Winter is here! While it can be tempting to snuggle up inside and hibernate for the next few months, there is so much to see and do in the West GTA this winter. From Hamilton’s frozen waterfalls to Niagara’s waterparks and Milton’s ski hills, you can get the family out in the fresh air to have fun! These 12 family activities throughout the West GTA will be a hit.

1. Ski at Glen Eden

Hit the slopes at Milton’s Glen Eden this winter! With rentals and a snow school for beginners, you’re covered for a perfect winter day with the family. Reservations are required – you can book a 4-hour slot so everyone can enjoy the hills without overcrowding.

2. Winter hiking

The West GTA is home to some of the country’s most stunning walking trails. The Bruce Trail is the most well-known, stretching from the Niagara River to Tobermory. The path is almost 900km long but is broken into more accessible sections. The Niagara Escarpment is an incredible backdrop, providing fabulous views throughout the year.

3. Niagara Water Parks

If you’re looking for a break from the cold, we’re only about an hour away from 3 Niagara Falls waterparks!

Fallsview Indoor Waterpark has over 3 acres of family fun, including a wave pool, 16 waterslides, hot springs, and a kids’ splash pad. You can spend the day or stay at one of the 3 hotels connected to the park.

Great Wolf Lodge has a 100,000-square-foot waterpark, bowling alley, kids’ spa, arcade, and a fun MagicQuest that takes you throughout the hotel. It’s kept at a balmy 84 degrees and has themed suites for the perfect escape from the snow and cold! The waterpark is only accessible if you are staying at the hotel.

 Americana Resort and Waterpark is home to Waves – a 25,000-square-foot waterpark. It has water slides, a kiddie pool, a hot tub, a giant tipping bucket, and a wave pool. You can hit the arcade or grab a snack when you need a break from the water. You can buy a day pass or stay at the resort.

4. Go skating at an outdoor rink

There are more than 20 outdoor rinks throughout Oakville, Burlington, and Hamilton. Start exploring, and you’re sure to find your family’s favourite!

Here are a few spots to visit this winter:  

• Trafalgar Park in Oakville
• Waterdown Memorial Park skating loop
• Dundas Driving Park
• Rotary Centennial Pond at Spencer Smith Park

5. Niagara Falls light show

Niagara Falls’ winter festival of lights is an extraordinary sight from November to February. Over 3 million lights transform the city into a winter wonderland. You can take in the new illumination light show and nightly fireworks or walk along the self-guided hot chocolate trail.

6. Royal Botanical Gardens Winter Wonders

Burlington’s Royal Botanical Gardens is beautiful year-round! From the end of November until January, Winter Wonders celebrates the magic of winter with festive light and sound installations. Stroll through the breathtaking outdoor garden, warm up in the greenhouse and explore the Mediterranean plant display.

7. Visit frozen waterfalls

Hilton Falls is beautiful year-round. In winter, you can cross-country ski, hike, or snowshoe along the trail, ending at a stunning frozen waterfall. Hamilton is home to over 150 waterfalls, many of which are accessible for winter hikes.

8. Go snowshoeing at Kelso Conservation Area

Home to Glen Eden, you can ski at Kelso, but the park also offers so much more. You can hike or snowshoe along the 6.4 km trail to explore the park, watch birds and wildlife, and enjoy the stunning views.  

 9. Toboggan at Erindale Park

Mississauga is full of expansive parks with lots of winding hills. You have plenty of options for a day of tobogganing – a popular favourite is Erindale Park. With steep, long hills, it’s perfect for older kids looking for more excitement!

10. Visit Mountsberg Conservation Area

Visit Mountsberg from November – January to take in their award-winning event, Winterlit. Stroll along two different paths featuring sustainably sourced, illuminated art installations. After the lights, cozy up in front of the bonfire to warm up!

11. Go Tubing at Mount Chinguacousy

Snow tubing is a great way to spend a winter day! Mount Chinguacousy in Brampton opens its hills in January, depending on snow and hill conditions. You can ski, snowboard or tube in the 49-hectare park.

12. Stroll Along Streetsville

For a quiet day of shopping and exploring, head to Streetsville. Known as the Village in the City, the area is full of charming historic buildings, cute cafes, and locally-owned businesses. It is particularly festive during the festive season!

There is so much fun in the West GTA this winter! We hope you and your family get out to enjoy all the great activities our area has to offer this winter.

Let us know if you have any favourite activities we should add to our list!