Skiing, skating and snowboarding are fun, but they aren’t the only winter activities you can do in Canada. If you’re looking for an alternative to some of the usual cold weather sports on offer, look no further than our list of cool and quirky things to do in the snow this year.
Igloo making
Igloos are an instantly recognizable symbol of life in northern Canada. The iconic design made from large blocks of snow are no longer a common sight, but they remain a large part of the Canadian identity – and you can learn to build one. Either take the DIY route with the right equipment and a group of friends to help you (instructions here), or take an igloo-making course. Some winter camping excursions also include igloo building such as this one.
Ice sailing
Ice sailing is exactly what it sounds like – sailing on a frozen surface. The vessels look similar to a small sailboat, but are designed to be able to travel over ice rather than through liquid. Most ice sailing is done solo, although some boats are built for two people. Nova Scotia is one of the most popular places for ice sailing in Canada.
Polar plunging
Imagine taking a bath in a tub filled with ice cubes and you’ll have an idea of what it might be like to take a polar plunge. Brave souls looking for a truly exhilarating experience can take a dip in frigid water across the country, an activity often done to raise money for charity. The Courage Polar Bear Dip for World Vision takes place Jan. 1 and is the largest polar plunge event in Canada for charity. Many polar plunges take place on New Years day.
Dog sledding
If you like the thought of whooshing along scenic snow-covered paths in a sled pulled by a pack of huskies then consider giving dogsledding a try this winter. Not only do you get a fun ride and a once in in a lifetime experience, you get to watch some beautiful snowy scenery go by. Whistler, British Columbia and Lake Louise, Alberta are two popular dog sledding destinations.
Ice climbing
While not for the faint of heart, or the inexperienced, those who enjoy rock climbing and are adept at the sport can try their hand at ice climbing. This sport involves making your way up ice-covered cliffs and can be an exhilarating way to enjoy the outdoors once the cold weather hits. One of the best places in the world to ice climb just happens to be the Rocky Mountains.
Winter zip lining
When you think about zip lining you most likely associate it with warmer temperatures, but zip lining is becoming an all-season activity. Yes, you can even do it in the winter. If the idea of soaring overtop of snow covered forests, catching sight of breathtaking views along the way sounds good to you, then winter zip lining might be something you want to add to your bucket list. Whistler, British Columbia is a good place to try it.
Snowkiting
If you thought kite surfing was something you could only do on water while on vacation somewhere hot and sunny, think again. Snowkiting is a similar activity, but instead of having a board and being on water, you do it while on skis or a snowboard – on the snow. Using a steerable kite like the kind you would use while kite surfing, participants get propelled with the power of the wind. There’s no need to be an expert skier or snowboarder, but some experience with those sports is a big plus. Snowkiting lessons are available across most of the country.
Wok racing
There are many ways to get down a snowy hill – skis, a sled, a snowboard – but did you ever think about sliding down in a cooking device? What began as a joke sport in Germany is now somewhat of a legitimate activity wherein participants race down icy hills on large woks. Most races take place on professional luge or bobsled tracks.
Shovel racing
If wok racing doesn’t intrigue you, there’s yet another wacky way to get down a hill in the winter. Shovel racing also exists, which has racers sliding down hills on shovels.
Skijoring
Looking for a winter activity for you and your furry, four-legged friends? Skijoring is a winter activity that involves getting pulled along on skis by dogs – so essentially cross-country skiing with a little help from some outdoor-loving dogs. You can think of skijoring as a fun combination of skiing and dog sledding.
Equestrian skijoring
Similarly, equestrian skijoring also exists, which is the same thing, but instead of being pulled by dogs (usually two or three), skiers are pulled by a horse. Equestrian skijoring puts more power into your skiing experience thanks to the strength of the horse.
Winter caving
Exploring caves might seem like more of a warm weather activity, but you can do it in the winter. Most snow caving starts with snowshoeing to a cave, removing your snowshoes and then entering a cave to explore. Ontario’s Niagara escarpment is a good place to go winter caving.
Lead photo: Konstantin Zamkov
