Nestled in the beautiful forest of Arrowhead Provincial Park, which is approximately a 2.5 hour drive from Toronto you will find one of the best Winter adventures which can be had in Ontario.
I first visited the skating trail a few years ago before it gained in fame and popularity. The skating trail was recently named as one of the Top 50 Canadian Winter Experiences by FlightNetwork.com, and one of 19 Stunning Natural Ice Skating Rinks Around the World by TravelandLeisure.com
This year I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go back and experience it all over again On December 30th.
The trail is 1.3 KM long through the forest of Arrowhead. The trail is regularly maintained by the park facility however, as with any other
winter event it is always weather dependent. The staff at Algonquin usually have campfires going along the park, so you can always stop and warm up on those particularly cold days. Located at the front of the trail you will also find benches and cubbies for your bags, although space can be limited. Weather permitting you will be able to skate the trail with snow covered trees on either side of you, and perhaps a little dusting of snow falling while you skate!
As mentioned above the popularity of the trail has increased over the years so try visiting the park on midweek or on Sundays. On very busy days the park can turn away visitors.
The skating trail is open from 11 AM to 5 PM, on a daily basis, when the park schedule the fire and ice night it closes between 3 PM and 6 PM for maintenance and re-opens at 6 PM for skating (Always check the website for any changes)
Entrance to the park is $17/hr and skates can be rented at the visitors center for $10 for 3 hours.
Enjoy your skate, I definitely recommend it.
