Best Outdoor Winter Activities in Thunder Bay
As winter settles in, Thunder Bay transforms into a stunning outdoor playground perfect for winter sports and scenic adventures. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply enjoy crisp winter walks, Thunder Bay offers a wide range of winter activities to make your stay at Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre unforgettable. Bundle up and dive into some of the best outdoor activities the area has to offer!
1. Skiing and Snowboarding at Loch Lomond Ski Area
Loch Lomond is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, offering a range of trails suitable for all skill levels. Just a short drive from Thunder Bay, the resort provides stunning views of Lake Superior and Mount McKay, making it a beautiful place to spend a day on the slopes – and they have a great park for those who love getting buttery or hucking big air!
Photo credit: @loch_lomond_ski on Instagram
With rentals and lessons available, Loch Lomond is ideal for both beginners and experienced winter sports enthusiasts.
- Location: 1800 Loch Lomond Rd, Neebing
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: 15-minute drive
2. Snowshoeing in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ontario, and it’s even more magical in winter. Snowshoeing trails wind through quiet forests, open meadows, and along the rugged shores of Lake Superior.
Photo credit: @sleepinggiantprovincialpark on Instagram
Rentals are available in town, and the trails vary in difficulty, providing options for both casual strolls and more challenging hikes.
- Location: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, 1000 Silver Islet Rd
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: 60-minute drive
3. Ice Climbing at Orient Bay
For adventurous visitors, Orient Bay provides an incredible opportunity to experience ice climbing. Known as the “Ice Climbing Capital of Canada,” Orient Bay features towering ice walls and frozen waterfalls that are popular among both experienced climbers and those looking to try something new.
Photo credit: @outdoor_skills on Instagram
Local guides and tours are available, making it accessible even to beginners looking for a thrilling winter challenge.
- Location: Orient Bay, along Highway 11
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: 2-hour drive
4. Cross-Country Skiing at Kamview Nordic Centre
Kamview Nordic Centre offers over 30 kilometres of well-groomed cross-country ski trails suited to both classic and skate skiing. The centre provides equipment rentals, lessons, and a cozy chalet for warming up after a day out on the trails.
Photo credit: @kamviewnordiccentre on Instagram
The scenic paths through snow-covered forests make Kamview a must-visit for cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
- Location: 851 20th Side Rd, Thunder Bay
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: 10-minute drive
5. Ice Fishing on Lake Superior
Ice fishing on Lake Superior is a serene way to experience the beauty of Thunder Bay’s winter landscape. From popular spots like Mission Island to sheltered bays, local outfitters provide guided tours, equipment rentals, and heated ice huts to keep you warm as you fish for lake trout, walleye, steelhead, and other local species.
Photo credit: @superiorcountry on Instagram
Whether you’re an experienced angler or new to ice fishing, this is a must-do winter activity.
- Location: Various spots around Thunder Bay and Lake Superior
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Varies by location, generally 10-30 minutes by car
6. Snowmobiling along the North Shore
For those who enjoy the thrill of snowmobiling, Thunder Bay offers well-maintained trails that connect with the extensive Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) trail system. You can even take a unique tour on a trail from Ontario into Minnesota and back again!
Photo credit: @northcountrycycleandsports on Instagram
Explore scenic routes along the North Shore, winding through forests and along Lake Superior’s coast.
- Location: Various trailheads near Thunder Bay
- Distance from Valhalla Hotel: Varies by the trailhead, most are within 30 minutes
Embrace Winter Adventure with Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre
Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Thunder Bay, winter is a fantastic time to explore the area. After a day of outdoor fun, warm up at Valhalla Hotel & Conference Centre, where you can relax, recharge with a delicious meal and a cocktail, and prepare for another day of adventure.
Make the most of winter in Thunder Bay with an unforgettable stay at Valhalla!