Top 26 Exciting Activities in Ontario, Canada

Exploring Ontario does not necessitate traveling far; numerous activities await discovery that will invigorate your spirit without the need for a flight. Ontario serves as an outdoor adventure haven, accessible year-round. From Fathom Five National Marine Park to Wasaga Beach, numerous outdoor pursuits await adventure enthusiasts.

Epic Adventures in Ontario

While we have engaged in various well-known activities in Ontario, such as visiting the Royal Ontario Museum, attending a performance at the Stratford Festival, or traversing the Rideau Canal, are you seeking alternatives? Something novel to experience? These adventures in Ontario promise to catalyze your motivation for outdoor activities.

1. Learn to Whitewater Kayak – Madawaska River

Perhaps you have contemplated this addition to your bucket list for quite some time; however, there has never been a more opportune moment to embrace new challenges than now! Although we initially intended to learn whitewater canoeing, our class had only two participants, thus, we pivoted to whitewater kayaking.

Participating in a week-long whitewater kayaking course on the Madawaska River turned out to be one of our most rewarding adventures. In just a few days, we acquired skills in executing barrel rolls and navigating class 3 rapids. This river holds the distinction of being one of the premier locations in North America for mastering whitewater kayaking, with its owners contributing to the Olympic training course design. Paddlers from across the globe are drawn to this river.

Our experience equipped us with the confidence to navigate waterways independently, possessing essential skills such as the t-rescue, bracing, and executing rapid wet exits when necessary.

• Learning to Whitewater kayak
• Whitewater kayaking – The Ultimate Ontario Adventure
• Engage in a kayaking course with Madawaska Kanu Centre

2. Learn to Scuba Dive – Georgian Bay

Have you observed individuals learning to dive in resort pools during vacations? It often raises the question: why do many opt to dedicate time from their trip to learn scuba diving when such opportunities exist right here in Ontario?

Our experience learning to scuba dive in Ontario’s lakes greatly enhanced our diving skills for warmer Caribbean waters. Various shipwrecks lay beneath the surface of Ontario’s lakes, characterized by optimal visibility at around 20 feet, with many wrecks situated in shallow waters.

One of the premier scuba diving destinations in Ontario is Fathom Five National Marine Park in Tobermory, adjacent to Bruce Peninsula National Park, renowned for the Grotto and Flower Pot Island. A weekend visit here is highly advisable!

• Other notable diving locations we appreciated in Ontario:
  • Georgian Bay
  • Lake Simcoe
  • St. Lawrence River
  • Ontario also offers exhilarating drift diving experiences on the St. Lawrence and Niagara Rivers!

3. Hike the North Shore of Lake Superior

Ontario is acclaimed for its extensive outdoor activities, with Lake Superior National Park reigning as a preeminent destination. The North Shore of Lake Superior serves as Ontario’s adventure hub, hosting some of Canada’s most remarkable coastal hikes.

Hiking here feels akin to traversing an ocean coastline, with waves crashing against majestic cliffs. Lake Superior is imposing! For further reading, explore: Top 15 Ontario Hiking Trails.

The Pukaskwa Coastal Hike is recognized as one of Canada’s most demanding trails, distinguished by its breathtaking scenery and remoteness. The Lake Superior Coastal Trail spans 65 km, initiating in Agawa Bay and concluding at Gargantua Bay. This trail poses challenges that necessitate several days to complete.

• Hiking the Wild Coastal Trail of the Pukaskwa
• Naturally Superior provides shuttle services to both Pukaskwa National Park and the Lake Superior Coastal Trail.

4. Take a Two Day Whitewater Rafting Trip – Ottawa River

One day is insufficient to fully experience whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River; a minimum of two days is essential. This extended duration also allows for enjoyment of the comprehensive services provided by resorts that offer these tours. The Ottawa River enjoys global acclaim among whitewater rafting enthusiasts as one of the foremost locations for this activity, offering an array of thrilling rapids. Instead of conventional amusement parks, immerse yourself in a natural water park as you navigate the exhilarating rapids of the Ottawa River.

An extended trip with OWL Rafting enables you to travel in a large raft with several others while an expert guide manages navigation through the mighty rapids. Only large rafts are permitted to conquer the most formidable set of rapids, known as “The Staircase.” After an exhilarating day on the large raft, you have the opportunity to navigate a nimble raft on the second day, delivering twice the adrenaline rush!

• Whitewater Rafting the Ottawa River
• Join a guided whitewater trip with OWL Rafting

5. Hike the Entire Bruce Trail

Summer presents an ideal opportunity to embark on a multi-day hike or gradually tackle an epic trail. The Bruce Trail stretches for 885 km, tracing the renowned Niagara Escarpment, a designated UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, from Niagara Falls to Tobermory.

Completing the Bruce Trail end-to-end can be achieved in 30 days by maintaining a brisk pace. However, many prefer to appreciate the journey, undertaking it one segment at a time. Why not dedicate weekends to resume your hiking from where you previously left off? How far will you progress this summer?

• Refer to the Bruce Trail for additional information and accommodations

6. Take a BiPlane Flight Over Ottawa

Ottawa holds the title as our preferred city in Ontario. Renowned for the Parliament buildings and Rideau Canal, the most exhilarating experience one can partake in is a vintage biplane flight above Ottawa and Gatineau’s highlights. Admire Parliament Hill from a unique vantage point, perform aerial maneuvers, and revel in the scenery from this open-air cockpit while clad in authentic vintage flight attire.

7. Tackle Ontario’s Mountain Biking Trails

Learning to mountain bike ranks among our top experiences. At Hardwood Hills, located just north of Barrie, one can master mountain biking techniques while navigating trails tailored to beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels. This destination consistently emerges as one of the best day trips from Toronto.

Even fat biking during winter months proves to be exhilarating. Canadians persist in their cycling endeavors, undeterred by the snow!

• Some other notable mountain biking locations in Ontario include:
  • Blue Mountain
  • 3 Stages Collingwood
  • Albion Hills
  • The Don Valley
  • Kelso
  • An extensive array awaits!
  • For a comprehensive breakdown of mountain biking trails in Ontario, explore here.

8. Learn to Ride a Motorcycle

This activity represents the ultimate solo expedition. Riding a motorcycle naturally facilitates social distancing. Ontario boasts numerous remarkable motorcycle routes, making the acquisition of a motorcycle license this summer an excellent way to explore the province in style.

Obtaining a motorcycle license typically requires only a couple of weekends, after which you have five years before needing to undergo testing for full certification.

• We trained with Motorsoul Riding School in Toronto, and the experience was superb!

9. Learn to Dirt Bike in Ganaraska

For those seeking unique attractions in Ontario, Trail Tours in Ganaraska Forest offers an opportunity to enhance mountain biking skills through dirt biking lessons. This excursion promises substantial enjoyment while refining motorcycle riding techniques.

Trail Tours guides you through the expansive Ganaraska Forest, presenting hundreds of kilometers of dirt biking trails. They provide the necessary bikes and gear, teaching participants how to navigate obstacles, including logs and bridges.

As you master foundational techniques, it will be time to hit the trails and showcase your newfound abilities!

• Dirt Biking in the Ganaraska Forest
• Engage in a lesson at Trail Tours in Ganaraska Forest

10. Learn to Rock Climb – Niagara Escarpment

Rock climbing ranks among our preferred outdoor pursuits, and Ontario excels in this arena. The Niagara Escarpment boasts several outstanding climbing routes, presenting climbers with remarkable opportunities. Spanning 1900 square kilometers (733 miles), this UNESCO World Heritage Biosphere contains numerous impressive cliffs suitable for climbing. The Niagara Escarpment can effortlessly be explored through day trips from Toronto.

Initially, we learned climbing techniques at Joe Rockheads Climbing Gym in Toronto before transitioning to outdoor environments. Alternatively, participants can take an outdoor course to learn top-rope setups and eventually lead climb their personalized routes.

• Our favorite climbing sites in Ontario include:
  • Rattlesnake Point
  • Metcalf Rock
  • Mount Nemo
  • Lion’s Head
  • Niagara Glen for Bouldering

For additional training and indoor climbing opportunities, refer to Joe Rockheads Climbing Gym and On the Rocks Outdoor Climbing.

11. Hornblower Adventure Cruise

Niagara Falls stands as one of the premier attractions in Ontario. When visiting the region, embarking on the Hornblower cruise delivers an unforgettable experience, approaching one of the largest waterfalls globally. As an emblematic feature, Niagara Falls attracts visitors eager to experience the center of Horseshoe Falls from the Canadian side, while U.S. passengers are provided similar experiences on the Maid of the Mist. Prepare to be drenched and truly appreciate the waterfall’s grandeur.

12. Whirlpool Jetboat

If you seek heightened adventure, the Whirlpool Jetboat tour provides an exhilarating experience. Launching from Niagara on the Lake, this jetboat journey navigates class 6 rapids, proceeding towards the whirlpool of the Niagara River.

While Niagara Falls is celebrated for its natural beauty, Niagara-on-the-Lake is renowned for its wineries; however, a premier outdoor adventure lies between both captivating destinations. The Whirlpool Jetboat Tour caters to thrill-seekers as it traverses the Niagara Gorge, concluding at the mouth of the class 6 rapids of the Niagara Whirlpool. Participants can select between wet or dry excursions, either promising an exhilarating ride on high-speed boats through undulating waves and twists.

Both the whirlpool jetboat and Hornblower experiences accommodate children (subject to height restrictions), making them excellent family-friendly activities within Ontario.

• Explore the Best Activities in Niagara Falls
• Activities in Niagara on the Lake – A Charming Ontario Town
• Accommodations in Niagara Falls

13. Chase Waterfalls

While Niagara Falls garners the title of Canada’s most recognizable waterfall, Hamilton, Ontario is often referred to as the waterfall capital of the world. A mosaic of approximately 150 waterfalls can be found along the Niagara Escarpment, allowing nature enthusiasts to explore sights like the Devil’s Punch Bowl, Albion Falls, and Wilson Falls. Whether in the spring when waters flow or during winter when they freeze, the pursuit of waterfalls embodies one of Ontario’s finest outdoor adventures!

14. Take a Canoe Trip – Algonquin Park

Engaging in a canoe trip is an iconic Canadian adventure. Numerous canoe routes are available within Algonquin Provincial Park, our preferred destination, alongside many other fantastic options throughout Ontario.

Just outside our doorstep lies the Grand River, a favored canoeing location. Additionally, Lake Superior’s North Shore and the Upper Ottawa River Canoe Routes are excellent choices. Killarney Provincial Park also provides several canoe routes worth exploring.

Plan your route according to your experience level, ranging from one-day to multi-day adventures while ensuring adequate gear and preparedness for portages, which can vary greatly in distance.

• Seek out Algonquin Moose – A Canadian Wildlife Safari
• Consider a guided canoe trip or equipment rental through Voyageur Quest or Algonquin Outfitters

15. Learn to Fly Fish – Sault Ste. Marie

Inspired by the film A River Runs Through It, fly fishing has appeared incredibly serene. We embraced this opportunity while exploring Sault Ste. Marie, situated on Lake Superior. The Saint Mary’s River Rapids is regarded as an outstanding location for fly fishing, attracting enthusiasts from throughout North America, particularly given its proximity to the U.S. border.

The Soo North Fly Shop in Sault Ste. Marie supplies the essential rods, hip waders, and boots, while offering guidance and lessons to facilitate navigation of the waters. This activity presents a tranquil outdoor experience within Ontario.

16. Fly-in Fishing Lodges – Northern Ontario

For those seeking a truly remote getaway while maintaining optimal social distancing, nothing surpasses a floatplane journey to a secluded fishing lodge.

Reaching Northern Ontario’s wilderness constitutes a perfect retreat for fishing enthusiasts and nature admirers alike. Timberwolf Lodge is nestled on the unspoiled Nagagami Lake, featuring traditional teak boats available for guests to explore the lake and fish for their evening meal or catch & release.

• Explore:35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario

17. Paddle the Grand River

Living near the Grand River is immensely rewarding. This picturesque waterway serves as an excellent venue for both paddling and rafting. Opportunities abound for tubing at the Elora Gorge, rafting, and kayaking from Glen Morris to Paris, showcasing a dream setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Cycling along the Grand River also adds to its appeal.

Owning a Stand Up Paddleboard allows for flexibility in paddling locations; just ensure that you are prepared for any challenging conditions. Ottawa also boasts fantastic paddleboarding opportunities, allowing you to glide past renowned tourist attractions such as Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History while enjoying the scenic Ottawa River shoreline.

• Discover the Best Activities in Ottawa
• Explore 27 Things to do in Paris Ontario – A Local’s Guide

18. Cycle the Great Trail (Trans Canada Trail)

The Trans Canada Trail extends right across Canada, with the Ontario segment comprising 5,000 km of cycling paths. For context, we cycled the distance from Cairo to Cape Town across the African continent, totaling 12,000 km!

Beginning in Ottawa, this extensive trail advances westward through Kingston, Niagara, Toronto, and London, eventually veering north towards Kitchener, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, and Thunder Bay. The trails are versatile for year-round activities, allowing cycling in summer and options for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hiking in winter.

You can choose to cycle the entire trail while camping along the way or tackle one segment at a time, as access to the Trans Canada Trail is available in nearly every Ontario community. Ensure to explore 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada for potential camping spots.

19. Spy on the Rare Woodland Caribou – Slate Islands

The Slate Islands represent one of the most remote destinations in Ontario. Upon taking a boat shuttle to these islands, you will likely encounter minimal human activity. If you desire activities that promote exploration beyond typical tourist paths, this is it.

Situated 14 km offshore of Lake Superior, a herd of woodland caribou inhabits these islands, uniquely absent of natural predators due to their isolation. Visitors can opt to paddle, hike, or simply unwind and camp on the two main islands or any of the seven smaller islands.

The Slate Islands also feature the world’s largest shatter cone, ancient Pukaskwa Pits, enhancing their geographical intrigue.

• Explore the best activities on the Slate Islands
• In Search of the Woodland Caribou
• Engage in tours and transfers with Naturally Superior Adventures

20. Treetop Treks – Collingwood

One of the premier treetop adventures in Ontario is located in Collingwood. This thrilling experience encompasses much more than just high ropes. Blue Mountain stands as one of the foremost resorts in Ontario, offering an abundant array of activities. Our adventure commenced on Ontario’s longest suspension bridge, followed by an obstacle course, culminating in an exhilarating 300 and 1000-foot zip line ride across the forest.

This makes for an ideal day trip in Ontario, as afterward, one can explore the Scenic Caves, an enchanting labyrinth comprised of 17 caves and natural formations situated 70 feet below the surface.

21. Go Skating or Boating on the Rideau Canal

Regardless of the season, the Rideau Canal stands as Ontario’s premier location for outdoor pursuits. This UNESCO World Heritage Site witnesses a surge of boating tours during summer months. We have experienced self-driven houseboat tours along the northern and southern stretches of the Rideau Canal. Numerous national historic sites punctuate the route, extending from Kingston, Ontario’s first capital city, to Ottawa, the present capital.

During winter months, the landscape transforms as the canal freezes. Skating on the Rideau Canal constitutes an unmissable entry on the Canadian bucket list, with the optimal time to partake being during Winterlude, an annual event held in February.

22. Test Your Nerves at the CN Tower Edgewalk – Toronto

Surprisingly, one of Ontario’s most exhilarating outdoor adventures can be found in downtown Toronto. Ascending the world’s highest outdoor walk at the CN Tower will truly take your breath away! While the CN Tower is recognized as one of Ontario’s leading tourist attractions, it is the experiences offered that render it extraordinary.

The Edgewalk surrounds visitors at Toronto’s CN Tower, with safety cables securely strapping you in as you dangle over the city from a towering height of 356 m/1,168 ft (116 stories)! Check out our experience and video here!

Herein lies our compilation of the most exhilarating adventures and activities we have engaged in throughout Ontario over the past two decades.

23. Go Snowboarding or Downhill Mountain Biking Blue Mountain

Blue Mountain Resort ranks as Ontario’s premier outdoor destination. This year-round location draws visitors for its variety of outdoor activities, including downhill mountain biking and hiking in summer and skiing during winter. Particularly, snowboarders cherish Blue Mountain Resort for its diverse terrain parks and half-pipe capabilities, even hosting World Cup Snowboarding events!

Numerous activities abound in Blue Mountain across all seasons; explore the entire post to begin your travel planning.

24. Slide Down the Dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park

One of my favorite childhood pastimes in Ontario was racing around and tumbling down the sand dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park. Located in Prince Edward County, Sandbanks is known for its towering sandbanks lining the shores of Lake Ontario. Not only does it serve as a crucial sanctuary for birds, but its sandy mounds also provide an ideal setting for family outings. Therefore, grab your bucket and shovel and commence constructing sandcastles.

25. Watch the Dark Skies

While many travel north to catch sight of the Aurora Borealis, Ontario features several exceptional locations to observe starry night skies. Ideal sites for stargazing in Ontario include Point Pelee National Park, recognized as a dark sky preserve, as well as Manitoulin Island, Bruce, Grey, and Simcoe Counties, the Kawarthas, the Haliburton Highlands, Ottawa Valley, Muskoka, Parry Sound, and Algonquin Park.

Indeed, that represents a multitude of stunning dark skies!

26. Take a Great Ontario Road Trip

Ontario emerges as a remarkable destination for driving excursions and day trips. Notably, we find two of our preferred road journeys feature prominently among the world’s greatest.

The Lake Superior Circle Tour is renowned as one of the premier drives globally, circumnavigating Lake Superior, but numerous additional spectacular road trips throughout Ontario await your exploration.

• Suggested Road Trips:
  • Bruce Peninsula – Out to Tobermory
  • Along the Saint Lawrence River
  • Around Manitoulin Island
  • Travel to Sudbury and navigate Lake Superior’s north shore, traversing Wawa to Thunder Bay
  • Drive from Toronto to Ottawa
  • Explore the Apple Pie Trail
  • Tour Ontario Wine Routes – Prince Edward County, Niagara Escarpment, Pelee Island

The following blog post will provide additional insights into Ontario’s road trip offerings:

• Best Canadian Road Trips
• Niagara Falls Road Trip
• Best Road Trips in the World

What should our next adventure be? If you have thrilling suggestions for Ontario activities you would like us to undertake, kindly share them in the comments below.

For assistance with exploring additional attractions in Ontario and enhancing your travel planning:

• Explore Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario
• Discover the Best Places to Camp in Ontario
• Explore Valentine’s Day Getaways in Ontario
• Activities in Niagara Falls – Recommendations for Dining & Accommodation
• Uncover the Best Activities in Toronto
• Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary
• Top Activities on Manitoulin Island
• Explore Muskoka Activities in Winter
• In Search of Algonquin Moose – A Canadian Wildlife Safari
• Comprehensive Guide to 33 Things to Do in Ottawa
• Visit Notable Places in Ottawa this Autumn

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Travel Planning Resources

To meticulously plan your next expedition, we recommend utilizing these reliable resources:

Find Your Flights: Initiate your trip planning by uncovering the best flight offers on Skyscanner. We have relied on this service for years due to its competitive pricing.

Secure Your Accommodation: Locate optimal hotel prices through these two providers. For European locations, utilize Booking.com; for all others, visit TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: Access economical apartment rental options with VRBO.

Insurance Considerations: Protect yourself before embarking. Our recommendations include:

• Safety Wing – Ideal for occasional travelers.
• Medjet – Global air medical transport and travel security services.

Activity Planning: If you seek walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, personalized guides, and related experiences, consider Get Your Guide.

Should you need additional assistance with trip planning, be sure to visit our Resources Page where we highlight all the reputable companies we trust while traveling.