Ah, the thrill of speeding down a snow-covered hill, feeling the frosty air rush past as the cityscape of Toronto gleams in the distance! Winter in Toronto is not just about cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa. It’s also about embracing the exhilarating winter sports that the season offers, with snow tubing topping the list. If you’ve ever felt the itch to swap your usual winter routine for an adrenaline-pumping ride down the city’s best snow-laden slopes, you’re in the right place. Dive into this guide as we navigate through the top snow tubing hills in and around Toronto, ensuring your winter is filled with joy, excitement, and a touch of adventure. Ready to embark on this frosty journey? Let’s glide in!
Here are the 15 best snow tubing hills in Toronto:
- Lakeridge Resort
- Chicopee Tube Park
- Horseshoe Resort
- Snow Valley Barrie
- Blue Mountain Resort
- Glen Eden
- Mount Chinguacousy
- Mount St. Louis Moonstone
- Kivi Park
- Brimacombe
- Arrowhead Provincial Park
- Dagmar Ski Resort
- Georgian Hills Vineyards
- Albion Hills Conservation Area
- Toboggan Hill Park
Lakeridge Resort
Lakeridge Resort is a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike, primarily known for its skiing and snowboarding terrains. But when it comes to snow tubing, this resort doesn’t disappoint. Located at 790 Chalk Lake Road, Uxbridge, Lakeridge is just a short drive northeast of Toronto and easily accessible via Durham Regional Road 23.Lakeridge offers a dedicated snow tubing park, separate from its ski slopes, ensuring tubers of all ages can enjoy without interference. The tubing lanes are groomed and maintained meticulously, with a designated lift that brings participants back up the hill after their exhilarating descent. The resort boasts ample parking, restrooms, and a chalet where visitors can warm up with snacks and beverages. While specific hours can vary, they generally operate from morning till evening, with extended hours on weekends. Always check their website or call ahead during the winter season for exact timings.
Address: 790 Chalk Lake Rd, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4, Canada
Phone: +1 905-649-2058
Chicopee Tube Park
Chicopee Tube Park is exclusively designed for tubing, ensuring a premium tubing experience without the hustle and bustle of skiers and snowboarders. It’s located at 1600 River Road East, Kitchener, which is a bit of a drive west of Toronto but worth the trip. With up to 14 tubing lanes, it’s a hub for those looking to embrace the thrill multiple times or with large groups. The lanes vary in steepness and length, catering to both adrenaline junkies and those looking for a milder experience. Chicopee provides a comfortable lodge, food services, washroom facilities, and ample parking. Additionally, they offer specialized tubes with safety handles. They generally operate from late morning to early evening but can have extended hours during peak winter weekends. Check their official site for the most current timings.
Address: 1600 River Rd E, Kitchener, ON N2A 4K8, Canada
Phone: +1 519-895-2322
Horseshoe Resort
Beyond its popular ski slopes, Horseshoe Resort is renowned for its snow tubing adventures, often dubbed the “best in Ontario.” Located at 1101 Horseshoe Valley Road West, Barrie, the resort is north of Toronto and is accessible via Highway 400. Horseshoe takes pride in its long tubing runs, some of the longest in the region, ensuring a prolonged thrill. With a magic carpet lift, tubers can easily get back to the top after their descent, maximizing their tubing time. The lanes are designed for speed and excitement, suitable for all ages. The resort offers facilities like restrooms, a warm-up area, rental equipment, and dining options to refuel after your adventures. Typically, the tubing park operates from the late morning to early evening, but it’s wise to check their website or contact the resort for exact times, especially during holiday seasons.
Address: 1101 Horseshoe Valley Rd W, Barrie, ON L4M 4Y8, Canada
Phone: +1 705-835-2790
Snow Valley Barrie
Snow Valley Barrie is a popular winter destination celebrated for its “Discover Tubing” theme, providing the perfect blend of fun and safety for all ages. It’s located at 2632 Vespra Valley Rd, Minesing, just a short drive north from Toronto, easily accessible via Highway 400. Snow Valley is uniquely designed to cater to beginners and families, making it a favorite for those introducing snow tubing to younger participants. The resort boasts multiple chutes with varying levels of thrill, ensuring that everyone, from the tentative first-timer to the avid tuber, finds their perfect slope. Apart from abundant parking, Snow Valley Barrie offers a rental facility, cozy chalets to warm up in, and a plethora of food and beverage options. Generally, they operate from mid-morning to early evening. However, it’s recommended to visit their official website or call ahead for precise timings, especially during peak seasons.
Address: 2632 Vespra Valley Rd, Minesing, ON L0L 1Y3, Canada
Phone: +1 705-721-7669
Blue Mountain Resort
While Blue Mountain Resort is primarily heralded for its skiing and snowboarding, it also offers an unparalleled snow tubing experience. Located at 190 Gord Canning Dr, The Blue Mountains, this resort is northwest of Toronto and can be reached via Highway 26. The Hike N’ Tube gives those who aren’t skiers or snowboarders a chance to join in the winter fun. It’s ideal for kids and families. The tubing lanes are separated from the main ski areas, ensuring a dedicated and uninterrupted experience. They are groomed and tailored for optimum safety and excitement. From expansive parking to various dining options and washroom facilities, Blue Mountain ensures a hassle-free visit. Tubing hours typically span from early afternoon to evening. Always consult their official website for the most current hours and any restrictions.
Address: The Blue Mountains, ON, Canada
Phone: +1 833-583-2583
Glen Eden
Glen Eden, with its proximity to Toronto and diverse winter offerings, is particularly recognized for its snow tubing slopes that cater to thrill-seekers of all ages. Situated at 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, Glen Eden is a short drive west from Toronto, accessible via Highway 401 and Regional Road 8. This resort stands out for its convenient location and its ability to provide an exhilarating mountain experience without the need for a long drive. The tubing terrains are meticulously maintained, with specialized lifts ensuring that tubers can maximize their downhill runs. Glen Eden offers a well-equipped rental shop, eateries to refuel, washroom facilities, and ample parking. The park generally operates from morning to evening, but it’s always wise to check their site for specific timings, changes, or any special events.
Address: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton, ON L9T 2X7, Canada
Phone: +1 905-878-5011
Mount Chinguacousy
Mount Chinguacousy, often referred to simply as “Chinguacousy Hill”, is an urban snow treasure located within Chinguacousy Park in Brampton. It’s particularly recognized for offering snow tubing and skiing opportunities right in the heart of the city. Situated at 9050 Bramalea Rd, Brampton, Mount Chinguacousy is easily accessible from Toronto via Highway 410. Its convenient urban location means residents don’t have to travel far to enjoy a day of winter fun. The hill is perfect for families and first-time tubers. While not as large as some other destinations, the hill is designed for safety and enjoyment, making it an ideal spot for beginners. The park offers ski and snowboard rentals, instructors for lessons, a chalet for warming up, and snacks. For the top-notch equipment, explore our guide to the best ski and snowboard stores in Toronto for your snow tubing escapades. There’s also ample parking available. While hours can vary, the hill generally operates from mid-morning to evening. Check the City of Brampton’s website or contact them for precise timings.
Address: 9050 Bramalea Rd, Brampton, ON L6S 6G7, Canada
Phone: +1 905-458-6555
Mount St. Louis Moonstone
Located north of Barrie, Mount St. Louis Moonstone is primarily recognized for its skiing and snowboarding, but its snow tubing facilities are also commendable. Located at 24 Mount St Louis Rd W, Oro-Medonte, the resort is accessible via Highway 400. Boasting some of the best snow conditions in the region, this resort ensures a smooth and thrilling tubing experience. The resort has a separate tubing park with multiple lanes, allowing for varied experiences for different thrill levels. With well-equipped rental shops, diverse food options, and a large chalet, visitors can comfortably spend the entire day at the resort. Tubing hours typically range from early afternoon to early evening, but it’s recommended to check their website for the most up-to-date information.
Address: R.R.4, 24 Mt St Louis Rd W, Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 705-835-2112
Kivi Park
Located in Sudbury, Kivi Park is a multipurpose recreational facility. While it’s a bit further from Toronto, it’s a gem for those in the northern regions of Ontario. Situated at 4472 Long Lake Rd, Sudbury, the park can be reached via Highway 69 when traveling from Toronto. Beyond snow tubing, Kivi Park offers numerous winter activities like cross-country skiing, skating, and snowshoeing. The tubing hills here cater to all age groups, ensuring both safety and fun. The lanes are groomed regularly for optimal sliding. The park boasts well-maintained rest areas, snack bars, equipment rentals, and ample parking. Typically, the park operates from morning until sunset, but for specific activities and events, it’s best to consult the park’s official website.
Brimacombe
Situated east of Toronto, Brimacombe is one of the larger ski and snowboard areas in southern Ontario. Beyond its skiing and snowboarding fame, it offers a fun-filled snow tubing experience. Located at 4098 Durham Regional Rd 9, Orono, it’s an easy drive from Toronto via Highway 401. Brimacombe is renowned for its family-friendly environment and offers varied winter activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The snow tubing lanes are separate from the skiing areas, ensuring safety and a dedicated environment for tubers. With its expansive chalet, you’ll find a warm place to relax, dine, and enjoy. The resort also has equipment rentals, professional instructors, and abundant parking. While the hours can vary, the hill typically operates from mid-morning to early evening. It’s best to check their official website for specific timings and any special events.
Address: 4098 Regional Road 9, Orono, ON L0B 1M0, Canada
Phone: +1 905-983-5983
Arrowhead Provincial Park
While Arrowhead Provincial Park is famed for its ice-skating trail, it also has excellent snow tubing facilities. Located at 451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, the park can be reached via Highway 11 from Toronto. The park provides a natural, scenic backdrop for winter activities, making the experience serene and picturesque. The snow tubing hill at Arrowhead is spacious, well-maintained, and suitable for all age groups. Beyond tubing, there are ice-skating, skiing, and snowshoeing facilities. Warm-up areas, equipment rentals, and snack bars are available for visitor convenience. The park’s winter activities typically run from late morning to early evening. Always check the park’s official website or contact them for up-to-date details.
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd. Huntsville, ON P1H 2J4.
Dagmar Ski Resort
Situated in the beautiful Durham Region, Dagmar Ski Resort is not just about skiing and snowboarding – it’s a top destination for snow tubing enthusiasts. You’ll find Dagmar at 1220 Lake Ridge Rd, Ashburn. It’s easily accessible from Toronto via Highway 412 and Durham Regional Rd 23. Dagmar stands out for its dedicated snow tubing park, complete with a magic carpet lift, making the uphill journey effortless. Multiple chutes, each offering different thrill levels, ensure everyone, from the newbie to the seasoned tuber, enjoys their time. The resort boasts a well-equipped chalet, equipment rental facilities, a ski school, and various dining options. Generally, the resort operates from mid-morning to early evening. However, hours can vary, so checking their official website before planning a visit is advisable. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby best ski resorts for additional winter adventures to uncover a world of snowy fun beyond tubing.
Address: 1220 Lake Ridge Rd, Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4, Canada
Phone: +1 905-649-2002
Georgian Hills Vineyards
While Georgian Hills Vineyards is primarily celebrated for its exceptional wines and picturesque views, during the winter months, it transforms into a haven for snow lovers, offering snowshoeing and other winter activities. Located at 496350 Grey Road 2, The Blue Mountains, it’s accessible from Toronto via Highway 26. The combination of winter activities with wine tasting sets Georgian Hills apart. It provides a unique experience of enjoying the snowy outdoors and then warming up with a glass of local wine. Although the vineyard is not a traditional snow tubing destination, the surrounding areas offer gentle slopes perfect for a family outing. Beyond the wine tasting rooms, they offer guided snowshoe tours, ensuring a wholesome winter experience. It’s advisable to check their official website for specific timings, especially during the winter months when events or activities may influence operating hours. Toronto’s snow tubing spots provide adrenaline-packed fun, but when you’re ready to trade the slopes for vineyards, the guide on Prince Edward County’s finest wineries and vineyards will help you plan a delightful wine-tasting getaway just a short drive away.
Address: 496350 Grey County Rd 2, Clarksburg, ON N0H 1J0, Canada
Phone: +1 519-599-2255
Albion Hills Conservation Area
This conservation area is a hotspot for year-round outdoor activities. During the winter, it turns into a snowy playground, and while skiing and snowshoeing are popular, its snow tubing facilities are equally commendable. Situated at 16500 Peel Regional Rd 50, Caledon, the area is easily reachable from Toronto via Highway 50. It’s the natural setting of Albion Hills that truly sets it apart, offering visitors a serene winter wonderland experience. The tubing hill is suitable for all age groups, ensuring both safety and fun. The conservation area offers warm-up chalets, equipment rentals, and refreshment areas. Ample parking is available for visitors. While the park is open from sunrise to sunset, tubing and other winter activities might have specific timings. It’s best to check their official site for details.
Address: 16500 Peel Regional Rd 50, Caledon, ON L7E 3E7, Canada
Phone: +1 905-880-0227
Toboggan Hill Park
Located in Sudbury, Toboggan Hill Park is a beloved local spot, especially during winter. As the name suggests, it’s ideal for tobogganing and snow tubing. The park is located at 255 Centennial Dr, Sudbury. From Toronto, one can take Highway 69 north to Sudbury. The hill’s natural slope makes it a favorite for families and those looking for a leisurely tubing experience. The hill offers a long, smooth ride, perfect for both solo tubers and those who wish to ride in groups. While the park provides a natural tubing experience, there are benches and areas to relax and enjoy the winter scenery. As a public park, Toboggan Hill is generally open from dawn to dusk, but it’s always a good idea to check local guidelines or notices.
Tips for First-Timers
Venturing out for your first snow tubing experience? Here’s what you need to know:
Dressing Appropriately for the Weather: Layer up! Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away. Add insulating layers like fleece or wool, and top it all with waterproof and windproof outer layers. Don’t forget waterproof boots, a warm hat, and insulated gloves. Thermal socks are a must to keep your feet cozy.
Safety Tips: Always wear a helmet designed for winter sports. They not only protect against impacts but also keep your head warm. Gloves are crucial, not just for warmth, but to protect your hands when gripping the tube or if you need to push off from any obstacles. If the hill is particularly icy or the ride is fast, consider wearing additional protective gear like padded shorts or wrist guards.
When to Visit: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If weekends are your only option, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Avoiding peak holiday seasons can also ensure a more relaxed experience. When you’re ready to unwind and embrace the holiday season, our guide on the best Christmas events and holiday activities in Toronto will point you to magical events and activities to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
Snow Tubing Etiquette
To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time, adhere to these guidelines:
Rules of the Hill: Always wait your turn. The lanes can get busy, so it’s crucial to ensure the path is clear before you start your descent. Once you’ve reached the bottom, promptly move out of the landing area to avoid collisions.
Interacting with Other Tubers: A simple nod or smile goes a long way. If someone needs assistance, offer a helping hand. Remember, everyone is there to have fun. While enjoying the excitement of snow tubing in Toronto, don’t miss the opportunity to build lasting friendships. Check out our guide on the proven ways to make friends in Toronto for tips and strategies to make your tubing experiences even more memorable.
Leave No Trash Behind: Keep the hills pristine. If you bring snacks or drinks, ensure wrappers, bottles, and other trash items make it to the bins. Respect the environment and the space for everyone.
Alternatives and Other Winter Activities in Toronto
For those looking beyond snow tubing or seeking variety, Toronto offers a plethora of winter activities:
Ice Skating: One of the city’s cherished winter pastimes. Nathan Phillips Square and Harbourfront Centre are among the popular rinks. Rent skates or bring your own and glide on the ice amidst the city lights.
Skiing and Snowboarding: While Toronto itself doesn’t have ski hills, short drives will take you to nearby resorts. Consider Blue Mountain or Horseshoe Valley for a day trip.
Winter Hiking: Toronto’s parks, like High Park or the Rouge National Urban Park, offer beautiful winter landscapes. Strap on some snowshoes and explore the trails.
Festivals: Toronto hosts winter festivals that light up the city. Toronto Light Fest in the Distillery District and Winterlicious city-wide culinary celebration are just a couple to consider.
Key Takeaways
- Toronto and its surrounding areas boast several top-notch snow tubing destinations, from Brimacombe to Snow Valley Barrie, offering a range of experiences suitable for families, couples, and solo adventurers.
- First-time snow tubers should prioritize safety with the right gear, including helmets and gloves. Dressing in layers is also crucial for comfort and protection against the cold.
- When on the tubing hills, it’s essential to respect others by waiting your turn, keeping a safe distance, and ensuring the landing areas are clear after each descent.
- Leaving no trace behind and ensuring the hills remain litter-free ensures a pleasant experience for everyone and protects the environment.
- Beyond snow tubing, Toronto offers a plethora of other winter activities, including ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, and festive celebrations.
- To avoid crowds and have a more relaxed snow tubing experience, consider visiting on weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons during the off-peak seasons.
- Combining snow tubing with other winter activities, such as wine tasting at Georgian Hills Vineyards, ensures a comprehensive and memorable winter adventure in Toronto.
FAQs
- Is snow tubing safe for kids?
Yes, with appropriate safety gear and supervision, snow tubing is kid-friendly.
- What should I wear for snow tubing?
Layer up with moisture-wicking, insulating, and waterproof clothing. Don’t forget waterproof boots and insulated gloves. To shop for winter attire and gifts visit the best shopping malls in Toronto.
- Are helmets necessary for snow tubing?
While not always mandatory, helmets are highly recommended for added safety.
- When’s the best time to go snow tubing to avoid crowds?
Weekdays, early mornings, or late afternoons are often less crowded.
- Are there any other winter activities in Toronto besides snow tubing?
Yes, ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, winter hiking, and winter festivals are among other popular activities.
- Can I bring snacks to the snow tubing hills?
While some places allow it, ensure you don’t leave any trash behind.
- How long does a typical snow tubing session last?
Times vary, but sessions often range from 1-2 hours.
- Is snow tubing physically demanding?
It’s relatively easy, requiring minimal physical effort, making it suitable for most age groups.
- Do any snow tubing locations offer night sessions?
Some places, like Blue Mountain Resort, do offer illuminated night tubing.
- Are group or family discounts available for snow tubing?
Many locations offer group rates or family packages, but it’s advisable to check in advance.
- Can beginners try snow tubing?
Absolutely! Snow tubing is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require prior experience.