Snowshoeing in the Haliburton Highlands

There’s nothing quite like tramping through several inches of fresh snowpack in the sprawling, seemingly-endless Haliburton Highlands, home to Sandy Lane Resort, an idyllic year-round haven located along the serene banks of Halls Lake. Canadians embrace winter’s arrival much like our ancestors did: with open arms. By now, you likely know all about Southern Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park, a 1.9-million-acre preserve north of picturesque Haliburton—tailor-made for exploration. And exploration comes in many varieties, including ice climbing, dog sledding, and cross-country skiing. However, it’s nearly impossible to imagine a more wondrous way to survey a new landscape than snowshoeing, especially in the serene Haliburton Highlands.

The Frost Centre

There’s no better place to try snowshoeing in the Haliburton Highlands than the Frost Centre, a 65,000-acre winter wonderland between Dorset and Carnarvon. In fact, the Frost Centre is a mere 14 kilometres from Sandy Lane Resort’s lakefront property. Most utilize this oft-overlooked wilderness reserve for Nordic skiing. However, we highly recommend strapping on a pair of snowshoes and plodding into the true backcountry with nary a care in the world. A half-day, self-guided snowshoe session inside the Frost Centre is undeniably freeing and rejuvenating. Outdoor enthusiasts will discover approximately 11 kilometers of well-marked, looping snowshoe trails, as well as countless all-season hiking paths that circle several uninhabited lakes.

Hundreds of local volunteers maintain the area, and we thank them greatly! Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as moose, white-tailed deer, owls, and various birds thrive in these woodlands. Don’t forget that Sandy Lane Resort offers snowshoe and pole rentals, as well as 20 percent off trail passes for those who aim to visit the Frost Centre. If you’re itching to survey Algonquin Provincial Park this winter, we recommend browsing through its most beloved trails.

Guided Snowshoeing near Haliburton, Ontario

The good people at Yours Outdoors know everything about the Haliburton Highlands, including the most beautiful public snowshoeing destinations, many of which give a whole new meaning to the phrase “hidden gem.” Their guided excursions range from the Snowshoe like a Canadian to the “Dahl Days” extravaganza and the always-unique “Snowga.” Yours Outdoors is always ahead of the trends while remaining incredibly affordable. Snowshoeing in the Haliburton Highlands is often combined with other pursuits, including glassblowing, yoga, forest bathing, and fur trading. Due to COVID-19, availability is limited, so please book your guided excursion today.

Secluded Winter Resorts in Ontario: Sandy Lane

We couldn’t think of a better place to unwind, unthaw, and relax this winter than Sandy Lane Resort, a secluded, peaceful haven within reach of the Greater Toronto Area. Sandy Lane’s cozy, romantic cottages are home to the region’s only wood-burning fireplaces—a splendid perk, especially in the wintertime. Many cottages feature outdoor hot tubs, lake views, sun decks, satellite television, and full kitchens. It’s the ultimate cottage resort experience, whether you’re looking for a three-day escape with your partner or a whole week off with the kids.