Getting Outside on the Trans Canada Trail is

Getting Outside on the Trans Canada Trail is

Winter brings cold weather, shorter days, and with it, the urge to hibernate: Stay in. Wear slippers. Drink hot chocolate. Gaze out the window at the falling snow. While that does sound lovely—and tempting—research shows that people of all ages who spend more time in nature experience a sense of well-being, improved focus and attention, and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.

CONNECTING PEOPLE ACROSS THE PROVINCE ON THE TRANS CANADA TRAIL

As we emerge into a new (semi) post-pandemic reality, we’re all looking for ways to connect: with new people, with loved ones, with ourselves, and with nature. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, trail use is up by close to 50 per cent, with 95 per cent of Canadians saying their increased use boosts their physical and mental health. What’s more, 99 per cent of people polled intend to continue using trails in their communities going forward, with 69 per cent saying they intend to use trails in the winter months. With over 6,000 kilometres of the Trans Canada Trail running across Ontario, from the Manitoba border to Barrie to Ottawa and more, there are many excellent options for those looking to get outside and enjoy everything nature has to offer over the winter months and beyond.

HELPING YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

Winter can be tough—the lack of sunlight and shorter days in northern countries like Canada are known to affect mood and motivation. To support your physical and mental health over the winter, Trans Canada Trail has kicked off its third-annual Blahs to Ahhhs winter wellness campaign, designed to get you outside and on the Trail all winter long.

Wondering what you can do on the Trail? Walking, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are great activities to get your heart pumping and stay active and warm along the Trans Canada Trail, where you can enjoy a slice of nature and boost your mood. From family fun to short solo treks and serious winter adventures, you’ll find endless options for all sorts of winter activities throughout Ontario.

WHERE TO TURN YOUR BLAHS INTO AHHHS ALL WINTER LONG

Looking for top Trail suggestions in your area? Check local trail group websites for permitted use and trail conditions. Try out some of the following ideas:

• Walk, cross-country ski or snowshoe along the OttawaCarleton Trailway.

• Cross-country ski, walk or snowshoe through Frontenac Provincial Park on the Cataraqui Trail.

• Walk the Waterfront Trail in Toronto and enjoy incredible lake views.

• Cross-country ski–or take your kid for a walk (or sled ride)–in lovely, forested areas along the North Simcoe Rail Trail.

• Head out for a snowshoe in the Casques Isles section of the Voyageur Trail.

• Fat biking on the Caledon Trailway in the Palgrave Forest area.

Chances are high that there’s a Trans Canada Trail section near you—after all, 80 per cent of people across Canada live within 30 minutes of one—so find your local Trail section using our map and head outside! You’ll be so glad you did.

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