There’s still ample time to plan a snowy, late-winter expedition into the heart of the Haliburton Highlands. This particularly serene slice of Ontario is celebrated for its ice fishing, ice climbing, dog sledding, Nordic skiing, and backcountry snowmobiling. However, you’ll also be pleasantly surprised to discover that this peaceful, picturesque land is home to not one but two of the most beloved ski hills in Ontario. In fact, Sandy Lane Resort, home to the coziest Haliburton cottage rentals, is just a short drive from both Sir Sam’s and Hidden Valley Highlands. So, grab your gear, load up the car, and start trekking north to beautiful Halls Lake, a true Canadian hidden gem.
The 2 Best Ski Hills in Ontario
As mentioned above, we offer a variety of classic winter excitement right here along the banks of frozen Halls Lake. That being said, there’s nothing quite like the feeling one gains while carving down a steep, unquestionably exhilarating black diamond. To ensure that your late-winter escape from Toronto is nothing short of flawless, we’ve decided to highlight two ski hills in Ontario: Sir Sam’s and Hidden Valley Highlands.
Sir Sam’s Ski / Ride, Eagle Lake
A few kilometres north of Haliburton, Ontario, rests a scenic ski hill along the southern banks of Eagle Lake. Sir Sam’s Ski / Ride is approximately 32 kilometres east of Sandy Lane Resort—the drive weaves past eight frosty lakes! One of Sir Sam’s main selling points is the gnarly Terrain Park, which features a variety of rails, jumps, and boxes. Most ski trails tower above Eagle Lake, making the lift rides extra memorable. The slopes, meanwhile, range from beginner to intermediate and, eventually, difficult. Unlike those overcrowded ski hills near Toronto, Sir Sam’s is always free of lines. Best slopes: Heartbreaker, Cash Register, and Dingle.
Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, Huntsville
Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area rests along the eastern edge of Muskoka country, but it’s just a scenic, 45-minute drive around the Lakes of Bays from our classic Haliburton accommodations. While Sir Sam’s provides a better overall experience, Hidden Valley offers night skiing—a rarity in Canada. This small yet beautiful ski area is perfect for families of skiers and snowboarders. Most slopes are beginner-friendly, and the Terrain Park is ideal for those still crafting their boarding skills. It’s worth noting that both of these ski hills in Ontario offer inexpensive equipment rentals, as well as on-site dining and beverage service. Best slopes: The Fun Run, The Face, and Dipsy Doodle.
Four-Season Cottage Rentals in Ontario
After a fun afternoon with the kids on one of the prettiest ski hills in Ontario, return to Sandy Lane Resort for a home-cooked meal, a hot tub soak, and stories next to a wood-burning fireplace. As mentioned earlier, the Haliburton Highlands is an idyllic destination for those with a penchant for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and Nordic skiing. Nothing is better than relaxing inside a cozy cabin overlooking Halls Lake after a full day of woodland adventure. Please give us a call today at 705-489-2020 to book a last-minute wintertime escape from Toronto (or check availability online).
