Tucked away in the serene town of Huntsville lies Arrowhead Provincial Park, a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.
This picturesque landscape boasts a plethora of activities perfect for embracing the chilly months, including cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paths.
But perhaps the crown jewel of this snow-laden paradise is the enchanting ice skating trail that winds through the evergreen forest, inviting visitors to explore the magical setting.
Spanning 1.3 kilometres, the skating trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park is a winter playground for all ages. Whether enjoying the skating trail by daylight or illuminated by the flickering glow of torches during the "Fire and Ice" nights, this trail promises an memorable experience.
For those seeking a quieter, more immersive escapade, week-day visits are recommended. The tranquility of gliding through this natural masterpiece is best enjoyed without the weekend rush.
According to a recent social media post from the park, the much-anticipated opening of the skating trail depends on consistent cold temperatures to build enough ice for the entire season.
It takes over 100,000 litres of water to create a solid base, with the trail utilizing the summer campground roads in the East River Campground. The park floods these roads to form the trail and continues building the ice throughout the winter, weather permitting.
Currently, the snow has been packed down to form a base for the trail. Once the park begins laying water, they will provide an update on its progress—so stay tuned.
Once opened, the trail will welcome visitors every day, providing ample opportunities to embrace the wintry splendour.
For those needing skates, you can rent a pair for three hours for $15. Arrowhead also has rentals available for snowshoes and cross-country skies.
To ensure seamless access to this winter paradise, securing a day-use permit in advance is advised.
You can stay updated on the trail's opening by visiting Arrowhead Park's website or checking out the Ontario Parks snow report.
