Have snow much fun in national parks this winter
Experience the magic of winter in the great outdoors with these unique winter activities. From snow-covered landscapes to thrilling adventures, discover the best ways to embrace the season's beauty in these natural wonders.
Experience the magic of winter in the great outdoors with these unique winter activities. From snow-covered landscapes to thrilling adventures, discover the best ways to embrace the season's beauty in these natural wonders.
Find the iconic Parks Canada red chairs
Make them part of your story and be sure to #ShareTheChair!
- Red chairs can be found in spectacular locations in almost all Parks Canada locations. Those chairs have seen it all! Exhausted hikers looking for a place to rest their feet. Date nights. Engagements. Helicopter drops. Visits from furry friends (both canine and other).
- Take a break in these epic red chair spots this winter and make your own story!
Enjoy the thrills of tobogganing
You’re never too young or too old to soar downhill on your sled!
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Visit Kouchibouguac National Park in New Brunswick and make your way to the hill at the Patterson Shelter via snowshoe or fat bike from the Pijeboogwek parking lot for some snow-filled tobogganing fun.
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Take part in a Fundy National Park tradition and enjoy the rush as your toboggan glides down the groomed slopes of the Headquarters Bowl.
Find your new favorite winter destination at Parks Canada, for pure childlike fun.
Go fishing in a Winter Wonderland
Why let the joys of fishing end when rivers and lakes freeze over?
- Let the crisp winter air awaken your senses as it blows over the frozen waters of Kathleen Lake in Kluane National Park and Reserve in Yukon.
- After securing your fishing license, cast your line and catch kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout or even arctic grayling.
Delve into the magic of winter stargazing
Bundle up for a celestial adventure!
- Ditch the city lights and head to one of Parks Canada's 13 Dark-Sky Preserves. This season, constellations, meteor showers, and celestial phenomena come alive against the backdrop of crisp, cold nights.
- Don’t forget to make a wish on a shooting star during the Geminids, Ursids, or Quadrantids, or simply look for the famous Orion Nebula, a true nursery of stars and planets. Bring your binoculars and discover the celestial spectacles that grace our skies during these frosty months!
Embark on a skiing adventure
Choose your style, downhill or cross-country!
- Visit La Mauricie National Park, one of the most beautiful cross-country ski centers in Quebec, exploring over 80-km of groomed trails equipped with shelters, perfect for classic or freestyle cross-country skiers alike.
- Extend your stay in the warmth of an oTENTik tent, located in the heart of the forest just steps from the trails.
For downhill and ski touring or other cross-country suggestions, check out our best ski adventure destinations.
Ride through snowy forests on a fat bike
Keep the biking fun going even when the snow falls!
- Discover over 50 km of snowy flat-packed multi-use trails in Jasper National Park, Alberta – all accessible from the townsite.
- Don't miss the trail to beautiful Pyramid Lake; we promise the climb is worth it!
Want to discover other destinations? Be inspired by the best biking destinations at Parks Canada.
Storm watch like never before
Experience the raw energy of the stormy sea and sky
- There’s no better place to experience the fury of a winter storm than at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia.
- Get a front row seat to the massive waves and giant swells coming all the way from Japan from the safety of the Kwisitis Visitor Centre’s outdoor observation deck at Wickaninnish Beach.
Visit CoastSmart.ca to learn more about coastal safety and find other places to safely view storms.
Swim in winter!
Soak up that H2OOOOOOHHHHH...
- Treat yourself to one of Banff National Park's greatest traditions that has drawn visitors to Alberta since 1886: a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs.
- Prefer visiting one of British Columbia’s top natural hot springs? The mineral water of Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park is uniquely odourless and clear, making these hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak!
Strap on your skates
Explore one of the biggest ice rinks in the world
- Explore Ontario's picturesque Rideau Canal National Historic Site, which is transformed into a world-famous skating rink every winter. Skate through the heart of Ottawa for more than 7.8 km and enjoy the view of the city.
- Discover other incredible backdrops for your next skating adventure by consulting our top 5 magical skating destinations.
Embark on a cozy winter camping adventure
Winter camping is a lot simpler than you might think!
- POV: you're sitting at your campsite under the starry night sky resting your tired legs from a day of winter fun next to the fire.
- Stay warm for the night in an accommodation with a wood stove or heater or pitch your tent for a little more challenge with traditional winter camping!
Find your new favorite winter camping destination from coast to coast and reserve your campsite today.