Embrace the Magic of Canadian winters in South Eastern Ontario

Winter in South Eastern Ontario is something to celebrate! As the snow swirls through the air and the crisp winter air steals your breath, make some beautiful winter memories with this list of fun things to do.

Whether you want to relax or get active, these fun, frosty activities will help you fall in love with winter.

Snowshoeing, fat biking and hiking in SD&G: A peaceful winter escape with miles of snowshoeing trails throughout the region. Here are some must-see stops in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry, including the Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Summerstown Trails, and the Gray’s Creek Conservation Authority. 

• 7 more amazing trails in the county can be found here. The beauty of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry is on full display at an array of trail systems located throughout the region. 

Ice Fishing on the Bay of Quinte: Take part in the tradition of ice fishing, a great way to enjoy the stillness of winter by the water. Blue Rock Charters can hook you up. 

If you’d like to make a night (or longer) out of it, check out Sunset Farms and Cabins in Picton, and hit the water whenever you’re ready to reel them in. They also have heated huts for your warmth and comfort during those ice-fishing adventures. 

Skating in Kingston: Springer Market Square is the place to be (King Street) for free outdoor winter skating. You can also strap on the blades and go for a spin at the indoor arenas — Investa Centre, Centre 70 and the Memorial Centre. More info on ice times can be found here. 

Snowmobiling: Explore scenic snowmobile trails that take you through beautiful, forested areas and small towns across Ontario. In South Eastern Ontario, visit trails in the Upper Canada Snowmobile Region. There are more than 3,000 kilometres of groomed trails. 

Cross-Country Skiing at Frontenac Provincial Park: Experience the beauty of winter at one of Ontario’s beautiful parks. You can also cross-country ski, snowshoe or winter camp. Visit this and other provincial parks this winter season. 

Wine Tasting in Prince Edward County: Discover a winter wine tour along the scenic wine trail, with tastings and cozy atmospheres in local wineries. Here is a wine lover’s guide to the county’s wine stops, chocolate and cheese stops, and even some fun places to stay while you’re out and about. Stay a while and awaken all your senses. You can also snowshoe at Three Dog Winery, which offers free trekking through the winter vines while tasting some of the best offerings from the area.  

Art galleries & studios. spas & cozy stays, and boutique shopping await; explore all there is to do in winter in Prince Edward County.

Visit a Winter Farmer’s Market in Belleville: Find seasonal produce, local goods, and warm winter snacks at the region’s farmer’s markets. In Belleville, the market is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday It is located in the historic Market Square behind City Hall.

Winter Photography Tour: Make a day of it and take any trail or route you desire. Everywhere you turn is a great opportunity for a photograph. Spy Rock in Westport, part of the Foley Mountain Conservation Area, is a great place to kick off your adventure. 

Museum Hopping: Dive into history at the 1000 Island History Museum in Gananoque (open Tuesday and Saturday through the winter)  or the Brockville Railway Tunnel for a colourful experience.

Geocaching: This global treasure hunt, with millions of caches hidden around the world in parks, urban areas, forests, and more, is so much fun during the winter months. This great family activity will be a hit with the younger and older kids alike. Check out this site for more on the fun, and some cool places to cache in! Get yourself a free account. All you need is a GPS or a smartphone (we used a Compas in the ‘olden days’), and plug in an area you’d like to search for treasure, and off you go! 

Staycation Retreats: Book a winter escape at luxury stays like Drake Devonshire in Wellington or on a riverboat in Yarker. 

Spas and Wellness: For relaxation and warmth, treat yourself to spa days at the Gananoque Inn and Spa. Visit this list of places to unwind and relax. 

Nature’s Elements Wellness Retreat is not far away. Located in Mallorytown, create the perfect weekend getaway in the heart of the 1000 Islands as you focus on yourself. Discover the outdoor Scandinavian Spa that will help rejuvenate mind, body and soul. 

Stargazing in Dark Sky Preserves: Head to Frontenac Provincial Park for a peaceful, star-filled night under the winter sky.

Whether you’re warming up with a local cider, gliding across frozen lakes, or discovering hidden gems in Prince Edward County, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your days with warmth and wonder. Grab your mittens, lace up your boots, and let the season be your playground—this winter, the fun is just getting started!