Enjoy a delightful range of winter activities perfect for a Family Day visit
By Sault Tourism
Looking for the perfect place to spend Family Day weekend? Look no further than Sault Ste. Marie! The Soo blends outdoor adventure, rich history with cozy winter charm. Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior and surrounded by beautiful forests, the Soo offers endless
opportunities for families to bond, explore, and make lasting memories.
Ski down one of Ontario ski hills – and you won’t in the lift line for long either! Skate on a beautiful waterfront trail, or at our new downtown plaza complete with warm changing room and concession stand for hot chocolate! Go snowshoeing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, tobogganing… almost every winter sport you could want to do is available in Sault Ste. Marie.
Ski with the family!
Escape crowds but enjoy big vertical and rugged terrain at Searchmont Resort this family day weekend. Searchmont has some of the best downhill skiing in Ontario with steep runs for experts, long, easy gliders for intermediates and a beginner hill, the Buzzsaw, which is perfect for beginners.
Searchmont is also a fully equipped resort with a restaurant, bar, shop and rentals available.
Ski the Mabel Lake trail at Hiawatha
On Family Day weekend, ski to Mabel Lake as this beautiful backcountry ski trail opens up. Bring snacks, a picnic, friends and make a day of it!
Situated just 10 minutes from downtown, Hiawatha Highlands offers more than 50km of beautiful skiing in towering Pine forests. Click here for a link to all trail and maps or read more about all that Hiawatha Highlands has to offer!
There is also a Lantern Ski on Friday, February 14th. This is always a popular event for locals and visitors alike.
Bon Soo 2025
The Bon Soo winter carnival concludes on Saturday, February 15th, but there is still lots happening on the first part of Family Day weekend including the iconic Polar Bear Plunge!
Check back for details on the 2025 program soon!
Get your skates on!
Sault Ste. Marie has a number of some skating rinks and trails, all within a walk or drive of downtown. Check out our new downtown plaza and the brand new skating rink (pictured)! There is a concession stand on site that serves delicious hot chocolate!
The City also maintains five over outdoor rinks including the popular waterfront Clergue trail (also pictured!)
Gathering AT The Rapids Powwow
The 19th annual Gathering At The Rapids Powwow happens at GFL Gardens on February 15th and 16th and is likely to be one of biggest Powwows in Ontario in 2025!
All are welcome to attend, whether it to enter the dance competition (with big prizes!) or simply watch this spectacular gathering!
Fat Biking trails
Sault Ste. Marie is on its way to becoming an epicentre for Fat Biking, one of the fastest growing winter sports, and has perfectly groomed trails at Hiawatha Highlands and Crimson Ridge.
Try Ice Climbing!
Ice Climbing is a truly unique winter experience and one that you can do just outside of Sault Ste. Marie. Shaun Parent (Superior Exploration) and Steve Foster (Steve Foster Adventure Instruction) are certified, highly experienced, expert ice climbers who will help you have the best possible adventure. Visit their websites for details on how to enjoy these beautifully frozen ice structures.
Axe Throwing and Golf Simulators
Sometimes you just need a break from the snow and cold. Well, have you ever tried axe throwing? Check out one of our newest and most fun indoor activities!
Missing golf and still need a fix? The Up and Down Lounge has state of the art golf simulators, which can be booked by the hour. You can also grab a drink and some food to be able to make an evening of this fun winter activity!
Snowshoe on the Canadian Shield
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to experience winter in Sault Ste. Marie. We have well-marked and beautifully scenic trails all over the city, including at Hiawatha, Crimson Ridge and Stokely Creek.
We also have some expert tour guides who can not only show you the way, but can also provide information about the area and its cultural significance… you may even be treated to a cup of hot chocolate 😉
Check out our Tours & Guide page for all the info!
Relax, Dine and Drink
Sault Ste. Marie has plenty of restaurants for all tastes, and many perfect for families.
Two Wacky Wings restaurants have entertainment arenas that’ll keep kids amused for hours. We also have restaurants serving pizza, Syrian Shawarma, spicy Indian, delicious Italian and sizzling steak… the Sault has so many great, click here for a full list restaurants.
