25 Things to Do Outdoors During Winter in York Region

Todocanada.ca
Jan. 8, 2021

It may be cold outside, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting out and having fun! If you’re in the York region, don’t worry--there are plenty of fun outdoor activities you can take part in. Here are 25 things to do outdoors during winter in York Region.

1. Hike Saigeon Trail

A popular hiking trail in the summer, the Saigeon trail is just as spectacular during the winter months. Located in Richmond Hill, the Saigeon trail is one of the most popular trails in the city.

Where: Richmond Hill; Map provided on the website.

2. Go Tobogganing in at Paramount Park
Markham is home to several great tobogganing hills, including one at Paramount Park. Throw on your winter jacket, pack up your sled, and head to the hill in this park for a fun afternoon. Whether you go by yourself or bring a friend, you’ll have a great time!

Address: Paramount Dr., Markham

3. Go Skating at Markham’s Civic Centre

Who doesn’t love ice skating? Grab your skates and head to Markham’s Civic Centre, where you’ll find a fantastic rink. This is a great opportunity to practice all your skating moves!

Address: 171 Town Centre Rd., Markham

4. Check out Sibbald Point Provincial Park
You may not be able to hop into the water for a swim, but Sibbald Point is still a great place to go in the winter. Pack your snowshoes or just put on your warmest boots for a fun adventure. There are also plenty of opportunities to pull out your cross-country skis!

Address: 26071 York Rd. 18, Sutton West

5. Go Skiing at Uplands Golf & Ski Club
Get your adrenaline pumping by racing down the hills at Uplands on your skis or snowboard! You’ll easily spend hours on the slopes. Plus, with varying levels of difficulty, there’s a run for every ski level!

Address: 46 Uplands Ave., Thornhill

Cost: Starting at $25.00 for lift tickets

6. Visit Wilcox Lake
Located in Richmond Hill, this beautiful park is a great place to spend a few hours. Stroll along the lakefront, which is still beautiful in the winter. You can also learn more about the flora native to the area with their virtual tree tour!

7. Toboggan in Richmond Hill
Richmond Hill‘s Hunter’s Point and Chapman Parks are the locations of a great tobogganing hill. Pack up your sled and head to the hill for a few hours of fun. Remember to dress warm!

Address: 23 Misty Moor Dr., Richmond Hill

8. Check out the Kortright Centre for Conservation
Enjoy a beautiful walk when you visit the Kortright Centre for Conservation. This lovely conservation area is made up of more than 16km of hiking trails. You’ll get your exercise and you’ll be able to get back to nature.

Address: 9550 Pine Valley Dr., Vaughan

Cost: Starting at $8.50 for adults

9. Skate at the Chancellor Community Centre
Enjoy an afternoon on the rink at the Chancellor Community Centre. Whether you’re a pro or just learning the ropes, you’ll have a great time at this outdoor rink. If you get cold, you can always pop inside the community centre to warm up.

Address: 350 Ansley Grove Rd., Vaughan

10. Take the North Maple Regional Park Nature Walk

 Get away from the busy city life and heat to North Maple Regional Park. This 5km walk will let you stretch your legs and appreciate the city’s natural beauty. Bring a friend or go by yourself--either way, you’ll have a great time!
Address: 11085 Keele St., Vaughan

11. Check out the Canadian Moments Mural
If you’re interested in art, history, and happen to find yourself in Aurora, you’ll want to check out this piece of public art. You’ll find pieces of Canada’s history on this mural. Pack your camera and remember to record your visit!

Address: Corner of Yonge St. and Wellington St. E, Aurora

12. Skate at the Richmond Green Skate Trail
If you’re up for an adventure on ice, visit this fantastic skate trail in Richmond Hill. The 250-meter loop will help you get in all your exercise. Plus, there’s lighting for those who love evening skating!

Address: 1300 Elgin Mills Rd. E, Richmond Hill

13. Visit the David Tomlinson Nature Reserve
This park is full of great things to do. Spend some time exploring the trails that will take you through the park’s wetlands. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife native to the area!

14. Go Skating at Ridgeview Park
One of East Gwillimbury’s several parks, Ridgeview Park is also home to an outdoor rink. Lace up your skates and spend some time on the ice. It’s a great place to spend a few hours getting in some exercise!

Address: 126 Dog Wood Blvd., Holland Landing

15. Hike Through the Sculpture Garden

By the Humber River Valley in Vaughan is the outdoor Sculpture Garden at McMichael’s Canadian Collection. The Gallery’s grounds and trails are open daily. Come explore, reflect, and recharge.

16. Explore Peggy’s Wood Trail
East Gwillimbury has several fantastic walking trails you’ll want to explore. This includes Peggy’s Wood Trail. Bring your binoculars and watch out for the birds that call this area home!

Address: Harvest Hills Blvd., Eat Gwillimbury

17. Skate at the Mount Albert Community Centre

Enjoy a classic winter activity at this East Gwillimbury community centre. You’ll be able to have hours of fun on this well-maintained rink. It’s also a great way to get some exercise!
Address: 53 Main St., East Gwillimbury

18. Snow Tube at ROC Ski Resort
Full of fun activities, there’s always something to do at the ROC! Grab your skis or your snowboard and spend some time on the hills. Or, grab your skates and head for the rink. You can also snow tube here. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a fantastic time doing it.

Address: 26479 Civic Centre Rd, Keswick

Cost: Starting at $20.00 for lift tickets

19. Explore Georgina’s Jackson Point
Located on Lake Simcoe, this area is full of attractions. Take a walk along the lake, and stop in at one of the restaurants or shops if you start getting too chilly. This urban centre is a great place to explore!

20. Skate at the Riverwalk Commons
Located in the Riverwalk Commons, this rink is a Newmarket staple. Bring a friend and hit the ice. You’ll have a blast at this rink!

Address: Riverwalk Commons, Newmarket

21. Visit the Aurora Arboretum
Looking to escape into nature? Visit the Aurora Arboretum! Made up of more than 100 acres, you’ll get the chance to appreciate the beauty of Aurora as you explore this park.

Address: 100 John West Way, Aurora

22. Hike Tanglewood Trail
Venture out into the Rouge National Park on the Tanglewood Trail and walk through the stunning wilderness on a 5km – 8km journey.

23. Explore Cold Creek Conservation Area
If you’re looking to escape to nature, then check out the Cold Creek Conservation Area. Even in winter, this is a beautiful place to go to. Grab your snowshoes and hit the trails, and don’t forget to pack your camera!

Address: 14125 11th Concession, Nobleton

24. Check out the Township of King’s Hiking Trails
The Township of King is home to many hiking trails. In fact, the Township of King falls within Ontario’s Greenbelt, a favourite area for local hikers. Even in winter, there are plenty of trails to explore!

25. Welcome Spring at Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area

Visit Bruce’s Mill Conservation Area and explore the snow-laden sugar bush being tapped for delicious syrup and enjoy demonstrations, wagon rides, activities… and more the annual maple syrup festival held during March.