There's a winter wonderland in Ontario with a 1km magical light trail (PHOTOS)

Yonge Street and Dundas may be lightly covered in snow, but sometimes all it takes is spending a few days outside the city to immerse yourself in a true winter wonderland.

Hop in your car, set Blue Mountain Resort as the destination on maps, and in two hours’ time, you’ll arrive at this winter haven. It’s Ontario’s four-season mountain village resort, and it’s home to a mesmerizing trail that takes the term “winter wonderland” to a whole new level.

When darkness falls on winter evenings, Blue Mountain Village comes alive in all its glory. Perhaps the most awe-inspiring attraction is the Blumination Dream Trail. Once you pick up a map at the Visitor’s Information Centre, you can immediately start exploring the majestic light shows and interactive exhibits along the one-kilometre winter stroll.

Witness the glistening lights dance to the rhythm of vibrant music that fills the village every hour between dusk and 9 pm, and take plenty of Instagram–perfect snaps and videos along the way. 

This fascinating trail is open through March 28, 2020, and it’s free daily from sunset to 10 pm. Can you think of anything better?

It all culminates in an epic fireworks display, happening over Mill Pond on Saturdays at 8 pm throughout December. Add some splendour to your evening and gaze upwards as bright colours illuminate the sky — before or after you walk the Blumination Dream Trail.

Need more reasons to plan a holiday getaway to Blue Mountain? We’ve got you covered.

Spend a day on the slopes

Whether you’re new to skiing or a seasoned pro, you’ll find amazing conditions and a variety of trails at Blue Mountain Resort. Since the resort is nestled on the shores of Southern Georgian Bay and spans across the beautiful Niagara Escarpment, you can take in stunning views as you feel the adrenaline rush of your first ski run of the season. 

There are 364 acres of skiable terrain and 42 trails on the mountain, giving you plenty of options to suit all levels. Pro tip: be sure to try the resort’s longest trail, Gord’s Groove, for a 1.6-kilometre ride. 

Explore the village  

Every winter wonderland needs a bustling village at the base of the slopes, and Blue Mountain Village has the kind you could never tire of exploring. More than 50 retail shops, restaurants, and bars fill the pedestrian village, making it easy to do après drinks in one spot and dinner in another. 

Camino Taco and Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill are among our favourites for evening dining. Make your way to Magnone’s Winter Igloo patio on Friday and Saturday nights to sip on a mug of hot cocoa or mulled wine while you take in views of the Blumination Dream Trail.

Try a winter activity

There’s a reason (or 10) why so many Torontonians visit Blue Mountain Resort during winter. It’s got the perfect mix of activities for the more outdoorsy folk, as well as options for those who prefer to soak up some R&R. We’re talking about touring the terrain on the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, heading out on an adventure-fulfilling snowshoe trail, and snow tubing down the mountain as you unleash your inner child. 

Looking for something a little more low-key? Float onto a cloud of relaxation with a massage at Iwa Spa or renew your energy with some Gan Ban Yoga. Enjoy a romantic getaway with your favourite person at the Scandinave Spa located near the resort where you can alternate between hot and cold outdoor pools and soothe your muscles in the sauna.

Rest overnight and repeat 

There’s no need to rush back to Toronto after a heavenly day spent at Blue Mountain Resort. Book your stay at The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain and take advantage of a day on the slopes with the hotel’s Ski and Stay Package. 

One last holiday surprise: you could win an exclusive stay at this Blue Mountain hotel simply by entering the contest below! 

Contest

To enter for your chance to win a two-night stay in a Deluxe Guest Room and breakfast for two ($500 value) at The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain, do the following: 

• Follow The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain on Instagram – @westinbluemtn and leave a comment on the following IG post tagging a friend, alongside the hashtag #dhcontest. (1 entry)

 

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Contest entries will be accepted from the time and date of publishing until 11:59 pm on December 19, 2019. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted through the platform they used to enter.

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Get ready for the most wonderful break of the year at Ontario’s authentic winter wonderland. For more information as you plan your trip, visit the hotel’s website today.