The Best Places to Visit in Canada during Winter
Winters in Canada are known to bring snow and freezing temperatures. This contributes to the typical image that most people have of Canadian winters: white, cold, and mostly spent indoors.
This isn't the case though. There are many outdoor places and activities you can enjoy, even in the middle of winter. Yes, it may be cold and there may be plenty of snow, but that will only make your Canadian winter experience more memorable, especially if you visit any of the following places:
Yukon Territory, Northwest Territories or Nunavut
These areas are the best places to see the beautiful Northern Lights (aurora borealis) that color the night sky during winter. People from all over the world make pilgrimages to cities like Whitehorse and Yellowknife so view this phenomenon. Remember to bring your camera as you will definitely want to take pictures and videos.
British Columbia Mountains and Vancouver Island Surf
Avid skiers can book a vacation at a heli-skiing lodge deep in the British Colombia mountain wilderness to try out heli-skiing. Be warned that these vacations are not cheap. While trained heli-skiing guides accompany all guests, this activity is only suitable for advanced skiers. On the other hand, surfing may be the last thing on most people’s minds, but not for those who live on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The winter north Pacific waves are perfect for surfing—so don a wetsuit and brave the cold water for an exciting winter experience!
Quebec's Ice Hotel and Winter Carnival
The Ice Hotel in Quebec City is an impressive sight during the winter season, and is definitely one of the places tourists shouldn't miss! This hotel is carved out of ice and is rebuilt every year! Visitors are invited for tours and overnight stays. There's even an outdoor hot tub and an Ice Bar where you can order drinks and food. The ice building’s walls are beautifully carved, and everything looks incredible with the lighting effects.
As for the Winter Carnival, this is the world's longest winter celebration where people can watch and join competitions like sled races and ice sculpting.
Ottawa's Rideau Canal
At 7.8 kilometers/5 miles long, the Rideau Canal becomes one of the world’s longes t skating rinks in winter. There are rental booths beside the canal where people can get a pair of skates and sleds. It is really a wonderful place for families to enjoy. Children and adults alike can practice skating along the long stretches of ice and take turns pulling children on sleds.
Remember to wear thick, warm, winter clothes along with other protection against the cold like hats, scarves, mufflers, and gloves. If you're going to go to these places accompanied by your parents and grandparents, be sure to keep them properly clothed and bring hot drinks to counter the cold. They may have Super Visa insurance for basic medical and hospital fees (because it is required when they apply for a Super Visa), but it is obviously preferable that they don't get sick while they are staying in Canada.