Best Winter Sports You Can Play In Toronto [2023]

As winter is approaching, you are probably wondering what are the best winter sports you can find in Toronto! The city has a wide range of winter sports that are perfect for all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, there is something for everyone. There are a number of great options available when it comes to skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, tubing/snowmobiling (both on road and off), cross country skiing, and much more. 

For other great ways to stay active throughout the cold season check out our list of the best badminton clubs, spin class,  boxing gyms and things to do in Toronto.

Summary

Is Toronto Fun in Winter?

Toronto can be a lot of fun in the winter, with plenty of activities to keep you busy. From skiing and snowboarding to skating and ice hockey, there’s something for everyone who wants to get active during the cold months. 

In this article we put together a list of the top spots based on their popularity, quality of facilities and services offered, as well as reviews from other visitors.

Best Winter Sports You Can Play in Toronto

1. National Training Rinks

National Training Rinks offers a variety of hockey programs throughout the year that accommodate all ages, adults included. Program levels range from beginner to elite. Programs are available for both boys and girls, adults, juniors (ages 13-17), and youth (ages 6-12). The different program options allow players of all skill levels to find the perfect fit for their needs. 

NTR’s Learn to Skate program is designed for children 3 and up. This program is an introductory class that teaches children the basic fundamentals of skating. Whether you’re an aspiring novice or a seasoned veteran looking to take your game up a notch, National Training Rinks has got you covered. In addition to providing quality instruction in ice skating fundamentals and tactics, the programs also offer opportunities for competitive play against other participants in your area. Register today!

Business Information:

ntrcanada.com/richmond-hill

Customer Review Highlight:

“Instructors here are amazing! Usually a tough love approach yet passionate and caring. They want the kids to be the best that they can be! I really appreciate all the hard work that they put in. The ice is usually really well maintained and the surface is beautiful. Most importantly my children love training here!”

Pros

  • 11 full size professional courts with 24’ high ceiling
  • Competitive rates
  • Offers filament strings

Cons

  • Drop ins are limited to 3 hours per visit

2. Toronto Rental Adventures

Toronto Rental Adventures offers a unique and fun experience for all who visit their office. The ATV ride is perfect for all year long, giving you the opportunity to explore different parts of the country while enjoying an unforgettable adventure. You will be shown how to safely control off-road vehicles by expert instructors before testing your skills on the trail. This ensures that everyone has a safe and exciting time while exploring Ontario’s stunning backcountry winter landscapes.

The company offers a wide range of rental options, including both electric and gas-powered machines. In addition, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly, which makes it easy to get started on your adventure. Finally, remember to dress appropriately – in layers so that you can stay warm while riding the machine, and also wear a scarf or hat since exposure to cold air will make your hands very cold.

Business Information:

simcoeadventures.ca

Customer Review Highlight:

“I came with a group of four to experience ATV riding. Our experience was spectacular, adventurous and fun. Our guide Sam was very friendly, kind, and laid back, which contributed to our amazing time. We will definitely be back. Thanks TRA for showing us a great time.”

Pros

  • Nearly a century of experience hosting games and fostering athletes
  • NCCP certification
  • Athlete assistance program

Cons

  • Closed during the weekends

3. Windrift Adventures

Windrift Adventures provides an unforgettable dog sledding experience for the whole family. You will have the opportunity to help harness and hook up your team, as well as discuss the dogs and answer any questions that you may have. During the tours there is time to stop and enjoy the scenery, as well as discuss the sport of dog sledding in detail. Tours begin at 9:30am and 1pm and are approximately 2.5 hours long – daily December through March.

Warm drinks and snacks are provided on both half day experiences at halfway point, while a hot chili lunch is also included on full-day trips. Whether you’re looking for a private adventure or want to join one of our group adventures with friends, Windrift Adventures has something perfect for everyone!

Business Information:

windriftkennel.ca

Customer Review Highlight:

“This place is a true gem. The trail was so magical and the view was breathtaking every moment. My favourite part was driving the sled because I get to feel like a part of the pack of the dogs. We get to work with the dogs and their excitement is contagious. Never seen dogs any happier and taken such good care of.”

Pros

  • Gym and personal coaching
  • Badminton, pickleball, squash and many more
  • Fine dining facilities

Cons

  • Shorter hours during Sundays

4. Hogtown Lacrosse

Photo By Ricarda’s Inc.

Hogtown Lacrosse is Toronto’s only equipment store dedicated to lacrosse and is now open for business. With a wide selection of gear available, the store can meet all your lacrosse needs. In addition to balls, nets, creases and other necessary items, the store also offers accessories such as hats and gloves. Whether you’re looking for new equipment or just need some advice on what to buy, Toronto’s Equipment Store has everything you need!

Now in their 7th year, they continuously improve their selection and their pricing is comparable to the U.S. online retailers … without the shock of currency exchange, shipping cost and the mystery of what might arrive at your door. From lots of men‘s and women’s lacrosse equipment available, you will definitely find what you need to stay at the top of your game. 

Business Information:

hogtownlacrosse.com

Customer Review Highlight:

“Wonderful experience at Hogtown. Mike went out of his way to help us get the lacrosse head our son wanted for xmas (even stringing it last minute). He saved the day. Thanks so much Hogtown...what great customer service all around.”

Pros

  • Great for higher level players
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • No pro shop

5. North York Ski Centre

North York Ski Centre is a great place to learn skiing or snowboarding. The facility has one lift and one run in operation, which makes it perfect for beginners and the ones who want to advance their skills. In addition, the run is decently long and wide considering its location. This spot is definitely recommended for anyone looking to get started with winter sports. 

The ski season at North York Ski Centre is weather and snowfall dependent. However, the centre typically opens for business in early January and stays open until around mid-March depending on the weather conditions. So whether you’re looking to take advantage of some amazing slopes while spending quality time with loved ones or exploring all that the hill has to offer during your vacation period -North York Ski Centre will have something perfect for you!

Business Information:

toronto.ca/explore-enjoy

Customer Review Highlight:

“A great place for walks with children or pets. During the summer you can walk through the forest and during the winter there are ski lifts and you can ski, snowboard or sledding here. There is also a playground for children with a splash pad and a parking lot for free. From the hill there is a view of downtown North York.”

Pros

  • Social and recreational center
  • Family programs
  • Music lessons
  • Dance and gymnastics
  • Event services

Cons

  • Rates are not disclosed

6. Alpine Indoor Ski and Snowboard Training Centre

Alpine Indoor skiing and snowboarding is now available in the Greater Toronto area 365 days of the year. Their state of the art training center features two Maxxtracks indoor ski slopes, so you can experience all that winter has to offer whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. With their unique indoor training facility, you will be able to learn about different disciplines such as downhill skiing and snowboarding within a controlled and safe environment. 

Beginners can learn the sport of skiing and snowboarding in ideal surface conditions on a pitch they are comfortable with and learn how to effectively avoid injury and recovery after a fall. Expert skiers, racers and snowboarders can focus on pre-season training by improving strength, technique and correcting form in order to prepare for the upcoming winter. So whatever your plans for this season – Alpine Indoor Skiing with us will make it happen!

Business Information:

alpineindoorski.com

Customer Review Highlight:

“I had a great time skiing. John and his daughter Sydney are good teachers. Their encouragement gave me confidence. I'm an expert downhill skier but wasn't so great on the indoor track. After 2 lessons, John and Sydney refined my skills and my style is much better now. I can't wait to see how I do on real snow after practicing here. Thanks!”

Pros

  • Achieved Ontario championship on 4 occasions
  • Lessons for beginners to competitive levels
  • Private training

Cons

  • Vulnerable website

FAQ

Canada is well-known for its winter sport athletes, including hockey players and figure skaters.
Ice hockey is the most popular winter sport in Canada.

Skiing is considered the greatest winter sport.

Winter sports generally include skiing, snowboarding, skating and tobogganing.

Conclusion

Toronto is known for its cold winters, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of ways to stay active. With its many parks and open spaces, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the snow. Skiing, sledding, ice skating, and more are all popular activities in Toronto during the winter months. If you are someone who enjoys roller skating in warmer weather, consider these popular winter sports before the weather becomes warm again. 

Be sure to check our picks of the best winter sports in Toronto if you’re looking for a way to stay active this winter!

If non of the outdoor winter sports caught your eyes, we have a list of indoor sports venues to help you stay active in this cold weather. Check out our picks of the best indoor tennis courts, best badminton clubs and best indoor golf facility in Toronto. 

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