BY MEGAN HONAN | Updated January 2025
As the temperature dips colder and we welcome the winter season, there is plenty to keep you busy outdoors in Waterloo Region. In true Canadian fashion, celebrate the season of snow with activities ranging from downhill skiing, to backcountry snowshoeing, to skating in the downtown metropolis. For both the young and the old, Waterloo Region is the place to be this winter season. Discover these favourite outdoor adventures and embrace the snowy months ahead!
Hit the Slopes at Chicopee Ski Hill
Drawing skiers and snowboarders from across Ontario, this ski resort is perfect for everyone––beginners and pros. Offering easy ski and board rental equipment, Chicopee makes for a fun day out with the whole family. If it’s your first time or you’re feeling a little rusty, there are lesson options available. After you’ve hit the slopes, cozy up back at the Silvertip Lounge for some après-ski drinks and a piping hot meal.
Go for a walk with an Alpaca at Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life
You heard me right – Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life invites you to step into the countryside with a new alpaca companion for an unforgettable alpaca walk! Together, you’ll stroll 1.5km through beautiful farm fields, creating a special bond along the way. After the walk, you’ll meet the rest of the herd, hand-feed them, and discover even more about these fascinating animals. Then, warm up in the farm store with a hot beverage and hands-on learning about alpaca fiber and how it’s turned into yarn.
Note that this experience needs to be booked in advance, and is only available weekends during the winter months.
Grab Your Skates and Head to Waterloo Public Square
To experience the Uptown Waterloo core, grab your skates and head to the Waterloo Public Square! Offering the largest outdoor skating rink in the area, there is plenty of room to practice your spins and twirls on the ice. For a full day adventure, explore the plenty of shops and restaurants in the area to warm up and keep the winter festivities going. There are even special date night skates on select dates during the winter months!
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Chicopee Tube Park
If skiing isn’t your thing, head to the other side of the Chicopee hill to experience the fast-paced adrenaline of tubing. Fly down the hill at lightning fast speeds for a thrill of a lifetime. With six different chutes to choose from, you can go again and again––then hop on the magic carpet to whiz you right back up to the top.
Enjoy the Winter Scenery on Snowshoes at Laurel Creek
Tucked away in North Waterloo, this Grand River Conservation Authority trail makes for an ideal winter outing. On a snowy day, set out along the 4.5km maintained trail either by foot or snowshoes to take in the beauty of winter. Trek past the frozen creek as it winds alongside the trail, or keep eyes peeled for the colourful birds that call Laurel Creek home. Equipment rentals are available on-site, so you don’t need to worry about a thing!
Try the trails and ice fishing at Shade’s Mill Conservation Area
Experience the magic of winter at Shade’s Mill Conservation Area, the longest trail network of all Grand River Conservation Authority winter trails. With 10km of pristine paths to hike, or even cross country ski––it’s easy to make a day of it. For those who’ve always wanted to try their hand at ice fishing, the reservoir is the perfect spot with day huts available to keep you warm and toasty. If you want to venture further, both skiing and snowshoe rentals are available.