Wintertime is a great time to explore the outdoors - the snow and frozen lakes become a winter playground for skating, snow-shoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. These pursuits are a great way to see parts of the country that you normally wouldn't explore. Ontario and Quebec are well suited to winter activities with beautiful landscapes and thousands of trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, numerous ski hills and ice rinks.

When enjoying the outdoors it is important we remember to take nothing and leave only footprints - so what are you waiting for!

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross Country Skiing (or Nordic Skiing) is a great form of aerobic activity. The sport involves simultaneous use of arms and legs utilizing ski equipment including boots, poles, and skis. The primary functional difference between Cross Country Skiing and Downhill skiing is that the skier is attached to the ski only with the toe of the boot- with the heel "free".

Skiing conditions in Gatineau Park

Cross-Country in the Ottawa Gatineau region

Skating

The largest skating rink exists in the National Capital Region. The Rideau Canal, which has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is converted into a 7.8km long skating rink each year in winter. Link to more information on skating on the Rideau.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling in Ontario

SnowmobilingTo snowmobile legally in Ontario, you must have a valid driver's license, proof of snowmobile ownership, registration, insurance and helmets. An Ontario Trail Permit is required to travel on Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) Prescribed Trails. Many of the same rules of the road that apply to motor vehicle drivers are also the rules of the trails for snowmobile operators. Failure to comply with these rules carries similar penalties, including possible fines, loss of drivers license, criminal charges and/or imprisonment. To ride recreationally on Prescribed Trails operated by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, the law requires that a valid Snowmobile Trail Permit be affixed to your windshield. The fine for failing to have a valid permit is $205.00, to a maximum of $1,000.00. To buy a permit, go to the club listing to find out Where to Buy. Please "Buy Where You Ride" to ensure your dollars go into the area you ride the most.

For more information see the Ontario Federation of Snow Mobile Clubs

Snowmobiling in Quebec

Faced with the growing number of serious accidents and fatalities, in 1996 the Ministère des Transports du Québec had the Act respecting off-highway vehicles passed. This act tightened the rules governing the use of OHVs, including snowmobiles.

• Wearing a safety helmet is mandatory, regardless of where you operate a snowmobile.
• The minimum age for operating a snowmobile is 16. A certificate, issued by the Québec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (FCMQ), is mandatory for operators aged 16 or 17.
• Unless otherwise indicated, the speed limit for snowmobiles is 70 km/h (43 mph). Within 30 m (100 ft.) of a dwelling, the speed limit is reduced to 30 km/h (19 mph).
• Your snowmobile must be fitted with the mandatory safety equipment, and it is illegal to remove or modify this equipment.
• It is illegal to operate a snowmobile on public roads. Snowmobiles can cross or drive on public roads only at authorized locations that are identified by the appropriate traffic signs.
• In general, it is illegal to ride within 30 m (100 ft.) of a dwelling, a health establishment, or an area that is reserved for cultural, educational, or sports activities. Snowmobiles must slow down when approaching one of these locations. And be careful not to make too much noise, especially at night.
• Every owner of a snowmobile must hold a minimum of $500,000 of third-party liability insurance.

For more information see the Québec Federation of Snowmobile Clubs

Things to remember while out on the snow

The Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations ‘Keeping Nature Beautiful’ campaign reminds snowmobilers that today, responsible riding is more important than ever and to:

• Leave Tracks Not Trash
• Maintain Your Sled
• Protect Wildlife
• Keep it Quiet
• Stay On The Trail
• Respect Sensitive Areas
• Embrace New Technologies
• Spread the Word