Ontario is one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces, and it’s full of potential for people who love to be outside. If you’re looking to plan an amazing weekend, get inspired with these phenomenal outdoor activities to enjoy in Ontario.
Hiking
Hiking may be one of the most basic outdoor activities, but Ontario’s scenery takes it to a whole new level. Throughout the province are trails that cater to all skill levels.
Algonquin Provincial Park is a top destination, boasting over 1,500 kilometers of trails surrounded by picturesque scenery. There’s also the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath, offering incredible views of the Niagara Escarpment.
Don’t forget to pack your camera—wildlife sightings and snap-worthy landscapes are around every corner.
Canoeing
Gliding through calm waters in a canoe is a quintessential Ontario experience. The region boasts over 250,000 lakes and rivers to explore, so you’ll be spoiled for choice. Algonquin Park once again is a paddler’s paradise, complete with designated canoe routes and serene portages. For a more exotic adventure, head to the French River, a historic waterway rich in heritage and breathtaking, rugged beauty.
Rafting
If you’re chasing an adrenaline rush, rafting in Ontario is a must. The Ottawa River is regarded as one of the best whitewater destinations in the world. Most outfitters offer guided tours, ensuring a safe and unforgettable day out on the water.
Off-Roading
If you prefer motors to paddles, Ontario has no shortage of off-roading trails to explore. Northern Ontario’s rugged terrain is packed with dirt paths and forest trails ready to challenge your ATV skills. Popular spots like the Haliburton Highlands and Ganaraska Forest promise everything from twisting turns to rocky climbs, perfectly suited for an action-packed adventure. Just make sure you plan your overland vehicle build correctly to navigate the terrain safely and easily!
Fishing
Ontario’s lakes and rivers are teeming with fish just waiting to test your skills. Lake Ontario and Lake Nipissing are prime spots for catching everything from bass to trout. During the winter, ice fishing is a popular pastime that plenty of resorts and outfitters provide cozy shacks and gear rentals for. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Ontario’s waters won’t disappoint.
Experiencing Niagara Falls
We have to mention Niagara Falls! Just outside of Toronto, this marvel is worth a visit. You can stand in awe at the sheer power of the falls, or you can take part in a cruise, which gets you up close to the roaring cascades. The surrounding area offers ziplining, hiking trails, and more, making it a perfect hub for outdoor fun.
With so many phenomenal outdoor activities to enjoy in Ontario, there’s no better time to get outside! Whether you’re after a challenge or relaxation, Ontario’s great outdoors delivers an experience you won’t soon forget.
Image Credit: by wildnerdpix, #56961163
A man in a red shirt and bucket hat staring out at a tree-lined lake as he sits in a canoe drifting through reflective water.
