Highlands Nordic: Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing Day Trip
Perched high on the Niagara Escarpment near Collingwood, Highlands Nordic offers 30km of trails for both classic and skate skiing, plus 8km of dedicated snowshoe trails, and views that make every stride worth it. When you reach the upper trails, Georgian Bay and Wasaga Beach spread out below you, a reward for your efforts that no downhill resort can match.
This is Ontario cross-country skiing done right. Highlands Nordic is one of the best full-service Nordic ski spots in the province, with trails wide enough for combined classic and skate skiing and a reputation for reliable snow conditions. Beginners can start on a short, flat green loop near the lodge, while experienced skiers can tackle more challenging terrain on the plateau above.
Never tried cross-country skiing? No problem. The facility offers equipment rentals in sizes from children's 8 to adult 15. This trip includes instruction with certified instructors that include rentals, trail pass, and 60 minutes of instruction. Half the group will learn while the other half goes on a snow shoeing adventure with a Parkbus Guide. By the time you're back on the bus, you'll have learned a genuinely useful winter skill!
The 8,000 square foot lodge houses a cafeteria with homemade goods, a pro shop, and a service bench. The chili, soup, and carrot cake are particular favourites for warming up mid-day. Hot drinks, sandwiches, and baked goods round out the menu.
Just 90 minutes from downtown Toronto, Highlands Nordic sits in a region that's quickly becoming South Georgian Bay's trail capital. Leave the winter driving to us and arrive ready to explore trails that wind through hardwood forest, open meadows, and along the escarpment edge. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned skier looking for a car-free adventure, this is your chance to experience one of the province's finest Nordic destinations.
Ticket Prices
Includes: Coach bus transportation, admissions, cross country ski Instruction by Highlands Nordic staff, cross country ski rentals, snow shoe rentals and guided hike.
Adult $173
Student/Senior $156
Child $87
Pickup Locations
34 Asquith Avenue
Pick up at 34 Asquith Ave, just north of the Yonge and Bloor Subway stop. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
Departure Time
8:00 AM
Return Time
6:45 PM
Highlands Nordic
Estimated arrival
10:00 AM
Departure
4:30 PM
Coach Bus: Travel in comfort with a full-sized coach bus. Air conditioning, washroom, and plenty of storage make longer rides smooth and relaxing.
Schedule for the day:
10- Arrive/ equipment distribution/fitting (group splits in half)
10:30- Ski lesson for one hour with group A and group B goes for a snowshoe
11:30- Group A goes for an hour and a half ski until 1pm
1pm- lunch for 30 minutes or so
1:30- ski lesson with group B, group A goes for a snowshoe
2:30- group B goes for an hour and a half ski until 4
4:30- departure
Do I need to know how to cross-country ski? Not at all. Highlands Nordic welcomes beginners and offers on-site lessons with certified instructors. This is included with your ticket!
What if I don't have equipment? The rental shop offers a full range of boots, skis, and poles for both classic and skate skiing, with sizes to fit skiers from age 3 to 103 Highlandsnordic. Equipment is professionally fitted by pro shop staff Craigleithmanor. This is all included with your ticket!
Can I snowshoe instead of ski? Absolutely. Highlands Nordic has 7km of snowshoe trails separate from the ski network, winding through the picturesque forests of the Niagara Escarpment Highlandsnordic. Rental snowshoes are available on-site, and you'll spend half your day snowshoeing!
What should I wear? Think layers—you may start off a little cold, but you'll warm up quickly. A hat and mittens are essential since that's where most heat escapes. Avoid cotton base layers, which hold moisture; opt for polyester or wool instead. Highlandsnordic Dress for activity, not standing around.
Is there food available? Yes. The cafeteria offers hot soup, sandwiches, hot and cold drinks, and homemade baked goods Highlandsnordic. It's the perfect spot to refuel and warm up between trail sessions.
What makes this different from downhill skiing? Cross-country skiing is self-powered—you're gliding through forests and meadows rather than riding lifts and carving down slopes. It's a full-body workout, quieter and more meditative, with that blanket of silence that Nordic skiers love Escarpmentmagazine. Plus, you'll actually see the landscape rather than racing past it.
How difficult are the trails? There's something for everyone. Beginners stick to the flat loops near the lodge, while more experienced skiers can explore the plateau trails with varied terrain. Trails are clearly marked, with shortcuts available if you want to switch routes mid-ski. Tripadvisor
