Winter Driving Destinations in Ontario

Ontario in winter is beautiful if you are prepared. Winter tires, a stocked emergency kit, and realistic expectations open up destinations most people skip from December to March.

Blue Mountain and Collingwood — 150 km from Toronto

Ontario's largest ski resort with reliable snow. The village has restaurants, shops, and spa facilities. Highway 26 is well-maintained all winter. See our Georgian Bay drives for the area.

Muskoka Winter — 200 km from Toronto

Quieter than summer but still alive. Arrowhead Provincial Park near Huntsville has a skating trail through the forest. Cottage country roads are maintained but watch for ice in shade.

Ottawa Winterlude — 450 km from Toronto

Rideau Canal Skateway (7.8 km), ice sculptures, BeaverTails in February. The 401 east is monotonous but maintained. Budget for freezing rain risk in Eastern Ontario.

Niagara Falls — 130 km from Toronto

Falls with ice formations are spectacular. Niagara-on-the-Lake is charming with fewer crowds. Mist near the falls freezes on road surfaces.

Check Ontario 511 before departure. See our winter driving guide and heavy snow tips.