Get outside and have fun
East Coast residents share some of their favourite activities and their tips on how to enjoy it
There are three kinds of people in Atlantic Canada come winter: those who embrace the outdoors, those who go into caves (their homes) and admire the snow from windows, and those who profess to embrace all that’s cold and swiftly change their minds after one experience of winter hiking.
But outdoor activities don’t die off when the snow carpets trees and roads.
A completely different range of fun becomes available for anyone who dares to brave the cold. There’s skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, sledding, skating, snowmobiling, hockey, horse and carriage rides, or just simple walks around your community.
We asked some Atlantic Canadians about what they turned to the most come winter and here were the five most popular options.
There’s also a very basic list of what you may need (mostly clothing-wise) for each, but make sure you read up on a more comprehensive list before trying out these activities.
SNOWSHOEING
It may have started as a necessity back in the day to get from one place to another during winter, but now, snowshoeing is a regular outdoor recreational activity enjoyed in the cold months.
In the simplest sense, snowshoeing is about walking across the snow with the aid of snow shoes.
Once you have the right gear, even those who have never done it before can give it a go. You can explore easy trails, go up and down hills, or attempt more challenging paths.
Tracy Keough enjoys both both snowshoeing and crosscountry skiing during the winter. CONTRIBUTED
‘GREAT CARDIO WORKOUT’
For Tanya Sullivan from Kentville, N.S., it’s a “great cardio workout” that also allows her to clear her mind, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the surrounding beauty.
Tracy Keough, 51, from Portugal Cove-St. Philips, N.L., feels the same way and recommended trying out both snowshoeing and skiing from Avalon Nordic Ski Club.
“They groom Butterpot [Provincial] Park for both activities,” she added.
What you’ll need: snowshoes appropriate for your weight and the snow conditions, waterproof boots, gloves, lots of layers, and adjustable poles with snow baskets.
FAT BIKING
A fat bike is an off-road bicycle that’s made to accommodate oversized tires. They could be typically 3.8 inches or larger with rims of 2.16 inches or more.
Since the tires are made to travel across challenging terrains like snow, sand, and mud, they provide extra grip and traction. You can pedal without your tyres sinking unlike in a regular bicycle.
For Atlantic Canadians, fat biking is a great way to get in a workout. It’s one of the fun ways to remain active, according to Keough.
Peter MacFarlane from Kensington, P.E.I. shared that since the trails are already groomed, this is a popular outdoor activity during winter. Don’t have one but want to try it out first? No problem.
“Brookvale Nordic has rental bikes,” he added.
What you’ll need: A fat bike, dress in layers (it might be a good idea to put on some moisture-wicking base layers), weather-resistant winter-cycling shorts, breathable gloves, a biking helmet, an insulated cap under the helmet if you need one, and water-resistant hiking boots.
WINTER HIKING
A little similar to snowshoeing, winter hiking is hiking, but done in the winter. It’s also called ‘cold hiking’ by some.
Kerry Roberts from Conception Bay South, N.L., recommends this activity the most.
“It is not age or fitness dependent … With a good quality pair of spikes for your boots or snowshoes, a warm drink in a Thermos, and good company – the human and/or the furry kind,” you’re good to go, according to this 53-yearold.
“Newfoundland holds some of the most beautiful and breathtaking scenery in Canada and trails are in abundance. Many are recognized, mapped, and groomed. Others are mere footpaths forged by a few brave pathfinders that often lead to incredible beach and coastal views,” he added.
“Always let someone know where you will trek and a general timeline for your return.”
BE CAREFUL WHERE YOU HIKE
Keough enjoys winter hiking, too, but recommends keeping to paths away from the ocean’s edge during this time of the year.
“Having the right gear means hiking year-round,” she added.
Brent Beshara from Holyrood, N.L., who is a retired Special Forces Navy bomb disposal diver, recommended trying out Signal Hill, which he called “epic,” and the East Coast Trail.
What you’ll need: hiking shoes or snowshoes, layers, gloves, microspikes, hat, headlamp if it’s dark out, and anything else you think you may want to take with you in a backpack.
ATVING/SNOWMOBILING
Even though snowmobiling is made for the colder and snowy weather, this hasn’t stopped some Atlantic Canadians from engaging in ATVing in the winter too, like Jennifer Christina Gallant from P.E.I.
When it comes to snowmobiling in Atlantic Canada, Cape Breton, Fundy Highland, the Annapolis Valley, and the Northeast Region offer great options.
So does Western Newfoundland’s Long Range Mountains and Gros Morne National Park. You can also check out P.E.I.’s Confederation Trail and intersecting trails.
What you’ll need: a snowmobile, helmet, layers, boots, gloves, flashlight, goggles with lenses, and face mask on the clothing end of things. A snowmobile itself requires quite a bit of equipment, which you can ask about at any of the places that offer the activity in Atlantic Canada.
ICE-FISHING
Ice-fishing was a top choice for Ken Sanderson from P.E.I. and Roberts, based in N.L.
“If you enjoy fishing, then ice fishing is a no-brainer in Newfoundland. Prepare wisely and be familiar with the body of water you fish on. This can be a great activity done solo or with friends,” said Roberts.
Or, “find a skipper to take you cod jigging on their fishing boat,” added Beshara.
What you’ll need: proper winter attire, layers, ice fishing rods and line, ice fishing lures, safety equipment, ice auger, buckets, and sleds.
TAKE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
“Getting outside is one of the greatest things you can do for your physical, emotional, and mental health,” said Keough.
Christina Gallant from P.E.I. added that if you’re looking for people to do an activity with, reach out.
“Get in touch with some of the clubs who host events at the club-houses and also have other things to offer such as snowshoeing, and walking/ hiking trails,” Gallant said.
“You can find all of the clubs listed on the P.E.I. ATV Federation website. The most active winter clubs that have groomed trails would be Tignish, O’Leary, and Evangeline.”
Roberts cautioned that it’s important to check the weather forecast before you head out.
“Our weather can change from minute to minute and potentially land you in adverse conditions if you are unprepared … be safe, have fun, and leave only footprints and fun memories behind,” he added.
STROLL OUTSIDE
If you aren’t able to get out and do a specific wintertime activity, simply stepping outside of your home and taking a stroll through your city can be invigorating.
Beshara recommends checking out the Yellowbelly Brewery, The Celtic Hearth, The Duke Of Duckworth, George Street, The Rooms art gallery, Quidi Vidi, Gros Morne National Park, Brigus, Cupids, Bonavista, Port Rexton, Twillingate, and Lewisport in N.L.
Keough shared that a night at Cliffs Edge Retreat could be amazing, too. “Sitting outside watching the waves crash is a relaxing way to enjoy the winter months. A room with a hot tub and/or sauna gives an extra special view,” she added.