After being spoiled with autumn-like temperatures for most of December, winter has finally arrived in Barrie & the surrounding areas! While the snow does bring snowblowers and parkas, it also brings some amazing winter activities to take advantage of. Here are our favourites!
5 Fun Things To Do in Barrie This Winter
1. Tobogganing
Nothing says winter like whipping down an icy hill on a tiny plastic sled! There are so many great hills in and around Barrie from well-known Sunnidale Park or Hillcrest Public School to quieter runs like those tucked away in Ardagh Bluffs. Check out the Great Canadian Tobogganing Map by Google for the hill closest to you!
2. Skating
While many of the outdoor rinks are just gearing up for the season, skating has begun at the Circle in the Square. Heated change rooms, washroom facilities and parking make it hassle-free family fun. With the nights remaining cooler, it will only be a matter of time before the remaining city-run rinks and the many volunteer-managed outdoor rinks in Barrie have been flooded and are ready for skating.
3.Skiing
The local ski hills are thanking the snow gods for finally giving them some of the white, fluffy stuff! Runs and trails have finally opened at Snow Valley Ski Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone, Horseshoe Resort and Hardwood Ski & Bike.
4. Snowshoeing
Winter brings a whole new seasonal soundtrack and one of our favourites is the crunch of snow under your snowshoes! Did you know that you can rent snowshoes from the Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) store in Barrie? They rent them by the day or by the week so you can practice stomping around your backyard or find a great local trail to walk the dog through.
5. Drinking a warm ‘Cuppa Tea’
Winter isn’t everyone’s favourite season, so why not enjoy the sparkling snow through the window with a cozy cup of tea in your hands. English & Miller in downtown Barrie provides views of snowy Kempenfelt Bay while serving up traditional British Tearoom fare.