Winter in the Maritimes is a magical time of year. Here, you’ll find activities for every type of traveller, whether you’re an avid adventurer who loves snowshoeing and skiing or someone who prefers to cozy up by the fire and watch the snowfall. 

Come stroll with us through this winter wonderland to discover a few of our favourite things to do in winter.

The winter season in Saint John is always highly anticipated, and for good reason. When the weather cools down, the city heats up with all kinds of exciting outdoor activities.

One event you won’t want to miss is Fundy Winterfest, a vibrant six-week festival celebration of everything New Brunswick has to offer in the winter, with outdoor activities perfect for the whole family. Mark your calendars (January 18 to March 9) and visit their Facebook page for a complete, up-to-date list of upcoming events and activities.

For the winter thrill-seekers, we recommend hitting the slopes at Poley Mountain. With 30 groomed trails ranging from easy green circles to challenging double black-diamonds, there’s something suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. And the best part? It’s just a short 45-minute drive from our Saint John terminal!

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic experience, head to Saint John’s beautiful parklands. Take a trip to the nearby Irving Nature Park and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the winter landscape. Keep an eye out for enchanting Moonlight Snowshoeing events held there throughout the season.

To add a touch of nostalgia to your winter experience, Snider Mountain Ranch offers magical sleigh rides—the perfect way for the entire family to enjoy the great outdoors. Finally, to complete your snowy season getaway, enjoy a peaceful glamping trip at Ridgeback Lodge in Kingston, New Brunswick. This enchanting, one-of-a-kind experience offers accommodations such as the Dream Domes and Sky View Domes.

Across the Bay of Fundy in Digby, Nova Scotia, seafood lovers can indulge in tasty scallop dishes at Digby’s Captain’s Cabin Restaurant or The Crow’s Nest.

After all the adventure and activity, there are plenty of places where you can relax and extend your stay. Consider Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa—just as beautiful in the winter as it is in the summer, with an abundance of activities and events for guests of all ages throughout the winter season. For those looking for an experience that’s off the beaten path, sleep under the stars and enjoy an unforgettable winter glamping experience in the all-season geodesic domes at Sissiboo River Retreat.

Book a trip aboard MV Fundy Rose, today and enjoy the best of both provinces!

When people think of the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, they usually think of the area's beauty during the peak of summer—the picturesque lighthouses and the fishing boats gliding across the water. This region also offers some of Nova Scotia’s coziest and most unique wintertime experiences.

If you love being outdoors, make sure to check out Leif Erikson Park. This park is home to 19 acres of rugged trails, perfect for enjoying a winter walk along the ocean. Another must-visit destination is nearby Ellenwood Lake Park, where you can borrow cross-country ski equipment or snowshoes free of charge and explore the woodland scenery.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, visit the ever-popular Sip Café, nestled in the heart of Yarmouth. Here, they serve delicious coffees, teas, soups, sandwiches and more. For something a little stronger, Boatskeg Distilling Co. offers delicious local craft spirits and cocktails.

Nestled along the majestic Northumberland Strait, Pictou County offers plenty of outdoor activities, so you can enjoy winter to the fullest extent.

One of the best attractions in the area is Sugar Moon Farm, the perfect destination for families looking to be transported into an enchanting winter wonderland. Here, you can explore more than 30 kilometres of trails, with a guided tour of a maple sugar camp where you can make delicious sugar on snow—a Canadian classic! Keep an eye out for winter events that take place at the farm throughout the season.

You can take your adventures to the next level by treating yourself to a sleigh ride at MacLellans Mountain Sleigh Rides. This thrilling experience provides an opportunity to be pulled through the scenic snowy landscape by horse, creating winter memories that the whole family will cherish!

For even more winter excitement, venture beyond Pictou to Keppoch Mountain or Ski Wentworth. Keppoch Mountain, formerly an alpine ski hill, now operates as a vast outdoor recreation area with 40 kilometres of groomed and ungroomed trails for cross-country skiers of all levels. Ski Wentworth, located in the Wentworth Valley, is Nova Scotia’s largest alpine ski hill. It boasts over 20 trails and a massive terrain park, making it an excellent destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

When you visit PEI during the winter, you’ll discover winter activities that allow you to fully embrace and enjoy the snowy season.

Throughout the winter, PEI hosts fantastic events for everyone. Be sure to mark your calendars for the Prince Edward Island Beer Festival (February 21 and 22) and the Jack Frost Winterfest (February 14 to 17). These events offer fun outdoor activities like skating and sledding, as well as delicious food, drinks and captivating entertainment.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Prince Edward Island’s many winter trails, perfect for snowshoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing or just a relaxing stroll with friends and family. And in the heart of Charlottetown, you can experience the magic of the season at one of their outdoor skating rinks.

After all that chilly fun, indulge in the best of PEI’s renowned food scene. Downtown Charlottetown is home to excellent eateries such as Churchill Arms for British cuisine and the Brickhouse Kitchen and Bar for delicious cocktails.

Whether you’re a year-round Maritimer, or just visiting, we guarantee that your winter adventures here will be love at frost sight!

For more tips and ideas on exploring the East Coast, visit Explore the Maritimes.

Featured image:
Location: Sugar Moon Farm
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia / Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography