Top 5 Winter Road Trip Destinations in Ontario
Now I know that when you think winter a road trip isn’t exactly the first thing to pop into your mind, but there are some great opportunities here! Winter road trips let you see your environment with an entirely different view! So open up your mind to the possibility that winter could be the perfect time to jump in your car/truck (Subaru…) and get on the road to one of these beautiful destinations!
1. ALGONQUIN PARK
With Algonquin Park the first thing that you have to ask your self is guided vs. self-guided.
When it comes to guided tours Algonquin has an array of winter activities, from dogsledding tours to culinary lessons the possibilities are endless! Also with the guided tours you are provided with logging and meals (bonus!). The guided rout of exploring Algonquin Park will have you experiencing winter “camping” at its finest.
On the contrary, on the self-guided rout you will experience one of Ontario’s famous provincial parks in all its glory, getting a front row seat of its unrivalled wildlife. Enjoy this destination while cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking! The winter campgrounds are equipped with RV hookups and fully equipped yurts (heaters, outdoor propane BBQ and fire pit, beds, dining table) with a heated comfort station (toilets, showers, drinking water).
Whatever rout you decide Algonquin Park will let you enjoy your winter instead of wishing it was over!
Road Trip Travel Time: from Newmarket: (221 kms) 2 hours 20 mins
2. COLLINGWOOD
Collingwood seems like an obvious contender for this list, with its multiple ski resorts and many other outdoor activities. But, I am not including it on this list for these obvious reasons, Collingwood has a lot more to offer than just ski resorts. Perhaps spend a day at the Scandinavian Spa at Blue Mountain or explore the Scenic Caves. Collingwoods community is practically runs on winter, it’s your turn to take advantage!
Road Trip Travel Time: from Newmarket: (108 kms) 1 hour 20 mins
3. HAMILTON
Now I know that Hamilton might seem like an odd choice for this list but hear me out, Hamilton is the Waterfall Capital of the WORLD (yes that’s right the world). How amazing is it that this magical place is just in our backyard!? Now I know what you are thinking: aren’t waterfalls frozen in the winter? Yes, they are but that’s the beauty in it! Frozen waterfalls are pretty damn cool so give Hamilton and its 100 waterfalls a chance this winter!
Road Trip Travel Time: from Newmarket: (119 kms) 1 hour 15 mins
4. ELORA
The name itself just sounds enticing, Elora. Called by some people “Ontario’s most beautiful Village”, Elora is another great winter road trip destination. Who wouldn’t want to go winter zip lining! Elora offers of trails, and beautiful scenery that will be the escape from the city that you are looking for. Elora is not just for daytime either! Their village is full of delicious restaurants and shops. I think its time we all escape to Elora.
Road Trip Travel Time: from Newmarket: (97 kms) 1 hour 25 mins
5. MUSKOKA
This list would not be completed without my beloved Muskoka. Now I have to admit that I am slightly bias as I have spent many summers in this glorious place, but like I said winter is a completely different story. Muskoka challenges its visitors to take back winter from scenic outdoor ice rinks (through a forest) as well as snowshoeing, sledding and cross-country skiing Muskoka has something for everyone! Like they say, once discovered, never forgotten.
Road Trip Travel Time: from Newmarket: (164 kms) 1 hour 48 mins
If this doesn’t convince you to start enjoying your winter I don’t know what will! Get out there and take back your winter!
Start up those engines and get on the road!