Ontario is home to some stunning natural wonders and during the winter months, these ones get a whole new magical vibe. Surrounded by snow and glistening landscapes, these natural wonders are even more beautiful during the colder months and you'll be whisked away to Narnia as you explore them.
From frozen cascades to dense forests blanketed in snow, these natural wonders are worth adding to your bucket list this winter.
Of course, the views can change depending on the weather and temperature, but it's all part of the magic of the season.
If you're looking for a unique winter adventure, here are eight natural wonders to visit across the province that are even more beautiful during the snowy months.
Niagara Falls
Price: Free
Address: Niagara Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: Perhaps one of the most well-known natural wonders in Ontario is Niagara Falls. The massive cascade is a popular warm-weather attraction, but winter brings a whole new kind of magic to this landmark.
The area transforms into a frozen landscape complete with ice formations, a frosty mist and ice build up that makes the Falls appear frozen.
During the nightly illumination, vibrant colours reflect off the icy surfaces, creating an enchanting spectacle. You can even take a trip behind this chilling cascade with the Journey Behind the Falls adventure.
Niagara Falls Toursim website
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: RR1, Pass Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: This park is beautiful year-round, but winter transforms it into a stunning paradise. The vast landscape glistens with snowflakes and some of the park's own natural wonders, such as the Sea Lion rock formation, take on a whole new enchanting charm.
You can enjoy skiing along some of the park's 60 kilometres of groomed and track-set trails, snowshoeing along frosty paths and more. You also don't want to miss the view of the Giant land formation surrounded by endless snow.
The Grotto
Price: $9 per adult
Address: Bruce Trail, Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located along the Bruce Peninsula, the Grotto is an iconic Ontario destination, especially during the warmer months. If you're up for an adventure, it's worth seeing in the wintertime.
The Grotto and surrounding area look completely different beneath a blanket of snow. At times, the shoreline transforms with giant ice formations that look totally surreal.
Icicles hang from the Grotto's rocky exterior and the turquoise water appears extra vibrant beside the frosty landscape.
It's important to note that there are limited services during the winter months and that trails are not maintained. Visitors are responsible for their own safety.
Tiffany Falls
Price: $11 parking
Address: 900 Wilson St. E., Hamilton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Fancy chasing some winter waterfalls? You can take a trip to the Tiffany Falls Conservation Area, located just outside of Toronto, for some cold-weather magic.
Depending on how chilly it gets, cascade transforms into an icy natural wonder. You'll feel like you're in a scene from Frozen as you enjoy the views of the frozen waterfall from the lookout platform.
The trail leading to the falls takes you through a snowy forest and stunning winter scenery.
Point Pelee National Park
Price: $9 per adult
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located at the most southern point of mainland Canada, this National Park is a hidden winter wonderland.
The park's frozen marsh looks like a whole other world and it's an enchanting place for a hike. You can wander through snow-capped trees and gaze over frosty beaches for a totally unique experience.
You may even glimpse some ice formations along the way. Trails are not maintained and the park suggests reading the winter safety page before heading out.
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 795122 3rd Line E., Orangeville, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can wander straight through a snow-covered canyon at this majestic park located just outside of Toronto.
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is a breathtaking natural area and is known for its unique Spillway Trail which winds its way right through a canyon.
You can gaze up at the frosty rock walls as you wander along the trail.
The park is also home to towering 30 metre cliffs and glistening winter forests, making it an idyllic place to enjoy nature.
Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: Kakabeka Falls, ON
Why You Need To Go: Dubbed the "Niagara of the North," this majestic waterfall in Northern Ontario is a true winter spectacle.
The 40-metre high cascade is the second-highest waterfall in Ontario and looks extra magical during the colder months when the surrounding cliffs become coated in ice.
You can get a spectacular view of the frozen cascade from the viewing platforms along the Boardwalk Trail. The short walk winds its way around the top of the waterfall and is close to the parking lot.
The park is also home to some amazing skiing and snowshoeing trails so you can have an epic winter adventure once you've seen the falls.
Arrowhead Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd., Huntsville, ON
Why You Need To Go: This provincial park is a stunning winter wonderland. The landscape fills with glistening snow and you'll feel like you're wandering through Narnia as you explore the sparkling trails and gaze up at the towering snow-capped trees.
There are tons of winter activities to enjoy, from snowshoeing and skiing to gliding along the magical skating trail. The pathway of ice was even named among the "most stunning" outdoor ice rinks around the world by Travel and Leisure.
It's a good idea to make a reservation in advance as this spot is a popular winter destination.
Bundle up and adventure to some of these enchanting winter paradises. From icy grottos to snow-kissed trails, these places will bring a whole new bit of magic to the season.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
