Winter on Ontario’s Blue Coast means one thing: outdoor adventure. Freshly powdered snow provides a whole new set of ways to play in Lambton County, from timeless Canadian classics like pond hockey and tobogganing to snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Here are 6 of our favourite ways to enjoy all the coast has to offer this season:
Tobogganing
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There’s nothing like zipping down a hill at top speeds with the crisp winter air in your lungs to make you feel like a kid again. Sarnia’s Centennial Park is a popular tubing spot, while the toboggan hill at Pinery Provincial Park is lit nightly until 10:00 pm (weather permitting), offering all-day family fun.
Cross Country Skiing
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Snow days are the perfect opportunity to enjoy the silent beauty of the Pinery Provincial Park. With over 35 km of cross country ski trails, enjoy scenic views of freshly-covered coastal dunes and lookouts onto the glistening Old Ausable Channel. On-site facilities include warming huts with snacks and rentals are available for those traveling light. Be sure to check conditions using the Ontario Parks Ski Report before hitting the trails.
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Snowshoeing
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One of the oldest methods of transportation, snowshoeing is a great way to burn off some of those extra holiday calories. Explore 5 km of snowshoe trails at Pinery Provincial Park with a chance to catch glimpses of local wildlife including deer, rabbit, and weasel tracks. Snowshoe rentals are also available through Lambton County’s snowshoe lending program, giving nature lovers the chance to take in the sights and sounds of winter at Canatara Park or one of the many parks and trails on the coast. For information about the snowshoe lending program, call 519-344-2062 ext. 2119, toll free 1-800-387-2882 or contact [email protected].
Snowmobiling
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If you love snowmobiling, Ontario’s Blue Coast rolls out the white carpet for you. Over 150 km of trails connect Watford to Forest all the way to Arkona, giving riders a chance to enjoy picturesque views, scenic lookouts, and nearby restaurants all while taking in the natural rugged beauty of Lambton County’s backcountry. Be sure to check the latest trail conditions before heading out.
Ice Skating and Hockey
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Winter transforms Ontario’s Blue Coast into a frozen wonderland. Skating Canatara Park‘s inland Lake Chipican has been a tradition for centuries. The City of Sarnia reminds the public that skating on Lake Chipican is at your own risk. Further north, the skating rink at Oakwood Resort is open to the public for the season, giving families the opportunity to skate beneath the stars or enjoy a game of pick-up hockey.
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Winter Camping
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Think winter camping is too intense? It’s not as extreme as you might think! What makes winter an ideal season to go camping? Crowds are long gone, the forest is undisturbed and peaceful, and the winter air is crisp and rejuvenating. Those looking to give it a try without sacrificing on too many home comforts can try one of the Pinery’s 12 heated yurts, complete with lighting, barbecues, and stoves.
Looking for more adventure this season? Be sure to sign up for our special offers to stay in the loop!