7 Places To Go Cross-Country Skiing
Don't hibernate this winter! Cross-country skiing is a great way to get outside, get some exercise and have some fun with minimal planing or expense. Even if the snow is up to your armpits and you've surrendered your shovel to the snow gods, you can still slap on your cross-country skis and do some exploring in your backyard or local park. If you do manage to dig out your car and want to go further afield or get some lessons, here are some tried and true spots in Southern Ontario to check out:
*Pro Tip: Mark the full moons this winter on your calendar and head out for a moonlit ski.
Close to Barrie, ON
Experience the cross-country skiing lifestyle with seemingly endless trails and a quaint lodge. Make a weekend out of it by staying in a nearby chalet and signing up for cross-country skiing lessons.
Close to Collingwood, ON
Add a little variety to your alpine ski and snowboard weekend on the escarpment in Collingwood by heading to Highlands Nordic for the day.They offer lessons as well as snow-shoeing<.>
Close to Orangeville, ON
Less than an hour from downtown Toronto, there's no reason to miss out on this hidden gem this winter.
Close to Collingwood, ON
The scenic caves are a must see for every Ontarian. Check it off your sightseeing list by visiting in the winter and doing some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing (we sell those too!).
Close to Shelburne, ON
Very cute and welcoming, this is a great spot for the whole family to get outside and take in some nature for the day.
Close to Caledon, ON
Just an hour from downtown Toronto, Albion Hills is a welcoming spot for beginners, families, or those who want to try out skate skiing.
The Toronto Islands
Toronto, ON
Really!? Yes, you can cross-country ski on the Toronto Islands all winter long. Just imagine the Instagram pictures you can take with the Toronto skyline in the background—social media gold.
Of course you can always get more rustic and adventurous and head to Algonquin or Kilarney Provincial Park. You won't get the luxury of a clubhouse or lessons, but for just the payment of the park fee, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe over the frozen lakes. It's definitely an experience that's worth the drive.
