Winter Adventures in Haliburton Forest: Ice Climbing, Snowshoeing & Cozy Cabin Stays

Winter Adventures in Haliburton Forest: Ice Climbing, Snowshoeing & Cozy Cabin Stays

Snow-covered trees, crisp air, and the sound of fresh snow crunching beneath my boots. Haliburton Forest in winter is pure magic. If you’re looking for an unforgettable winter adventure, this place has it all. Whether you want to scale an ice wall, zoom through the forest on a snowmobile, or take a quiet snowshoe hike, there’s something for everyone.

Arriving at Haliburton Forest

Getting to Haliburton Forest is part of the experience. It’s about three hours from Toronto and just under four from Ottawa. The drive winds through small towns and forests, and by the time you arrive, it already feels like you’ve left the busyness of everyday life behind.

Ice Climbing: My First Time on the Ice Wall

Ice climbing had always been one of those things I wanted to try but never quite worked up the courage to do. But Haliburton Forest makes it so accessible, you don’t need your own gear, and they offer guided climbs for all skill levels.

The next morning, I met my guide, Ted and a small group of other climbers. After getting suited up with harnesses, helmets, and crampons (those spiky things on your boots that help you grip the ice), we rode out to the climbing area.

Standing at the base of the ice wall, I felt that mix of excitement and nerves. My first few swings with the ice axe were clumsy, but after some coaching from our guide, I started to get the rhythm… kick, swing, pull. The higher I climbed, the more I focused on the movement instead of my nerves.

Reaching the top was an incredible feeling, I relished in it before the scary part… repelling back down! Thankfully the guide is extremely experienced and helped coach me both up, and down the wall!

The Wolf Centre: A Unique Wildlife Experience

If you’re looking to experience something a little more low-key but just as special. The Wolf Centre at Haliburton Forest offers a rare chance to observe a pack of wolves in a natural setting.

The centre has a massive indoor viewing window overlooking a 15-acre enclosure, and I was lucky enough to see several wolves moving about. The interpretive centre has tons of information about wolf behavior, conservation, and the history of the pack living there. Bonus: the Haliburton Wolf Centre is super kid friendly!

If you have any interest in wildlife, this is an absolute must-visit.

A Peaceful Snowshoe Hike Through the Forest

Later that afternoon, I strapped on snowshoes and set off into the forest. Haliburton has miles of snowshoe trails that wind through thick woods, open meadows, and frozen lakes.

One of the highlights of my hike was spotting fresh animal tracks—deer, rabbits, and even what looked like wolf prints leading off into the trees. The forest was so quiet, except for the occasional sound of snow falling from branches.

Snowshoeing is one of the most underrated winter activities—it’s simple, peaceful, and lets you reach places you’d never see otherwise. Plus, it’s an amazing workout!

Other Winter Adventures You Can Try

If you’re looking for even more adventure, Haliburton Forest offers:

❄️ Snowmobiling:

With over 400 km of groomed trails, snowmobiling is one of the most popular activities here. You can rent a sled and explore on your own or join a guided tour to see the best trails.

I didn’t ride this time, but if you love speed and exploring deep into the forest, this is the perfect way to cover a lot of ground.

🎣 Ice Fishing:

Haliburton Forest has several frozen lakes that are ideal for ice fishing. You can bring your own gear or book a guided ice fishing tour, where they’ll provide everything you need.

It’s a great way to slow down and enjoy the winter landscape while waiting for a trout or bass to bite. Plus, if you catch something, you can cook it up for dinner!

Staying at a Cozy Cabinscape Cabin

After a full day of winter adventure, there’s nothing better than retreating to a Cabinscape cabin, a tiny off-grid cabin nestled right in the forest.

From the parking lot you can either hike in (approx 2km, or book a shuttle which will carry you and your luggage to the cabin)

I stayed in one of these eco-friendly cabins, which are completely surrounded by nature. There’s no WiFi, no distractions—just a cozy space with big windows, a warm bed, and a wood stove to keep you toasty.

Waking up to the sight of snow-covered trees through the window, making a hot coffee on the stovetop, and stepping outside into the quiet morning air—it was exactly the kind of winter reset I needed.

Planning Your Own Winter Escape

If you’re craving a winter getaway full of adventure, Haliburton Forest has something for everyone. Whether you want to push your limits on an ice wall, observe wolves in the wild, or simply cozy up in a cabin, this place delivers.

Things to Know Before You Go:

✅ Location: Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve, Ontario

✅ Best Time to Visit: December–March for winter activities

✅ Activities: Ice climbing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, Wolf Centre, cross-country skiing

✅ Rentals & Guided Tours: Available for most activities

✅ Accommodations: On-site cabins, including off-grid Cabinscape cabins

For more details, rentals, or to book a tour, check out Haliburton Forest’s official website.

Final Thoughts: Winter Adventures in Haliburton Forest

This trip was exactly what I needed—a mix of adventure, quiet moments, and that unbeatable feeling of being surrounded by nature in its purest form. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to embrace winter, this is it. Pack your warmest layers, grab the kids or some friends, and make it happen. You won’t regret it.

With love,

The Duquette’s