Family Day Weekend at Ontario Parks
Wow the kids this Family Day — take them to an Ontario Park. On Family Day weekend, many popular summer parks plan special events to showcase their winter wonders. Here are three events planned for the Family Day weekend:
Experience Winter in the Wild at Algonquin
Winter in the Wild is back at Algonquin Provincial Park. On Saturday, February 15 and Sunday, February 16, families can join free indoor and outdoor activities at different locations along Highway 60 with the purchase of a Daily Vehicle Permit or Camping Permit (food service excepted). There will be bird-walks, snowshoe hikes and tours of the fascinating Collections Room at the Visitor Centre where a hot chili lunch will also be served. Cross-country skiers and snowshoe fans can try the park’s highly rated ski and interpretive trails and the Mew Lake Campground expects to have its skating rink open for skaters. A Saturday night bonfire at the campground is planned followed by a night hike and wolf howl. The park (Mew Lake) rents heated yurts in winter or stay in four-season accommodation nearby. Algonquin Provincial Park
Prowl for Owls
Grab your binoculars, family and friends and join a guided Family Day Owl Prowl at The Pinery on Lake Huron (February 17). Better known for its sandy beach in summer, The Pinery is a winter haven for birds, including owls. This year Snowy Owls have been spotted. More campers are discovering winter at The PInery since a new deluxe cabin and a deluxe yurt were added to the park’s existing roofed accommodation. Besides the Owl Prowl, other Family Day activities are planned and the ski and snowshoe trails, skating rink and tobogganing hill will be open weather-permitting. Pinery Provincial Park
Map Winter’s Night Sky
Winter’s night sky at Killarney Provincial Park is a feast for the senses. A lack of light pollution makes Killarney good for stargazing, especially in winter. This Ontario Provincial Park even has its own observatory, thanks to a dedicated volunteer. Join park staff and the Friends of Killarney for Family Activity Days on February 15 and 16. Activities include guided stargazing at the observatory. Six yurts offer heated winter accommodation in the park. There is also a nearby inn. Killarney Provincial Park
For updates on festivals and events across Ontario Parks, visit: http://www.ontarioparks.com/events/
For the latest park trail conditions, visit the Ontario Parks Ski Report at http://www.parkreports.com/skireport/
