*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.
Not everyone wants to unwind in a spa or seeks soothing and relaxing bubble baths – some of us do the opposite and recharge by embracing speed and getting our adrenalin pumping. Burn energy this winter with a trip you won’t forget. For the experienced snowmobiler, Ontario’s Highlands makes a great spot to skim over the snow and feel the rush of excitement.
You can bring your own machine or rent from one of the many service centers and dealers throughout the region. There are trails that can take you from Arnprior to Pembroke, from Barry’s Bay through the Madawaska Highlands and back, and a more extensive trip that takes several days around Algonquin Park.
Most snowmobile treks last a day or two and take you through some of the region’s coolest towns where you can stay the night or stop for a snack and warm up before continuing on your quest to burn rubber.
But don’t take our word for it.
Click the links below to read first-person experiences, tips and recommendations for sledding in Ontario’s Highlands from some of the country’s most trusted snowmobilers, and snowmobiling media.
*This year looks a little different thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, and before setting out we need to take some extra time to make sure the businesses we will rely on will be open to serve us. Check the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Club’s interactive trail map to see what’s open before setting out on the trail.
How to Ride the Bon Echo Loop
Areas Covered: Bon Echo Loop
Craig Nicholson, The Intrepid Snowmobiler, has experienced more than a fair share of snowmobiling in his lifetime; so to have him refer to this loop as “a gem of a ride” shows its potential for surprising visitors. Nicholson embarks on an escape through the area’s well-established trails in this story, finding it just enough off the beaten path, while still maintaining access to necessary amenities. “It’s especially handy for trailering riders reside along the 401-corridor,” he writes.
Get the Scoop on Riding Your Haliburton Snowmobiling Tour
Areas Covered: Haliburton, Algonquin Provincial Park
Before heading out to Haliburton, The Intrepid Snowmobiler heard that the region’s trails were nothing short of “top notch”. Not only did the region live up to its reputation for having incredibly groomed and well-maintained trails, the options for great staging locations (like the Pinestore Resort) made it an unforgettable trip.
Trail Riding in Ontario’s Highlands
Areas Covered: Haliburton, Pembroke
Riding the trails in Ontario’s Highlands is full of opportunities to make fresh tracks, and the team at SnowTrax Television definitely took notice, comparing it to opening a new jar of peanut butter and being the first one to place a spoon inside and stir it around. For these riders, who call snowmobiling a “lifestyle”, the trails of Haliburton and Pembroke regions provided the ultimate experience, mixing snow-covered rail beds with clear signage and tons of “ups and downs” that explain why “the Highlands” are called exactly that.
View their trip below:
Need more information on snowmobiling in Ontario’s Highlands?
Visit the Snow Country (OFSC District 6) website for details on where to buy your permit, trail conditions, weather conditions, accommodations, and meal stops.