Beginner's guide to snowkiting in Ontario
Lake Simcoe | iKITE Canada
Experience the euphoria of surfing and soaring across a frozen lake or a snowy field. Clutching the controls of a kite, combine the skills of waterskiing and snowboarding with the harnessed power of Ontario’s winter wind to give you lift and speed.
No lineups, no lift tickets, full adrenaline rush. Sounds good?
Where to go snowkiting
Snowkiting is a unique outdoor winter sport that’s gaining popularity worldwide. From a frozen lake to snow-covered fields, snowkiting only requires wide open spaces and the right wind conditions.
Some of the most popular spots for snowkiting are lakes and fields near Toronto, Collingwood, Wasaga, Georgina, Beaverton in Southern Ontario and locations near Thunder Bay in the north.
Learn more about some of the best places to snowkite in Ontario.
What you’ll need to go snowkiting
Snowkiting gear includes harnesses, helmet and kite, of course, as well as skis or snowboard. You’ll want to dress warmly; think snow pants and layer up.
Keep in mind the sport is heavily weather dependent, so you’ll need to be mobile and flexible. Spontaneity is part of the fun!
Who to go snowkiting with
Whether you’re a first-time flyer looking to learn a new skill, or you’re transferring your summer kitesurfing skills to the snow, these instructors can teach you everything you need to know about snowkiting in Ontario.
Here are the best places to take lessons and go on expeditions this winter.
iKite Canada
iKite offers customized snowkiting lessons to any skill level, taught by an International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) certified instructor. iKite recommends at least two lessons for beginners to get a firm grasp of the basic techniques and safety measures.
In addition, they’ll gear you up with necessary equipment and rentals, or you’re welcome to bring your own skis or snowboard if you wish—any ski or snowboard is compatible with any snowkite. iKite Canada is located just outside Toronto, although they trek out to various Southern Ontario locations. Cooks Bay, on Lake Simcoe is one of their go-to locations for snowkiting lessons as it freezes over early and stays frozen for the full season.
HQ location: 109 White Beach Crescent, Maple
PBKiteboarding
If you’re looking to go beyond the beginner level as quickly and efficiently as possible, check out PBKiteboarding in Toronto. These kiteboarding aficionados know all things related to wind, kites and surfing.
Learn the basics, then move on to more advanced tricks like front rolls and spins with guidance from these experienced instructors. Take your first lessons in Toronto before heading out to catch some wind on the snowfields in Ontario.
HQ location: 26 Natalie Place, Toronto
Canadian Kite Surfing Society
For snowkiting lessons at all levels—from beginner to intermediate—look no further than the Canadian Kite Surfing Society (CKSS), experts in all things kite-related.
Learn to master the sport at various locations in Ontario and relax knowing you’re in the hands of a certified, professional instructor. All the equipment you need is provided.
HQ location: 665 Millway Avenue, Unit #3B, Concord
Superior Kiteboarding
If you’re looking for snowkiting gear in northwest Ontario, Superior Kiteboarding carries products by Ozone, one of the world’s top manufacturers of kites and paragliders.
HQ location: 242-1100 Memorial Ave, Thunder Bay
Stephen Elmhirst Memorial Snowkite Weekend
For a fun weekend away with family or friends, snowkiters of all ages and skill levels should check out the Stephen Elmhirst Memorial Snowkite Weekend.
Running January 26-28, 2024, the package includes two nights in a waterfront cottage, weekend breakfasts, resort access, and a 45-minute lesson for beginners.
HQ location: Elmhirst’s Resort, 1045 Settlers Line, Keene
Last updated: March 25, 2024