With more Canadians opting to explore their own backyard, winter travel in Ontario is having a moment, and few places deliver the same mix of outdoor adventure, community energy, and northern scenery as Sault Ste. Marie.
Set between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, the Sault offers easy access to world-class winter adventure alongside a welcoming downtown, vibrant food scene, and a packed seasonal events calendar. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer winter stay, this Northern Ontario city rewards those who lean into the season.
Here’s why Sault Ste. Marie deserves a spot at the top of your 2026 winter travel list.
Conquer the slopes at Searchmont Resort
With one of the highest vertical drops in Ontario, Searchmont Resort is a must-visit for skiers and snowboarders looking for big terrain without the long-haul travel. The resort features 26 runs across 100 acres of rugged, rolling landscape, a terrain park, and state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment that keep conditions pristine all season long.
Visitors can stay slopeside in Searchmont’s newly renovated ski-in villas, or choose from a wide range of accommodations in Sault Ste. Marie. The drive from the city to the resort is quick and easy, making it simple to base yourself in town while enjoying full days on the slopes, then return to the Sault for dining and a relaxed winter evening.
Ontario’s epicentre for winter fat biking
When the snow falls, the Sault’s trail network shifts into high gear. With more than 60 kilometres of groomed, machine-built fat bike trails across Hiawatha Highlands and Crimson Ridge, Sault Ste. Marie is regarded as Ontario’s premier winter riding destination.
Flowing singletrack, playful berms, and rolling elevation make these trails equally appealing to first-timers and experienced riders. Rentals are available locally at Hiawatha Highlands and Velorution Bike & Ski, making it easy to try fat biking even if you don’t own a bike.
The Frozen Toe Fat Bike Race: A winter highlight
A signature moment of the season is the Frozen Toe Fat Bike Race, returning February 7, 2026. Open to riders of all ages and skill levels, Frozen Toe combines competitive racing with the kind of community energy that defines winter in the Sault.
Whether you’re lining up on the start line or cheering from the sidelines, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city’s winter trail culture at its best.
Glide through world-class Nordic skiing
Cross-country skiers will find some of the finest terrain in North America just outside the city. Stokely Creek Lodge, located about 40 minutes from downtown, offers over 130 kilometres of immaculately groomed trails winding through frozen lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic highland views.
Closer to the city, Hiawatha Highlands provides more than 50 kilometres of scenic trails surrounded by towering pines, along with special lantern-lit night ski events that add a magical twist to winter evenings.
Snowshoeing made for exploring
For a slower-paced way to experience the landscape, snowshoeing opens up kilometres of serene winter trails. From Stokely Creek’s expansive loop system to Hiawatha Highlands’ family-friendly routes, there’s no shortage of options for wandering through quiet forests blanketed in snow.
New for 2026, Stokely Creek now offers a lighted snowshoe trail, offering a memorable way to explore the winter landscape under the stars.
Crimson Ridge also transforms into a winter playground, offering over 20 kilometres of snowshoe-friendly trails with gentle terrain and open views.
Celebrate winter at Bon Soo
Few events capture the spirit of the season quite like Bon Soo Winter Carnival. Held from February 13-21, 2026, Bon Soo brings the city together with snow sculptures, outdoor events, live entertainment, and plenty of reasons to embrace the cold.
It’s a reminder that winter in the Sault isn’t something to endure, it’s something to celebrate.
Ride the trails by snowmobile
Snowmobilers can access hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails throughout the Algoma region, including the popular Soo Highlands Loop, a scenic 169-kilometre day ride through classic Northern Ontario terrain. Stops along the way, including Searchmont Resort, make it easy to turn a long ride into a full winter experience.
Warm up with great food and local flavour
After a day outdoors, Sault Ste. Marie’s restaurant scene offers plenty of ways to refuel. From relaxed pubs and casual dining to standout local favourites, the city delivers comfort and quality.
Downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods are home to a mix of restaurants, breweries, and bars, perfect for unwinding, sharing stories from the trail, and settling into a cozy winter evening.
Easy to get to, hard to forget
With daily flights from Toronto and Thunder Bay or a scenic drive along the Trans-Canada Highway, Sault Ste. Marie is closer than many travellers expect, and once you arrive, winter feels anything but ordinary.
As more Canadians choose to explore closer to home, the Sault stands out as a destination that fully embraces the season, offering adventure, community, and unforgettable northern scenery.
Start planning your winter escape and discover everything waiting for you in Sault Ste. Marie.