Come explore Winter in Wellington County
Bundle up and experience our cozy communities this winter. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills like sledding and skating or cozy indoor experiences with family and friends, Wellington County transforms into a true winter wonderland. Discover unique events, local treats, and hidden gems that make this season unforgettable. Here are just a few ways to make the most of your winter adventures.
Descriptive Video: https://youtu.be/L_iLH6iqP8o.
Descriptive Video: https://youtu.be/0aphYwrveHo.
Wellington County Thrift Store Trail
Bikes and Bevies at Flow State Bike Co., Arkell
Embrace winter on two wheels with a fat biking ride through snow-covered trails. Wide tires and packed paths make for a smooth, exhilarating experience, perfect for beginners and seasoned riders alike. After your ride, warm up with a hot beverage and soak in the cozy winter atmosphere.
Fire Pit and Tasting at Cox Creek Cellars, Guelph/Eramosa
Sip wine around a roaring wood fire at Cox Creek Cellars. This idyllic winery offers several outdoor fire tables located throughout the property. They are outfitted with comfortable Muskoka Chairs or handmade benches and are a perfect location for a date or gathering with a small group (up to six).
Alpaca Winter Experience at Harmony Meadows Alpaca Farm, Belwood
Get up close and personal with Harmony Meadows Alpaca! Visit these cool animals in their pasture and learn all about alpacas directly from the farmers. Feed them treats and they may even let you pet them. Make sure you visit the farm store before heading home and browse the gorgeous yarn, knitted products, gift items, and local foods.
Fish, Ski and Fire at Guelph Lake, Guelph/Eramosa
Discover a variety of ways to enjoy winter at Guelph Lake Conservation Area. When conditions permit, explore groomed trails for cross-country skiing or try snowshoeing with rentals available right at the gatehouse from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. Ice fishing is also offered when ice conditions are suitable. After your outdoor adventure, gather around the community fire pit near the Guelph Lake Nature Centre, where firewood is provided, perfect for warming up, relaxing and connecting with others.
Snow Yoga with Alpacas at Brae Ridge Farm and Sanctuary, Puslinch
You won’t find another experience like this - just on the edge of Guelph! An instructor will guide you through an all levels yoga class, lasting approximately 75 minutes, while alpacas quietly wander around you. You will have the opportunity to meet and hand feed alpacas and horses. Embrace the powerful benefits of traditional yoga, nature and animal therapy.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride at Windy Acres Farm, Metz
For a winter experience like no other, head out to Windy Acres for a horse-drawn sleigh ride across snowy fields. Bring your family or a small group and watch their powerful Clydesdale horses dash through the snow while you are wrapped up nice and cozy in a wool blanket.
Book your sleigh ride today.
Winter Wanders at Rockwood Conservation Area, Rockwood
Take in the beauty of winter at Rockwood Conservation Area with a refreshing hike along scenic, snow-dusted trails. After your walk, warm up at the community fire pit, available for all visitors to enjoy with regular area admission. Each weekend throughout the winter, staff will light the fire shortly after 9:00 am and provide firewood for guests to add as needed during daylight hours, creating a welcoming shared space to relax, connect, and soak in the season.
Snowshoeing and Tobogganing at the Wellington County Museum and Archives, Aboyne
The Wellington County Museum and Archives is an exceptional destination year-round, but winter opens up new ways to experience the grounds. Bring your sled and hit their well-loved toboggan hill or rent a pair of snowshoes and explore the beautiful trail network.
Ice Climbing with One Axe Pursuits, Elora
Climb a frozen waterfall in one of Wellington County’s most scenic spots – the Elora Gorge. One Axe’s Ice Climbing experience is one of a kind – the ultimate winter thrill – and completely suitable for beginners. No previous experience is required, and the starting point is conveniently located in downtown Elora.
Maple Syrup Experience at Elliott Tree Farm, Erin
Join the maple syrup harvest and experience a sugar bush firsthand on weekends! Begin with a famous pancake breakfast/brunch inside the Horse Barn Canteen, followed by a walk on the picturesque trail back to the sugarbush where you will learn the history of maple syrup and enjoy a syrup tasting at the sugar shack. When you return, you will want to visit the 1850 Heritage Barn, which is home to the Maple Syrup Museum of Ontario. *Opens Family Day Weekend until April 5. Dogs are welcome on a leash. Reservations required.
Winter Horseback Trail Rides at JohnMel Stables, Puslinch
Winter trail riding is a unique way to immerse yourself in nature. Book your private trail ride experience, learn how to groom, tack up your horse, and if a beginner, you’ll receive a short lesson before heading out on the trails.
Snowshoe, Hot Chocolate and Campfire at The Fieldstone Barn, Elora
Experience the brisk outdoors. The Fieldstone Barn is a hidden gem within walking distance to the beautiful village of Elora. Enjoy snowshoeing on a picturesque farm, then relax around a toasty fire roasting marshmallows and sipping hot chocolate. Everything is included with limited spots available. This excursion is snow dependent so please call in advance.
Indoor Activities
Beat the winter blues this season with fun and interactive indoor activities.
Are you a lover of art and entertainment?
Wellington County is brimming with opportunities to explore creativity and culture. Step back in time and view fascinating exhibits at the Wellington County Museum and Archives, a National Historic Site, or catch a show at the 1947 Norgan Theatre in Palmerston or The Gorge Cinema in Elora. Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Minto Arts Gallery, one of the only public art galleries in Wellington County, or the Elora Centre for the Arts, housed in a beautifully restored limestone schoolhouse, where you can explore ongoing galleries, browse the artisan shop, take part in classes, and attend a variety of events. For those who prefer a more hands-on experience, unleash your creativity with a glass-blowing class at Blown Away Glass in Elora, or dive into a painting or pottery workshop at 4Cats in Erin.
Sports and recreational activities are available all year round.
Sharpen your skates and head to a local arena - many host free, sponsored skating days for the whole family. Looking to try something new or improve your technique? Drop by a local curling club (located on our interactive map) where lessons are often available for beginners and experienced players alike. You can also enjoy indoor activities at your own pace: The Royal Distributing Athletic Performance Centre in Marden offers drop-in programmes line Tot N Play, Remote Control Flying, an Indoor Track and more. Bring your own food and drinks and get ready for summer at Grip and Rip Indoor Golf in Drayton or enjoy some friendly competition with classic 5-pin bowling at the Mount Forest Bowling Centre.
Looking for fun and delicious local food and drink experiences?
Get hands-on with flavors at Krisha Indian Cooking School, offering interactive classes at the Puslinch Community Centre, or try cooking by the riverside at Woolen Mill Kitchen in Erin (just be sure to book in advance via their websites). or a taste of something unique, take a guided culinary tour in Elora with Taste Detours Food Tour, exploring local flavors and hidden gems along the way. If cocktails are more your style, enjoy an evening of mixology with a class at the Elora Distilling Company. Food lovers will also delight in visiting The Barrel House in Clifford, home to The Coopers Cart Kitchen, where you can pick up Pete’s baked goods including classic butter tarts, along with house-made pickles, gifts, furniture, and decor.
Relaxation and rejuvenation are on the list with soothing indoor wellness escapes.
Experience the restorative atmosphere at Let It Be Halotherapy and Wellness Centre in Puslinch, where mineral-rich air and tranquil surroundings provide a calming reset for mind and body. For a luxurious retreat, indulge in the world-class amenities of the Elora Mill Spa, or stop into Feel Alive Wellness Station in Palmerston where you will find carefully crafted beverages, massage treatments, and wellness indulgences. Wellington County is the perfect place to unwind, warm up, and treat yourself this season!
Check out our Business Directory for a full list of stops to explore Wellington County.
Be sure to grab a friend and visit many of our local hot chocolate spots, located on our interactive map below
Winter Adventures Map
Know of another location for winter adventures? Let us know via email.*
*We do our best to include as many winter adventure locations as possible; however, there is no guarantee a specific location will be included.