7 Ontario parks near Toronto where winter adventures await

Though the first day of winter is just a few days away, would it be wrong to say it already feels like we’re in the middle of it? It’s cold out here in Ontario, but being the true Canadians that we are, we won’t let that stop us from enjoying the great outdoors. In preparation for the coldest time of the year, we’ve put together a list of Ontario parks that you can explore over the next few months that are just a drive away from Toronto. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful winter hike or some fun in the snow with cross-country skiing, the adventures are there for you to enjoy.

Here are seven Ontario parks near Toronto where winter adventures await:

According to Ontario Parks, Maiden’s Blush Trail, Trillium Trail, and Gateway Trail offer easy, picturesque strolls, some of which are wheelchair and stroller-friendly.

But if I were you, I’d take a short trip along the Trillium Trail loop. It’s located behind the barns of Spruce Lane Farm and is one of the best places in the park to catch a breathtaking view of the valley floor.

The park also offers cross-country skiing with about 10 km of ungroomed trails that loop through the land, as well as snowshoeing and tobogganing.

Talk about an adventure!

Where: 1219 Burloak Dr., Oakville, Ont.

Winter is a must at Darlington, which is open year-round for some snowy fun.

Pack your snowshoes and/or cross-country skis and this the trails.

Ontario Parks recommends the Burk Trail, which leads past fields, meadows and mature forest past a pioneer cemetery to a scenic lookout over Lake Ontario. Other trails to check out are the McLaughlin Bay Trail and Robinson Creek Trail.

Where: 1600 Darlington Park Rd., Bowmanville, Ont.

Less than an hour away from Toronto is Forks of the Credit. Ontario Parks says this is a wonderful location for day-use winter adventures.

Take part in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along one of its hiking trails. It’s important to note that trails are not maintained or track set. So come prepared.

Where: 17760 McLaren Rd., Caledon, Ont.

Though camping is closed at this park for winter, Presqu’ile Provincial Park still offers lakeshore vistas like ice cliffs.

And even in some years, ice volcanoes can be spotted.

Where: 328 Presqu’Ile Parkway, Brighton, Ont.

Located on the south shores of Lake Simcoe, this park is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon hiking and enjoying a few winter activities.

In the snowy months, it is one of the most popular ice-fishing destinations in Ontario, according to Ontario Parks.

“Unorganized winter activities within the park include hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.”

Where: 26071 Park Rd., Jackson’s Point, Ont.

Explore its over 34 kilometres of groomed cross-country winter trails. They wind through “hardwoods, cedar swamps, and groves of White Birch.”

The snow-blanketed forests are also captivating, and if you’re up for more, head over to Bonnie’s Pond Trail for some snowshoeing. The park has snowshoe rentals available, or you can bring your own – why not?

Where: 1589 Silent Lake Park Rd., Bancroft, Ont.

A newer addition to the list of Ontario parks is Uxbridge Urban! If you have yet to explore it, this all-season destination is a must-visit in the winter season.

Skiing and snowshoeing are welcome on the hiking trails. However, also note that trails are not maintained or track set and be sure to use caution during the winter months.

Where: 573 Old Stouffville Rd., Uxbridge, Ont.

Don’t let the winter season keep you indoors – explore all these Ontario parks this chilly season.

Which one are you visiting first?

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