10 Ways to Embrace Winter in Kawartha Lakes

Posted Friday February 07, 2025

Winter in Kawartha Lakes is a magical time, with sparkling landscapes, cozy spots to warm up, and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or prefer indoor comforts, you can beat the winter blues by discovering all the ways to make the most of our snowy wonderland.

Adventure awaits with these outdoor activities

Bundle up and take advantage of the snow with one of your favourite outdoor winter activities or try something new! As long as you have the right gear and guidance, these activities will be a blast!

1. Enjoy skating outdoors

Glide into winter fun at the Logie Park skating loop in Lindsay or test your skills on one of our many community outdoor rinks. With scenic views and good parking, it’s a perfect outing for families or couples. Check the city’s website for opening details and bring your skates!

Visit the City’s site for more information: https://www.kawarthalakes.ca/en/things-to-do/arenas-and-outdoor-ice-rinks.aspx

2. Get up close and personal with horses

Learn the art of safe and meaningful connection with horses at Ears, Tongues & Tails, a hands-on Signature Experience. Deepen your knowledge of horses by understanding their language and trying relaxation techniques. This is an experience horse lovers won’t want to miss!

Learn more about this Signature Experience and others: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/kawartha-lakes-experiences.aspx 

3. Explore magical trails on snowshoes or skis

Explore snow-covered trails like Ken Reid Conservation Area or Balsam Lake Provincial Park on boots, snowshoes, or cross-country skis. Ski through peaceful forests and glide across groomed paths while soaking in the winter serenity. Snowshoeing is a great choice for a fun winter activity because it's easy to learn, inexpensive, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages, fitness levels, and experience. 

Discover your next favourite cross-country trail: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/cross-country-skiing.aspx

Try snowshoeing on one of our featured trails: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/snowshoeing.aspx 

4. Try your hand at ice fishing

Embrace a classic Canadian winter activity by heading to one of our many lakes for ice fishing. Bring your gear, rent from a local outfitter, or book a guided experience for a fun day on the frozen water.

Learn more about fishing in Kawartha Lakes: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/fishing-and-hunting.aspx 

5. Take a snowmobiling trip

Rev up the adventure with over 600 km of well-maintained snowmobiling trails connecting our towns and villages throughout Kawartha Lakes. Connect with local clubs and explore live trail maps for routes and updates on trail conditions.

Check out our itinerary for an enjoyable day of sledding through Kawartha Lakes: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/Modules/News/blogcomments.aspx?page=2&BlogId=06428bf6-0088-4d83-8c76-2df48df298ab 

6. Experience the thrill of fat biking

Try something new this winter and experience the thrill of fat biking through snow-covered forest trails. Popular routes like the Victoria Rail Trail provide an exciting way to explore snowy landscapes on two wheels.

Explore our trails on two wheels this winter: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/fatbiking 

Escape the cold with these indoor options

Not a fan of the cold? There are so many unique experiences that don’t involve freezing temperatures to try this winter. Grab some friends and enjoy a cozy day together.

1. Try our indoor, year-round Signature Experiences

Discover unique indoor experiences, like crafting your own soap at Gridley’s in Lindsay or enjoying cultural workshops like the Wooden Canoe Revival Workshop in Bethany. These signature offerings make for unforgettable winter memories that get you out of the cold and into your hands-on era.

Learn more about our year-round Signature Experiences: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/kawartha-lakes-experiences.aspx 

2. Warm up with a cozy drink

Warm up after your outdoor adventures with a visit to one of Kawartha Lakes’ cozy cafés. Treat yourself to a hot chocolate and fresh baked goods at spots like Kindred Café (Lindsay/Bobcaygeon), Waterbridge Café (Fenelon Falls), North Ward Coffee (Lindsay), Sip (Fenelon Falls), White Cottage Cafe (Fenelon Falls) and more.

View our business directory for bakeries in the area: https://directory.explorekawarthalakes.com/?Page=1&SearchTab=&FromForm=True&Name=&Keywords=Bakery&CIds=&Municipality=#resultsArea 

3. Head back in time at a museum or gallery

Immerse yourself in local history and art at Kawartha Art Gallery (Lindsay), the Kawartha Lakes Museum & Archives (Lindsay), the Colborne Gallery (Fenelon Falls), or the Boyd Heritage Museum (Bobcaygeon). These indoor gems offer an inspiring way to spend a chilly day.

4. Enjoy a local theatre performance

Take in the local talent at a musical, play, or seasonal performance at the historic Academy Theatre (Lindsay). Arrive early to enjoy dinner at a locally-owned restaurant and stroll down the historic Kent Street West, lit up with boutique shops. It’s the perfect way to stay cozy while being entertained this winter!

Explore more arts, culture, and heritage in Kawartha Lakes: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/arts-and-heritage-trail.aspx 

Winter is short, so don’t miss out on the magic of Kawartha Lakes! Whether you’re skating under the stars or sipping hot chocolate by the fire, there’s no better place to embrace the season.