Winter Activities in Peterborough

You don’t need to go all the way to Ottawa to skate on a canal! Trent Canal is a perfect destination for ice skating. Park on Armour Road, just south of Hunter Street and get to the ice within a minute. Make sure to pay attention to the colour of the flag mounted beside the canal. A green flag will indicate that the canal is open and a red flag will signify closure. Another great option is the Ontario Speed Skating Oval, inspired by the one Canadian Olympians use. This 400-metre track offers public skating, special events and club practices. Check out their website for more information. 

Distance from cottage: 

Trent canal: 23 minutes

Ontario Speed Skating Oval: 20 minutes

Winter is a perfect time to see forests and trails in a different perspective so grab your skis or snowshoes and head to the many trails surrounding Peterborough. If you do not have your own equipment, Wild Rock rentals has got you covered. Located 20 minutes away from the cottage, Wild Rock offers cross country ski rentals. Rental prices start at $25 per day for kids and $40 per day for adults. Now that you’ve got the equipment, you can hit the trails! 4 minutes from the rental site is the parking lot (131 Maria St, Peterborough) and access to the Trans Canada Trail, the longest hiking trail in the world! In the winter time this trail offers perfect paths for cross country skiing and snowshoeing so make sure to check it out!

Distance from cottage

Wild Rock: 20 minutes

Trans Canada Trail: 25 minutes

If you are looking for a unique adventure, check out Merrylynd Organics Farm. This farm offers horse-drawn sleigh rides and moonlit rides for up to eight people. You can also enjoy outdoor campfires along with farm tours. Tours take 1-2 hours and start between 10-11 am. For more information on rates and how to book, please see their website. 

Distance from cottage: 23 minutes

If you are looking to try ice fishing there are two lakes close to Peterborough worth checking out; Rice Lake and Chemong Lake. You can find fish like perch and bluegills. Most boat launches make for great access points and you can find free parking on the side of the road. Make sure to dress warm and bring your gear. For live bait, check out Bridgenorth Sports & Marine. Make sure you have a fishing license! For more information on where to purchase your license and other ice fishing tips check out the official Ontario website. 

During the last weekend of January, Elmhirst Resort offers Snowkiter’s Weekend. This is a perfect opportunity for newcomers to try demos and lessons. Sessions run for 45 minutes after your training. Call 1-800-461-1940 or email elmr@elmhirst.com to get on the wait list.

Distance from cottage: 40 minutes