Ice caves, snowkiting and more Ontario ice-based adventures
Elmhirst's Resort | Justin Soule
Take winter to another level, from extreme sports like ice climbing, ice paddling and icekiting to skating frozen waterways, viewing ice caves and wellness cold plunges.
Ice-based experiences often rely on planning, luck with the weather and willingness to endure the elements. The payoff is the satisfaction from pushing boundaries and the lasting memories you create.
Ice paddling
While a top destination for Ontario sea kayaking in the summertime, few paddlers brave the ice waters of Lake Superior in the late winter.
Winter paddling is dangerous without proper equipment and preparation. However, with the assistance of skilled guides, even newer paddlers can marvel at the wonders created by this massive lake.
Such A Nice Day (S.A.N.D.) Adventures
Such A Nice Day (S.A.N.D.) Adventures lead excursions in March and April when the northern winter ends. As Lake Superior begins to break up, remnants of the ice covering massive areas linger. Safely outfitted in expedition-grade kayaks and dry suits, explore ice floes, break through thin sheet ice and view cathedrals of ice caves on the still spring waters.
Tours take place in Thunder Bay or the nearby Rossport Islands, one of the gems of Lake Superior. Expect to be out for a half or full day, with opportunities to explore coastlines and the ever-changing ice. Experienced guides help your group navigate the ice conditions.
Ice caves
When conditions are just right, ice caves form on the rocky, exposed coasts of the Great Lakes.
These caves are formed when waves repeatedly crash against cliffs in sub-zero temperatures. As the waves hit the rocks, pieces gradually freeze, forming caves or cavities.
This phenomenon of ice caves is most common on Lake Superior. Some of the best and most accessible caves are found along the Trans-Canada Highway between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa.
The best time to see these caves is during winter, when temperatures reach their coldest, from February to March.
Stokely Creek Lodge
Stokely Creek Lodge offers guided tours to spots north of Sault Ste. Marie. Getting to these caves requires awareness of ice conditions and proper planning. Local guides will help keep your group safe and find the best caves.
Finding the caves involves snowshoeing across the ice, so always check ice conditions before heading out.
The condition of the ice forming the caves also changes; exercise extreme caution and consider the conditions before entering.
Snowkiting
Experience the euphoria of surfing and soaring across a frozen lake or snowy field.
One of Ontario’s most extreme snow sports, snowkiting (or ice kiting) combines the skills of waterskiing and snowboarding with the harnessed power of Ontario’s winter wind to give you lift and speed.
iKite Canada
iKite Canada offers customized snowkiting lessons taught by an International Kiteboarding Organization (IKO) certified instructor.
You will be supplied with the necessary gear and equipment, and additional rentals. You are also welcome to bring your own skis or snowboard.
Ice climbing
The steep topography and low temperatures during Northern Ontario winters make perfect ice climbing conditions. Ice walls form where moisture seeps from rocks or from frozen waterfalls, creating fantastic structures with varied textures and shapes.
More than just a good workout, ice climbers can engage with the landscape in a unique way. While experience with rock climbing is undoubtedly helpful, ice climbing techniques are very different, so guides typically tailor their tours to beginners. Specialized equipment like harnesses, axes and crampons is supplied by the operator, making guided tours a great introduction to the activity.
Outdoor Skills and Thrills
Thunder Bay’s Outdoor Skills and Thrills offers guided ice climbing experiences to some of the best ice climbing in Ontario at Orient Bay.
Haliburton Forest
Haliburton Forest offers the ideal ice climbing experience for beginners. Learn to properly gear up, safely take a swing at the ice wall and start climbing on a half-day adventure.
Muskoka Mountainworks
Muskoka Mountainworks leads ice climbing and guided tours and workshops within the Muskoka, Haliburton, Madawaska, Bancroft and Niagara Escarpment regions.
Ice skating on skate trails
Skating is one of Canada’s most popular ice-based sports.
Go beyond the indoor rinks for a magical day or evening open-air skate through snow-covered forests or in the heart of the city. Some trails also offer skate rentals.
Stake trails in Ontario Parks
Glide along ice trails this winter that wind and loop through snow-laden forests.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park features a 300-metre-long skating trail with unique views of the Giant’s silhouette against the winter sky.
Another great option is MacGregor Point Provincial Park, which maintains an outdoor ice skate trail through the scenic landscape. The trail is lit at night for an enchanting skating experience under the stars.
Get a daily vehicle permit online in advance to secure your reservation.
The Bentway
One of Toronto’s favourite public spaces under the Gardiner Expressway features a 220-metre, figure-eight skate trail complete with benches and warming stations.
The Rideau Canal
The Rideau Canal is Canada’s most well-known ice skating path and a must-try experience for skating enthusiasts. Conditions are best after a prolonged cold, often late January through March.
The rink only opens if the weather is cold enough, so check the National Capital Commission’s ice report before heading out. Skate and sleigh rentals are available at three pavilions along the skateway.
Snowshoeing to frozen waterfalls
Snowshoeing is a great workout and provides a fresh perspective on traditional hiking trails. There are great snowshoeing locations across the province; some even lead to scenic frozen cascades and waterfalls.
Snowshoeing in Ontario Parks
The natural landscapes in Ontario Parks transform into a winter wonderland. Several parks offer snowshoeing excursions on designated trails to view ice structures.
Explore the trails at Quetico Provincial Park to the frozen French Falls and a network of frozen lakes and rivers. Roofed accommodations make overnight stays more comfortable.
At Killarney Provincial Park, The Crack passes along Kakakise Lake, where groundwater seeps out of the rock and forms a massive ice fall.
The Mountain Portage Trail at Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is an easy snowshoeing loop with stunning views of the frozen falls.
Check with the park to see if the ice conditions are safe before venturing out.
Outdoor cold plunges
Immerse yourself in a frigid lake on an outdoor cold plunge or a polar plunge.
Cold water immersion offers numerous benefits, including muscle recovery, reduced stress and a strengthened immune system.
Courage Polar Bear Dip
The Courage Polar Bear Dip is an annual New Year’s Day event that draws hundreds of people to Oakville to jump into the icy waters of Lake Ontario. Since its inception in 1985, this polar bear plunge has raised over two million dollars for World Vision Canada.
Location: Oakville
Dimensions Algonquin Highlands
Set in the spectacular Algonquin Highlands, Dimensions offers customized restorative and transformational retreats. The winter wellness program includes a rejuvenating cold plunge in the pristine waters of Maple Lake.
Location: 1218 Canopy Lane, Algonquin Highlands
Before you set out on a guided adventure, make sure you’re fully covered. Verify personal insurance, review the operator’s policy and confirm insurance details before booking any adventure activity.
Embrace next-level winter adventure on a thrilling ice-based experience in Ontario.
Last updated: December 19, 2025