Skating at Arrowhead Provincial Park is the ultimate winter recreation activity

Where is Arrowhead Provincial Park?

Arrowhead Provincial Park is located in Huntsville, Ontario. It is one of the most beautiful and pleasant parks in the whole province, especially in winter. Skating at Arrowhead Provincial Park is one of the best winter activities you’ll find near Toronto. However, summer, spring and autumn are also legendary in this breathtaking place of nature.

Pack your bags and take a quick 2.5 hour trip north to visit this beautiful park. Carve the Arrowhead Skating Trail, try snowshoeing or even skiing. It’s time to conquer your Ontario winter to-do list!

When does the skating rink open?

Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

The skating rink opens for the season usually in January. In 2022, the trail was open to the public on January 4. It’s a good indication of time, generally speaking. However, it is wise to keep in mind that the trail will definitely depend on the weather.

Make sure you check a reliable source for information before leaving. Plus, you can always give them a quick phone call; they will be happy to answer all your questions.

How long is the Arrowhead Provincial Park Skate Trail?

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

Arrowhead’s skating rink is 1.3 km long and winds through the thick forest of Muskoka. It’s a winter experience like no other. Ontario Parks staff maintain the entire length of the trail for public skating.

How long does it take?

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

The skating track can take between half an hour and two hours. It really depends on how fast you skate. Keep in mind that you will need to watch out for fast moving people. However, most people on the trail are there for pure enjoyment.

Whatever you’re there for, be sure to keep an eye out for other skaters and practice skating safely.

Is it family?

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

Arrowhead Provincial Park is definitely family friendly! In fact, they encourage families from everywhere to come and enjoy all the amazing activities available at the park.

Nights of Fire and Ice

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

For an experience like no other, head to Fire and Ice Nights at the park. Recently named one of the finest natural ice skating rings in the world, you don’t want to miss this evening event!

Attendants light up the trail with hundreds of tiki torches, and you can skate as leisurely as you want. This night has become very popular over the years. Make sure you’re ready to queue for this magical skate under the stars!

Know before you go

Where to stay in the region

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

If you go in summer or spring, you can camp in the park. There are three campgrounds to choose from: Roe, East River and Lumby. The campsite is amazing and we highly recommend it check it.

However, if you are going in the winter, you will want take a hotelor check your options on AirBnb.com

Do you need tickets in advance?

Arrowhead can be extremely busy during peak hours. If you’re a planner, you can plan ahead by reserving your daily use permit up to five days in advance. It is wise to book in advance, as places are filling up quickly now that online booking is available.

The reservation cost is $21 for an entry fee or daily vehicle permit. The cost is different for fire and ice nights, and keep in mind that your skate rentals (if you need them) will be an additional cost.

Best time to visit

arrowhead provincial park
Image: @arrowheadprovpark on Instagram

October is one of the best times to visit the park, as the leaves are beautiful and it’s not too cold. However, if you like hot weather activities, the best time is from late June to early September.

If you’re looking to make the most of winter conditions – and in particular to take advantage of the skating rink – you’ll want to go in early January.

Enjoy your time in this breathtaking park; we hope you continue to explore and make the most of this beautiful province of Ontario!

Related: These winter drawings were made by a guy wearing snowshoes and walking in circles. They will literally blow your mind!

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