Popular Winter Outdoor Activities for Families

Winter in Canada can feel endless—dark, cold, and snowy for months—but with the right mindset, it can be the perfect season for family fun! Let’s face it - Winter isn’t everyone’s most favourite time of year, and it seems to last forever. At least that’s what my kids say. They do have a point, though. Depending on which part of our great nation you live in, the snow can start flying as early as October and can appear into April with the heaviest snowfall from December through February.  Don’t let this discourage you however - there’s a lot to love about winter in Canada with your family.

Snowy Winter Fun With Family

Ice Skating

This past weekend I had the quintessential Canadian Winter experience that I’d like to share with you. It wasn’t even planned, and it was the BEST. It all started when my husband and I received a call from friends Friday night to go skating on the bay. What? Skating when it’s cold...and dark? I’m not the best ice skater—my husband’s still teaching me how to move forward in boys skates. Trust me—it’s harder than it looks. I’m definitely a sight for sore eyes! A couple of weeks ago we went down to the bay to see what the ice surface was like. To our surprise it was busy with lots of families spending quality time together - it was heartwarming to see. My attempt at gracefully gliding on an ice surface, however, ended up with me lying flat on my back in starfish formation reeling of both shock, embarrassment and maybe a little pain.

Ice Skating in Downtown Kingston, Ontario

Nonetheless, I laced up my skates on the bay and did a few laps around the homemade ice rink our friends made. The night was still and the sky was so clear the stars looked like diamonds in the sky. While there was a floodlight on the rink, it really wasn’t needed as the moon provided all the glow we needed. Toques, mittens, hot chocolate and the company of good friends and family made it picture perfect.

Snowmobiling

One of the best winter activities for families is snowmobiling! While I don’t have my own snowmobile, my husband does, and I love hopping on the back of his sled for an adventurous ride. After a fun night of ice skating, we woke up early the next morning and headed out for a snowmobile ride. It was chilly, but with the right layers, we stayed warm—not just from the clothing, but from the excitement of zipping along on the sled. The sound of the engine hums peacefully as we glide through snow-covered forests, surrounded by trees blanketed in snow. It’s a beautiful, serene sight you don’t see every day, and experiencing it on a snowmobile makes it even more special for the whole family. Plus, there are toboggans you can tow for the little ones, and two-up seats you can add to your sled, making it an experience everyone can enjoy together.

If you’re looking to enjoy snowmobiling without breaking the bank, you can easily rent a sled from your local motor sport dealer. Another great option, especially for families, is to borrow a sled from friends and head out together for a fun, shared winter adventure.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing? Yes—ice fishing has become a unique pastime for families of all ages! The day after our snowmobile ride, we had the chance to visit some friends we hadn’t seen in a while at their ice fishing hut. It was my first time trying to catch a fish through an ice-covered lake, and I’m still not sure what to make of it. However, I definitely had a peaceful experience. The drive out to the ice in the cozy, heated side-by-side was fun, and we got to enjoy some stunning winter countryside views that you can only reach this way. It sparked my dream of one day living surrounded by fields. I was surprised to see lots of ice huts perched on the small lake and I was even more surprised to see how many families were spending their day together outdoors on the frozen lake.

Once we settled in the hut, it was dark, calm and quiet, but I was amazed by how much light came through the ice from underneath! We could see all the way to the bottom through the three round holes cut out of the ice. I didn’t dress warm enough, however so next time I’ll be better prepared. It was a unique setting to relax and catch up with our friends while we waited for the fish to bite. For some people, it’s more than just a hobby – it’s a true passion.

So I recommend having fun, because there is nothing better for people in this world than to eat, drink, and enjoy life. That way they will experience some happiness along with all the hard work God gives them under the sun. ~ Ecclesiastes 8:15 NLT

Snowshoeing

Our weekend didn’t end with the fishing adventure, though. We decided to slip on our snowshoes and take our dog for a hike through the woods. He’s a Golden Field Retriever, so he loves to run along with us. We even give him his own little backpack, complete with a bell, water, and treats, while we treat ourselves to a cozy sip of hot chocolate. A little tip if you’re thinking of trying snowshoeing: don’t over-layer, because you’ll definitely work up a sweat hiking through the deep snow! Snowshoeing is such a great workout, and you’ll be surprised at how refreshed and invigorated you feel after a good hike through the snowy landscape.

The best part about snowshoeing is that it’s something everyone can enjoy, from grandparents to grandchildren, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. You don’t need anything fancy—just a pair of snowshoes. If buying new isn’t in your budget, you can usually find some great options on local marketplace listings. While the snowshoeing ended our busy fun-filled winter weekend, there are a couple more activities that are sure to make your family smile.

Making a Snowman

Some of the best memories I have growing up as a child is making snow forts and snowmen in the backyard. My twin sister and I would spend hours digging into the snow piles and making the building blocks for our imagined ice hotel or cozy igloo. We loved shaping and smoothing the snow-like bricks and mortar to make our little winter hideaways. Our snowman had a name—Pete—and we’d dress him up with a hat, scarf, a carrot for a nose always making sure he wore a smile on his face. To this day, whenever I see snowmen pop up in our neighbour's yards I smile.

Days on the snow hill were filled with laughter, creativity, and a sense of wonder, as we made our own little world of fun in the snow. It didn’t matter how cold it was—we were too busy enjoying the simple joy of being outdoors, playing in the snowy landscape. While the season in some parts of our great nation don’t seem to bring as much snowflakes these days, snowy afternoons still offer lots of fun activities that make cherished family memories.

Tobogganing

Let’s not forget tobogganing! When my kids were younger they loved to go tobogganing. Whether it was me pulling them behind in a little sleigh or them laughing—and catching some air—barreling down snowy hills with their friends when they were older, these moments make some of our happiest family memories.

Takeaways

Winter in Canada may not always seem like the most inviting season, but with the right mindset and a little creativity, it can become an opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re gliding across a moonlit ice rink, zipping through snow-covered forests, or enjoying the quiet beauty of a snowy hike, there’s something truly special about embracing the season together. So, while the season may feel long, it’s also a time to reflect, savor, and find joy in the little things. Stay warm, stay hopeful, and trust that every winter adventure is a chance to experience God’s creation in all its wonder.

Inspiration: The love of enjoying a Canadian winter with family