Winter Adventures for the Whole Family Along the Trans Canada Trail
Winter is a great time to head outside, along the Trans Canada Trail, for some fun-filled family adventures. Here are our Trail-inspired suggestions for Family Day, March Break — and beyond!
Family skate
Who loves ice skating? We love ice skating! Did you know you can find several outdoor ice rinks along or very near to the Trans Canada Trail? Find our recommendations here. Remember to wear protective gear!
Snack time!
If you’re bringing junior Trail enthusiasts on your outing, snacks are a must, and chances are decent that your little ones will opt to eat the entire time.
Bring along some delicious treats to enjoy during your outing. From hot chocolate or tea to simple, Trail-friendly snacks, like granola bars or trail mix, we’ve got you covered with tasty suggestions to prepare in advance. Add to the fun by making a simple recipe together before heading out. Bonding: achieved! Interest: raised!
Make new (snow) friends
What better way to bring on the fun outdoors with your family than by building a new family? Out of snow, that is. It’s a fun and creative way to embrace the winter wonderland. Find our tips for building snowpeople here.
Bring along a furry friend (or two)
Make it a family affair by bringing along your pet! Walking the Trail with your dog is a great way to include everyone in the outing, and will make it more fun for any potentially whiny kids. Be sure to keep your pet leashed and only on Trail sections where animals are permitted.
Sledding shredding
Find the best hill in your neighbourhood and your day is figured out! Sledding is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the winter weather while staying active and warm outside. You can find great sledding options on the Trail — we recommend Parc Michel-Chartrand along the Ville de Longueuil Trail or Citadel Hill near the Halifax Regional Municipality Trail — both great bets.
Hire a local artist (ahem: your enthusiastic family member)
Document your winter outing by encouraging your entourage (i.e., your kids, friends or other loved ones) to take photos or draw pictures of your outing. Bonus: photos and drawings of happy families outside in the sun and snow are generally winners, so you’ll be capturing great memories!
Be sure to share your creations with us using #Blahs2Ahhhs25 on social media to spread the joy!
Visit local museums
For a change of pace, take a walk or bike ride to a local museum and check out the exhibits! From the Montreal Science Centre to the Vancouver Maritime Museum (it’s a no-brainer: there’s a submarine!) and the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough and many more, you’ll find that fun, kid-friendly options abound along or near the Trail.
Trail adventuring on cross-country skis
If you’re looking for a more active way to explore the winter landscape, check out our tips for cross-country skiing along the Trail. Cross-country skiing allows you to really get the serene nature vibes, often right in the city!
Practice gratitude… and force your family to do it, too!
As you explore the Trail, challenge each family member to point out five things they love about their time in nature or to share something they’re grateful for about one another. You may be pleasantly surprised at how quickly hearing “I love trees… and nature… and you!” from your five-year-old can bring a smile to your face.
Winter doesn’t have to be blah — it can be your season to shine! This winter, make the most of every snowy day. Get outside, find your “ahhh” moments, and show the world how you’re turning #Blahs2Ahhhs. Try out our #Blahs2Ahhhs25 Generator today!
