People hiking along sandy and snowy Bruce County shoreline

While many people love to stay home or escape to the tropics in winter, we dare you to embrace snowy days and cool temps.

Family cross-country skiing

Bruce County is a perfect winter getaway destination.

The peace and serenity of fresh-fallen snow.

Your choice of outdoor activities.

No bugs and fewer people to contend with.

12 unique towns.

Add these activities to your itinerary.

Snowshoe Bruce County in winter scene

SNOWSHOEING

Explore one of the many trails, rated for all levels. Enjoy free and incredibly scenic day hikes.

Download our maps to start planning your route.

Person fat biking

FAT BIKING

Try something new this winter ⁠— go fat biking! A fat bike is a bicycle with over-sized tires, allowing you to ride on snow.

Rent a fat bike at Martin’s Bicycle Shop, located at 235 High Street in Southampton.

People cross country skiing in winter

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING

With so many cross-country ski trails across Bruce County, you can choose your preferred length and level of difficulty. Even choose your scenic vista!

Afterwards, head into the nearest downtown and enjoy a hot lunch.

Two people hiking in winter

HIKING

When the snow flies, head for a winter hike with rewarding views. With endless natural beauty to enjoy, hiking is a must-do.

But please, be prepared for snow and ice, know what to expect and stay hydrated.

A group of four people riding snowmobiles in an open field with the sun gazing in the blue sky.

SNOWMOBILING

Get out on the OFSC snowmobile trails. The perfect balance of excitement and countryside sightseeing. In no time at all, hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails will keep you coming back for more. Start planning your trip — book your accommodations early.

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Cozy Winter Retreats to Help You Hibernate in Style

After a long day of play, cozy up by the fireplace with a hot cup of cocoa, surrounded by those who matter most. These cozy boutique hotels and lodges are exactly what you need. 

Women at Beach Motel in robes entering sauna
The Beach Motel in Southampton
Beautiful, historic motel room with charming features and cozy bed.
The Chepstow Inn in Chepstow
View of winter lake scene from Tamarac Island Inn
Tamarac Island Inn in Lion’s Head
Post and Beam retreat in Teeswater
The Post and Beam in Teeswater
Paradise Inn in Port Elgin
The Pine Reeve Cabin in Lucknow

Other great places to stay this winter include The Spirit Rock Outpost & Lodge in Wiarton, the Paisley Mill in Paisley, and the Inn at the Harbour in Kincardine.

Where’s the Fun on Family Day Weekend?

Discover one or all of our local parks and conservation areas with your crew on Family Day weekend.

Not sure where to go? Here’s some highlights to help you decide on your destination:

Person cross country skiing in winter Stoney Island Conservation Area is located along the shores of Lake Huron, north of the town of Kincardine. Cross-country ski and snowshoe up to 6 km of trails an enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.

 

Dog overlooking winter landscape in Lions Head Discover nature at its finest. The white limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment melt into the blue clear water of Georgian Bay at Lion’s Head Provincial Park. Take the family on an adventurous hike, but be well prepared with snacks and water as this park is not serviced. Trails are rugged and be prepared to take your garbage with you. Don’t forget to stop in the town of Lion’s Head for a delicious lunch and more sightseeing.

Three people ice skating outdoors Experience winter camping, cross-country skiing and winter hiking on over 20 km of trails through this wooded and picturesque Provincial Park. Or ice skate on an outdoor skating loop beneath snow-frosted trees.

Visit a Sugar Bush.

Seeing real maple syrup production is a truly Canadian experience. Treat yourself and the whole family to the sweet freshness of maple syrup. Many family-run maple syrup producers, who make small, craft batches of syrup, offer experiences for you and your family. Don’t forget, maple season runs from early March to mid to late April.

Maple syrup pictured with pancakes

Dining, easy as ever.

Foodies unite! Bruce County’s culinary scene has come a long way and rivals restaurants in nearby cities. Start your day at a nearby café and pop in at lunch for a mouth-watering meal.

When you’re packing for a trip to Bruce County, don’t forget to bring your appetite.

Tacos on plate
Snowshoes in winter

While the list of where to experience winter to its fullest is debatable, there are seemingly endless opportunities in Bruce County.

Question is. Are you up for it?