5 Family Activities to Enjoy This Winter Within 1 Hour of Barrie, Ontario

By Ken Poole, Engel & Völkers Barrie

Winter in Simcoe County has a magic of its own: crisp air, snow-covered trails, frozen lakes, and enough activities to keep the whole family busy from December through March. If you’re living in Barrie, considering a move here, or planning a weekend getaway, the good news is that some of Ontario’s best winter experiences are all within an hour of your doorstep.

Here are 5 great family-friendly things to do this winter, all less than 60 minutes from Barrie.

1. Hit the Slopes at Horseshoe Resort or Mount St. Louis Moonstone

Barrie is surrounded by incredible ski resorts, and two of the most family-friendly in Ontario!

Horseshoe Resort (20 mins): Perfect for younger kids and new skiers. Horseshoe offers:

• Skiing and snowboarding

• Tube park

• Cross-country ski trails

• Indoor swimming and restaurants

  
  

Mount St. Louis Moonstone (25 mins): A favourite for families with mixed skill levels. Excellent grooming, fast lifts, and tons of intermediate terrain make it a fantastic all-day outing.

If your family loves the outdoors, these two spots alone can fill your entire winter calendar.

2. Spend a Day at Snow Valley’s Family Fun Paradise

Snow Valley (15 mins): Widely considered one of the best beginner and family ski hills in Ontario, and for good reason. With gentle terrain, terrific instructors, and a massive snow tubing hill, it’s ideal for kids learning to ski for the first time.

Their tubing park is a must-do: perfect for grandparents, kids, and parents who want big fun without strapping into skis.

3. Explore Friday Harbour’s Winter Village on Lake Simcoe

Just 15 minutes from Barrie, Friday Harbour transforms into a cozy winter escape. Families can enjoy:

• Outdoor skating

• Fireside lounges

• Boardwalk restaurants

• Holiday markets and light displays

It’s a great spot for a relaxed winter evening, hot chocolate in hand, with beautiful views of Lake Simcoe.

4. Discover Hardwood Ski & Bike’s Snowy Adventure Trails

If your family prefers cross-country skiing, fat biking, or snowshoeing, Hardwood Ski & Bike (25 mins) is unbeatable.

With:

• Kilometers of groomed trails

• Rentals for all ages

• Warm-up stations

• Kids’ programs and lessons

…it’s an incredible way to spend an active winter day together. Plus, it’s quieter than the downhill resorts, offering an escape from the hustle.

5. Visit Scenic Caves & Suspension Bridge in Collingwood

About 45 - 50 minutes from Barrie, the Scenic Caves Nature Adventures offers a breathtaking winter experience... especially for families who love the outdoors!

In winter, you can enjoy:

• Snowshoeing across the iconic suspension bridge

• Forest trails with panoramic Georgian Bay views

• Groomed paths for beginners and seasoned trekkers alike

It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy winter adventures within driving distance.

Final Thoughts

Living in Barrie gives families something rare: big-city access with small-town comfort and incredible winter experiences just minutes away. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring nature, or enjoying a cozy waterfront village, you’re surrounded by options.

If you’re considering moving to Barrie or anywhere in Simcoe County and want to know what life here really offers families, I’d be happy to share more insights.

📞 Ken Poole - Engel & Völkers Barrie. Helping families upgrade their lives, one smart move at a time.