail use and equipment rentals. 

Visiting from out of town? Trail passes are half-price when staying at a local hotel.

Amenities, Events, and a Welcoming Winter Chalet

The Marathon Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Club boasts ample parking, clear trail signage, and a well-maintained network, allowing users to focus less on logistics and more on enjoying the snow-covered landscape.

Beyond the trails, the club chalet offers a place for users to purchase drinks, rent equipment, warm up, and socialize. The chalet is open seven days per week—5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on the weekends.

The club hosts special events throughout the winter season that are inclusive of both skiers and snowshoers, from open houses to distance challenges to a full moon glide/trek. These events are a great way to meet other winter enthusiasts, learn new skills, and stay motivated through the heart of winter. For locals, it’s an easy way to build a winter routine; for visitors, it’s a chance to experience Marathon’s community spirit firsthand. The emphasis is always on accessibility, affordability, and community, values that have kept the club thriving year after year.

Winter is Best Enjoyed in Marathon 

So, whether you’re rediscovering winter as a local or exploring Marathon for the first time, consider strapping on skis or snowshoes this season. The trails are ready, the snow is waiting, and winter in Marathon is best enjoyed one step or glide at a time.

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