Love variety? Pinery Provincial Park might 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. Hike and bike!
Wait…isn’t this blog post about winter adventures?
Oddly enough, a winter weekend at Pinery could be +10ºC and sunny, or -35ºC with snow.
On warm days, venture out for a hike on your own, join a guided hike, or cycle through the campground (be sure to keep boots and bikes off ski trails, though!). The 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 the Ontario snowbelt, we are subject to quick and extreme weather changes.
And when the snow does come down, you can…
2. Skate, ski, and sled!
Pinery sits within the Lake Huron snowbelt. When a major storm hits, the park may receive 40+ cm of snow in mere hours.
On snowy days, explore the park’s 38 km of cross-country ski trails and delight in the breathtaking beauty of a snow-covered Oak Savanna. You can also wander the park’s 5.3 km of packed snowshoeing trails.
No equipment? Check out Pinery’s Twitter to see rental updates.
Go for a skate on Pinery’s outdoor skating rink or slide down the hill on your toboggan!
Wondering if there’s snow? Check our Snow Report for up-to-date winter conditions in the park.
3. Winter birding
Head over to Pinery’s P9 picnic shelter to experience a winter birding hotspot!
Here you can witness the flutter of busy birdies, including Black-capped Chickadees and Tufted Titmice, as well as both Red and White Breasted Nuthatches.
Take a short walk out to the beach where you may be lucky enough to catch a sight of a Bald Eagle soaring high above the waves, a Snowy Owl perched on the bank of a sand dune, or waterfowl drifting along the shoreline.
New to birding? Check out one of out Birding 101 or Bird in Hand programs, happening throughout the winter out of the Visitor Centre.
4. A breathtaking beach
While at the beach, check out the mounds of snow, ice and sand (from a distance only) — our dynamic shoreline is ever-changing.
The formations of winter elements give the illusion that you have escaped southwestern Ontario and ended up in the northern snowy tundra.
Be sure to stay off the ice at ALL times. Now more than ever, with our variable conditions, ice is unpredictable and very dangerous.
5. A heated Visitor Centre
You can learn more about this dynamic shoreline by stopping in at our Visitor Centre, which is open weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., through to the springtime (including Christmas and March Break).
Join one of our naturalist-led programs, including guided hikes, turtle talks, and much more. You can find the current activity schedule posted within the park.
Don’t forget to dress warm as most of our Discovery programs are outside even in the winter.
6. Cabins, yurts, and campsites
Keen for an overnight stay?
Cozy up in one of our 14 heated roofed accommodations, or in your own winterized trailer or tent.
Will we see you this winter?
Book your overnight stay online or by phone at 1-888-668-7275.
Or just come by for the day! You can have an amazing time on a Pinery winter adventure, snow or not! Guarantee your spot by booking your daily vehicle permit in advance.
Be sure to share your adventures photos with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.