LET IT SNOW!
Warm up to winter in the beautiful Bay of Quinte region by getting out and checking off these seasonal activities on the BoQ Bucket List: Winter Edition!
1. ICE FISHING ON THE BAY
If you want to reel in some winter fun this year, grab a sweater, rent or purchase a hut and go ice fishing on the Bay of Quinte. Known as the walleye capital of the world (wow!), the Bay of Quinte offers lots to explore for that fishing expert in the family, those who love winter or someone looking to try something new.
Note: As you plan your day, stay safe by checking current ice conditions by reaching out to local municipal authorities. Check out these ice fishing tips for a safe outing!
2. HIT THE SLOPES
Spend a day at Batawa Ski Hill, the small hill with big heart that offers 12 runs from novice to experiences, a gladed run and two terrain parks with assorted rails, boxes, jibs and jumps. They have added outdoor fire pits with seating so guests can enjoy a winter picnic, getting the full winter experience.
Visit their website or contact them to make reservations ahead of time (members with a season pass included) and follow them on social media for updates.
3. TAKE A HIKE
Get moving and embrace the chilly air with a winter hike at one of the conservation areas or parks below. Take the Hastings Heritage Trail: this four-season trail follows an old railway linking Hastings County and travels north for 191 kilometres! Throughout the year visitors can be seen hiking, biking, snowmobiling or even horseback riding along the trail. The southern point begins at Glen Ross in Quinte West.
Hastings Heritage Trail
Lower Trent Conservation
Quinte Conservation
H.R. Frink Conservation Area
Glen Miller Conservation Area
Presqu’ile Provincial Park
8 Must-Try Hikes in the Bay of Quinte
4. GEO CASH-IN
If you’re not familiar with geocaching, it’s basically a worldwide scavenger hunt that you can play using the free geocaching app on your phone. There may be a few hidden in the region! See how many hidden treasures you can find.
5. SKI CROSS COUNTRY
Cross-country skiing is both a great workout and a fun adventure. It’s easy to learn and after purchasing the initial equipment, it’s pretty low cost (aside from the warm layers and a hot chocolate at the end). It’s also kid-friendly! Many of the conservation areas and trails in the Bay of Quinte region are perfect for cross-country skiing.
6. SHOES FOR SNOW
If you’re an avid runner in the warmer seasons or enjoy hiking, definitely try snowshoeing. It gives you a chance to really take in your surroundings and appreciate areas that are often crowded in the summer.
Many of the conservation areas in the region offer snowshoeing trails, and Batawa Ski Hill is now offering rentals!
Did you know: snowshoes are rooted in Indigenous design and use? Click here to learn more about how snowshoes are made, the history of their usage and cultural significance.
7. SLIDE INTO WINTER
Bring your little ones or release your inner child tobogganing at East Zwick’s Park!
A great hill with a beautiful view is a perfect winter recipe for a jam-packed afternoon of fun.
8. HIT THE TRAILS ON HORSEBACK
Fina Vista Farm offers guided trail rides, lessons, riding memberships, PlayDays for adult riders and camps in the summer season. The farm is located in Quinte West and is home to a herd of Paso Fino horses, which are known for their smooth, gentle gait. Call ahead and enjoy a guided magical winter ride into the woods.
Due to COVID-19, there are some restrictions at this time. All rides are by appointment only and social distancing requirements are in effect.
9. GO FOR A SKATE
It’s time to lace up your skates and hit the ice at these indoor and outdoor rinks in the BoQ! *Check with each location/municipality for opening dates and hours of operation.*
Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre, Belleville
Victoria Harbour (outdoor)
West Zwick’s Cove (outdoor)
Batawa Lions Club (outdoor)
Duncan McDonald Memorial Community Gardens, Quinte West
Dr. McMullen Recreation Centre, Frankford
Codrington (outdoor)
King Edward Park Arena, Brighton
Strathcona Paper Centre, Greater Napanee
Note: Please use caution if/when skating on ice over open water. Check with local municipal authorities on ice thickness to make sure it’s safe before you go out.
10. HEAT UP IN A SAUNA
Experience a traditional Russian Banya (outdoor sauna experience) at NotWaste in Quinte West! The Banya uses a woodstove to make steam (95° C) and create a relaxing and aromatic experience.
Your host will provide you with jams, honey and tea as per Russian tradition in between hot and cold sessions. There is also a private outdoor shower and changing room, as well as guided forest tours if you choose. The Banya experience is said to boost immunity, relax sore muscles and help with insomnia and your overall mood.
11. HAVE A HOT CHOCOLATE
After you have checked each winter activity off of your list, end it with a delicious hot chocolate! There are plenty of cozy cafés across the region that offer special warm beverages to warm your bones after a fun day outside in the cold.
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