Must-Try Winter Experiences and Activities in Canada 

Chapter 2 of 5

Snow-based outdoor winter activities in Canada

You will soon be introduced to Canada’s top snow-based workout—shovelling your driveway and clearing snow off your car. Consider it training for a series of more rewarding snow experiences!

This is a sample of snow-based activities you will find easily in Canada, even in cities. 

And if the perspective of walking in the snow or doing anything straining doesn’t get you excited, jump to the next chapter for cozy, indoor recommendations!

Dog sledding

A dog sledding adventure is sure to be one of the highlights of your Canadian experience. It’s a unique activity and bonding moment with the strongest, cutest dogs you’ll ever meet.

No need to head to the Far North to become a musher for a few hours, you’ll find companies offering dog sledding tours throughout Canada.

Make sure to pick a company that keeps the dogs happy and healthy. Read reviews and ask around for feedback!

Where can I go dog sledding in Canada?

Look for snow and you will find dog sledding opportunities! Okay, maybe not downtown Toronto, but a simple Google search should point you to the nearest providers just outside the city.

Dog sledding fans shouldn’t miss the Yukon Quest, an annual world-famous race. Volunteers are always needed to support operations if you want to play a more active role in this major event.

And occasionally, dog sled companies also hire workers or volunteers. These positions are highly sought after, but you can always apply!

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and more on trails and slopes

Backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities in Canada. This is probably the cheapest type of skiing as well with plenty of trails accessible for free or for a small access fee all over the country. Renting the equipment will set you back $30/day on average. 

Hitting the slopes for downhill skiing, snowboarding and more requires a much bigger budget and possibly some travel. The Rockies are home to world-famous resorts like Whistler, Banff and Jasper. In Quebec and Ontario head to Mont Tremblant or Blue Mountain, among several others.

Where can I find trails and slopes in Canada?

Ski and snowboard addicts should head straight to the Rockies for the best powder and slopes. Consider finding a job at a ski resort to make the most of the season and enjoy staff discounts! Read the Qs&As with Stephanie, a French Working Holiday permit holder who worked in Banff, Alberta.

Other snow-minded travellers should have no problem snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the many trails available, including in Montreal’s Mount Royal Park or Toronto’s High Park. For a more scenic workout in a picturesque winter wonderland, head to a provincial or national park!

Snowmobiling (or skidooing)

It ain’t cheap but it’s fun—taking a snowmobile tour is supposed to offer the same kind of adrenaline rush as jet skiing, but on snow. You’ll get to explore hard-to-reach areas on a cool machine invented by Canadians.

A three-day adventure is around $1,500 (accommodation included) and a one-hour trip costs on average $150 (plus tax).

Fat biking

These funky bikes with oversized tires are perfect on snow. Ride them to get from point A to point B downtown or go off-road in a national park. Either way, you’ll get a nice workout and a new biking experience!

Sledding 

This is probably the cheapest and most accessible snow-based activity, along with making snowmen and throwing a snowball at your roommate.

Most stores—Canadian Tire, Walmart, Giant Tiger, etc.—sell plastic sleds for one, two or three people for $30 or less. Saucers are even cheaper, you’ll find some for $10!

Find a safe hill with a long, flat area at the bottom and go for it. Most cities have hills designed for sledding (which means they are maintained). For beginners, a nice snowbank can work as well!