12 of the best outdoor skating trails in Ontario
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There’s something special about skating across the surface of a frozen lake or river as you immerse yourself in the peacefulness of nature.
And during the wintertime, this is one of the best ways to discover the beauty of Ontario.
This winter, skip the overcrowded city rinks and head to one of Ontario’s incredible outdoor skating trails.
And while some are a serious road trip from the city, we promise they are well worth the drive.
See also
- 10 of the best outdoor skating rinks in Toronto
- The 1.2 km outdoor skating trail in Ontario you have to visit this year (PHOTOS)
- The 1.3 km skating trail in Ontario you have to check out this winter
Discovery Harbour Skate Trail
Discovery Harbour/Facebook
This unique 1.5 km skate trail comes alive during the winter months. Visitors can not only expect live outdoor entertainment, but also weekly firework displays, ice sculptures, chainsaw demos, fire juggling and much more.
Status: Opens January 12 to March 11
Address: 93 Jury Dr, Penetanguishene, ON
Lac des Loups Skating Trail
Located 45 minutes north of Ottawa you’ll find this incredible skating trail in the heart of Lac des Loups. Come and enjoy 3-km of ice trails, a heated building on site to lace-up your skates, and rest areas along the trail where you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Status: Officially opening on December 15. Open from 9 am t 8 pm daily, weather permitting
Address: 9 Beausoleil Montée
Arrowhead Provincial Park
Located three hours north of downtown Toronto, this 1.3-kilometre trail in Huntsville is definitely worth the trip. The picturesque trails winds through thick Muskoka forest, creating the ultimate setting for a winter afternoon.
Status: Opening December 20 (weather permitting)
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Road, Huntsville
MacGregor Point Provincial Park
For those who find themselves in the Port Elgin area this winter, you’re going to want to pay MacGregor Point Provincial Park a visit. Just three hours northwest of Toronto, you’ll find this 400-metre trail that winds through the park’s picturesque snow-covered trees. Every evening until 10 pm overhead trail lights will be turned on so you can skate under the stars every day of the week.
Status: Opening in December
Address: 1593 Bruce Road 33
Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh Skating Trail
If you’re in the Muskoka region, you can also check out the Johnston’s Cranberry facility, which features a gorgeous 1.2-kilometre skating loop that cuts through 12 acres of cranberries. With forest on one side and cranberry beds on the other, this is truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Status: Opening December 27
Address: 1074 Cranberry Road, Bala
Hanna Park Skating Trail
Located in Port Carling, this skating trail is still fairly new, but following its successful year, owners are promising this year is going to be even bigger. With views of the Indian River, this skating trail is fun for the entire family. The trail is roughly 200 metres in length, and there is a packed walking trail right beside it, which is perfect for those who don’t want to skate but still want to be apart of the fun.
Status: Opening mid-winter
Address: End of Bailey Street, Port Carling
Rideau Canal Skateway
Under four hours from Toronto, you’ll find the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink that runs 7.8 kilometers long. Spend an afternoon skating down the canal as you take in the views of our nation’s capital. However, an afternoon of skating isn’t complete without enjoying a Beavertail, the iconic Canadian indulgence.
Status: Opens mid-winter
Address: Ottawa, ON
Chinguacousy Park
City of Brampton/Facebook
This sprawling outdoor trail features over 2000 sq. metres of ice and can accomodate up to 500 skaters at once! Designed in a unique canal shape, it features natural bends to allow skaters of all abilities to practice their skills. Seating is also available along the trail for those wanting to enjoy the ice from the sidelines.
Status: Mid-winter
Address: 9050 Bramalea Road
Richmond Green Skate Trail
Just under an hour north of the city, you can lace up and go for a twirl on Richmond Hill’s skating trail. The trail runs through 250-metres of natural space and the trail is lit up with lights for those interested in enjoying an evening skate.
Status: Opening in December
Address: 1300 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill
Island Lake
Island Lake/Credit Valley
Island Lake is a conservation area in Orangeville that is home to two great spots for ice skating. The first is a 1-km path of ice for those looking to skate on their own and also a frozen skating pond that’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a game of shinny.
Status: January 1 to March 19
Address: 673067 Hurontario Street South Orangeville
Trent Canal
Roughly two hours from Toronto, you’ll find a sprawling canal that turns into an impressive outdoor skating trail along the Trent-Severn Waterway in Peterborough in the winter. It’s perfect for those looking to play some puck or for a new place to enjoy an afternoon skate.
Status: Opening mid-winter (weather dependent)
Address: 220 Hunter Street East, Peterborough
Bracebridge Ice Skating Trail
Featuring an ice skating trail that wraps around Bracebridge’s Memorial Park and carves in and out of the city’s landmarks, this skating trail is the definitley worthy of a visit, especially at night when the trees are covered in twinkling lights creating a magical backdrop for Canada’s favourite pastime.
Status: Opening mid-winter
Address: Manitoba Street and Kimberly Avenue, Bracebridge