Winter is full speed ahead. Here are suggestions we’re going to provide in this post to help kill the last bit of the winter.
Winter is the time of year to enjoy many of the exciting, unique activities Norther Ontario has to offer. Of course, if you’ve lived here for any length of time, we don’t have to tell you that.
Chances are you’re no stranger to skating with the family around Queen’s Athletic Field, skiing down the hills of Adanac, or taking the opportunity to play a game of hockey outdoors.
Ask anyone what there is to do in Sudbury during winter and we bet those will be the top three suggestions. Nothing wrong with that — but everyone needs a little variety in their lives. It’s time to break from the norm and try something new. You can start with any of the following 10 suggestions on our list.
What Else is There to do in Sudbury in Winter?
Here’s Our Top 10 Picks
- Snowmobiling
There are over 2000 km of quality, groomed snowmobile trails across the Sudbury, Espanola, and Manitoulin areas. Those who haven’t experienced the thrill of sledding in Northern Ontario are truly missing out on one of its greatest attractions. If you don’t own a snowmobile and aren’t ready to invest in one yet, not to worry, you can rent one from Sampson Sales located east of North Bay. If you have never driven a snowmobile before, don’t let that hold you back either. Anyone with a valid driver’s license can operate one. If you’re reluctant to get behind the wheel of a sled, the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) offers training classes to help you learn the ropes. When you feel ready to hit the trails, use this club finder tool to get more information about the clubs and trails nearest you.
- Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides
The holiday season has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean sleigh riding season is over. Wagonwheel Ranch, located in Hanmer, offers private sleigh rides seven days a week. Gather up the family for a day out in the Boreal forest that you won’t soon forget. The ranch is also fully equipped to handle birthday parties, should you or a loved one have a birthday that falls in the winter.
- Science North Escape Room
The escape room craze has finally hit the Nickel City. Popular the world over, an escape room literally involves being locked in a room and having to solve a series of puzzles in order to get out. Gather clues to crack the code and unlock your way to freedom. The most challenging part is having to do it in 45 minutes or less! Science North’s escape room challenge is currently being offered until the end of March, so put your problem solving skills to the test while you still can.
- Snowshoeing
There’s no greater way to conquer the elements of winter than with a pair of snowshoes strapped to your boots. The BioSki Cross-Country and Showshoe Club, accessible via South Bay Road off Ramsey Lake Road, offers trails in the Laurentian Lake Conservation Area for classical skiing and snowshoeing. Experience the natural beauty of Northern Ontario that most never get the chance to see, including: white birch forest, poplar lowlands, stands of red pine and white spruce, alder swamps, marshes, and beaver ponds. In addition, you may encounter the occasional snowshoe hare, red fox, red squirrel, porcupine, otter, or chickadee while on your trek. We recommend going on weekends where the heated ski cottage is open from 10 am to 4 pm. Snowshoe rentals are available on-site.
- Ice Fishing
Those with a passion for fishing don’t have to put their hobby on hold until summer rolls around again. With 330 lakes in the Greater Sudbury region, your options for ice fishing are virtually endless. We suggest doing it in style at the Mountain View Fishing and Hunting Lodge, where you can treat yourself to a heated cabin complete with housekeeping services.
- Winter Camping
For Sudburians, summer is synonymous with camping. We suggest extending that time-honored tradition into the winter months as well. Traditional winter camping involves nights spent in a canvas tent heated by a wood stove. Or if you prefer having access to the amenities of a home or cottage you could camp out in a yurt. Either way, spending the night outdoors in the winter is an unforgettable experience which summer camping enthusiasts are sure to love.
- LOL Sudbury Festival
Laugh away the winter blues during Sudbury’s premier comedy showcase — LOL Sudbury. This week-long comedy festival features teen-friendly events in the early evening, as well as late night club shows for the adult crowd. This year’s headliners include Lisa Lampanelli, along with stars of the Crave TV hit show Letterkenny. Events are sure to sell out, as they do every year, so we highly recommend grabbing your advance tickets today to avoid missing out.
- Northern Ontario Microbrew Festival
Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur, or don’t know the difference between an IPA and a pilsner, this event is designed to please all palates. Taste what’s brewing up north as the 3rd annual Northern Ontario Microbrew Festival celebrates craft brewers from all over the region. Due to popular demand this event has expanded into a 2-day festival, so you have plenty of time to sample all the limited small batch brews you wouldn’t regularly be able to find in most LCBOs or bars. Live music will keep the party going all day long.
- Sudbury Trivia Nights
Test your knowledge, make new friends, and discover new locations as Sudbury Trivia Nights hosts events every Monday and Tuesday throughout the year. Every event features a different theme and a different venue, so you’re guaranteed to have a unique experience each time. Like their Facebook page to keep up with what they’re doing next.
- Axe Throwing
The sport of axe throwing is making its way to Sudbury as Northern Axperts opens its doors this March. Gather up four of your closest friends and compete against other teams in a test of strength and marksmanship. Trained axe throwing experts will be on hand to teach you the intricacies of throwing an axe at a target. If you’re looking for the most eclectic activity in Sudbury, you’ve found it. Only adventure-seeking, adrenaline junkies need apply.
Wrapping it Up
With our recommendations, we’re confident you’ll never have a dull day in Sudbury this winter. Step out of your comfort zone, try something new, and spring will be here before you know it.
