Do you love variety? Pinery Provincial Park could be your ideal winter vacation spot.
Here are six reasons we think you’ll fall in love with this Southwestern gem’s snowy season:
1. Walk and bike!
Wait…isn’t this blog post about winter adventures?
Interestingly, a winter weekend in Pinery could be +10ºC and sun, or -35ºC with snow.
On warm days, venture out for a hike or bike tour of the campground (but be sure to keep your boots and bikes off the ski slopes!). Higher temperatures bring an increase in animal activity, so be sure to keep your eyes open for wildlife sightings.
That said, pack for all possibilities because here on the shores of Lake Huron, in the heart of Ontario’s snow belt, we are subject to rapid and extreme weather changes.
And when the snow does come down, you can…
2. Skate, ski and sled!
Pinery is located within the Lake Huron snow belt. When a major storm hits, the park can receive more than 16 inches of snow in just a few hours.
On snowy days, explore the park’s 38 km of cross-country ski trails and take in the stunning beauty of snow-covered Oak Savanna. You can also stroll the park’s 5.3 km of snowshoe trails.
No equipment? Verify Pinery Twitter to view rental updates.
Skate at Pinery’s outdoor skating rink or slide down the hill on your sled!
Wondering if there is snow? Check our Snow Report for up-to-date winter conditions in the park.
3. Bird watching in winter
Head to Pinery Picnic Shelter P9 to experience a winter birdwatching spot!
Here you can witness the fluttering of busy little birds, including black-capped tits and tufted tits, as well as red-breasted and white-breasted nuthatches.
Take a short walk to the beach, where you may be lucky enough to see a bald eagle soaring high above the waves, a snowy owl perched on the edge of a sand dune, or waterfowl floating along the shoreline.
4. A stunning beach
While you’re at the beach, watch for mounds of snow, ice and sand (only from a distance) – our dynamic coastline is constantly changing.
The winter element formations give the illusion that you have escaped southwestern Ontario and ended up in the snowy tundra of the north.
Be sure to stay off ice at ALL times. Now more than ever, with our variable conditions, ice is unpredictable and very dangerous..
5. A heated visitor center
You can find out more about this dynamic coastline by visiting our Visitor Centre, which is open from 10am to 4pm on weekends and holidays from 5 February.
Join one of our naturalist-led programs, including guided walks, turtle talks, and more. You can find the current activity schedule posted inside the park.
6. Cabins, yurts and campsites
Do you want to spend the night?
Settle into one of our 14 heated guest rooms or your own winterized trailer or tent.
Will we see you this winter?
Reserve your overnight stay or daily vehicle permit online or by phone at 1-888-668-7275.
Or just come spend the day! You can have an amazing time on a winter adventure in Pinery, with or without snow!
Be sure to share your adventure photos with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.