The days are finally getting longer and it's brighter when we're leaving work each night, spring isn't quite around the corner, but we have made it through the darkest days of winter. Staying physically active and getting out and about, even amidst the pandemic, can make a big difference for your health and mental well-being. We did some brainstorming around the office on things we can do here in our own province this winter to pass the time.
A popular winter activity in Canada is skiing and snowboarding. While Waterloo Region isn't known for being a mountainous geographic region, we are lucky to be surrounded by a variety of ski hills. Chicopee is the first place that comes to mind when thinking of places close to home. Located in Kitchener, Chicopee features three lifts and a variety of runs ranging in difficulty from easy, such as Tenderfoot, to most difficult, like Roughshod. A little outside Waterloo Region is Glen Eden, located in the Milton area, featuring 16 trails and 6 lifts. If you're feeling like going for a drive and a day trip then look no further than Blue Mountain Ski Resort, located in Collingwood, featuring 43 trails and 11 lifts.
Maybe skiing or snowboarding isn't quite your cup of tea, how about going for a classic skate on an outdoor rink in winter? Not all of us have the space to make an outdoor rink in our backyards, but have no fear, the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo feature a plethora of outdoor rinks. The most notable is the Waterloo Public Square rink, open 10am-10pm every day and featuring an artificial cooling slab beneath the ice for consistent conditions no matter the weather. In addition, volunteers and city staff manage scores of outdoor rinks, there's a good chance that you can find one in your own neighbourhood. If you're adventurous or in the Ottawa area, then you'll need to check out the Rideau Canal. At 7.8 kilometres long, Ottawa's Rideau Canal is Canada's most famous skating trail, with multiple entry points and rest stations located along the canal serving up iconic Beaver Tails, the favourite Canadian pastry.
If you're trying to avoid physical exertion then look no further than the St. Jacob's Farmers' Market, located in St. Jacobs. Dating back to 1952, the market originally opened as The Stockyard Farmers' Market. Nowadays, the market is open year-round on Thursdays and Saturdays, and features too many vendors to count. Looking for something more food oriented? Have you heard of the Chocolate Trail in Stratford, Ontario? There's more to Stratford than just Shakespeare plays, this self-guided tour introduces you to Stratford's world-famous confectioners and bakers. All you need to do is purchase a trail pass for $33.90 which entitles you to a chocolate delight at 6 different locations on the trail.
More information can be found through the following link:
Instead of wishing winter away, lean into it a little bit, you might have some fun along the way.
