Winter adventures for couples | Destination Ontario

Northwest Ontario

Learn to ice climb with Outdoor Skills and Thrills

You don’t have to head to the Rockies to learn to ice climb. Since the 1980s, the sport has been thriving in Northwestern Ontario, attracting climbers from around the world.

Outdoor Skills and Thrills offers half-day and full-day courses for all skill levels at various locations near Thunder Bay. You’ll learn to confidently climb a frozen sheet of ice using crampons and ice axes.

Reservations are required and can be made online. Time your visit to coincide with the Nipigon Ice Fest, an annual event that includes clinics, gear swaps and snowshoe outings.

Go ice skating on the outdoor rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing in downtown Thunder Bay, celebrate your day with dinner and drinks at Lot 66 Restaurant + Wine Bar and enjoy an overnight stay at the boutique Courthouse Hotel.

Location: in and around Thunder Bay

Cozy log cabin escape at Rose Valley Lodge & Restaurant

Set out skiing and snowshoeing on nature trails through awe-inspiring forests, meadows and ancient mountains. This hidden gem is located just southwest of Thunder Bay and is one of the best cozy romantic getaways.

Savour a delicious European-style meal by Swiss hotelier Markus Hoffmann, then stay in a rustic log cabin complete with a Jacuzzi bathtub. 

Location: 56 Rose Valley Road, South Gillies

Cross-country ski or snowshoe in Quetico Provincial Park

During the summer, Quetico Provincial Park, a two-hour drive west of Thunder Bay, is an internationally recognized wilderness paddling destination. 

But in the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with ski and snowshoe trails right on the doorstep of three winterized cabins: the Log Cabin, the Ojibway Cabin and the Winter Retreat (the latter of which is only available from October to April).

Make a stop at Little Falls, a 15-metre waterfall on the Atikokan River that can be accessed from the end of Little Falls Road. 

Location: ON-11, Atikokan

Secluded cabin getaway at Beyond The Giant

With over 50 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails over breathtaking terrain, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s best places for winter fun. 

After an active day of skiing or snowshoeing, cozy up by the fire in a secluded log cabin at Beyond The Giant Nature Retreats. The romantic getaway package includes candles, wine and a basket of local goodies.

Location: 625 Portage Drive, Shuniah