Hit the (snow) Trails in Ontario's Highlands

Here in Canada a little snow on the ground isn't going to stop us from getting out into the wild and celebrating the hushed quiet of winter with its unforgettable moments. This is when we head for the trails and make tracks on snowshoes or cross country skis, thrilling in the frosty solitude and the faint footprints of wild things in the woods.

In Ontario's Highlands, all you need to explore our expansive network of winter trails are some snowshoes or cross country skis. Bring your own, or stop by one of our outfitters to get set up for your excursion and embrace the beauty of the season. The winter forest is full of wildlife, so don't be surprised if you run into birds, rabbits, and deer as you wander.

When the air turns frosty, check out these seven snow country trail adventures that will get your heart pumping:

1. Tap in to your “True North” pride while exploring the breathtaking Haliburton Highlands during a guided Ski Like a Canadian adventure with Yours Outdoors, or opt for a self-guided trip along Algonquin Highlands' ski and snowshoe trails.
2. Head to the Perth Wildlife Reserve in Lanark County to explore a 2.5-kilometre snowshoe loop through a snowy forest trail. If you want access to a more extensive snowshoe and cross country skiing loops at Murphys Point Provincial Park. 
3. Find peace and quiet (and maybe even a moose or deer) while exploring the snow-covered trails of the eco-friendly Pinecone Forest, or the beautifully rugged terrain at Silent Lake Provincial Park before tucking into the cozy Pinecone Chalet or a winter yurt at the park to spend the night.
4. Take the covered surface lift all the way to the top at Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride to snowshoe along a beautiful three-kilometer trail and be amazed by panoramic views of Eagle Lake and Moose Lake.
5. Go for a winter hike or snowshoe on the Manitou Trail that surrounds the ski mountain at Calabogie Peaks Ski Resort and have your breath taken away by the beauty of Eagle's Nest Lookout, or immerse yourself in a picturesque winter forest as you cross country ski along Madawaska Nordic Trails.
6. Visit Kennebec Wilderness Trails to explore seven kilometres of trails as they wind through a scenic mixed forest. If you don't own a pair of snowshoes, no problem. Springwood Cottages is right next door to the trailhead and they rent snowshoes at reasonable rates throughout the winter months.
7. Embrace the beauty of winter with all its tranquility during a hike or snowshoe along the Rideau Trail, a ski on Opeongo Hills Nordic  Ski Club's trails, or find a winter trail perfect for you by visiting the Ontario Trails Council and Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance websites.