Ontario Outdoors: Featured Videos
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Places to Go: About Ontario Outdoors
The beautiful northernlights are only one aspect of the beautiful Ontario outdoors world you can explore when you get to one of Canada's larger provinces and the seat of the Canadian government, culture, and food! The wilderness, scenery and wildlife of Ontario is a huge reason why people come again and again to the mid eastern province. What kind of outdoors, recreational activities in Ontario can you enjoy?
Spring Fun
It's spring! The leaves are out, the snow is gone, the animals have babies all over Ontario. What could you be doing to ring in a new cycle of life?
Camping
The Ontario lakes provide a gorgeous backdrop for memorable camping trips. There are hundreds of camping sites situated in dozens and dozens of Ontario parks alongside dozens of lakes. Camping in Ontario will let you experience lakeside fishing, woodland animal life, and the beauty of clear crisp night skies and dramatic sunrises. The best time of year is spring or fall (when there aren't so many black flies!), but summer is of course popular too since you can go swimming, hiking, and nature walks with ease.
Fishing
Thousands of lakes means thousands of places to go fishing. Check out Ontario trout lake sites all over the province. Get up bright and early in the morning, set sail in an idyllic lake, catch your fish, eat it up and watch the sun set over the
waters.
Summer Fun! It's summer and time to hit the beach!
Lake Ontario
Ontario deserves a special mention here. Where is Lake Ontario and why should you care? Lake Ontario is right in the middle of southern Ontario; sites such as Toronto and Niagara-on-the-lake (wineries galore here!) lie right on the edge. Lake Ontario is a great beach to go fishing, swimming, diving, boating or just plain old tanning under the hot Ontario sun.
Image Source: http://www.ontariopikefishing.ca/sscimages/fish/pike/IMG_3271_1.jpg
Fall Fun
The Autumn days are warm and bursting with color and the nights are crisp and clear. It's the perfect time to sip some unique and delicious wine and go for tours in the orchards.
Eat and Drink
Tour one of dozens of wineries in Ontario wine country and sip a glass of red, white or rare ice wine at a local bed and breakfast. But if the harvest of vine isn't interesting to you, check out apple orchards and farmer's markets all over the province. Try local food, eat a fresh apple (you can almost taste that crisp fruit and juice, can't you?) and round it off with a lakeside camping trip and a good fire, surrounded by an explosion of autumn colors.
Winter Fun
Ontario may get wicked cold in the winter, but that just means more time to hit the snow and the ice!
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is huge in Ontario. There are entire resorts based around the idea of going for a dog run, dog sledding and generally enjoying a combination of well trained and loveable animals and the cold, clear skies and blue snow shadows. Couples resorts, family resorts and singles resorts for a range of experience levels are all available with this recreational activity in Ontario.
Alpine Skiing
There are tons of skiing opportunities in Ontario for beginners, Alpine and Nordic skiing. Check out numerous resorts such as Alpine in Blue Mountain, Caledon Ski Club in Caledon Ontario, or Chicopee in Kichener. Skiing is made even more dramatic in the stark beauty of Ontario overlooking one or two of the many lakes or rivers of Ontario.
So, whatever you enjoy doing in the Ontario outdoors, you can find it! A host of recreational activities and great family time awaits in Ontario!
Canoeing & Kayaking Holidays in Ontario
Ontario, located in eastern Canada, is undoubtedly one of the most beautifully regions in North America. This picturesque region is world-renowned for being home to some of the most breath-taking waterways in Canada including Lake Ontario (one of the five treasured "great lakes" in North America), the Saint Lawrence Seaway and the Niagara River, among several others. That being said, it shouldn't come as a surprise that when considering holiday ideas, thoughts of water-related activities arise. Ontario is a beloved spot to those who participate in such sports as canoeing and kayaking. Below, you will find various hot spots where kayaking and canoeing holidays are available nearby.
The photo above shows canoeing in Ontario.
Image Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/explorethebruce/3774691629/ Image Courtesy: http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3479/3774691629_2d7ac5bb7d_m.jpg
Ontario is home to the populous city of Toronto, an ideal location for those who kayak and canoe. Whether you're a beginner seeking to learn or simply looking to brush up on old skills, taking kayak or canoe lessons is a wise decision. Private kayak lessons offer a more intimate, focused experience between you and your instructor.
A good rule of thumb in terms of this activity is the more the merrier. The Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre provides private lessons to a party of six for only $85 a person, while it costs $185 for one person searching to learn on their own. The same prices apply to those eager to learn the nature of canoeing. Weekend courses are available at packages from $229 (plus tax) for a weekend's worth of information and practice for kayaking and only $189 (plus tax) for canoeing. In addition to weekend courses and individual private lessons, the Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Center also has evening sessions, fun exercise classes incorporating the kayak/canoe and even certification/rescue courses. This is indisputably a great spot to get the most out of your experience and the most bang for your buck.
Lake Ontario is a gorgeous area famous for its incessant parade of kayak and canoe participants. Once you've taken several lessons and achieved a level of comfort and familiarity with kayaking or canoeing, you can try out your skills here. Kayaking or canoeing this exquisite body of water is not for beginners as it is known for its tumultuous wave changes and occasionally rough conditions. This lake is perfect for adrenaline junkies and those seeking the ultimate test of their acquired knowledge.
You will more than likely be absolutely exhausted after such a strenuous excursion and in dire need of a place to sleep. For a beautiful, spacious villa that can sleep up to 16 people the Lake of Bays holiday cottage is an excellent choice. Located near Fox Point, the villa is available from $3,600 (Canadian) per week and offers facilities such as a boat dock/waterfront access and an outdoor grill/barbecue.
This photo shows two kayackers on Lake Superior, Ontario, Canada.
Image Source: http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3442/3381815551_780329fb10_m.jpg Image Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/natalielucier/3381815551/
The Saint Lawrence Seaway is another strikingly beautiful body of water that reaches up to nearly 800 miles long. Here you will find the St. Lawrence Islands National Park, a popular tourist attraction. This park is a great, kid-friendly environment that caters to people of all ages. Sea kayaking, boat rentals, scavenger hunts, trail hiking and camping at this stunning island are a few fun options offered.
When you are searching for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, a much needed holiday should be on your horizon. The canoeing and kayaking experiences offered in Ontario are unbeatable and unlike anywhere else in the world. All the information provided in this article will guide you towards the unforgettable holiday of a lifetime.
This article was authored by Alan Horton, who is a keen writer of travel articles. To find out more about Alan's work checkout his Twitter profile at https://twitter.com/#!/TravelFlag
Birdwatching Holidays in Ontario
One of the largest regions in Canada, Ontario, has many natural sanctuaries for bird watching. Those who find pleasure in this activity will find many bird species to observe in the area as there are over 466 species noted in the region.
Bird watching holidays don’t cost too much and make for an unusual holidays experience. This type of holiday can be enjoyed while travelling in any part of the world. Many people like to rent a car so that they can travel from place to place to see different types of birds while on their holiday. For those that are considering taking a holiday in Ontario, there are many bird watching clubs and Bird pals that can help you plan your activities. The Bird pals are locals who take the activity of birding very seriously and they will show you some of their most favourite hot spots to watch certain species of birds.
In the image above is a Northern Mockingbird, this photo was taken in Silverstone, Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada.
Image Source: http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4057/4516846498_e2218fe89b_m.jpg Image Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnath/
If you need a place to stay while on your birding holiday there are many Ontario villas that will accommodate you. Some of these villas are nestled right in the heart of bird watching territory so you do not have to travel too far in order to enjoy your holiday.
Some of the best places to watch certain varieties of birds include Amherst Island where you can see owls during the daylight in December. Another great area to watch birds is Long Point, which extends about 19 miles into the Northern edge of Lake Erie. Here you can observe great hawks and migrating Warblers. You will also find the Long Point Observatory as a great place to begin your journey.
Other places that are great for watching birds are Niagara Falls and Pointe Peele. Both of these places are considered to be among the greatest places to watch birds and are in the Top 10 listings for bird watching areas. They also have the most variety of species to observe.
This photo shows a Red Winged Blackbird, the photo was taken in Beaton, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Image Source: http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2249/2434820969_f76c0605cb_m.jpg Image Courtesy: http://www.flickr.com/photos/qmnonic/
Most bird watching observatories and events are free to enter, but some of them require a small entrance fee. One such event is the Humber-Arboretum Bird Watching Event which costs $7.90 per person and is located at Humber-Arboretum North Campus. The cost for a family of two adults and two children is $29.38.
Birding can be one of the most naturally relaxing activities to participate in. There are a few bird watching festivals in Ontario that the whole family can enjoy. When spring is near, the birds return to area parks to bring out crowds to celebrate their winged friends. Two such events are the Presqu’ile Provincial Park’s Waterfowl Weekend and Rondeau Provincial Park’s Wings of Spring Festival. These events happen on the eve of spring in March.
At the Rondeau festival, there are many family activities that can be enjoyed such as bird house building, waterfowl viewing stations, children’s crafts, a live bird of prey show, a barbeque lunch, and activities featuring local artisans. These events are hosted by the Rondeau Bay Waterfowlers Association and the Friends of Rondeau organization.
If you are considering a birding holiday in Ontario, just remember that there are many areas to view birds and plenty of birding activities to participate in. You will find a lot of enjoyment in this activity and you'll meet some local fellow enthusiasts that are eager to share their knowledge and give you a well rounded birding experience.
This article was authored by Alan Horton, who is a keen writer of travel articles. To find out more about Alan's work checkout his Twitter profile at https://twitter.com/#!/TravelFlag
Lakes, Rivers and The Great Outdoor in Ontario
 A typical winter scene as you drive around the Muskoka area or Northern Ontario for that matter in the frigid months of a Canadian winter.
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 I dropped by the annual Port Carling Winterfest this past weekend. I was hoping to have taken a photo of Mayor Alice Murphy participating in the Polar Bear dip however that was part of the next days festivities. I noticed these two beauties were giving people a jaunt around the park. They are Percheron horses from Mother Fuduckers Farm in nearby Orillia, Ontario. Please click for a large shot.
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Bring on the ice! Pondapalooza is a fabulous winter weekend that includes adult pond hockey, adult pond curling, a children’s ice fishing derby, a Christmas tree burn and hot chocolate night, family activities, Gananoque Brewing Company Ice Bar, Vendors Village, Taste of Gananoque, Celebrity Alumni Pond Hockey Challenge, Freeze Your Buns Fun Run and much more! Read more... |
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This year, we anticipate the arrival of 25 majestic hot air balloons. In addition to our extensive balloon roster, we have also added an impressive list of musical groups that will perform on our stage. Whether you plan on experiencing life above the Seaway Valley in a hot air balloon or feel more comfortable tapping your toes to our entertainment package, we are confident that you will find something to suit every taste!
Kinsmen Cornwall Lift-Off is a not-for-profit organization that is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, consisting of 20 community leaders. This group and many other volunteers donate... Read more... |
 Do you visit Muskoka in the winter or are you a summer only visitor? I must admit most of my time is spent at the cottage in the spring, summer and fall. I don’t get the opportunity to visit as often in the winter but when I do I find it has a deep tranquility like no other. I would say its therapeutic. With the multitude of inputs and stresses in our daily lives we need to take the time to just stop and think. Muskoka is my refuge, a place where I can think.
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WELCOME TO ALL SNOWMOBILERS!
District One, of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs offers you a fabulous winter playground with over 3900 km of groomed OFSC snowmobile trails. These winter trails wind their way through enchanting landscapes of snow-covered forests, open farmland and the rolling hills of the Canadian Shield. Trailside services are always available on the various circle tours.
HAVE A GREAT TOUR! Read more... |
 Happy 2K+12! I have just returned from exploring the fabulous beaches in Grand Cayman. I love to escape the stresses of last minute shopping, crazy traffic, mall parking, pushy people, etc – you should try it. Now back to the beauty and reality of our Canadian winter.
We seem to be having one of those winters that hasn’t quite found a steady trajectory just yet. It’s been warm, it’s been cold, we’ve had snow, and gaps with no snow. One thing for sure the big lakes are not completely frozen yet, so be careful. I noticed a cool photo from our... Read more... |
The Quinte Ice Fishing Team is a team of guides on the Bay of Quinte who are determined hardwater walleye fanatics. We specialize in utilizing modern ice fishing technology to help our clients locate and catch the trophy walleye that the Bay of Quinte is famous for. We are your Bay of Quinte hardwater walleye specialists. Our day begins in the dark with our guides there to teach and assist you for the full day. Be it trophy hunting for that chance at a personal best, or catching a large number of fish, we listen to our clients and strive... Read more... |
 I want to personally thank you for visiting the Muskoka Blog. I have enjoyed our many interactions and the new friendships that developed while sharing our mutual passion for Muskoka over the 2011 period.
Season’s Greetings, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Yuletide Greetings, Happy Winter Solstice, Happy Festivus, Happy Mall Parking and whatever else aligns with your world.
Refueling is in play and I’m southbound in search of sandy beaches, jumbled liquid concoctions and luminous sunsets. Wishing you all peace, love, health, happiness and great success in 2012 – Ed
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 Yep, I know I have been very remiss in posting. It’s that time of year when everything’s grey and not very exciting photographically. In addition, I really have not been up to Muskoka as much as I would have liked to. The big push is on with deadlines, parties, year end commitments and such. Can you feel it?
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The Quinte Ice Fishing Team is a team of guides on the Bay of Quinte who are determined hardwater walleye fanatics. We specialize in utilizing modern ice fishing technology to help our clients locate and catch the trophy walleye that the Bay of Quinte is famous for. We are your Bay of Quinte hardwater walleye specialists. Our day begins in the dark with our guides there to teach and assist you for the full day. Be it trophy hunting for that chance at a personal best, or catching a large number of fish, we listen to our clients and strive... Read more... |
Strategically located at the mouth of Gray’s Creek in Cornwall’s east end, the marina provides easy access to the popular boating and fishing grounds of the St. Lawrence River. The marina basin provides 110 open slips for day and seasonal boaters. Support facilities include a launching ramp, service building that sells gas, oil and other marine sundries. Adjacent to the marina you will find Gray’s Creek Conservation Area with trails and picnic tables. The marina parking area also provides an excellent access point to the St. Lawrence Recreational Path network. Read more... |