Valentine’s Day can be about more than just roses and champagne.
Why not surprise your loved ones with a trip to the great outdoors? It is a great opportunity to get in touch with nature and spend a pleasant time together.
If you’re not sure where to go, we’ve got you covered! Check out some of the romantic activities here at Ontario Parks:
Snowshoeing through a winter wonderland
Upgrade your casual walk to a full nature experience. Snowshoeing allows you to access trails you wouldn’t otherwise be able to see! A lot of parks offer snowshoe trails for you and your Valentine’s enjoyment.
Without snowshoes? No problem! Arrowhead, Frontenac, Pinery, Wasaga Beach, Windy Lake and Killarney rent snowshoes.
See the sunset
A classic romantic activity with a winter touch. Bundle up and head down to the beach for a view you’ll never forget.
Bring chairs and plenty of blankets. Sit back, relax and watch the natural light show.
If you are an early riser, why not try waking up to see the sunrise? Both sunset and sunrise are spectacularly beautiful in Pinery Provincial Park.
wish upon a star
If you’re already watching the sunset, you can also stay to see the stars! For amateur astronomers, there are many stargazing apps available on your phone to help you identify planets, stars, nebulae, and more.
Killarney Provincial Park became the first provincial park in Ontario to receive Dark Sky Reserve designation from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. That means you’re more likely to see the night sky in its natural splendor.
Be sure to dress for the temperature and bring your favorite hot drink in a thermos to keep warm. We suggest hot chocolate!
Skate through a fairytale forest
Imagine gliding through the trees with your love on a cool winter night. Find out which parks offer skating here (and don’t forget to use our Snow Report to check the ice conditions of our skating rinks and trails!).
Do you feel like raising the temperature? Book your day use permit in advance and head to Arrowhead Provincial Park! Skate along its 1.3 km trail (lit by hundreds of torches on special Fire and Ice nights). Rentals are available!
Join to get the big one
There is nothing more romantic than starting a new hobby. Take a turn for the unexpected and go on an ice fishing date!
For those who can get away for the week, visit Windy Lake Provincial Park!
Midweek yurt or cabin rentals are available. The staff at Windy Lake knows all the details and will be happy to help you catch a big one.
Snuggle up while winter camping
Why choose just one activity, when you could take a trip and cross several off your list?
Silent Lake Provincial Park has ten camping cabins and eight yurts available to keep you warm during the cold winter nights. Spend the day ice fishing, snowshoeing around Bonnie’s Pond, and cross-country skiing through its 25 miles of trails, then return for a cozy night at home.