Hit the Slopes, Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride, and Explore Unique Farm Adventures Just a Short Drive from Toronto
by Cora Kuehl | January 2026
Winter in Waterloo Region just hits differently. There’s something about bundling up and heading outside that feels easy and inviting. Whether it’s outdoor skating with friends, snowshoeing and winter hiking through quiet trails, or heading out for a peaceful horseback ride across snowy fields. If you’re looking for a winter escape that feels welcoming instead of overwhelming, Waterloo Region is the kind of place that makes you want to enjoy the outdoors just a bit longer.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Hit the slopes at Chicopee Ski and make the most of winter! Whether you’re a total beginner or a confident boarder, Chicopee has runs for every skill level, so everyone can jump in and have fun. It’s the perfect place to learn, improve, or just enjoy a few laps with friends. Feeling adventurous? This could be the season you discover a hidden talent for snowboarding. With a welcoming vibe and plenty of variety, Chicopee makes winter sports feel approachable and exciting. Bundle up, strap in, and enjoy the thrill of flying down the hill!
Udderly Ridiculous Winter Farm Fun
How about a cozy winter adventure with some furry friends? Head to Udderly Ridiculous Farm Life where you can meet adorable alpacas!
You’ll head outside to hang with the herd where you’ll hand-feed them, watch them do ridiculous alpaca things. You’ll also soon discover that no two alpaca are alike: find out which one is the Drama Queen (maybe Sherlock or Finn?). You’ll also craft an eco-friendly nesting ball from actual alpaca fibre as part of your farm adventure.
(DYK: If you hang the nesting ball in your backyard in the spring, birds will use the fibre to help build their nests. Tres chic – or should that be ‘chick’!)
Sleigh and Horseback Rides
Looking for a fun way to enjoy winter’s scenic side in Waterloo Region? Sleigh rides and horseback riding are perfect for getting outside and embracing the season! At Conestoga Horseback Adventures, you can hop in cozy sleigh, and let the gentle clip-clop of horses through snowy trails transport you to a picture-perfect winter scene. If you’re looking for more action, they also offers winter trail rides, letting you explore open fields on horseback. It’s a unique way to connect with nature, enjoy the fresh air, and make some memories.
Slide into Fun at Chicopee Tube Park
Chicopee Tube Park is sloping, sliding winter fun! The snow hill is 250 feet high, and has a 900ft long snow tubing slope. Head down the hill on your own, or head down the hill with up to 6 people joined together! Time slots are 90 minutes of unlimited snow tubing! There’s even a magic carpet conveyor lift that will take you up the hill for easy access to the launch area.
Winterloo in Uptown Waterloo
Who says outdoor events are only for summer? Uptown Waterloo is here to prove winter does it better. Winterloo is back on Saturday, January 24, 2026, turning the streets into a full-on winter playground. Watch live ice sculpting, meet adorable snow dogs, and hop on a sled ride for some classic cold-weather fun! Add in a live DJ bringing the beats, and you’ve got an event that’s equal parts cozy and electric. Grab a warm drink and wander through the action! There’s something exciting around every corner. Winterloo is the perfect excuse to get outside, embrace the season, and experience Uptown Waterloo at its frostiest and most fun.
Snowshoeing in Waterloo Region’s Conservation Areas
Snowshoeing is a fun, feel-good way to stay active while enjoying everything winter has to offer. It’s easy to learn, surprisingly good exercise, and a great excuse to get outdoors.
Local favourites like Pinehurst Lake, Shade’s Mill and Laurel Creek conservation areas feature scenic trails that feel especially magical after a fresh snowfall. The peaceful setting and soft crunch of snow underfoot make it a relaxing winter escape.
If you don’t own snowshoes, you’re still covered; the Kitchener Public Library has snowshoes available to borrow, making it easy and budget-friendly to try something new! Bring a friend, and turn a chilly day into a simple and fun winter adventure.
Outdoor Skating Rinks
Outdoor skating in Waterloo Region is pure winter joy! There’s something special about lacing up your skates, stepping onto a fresh outdoor rink, and feeling the cold air on your face. Music, laughter, and the sound of blades on ice make it even better! Check out the rinks in Uptown Waterloo, at Carl Zehr Square in front of Kitchener City Hall, and in Cambridge.
Don’t have skates? Not a problem! You can borrow skates from the Kitchener Public Library and the Waterloo Public Library, making it easy for anyone to join in. Hot chocolate afterward is basically required!