When we think of winter, some of us think of the cold chills in the air, the white snow blanketing the city or holding a hot cup of cocoa to warm our freezing hands. But during winter, there are many fun activities to do in the snow. Some popular activities include tobogganing, sledding, and tubing; these are well-known winter pastimes that are fun for the entire family. They are known by different names, but they basically mean the same thing: sliding down a snowy hill or slope. Throughout Canada, this much-loved winter tradition is definitely a favourite for all ages.
Tobogganing/Sledding
Tobogganing originated among Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a long, flat, lightweight sled with a curved front, traditionally made of wood.
In provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan, tobogganing or sledding is very popular and very much a ‘must do’ during the winter season.
Tobogganing/sledding is best enjoyed when the snow is heavy, wet and compacted, from a recent snowfall where the snow settles and gets firm but isn’t icy. When this happens, you can enjoy the thrill of cascading down a hill or slope on your toboggan or sled.
In provinces and cities, designated tobogganing areas are maintained by the relevant city.
Here are some of our best recommendations for tobogganing/sledding in some cities:
Calgary: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/calgary/toboggan-sled-tube/
Saskatoon: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/saskatoon/best-places-toboggan-saskatoon/
Toronto: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/toronto/tobogganing-in-toronto/
Edmonton: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/edmonton/tobogganing-hills-in-edmonton/
Vancouver: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/vancouver/tobogganing-hills/
Tubing
Similar to tobogganing or sledding , snow tubing is where you slide down a snowy slope or hill in an inflatable rubber tube. On your way down the ride may get bumpy depending on your descent acceleration speed and even swirl around upon reaching the bottom of the slope or hill. Snow tubing is great for those who do not know how to ski but still want to be adventurous and part of the winter fun.
Here’s where to snow tubing in some cities:
Toronto: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/toronto/snow-tubing-toronto-gta/
Calgary: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/calgary/toboggan-sled-tube/
Edmonton: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/calgary/toboggan-sled-tube/
Vancouver: https://www.familyfuncanada.com/vancouver/cypress-mountain-tubing/
Other fun winter activities to explore include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and ice skating; these can be enjoyed in all cities and provinces across Canada.
You would not have the true Canadian winter experience unless you’ve tried one of these traditional outdoor winter activities.
