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Ontario is a Canadian province encompassed by brisk winters, crisp waters and dense forestation—the perfect set up for a holiday full of outdoor, adrenaline packed adventures.
Widely known for its maple leaf, majestic winter snowfalls and Niagara Falls, Ontario is the perfect travel destination for those looking to pack their getaway with adventure and outdoor excursions. In this blog, we uncover some of the best activities to do during the year that’ll give you a real glimpse of this diverse and captivating province.
Spring
From mountains to coastlines, spring in Canada lends itself to great walking trails that start at just 1km and stretch as far as 800km. Offering everything from urban walks to coast strolls, explore Ontario’s nature reserves, head to the coast for some sea air, or explore the surrounding towns that sit in the UNESCO world biosphere reserve.
Bon Echo Provincial Park
Sitting in the east of the province, this park is the perfect spot for photographers and walkers, thanks to the imposing Mazinaw Rock that lies at the edge of Mazinaw Lake. Popular trails in the area last about 17km and are perfect for experienced hikers who are used to uneven and rough terrain. A walk in Bon Echo will offer more than just a great day out. Expect stunning panoramic views, an abundance of wildlife and glistening, calm waters below.
Awenda Provincial Park
Unlike any other walks in the area, Awenda covers nearly 2,900 hectares of forest land that lies at the shores of Georgian Bay and Penetanguishene Peninsula. A top choice for inexperienced walkers, trails stretch over 31km of flat and easily-walkable terrain.
Bruce Peninsula National Park
A collection of dramatic cliffs, clear waters lapping against the rocks of the Georgian Bay and large, green forests makes Bruce Peninsular National Park a hub of activity for walking enthusiasts. Age-old trees, diverse wetlands and rocky refuges can all be expected along its 885km trail that meanders along the Niagara Escarpment from the edge of Queenstown all the way to Bruce Peninsular.
Summer
Canoeing and kayaking are some of the best ways to see Ontario in the summer—and with more than 200 lakes and thousands of kilometres of coastline to choose from, there’s no better way to explore the beauty of the surrounding landscapes than by paddling.
Charleston Lake Provincial Park
Sitting two hours outside of Ottawa, Charleston Lake Provincial Park is one of Canada’s best-loved lakes and the perfect spot for a day—or weekend—of fun-filled canoeing or kayaking. Part of the 1000 islands and home to 10 interior campsites only accessible by boat, there is an abundance of natural habitats, roaming wildlife and Canadian nature to explore.
Take to the water for as little as 10 minutes to as long as two hours and finish off the day on a private campsite with views of the glistening waters that surround you. All camping spots come complete with a raised tent platform and fire grill, making it the perfect spot for a night under the stars.
Algonquin Provincial Park
A duo that goes hand in hand, Algonquin Provincial Park and canoeing are a pair that fit perfectly together. Known to locals as the perfect spot for canoeing enthusiasts there are more than 1,200 miles to explore and 30 access points around its vast perimeter. Surrounded by a wall of greenery there is a selection of camping spots and rangers cabins, perfect for resting your head after a busy day exploring the deep waters of Algonquin Provincial Park.
Temagami
Temagami, also known as the gateway to Ontario’s wilderness region and a lake with a thousand branches that spans nearly 50km, sprawling out in the form of irregularly shaped arms to the north, south and east. A canoeing lover’s dream destination and a landscape encapsulated by towering pine trees and deep blue water that laps on the surrounding shores. When visiting Temagami you should allow a couple of days to really explore the surroundings. Camping spots also fill up fast so speed is of the essence.
Autumn
CN Tower
Named one of Toronto’s most extreme attractions and not one for the faint-hearted, EdgeWalk—a walk over the edge of the CN Tower—awaits anyone who wishes to take to the skies. Scale a 5m side ledge nearly 116 storeys high on one of Toronto’s most iconic buildings. The CN Tower website describes it as “a signature experience”. The mild autumn temperatures make this the perfect time to head up into the skies.
The Thunderbird Twin Zip Line
A one-mile speed adventure awaits you at the Thunderbird Twin Zip Line. Sitting at the top of the Niagara Escarpment is the starting point of the 2,550ft zip line that glides over lush valleys, calm waters and the Georgian Bay nearly 287ft in the air. It is one of Ontario’s longest and most loved activities.
Take to The Skies
What better way to see the stunning landscape of Ontario than from the air? Take to the skies in a fast-paced helicopter ride over some of the country’s best-known views. Strap in for a journey over the Niagara Falls and experience the mighty landmark from a whole new perspective. This fun-filled activity is included in many of Canadian Affair’s Ontario holiday packages and Toronto holidays.
Winter
Winter brings vast snowfall in the northern lands of Ontario and with it a plethora of snow-based sports and adventures. If you want to experience Canada in the best way possible, then a knuckle-biting adventure into the snowy depths is a must.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Blue Mountain, Horseshoe Resort and Mount St. Louis Moonstone are just some of the popular skiing and snowboarding resorts that reside in Ontario. Test your tricks on half-pipes, downhill challenges and snow tubing as you venture down the slopes of Canada’s terrains. For the speed-demons of the group, alpine runs are in abundance within the parks and are the perfect place to pick up some real speed.
Dogsledding
A popular excursion in areas of colder climates, dogsledding is the perfect way to explore the leafy forests that populate Canada. Jump on-board a Siberian husky sled and explore more than 300km of unspoilt parkland in a day of adrenaline-filled adventures.
Canada is a jam-packed, adventure playground waiting for you to start exploring. If you’re looking for a holiday that packs a punch, offering more than just beautiful sites and great memories, then Ontario is the perfect location for you.
Whatever time of the year you decide to visit Canada, you’re sure to find an activity that’s perfect for the season. And if you’re thinking of booking a trip for this summer, don’t miss these great spots.
