Wasaga Beach Provincial Park has some of the finest Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on the Blueberry Trails in the Ontario.
This popular spot has 24 km of trails on ancient tree covered sand dunes 500m in from the coast by the Nottawasaga River. No, you do not ski the flat beach made famous by summer vacationers nor see it or the river as you ski.
Here you will find not only a variety of trails for all skill levels, but great scenery and solitude. On the backend, these dunes get to be rather large hills with loops winding around and over many. On a sunny day, it has to be one of my favourite places.
Over the years this spot has developed into a full Nordic centre from a simple waxing hut. When there is little snow in the province, Wasaga might have some.
This is a great place for beginners to try cross country skiing. Every trail leaving the chalet is flat. The Blueberry loop making a bit of a figure 8, are mellow with just one big mound you will likely walk down.
As you work your way to the back it starts to get lumpy and hilly. The trails are well laid out and if you are a seasoned skier do try Monument Hill and the High Dunes trails as they are a joy to ski.
There are two steep descents on these loops too, so unless you’re an expert skier, walk them.
Though you can not Skate ski all the loops the 12 km loops offered make good gliding and a workout on Deer Run.
Ski rates and rentals have been some of the lowest over the years, thankfully. So this place is great value. Nordic skis and snowshoes can be rented for half day rates but there are no half day trail passes.
Snowshoeing is getting more popular and there are 10 km backcountry trails open to try, and more if you want to break your own trail.
I did a loop to the lookout and it was long and steep in sections, but worth it. You can see Georgian Bay from it, if you are fit enough to get there.
A favourite for many skiers willing to make the drive. I am sure you will love it.
