Sure, you could strap some skis on and go for a downhill run or a cross-country jaunt this winter, but if you’re looking for maximum enjoyment of the outdoors with much less effort, there’s nothing like a peaceful sleigh ride through the wilderness.
Picture yourself, bundled up, snuggled together, all smiles and rosy cheeks as you glide through the snow, and past forests and fields, for a peaceful day outdoors at any of these farms.
Back of Beyond Equine Centre, Huntsville
Each ride begins with a behind-the-scenes tour of the horse farm, plus the chance to sit in the 150-year-old McLaughlin sleigh in the barn. Then, hop on an elegant red sleigh and travel through the beautiful private woodland trails. Afterwards, enjoy the campfire with a hot chocolate and roast some marshmallows. Pets are welcome. Fees: $175 plus HST (includes the first two people). Each additional adult is $35 plus HST. Children (3 to 10 years old) are $28 plus HST. Children under 3 years old are free. Book online.
Dual Acres, Shallow Lake
Durk and Alma DeVries’ family farm in Grey Bruce is about 15 minutes from Sauble Beach. Wagon and sleigh rides are offered on trails that meander through the 50-acre woodlot located in the Georgian Bluffs. For a romantic adventure, book the two-seater sleigh. Hot chocolate is served in the shack at the end of your ride. Pricing information is available upon request. Contact by phone or email: 519-935-3156, bookings@dualacres.com.
Armstrong’s Thunder Ridge Farm, Sprucedale
Located in the Almaguin Highlands, this property has 54 acres of groomed trails for daytime and beautifully lit evening rides. You’ll be pulled through the wilderness by the team of Percheron draft horses, imported from Manitoba. Armstrong’s offers three packages: 30 minutes ($75); 1 hour ($100); or 1.5 hours, including a bonfire and hot chocolate ($150). Call (705) 783-8213 to book.
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Merrylynd Farms, Douro-Dummer
Horse-drawn sleigh rides have been part of life at Merrylynd Farms since 1825. Book a moonlit cutter ride for up to eight people, or a group of up to 20. Tours run between one to two hours, starting usually between 10-11 a.m. They also offer farm tours to help visitors better understand traditional food production in Ontario. Booking and cost information is available directly through the farm. Cost information available upon request. Inquire or book by email: merrylynd@nexicom.net.
Glendale Farms, Owen Sound
This unique ranch offers 2,000 acres of beautiful well-groomed trails. Glide through the woods, passing through the covered bridge and take in the wonderful views. You’ll also enjoy a scenic path through the open fields and woods, journeying to the sugar shack to warm up with hot chocolate and hot apple cider. Email or call for booking and rate information: info@glendale-farms.com, (519) 371-9536.
Rainbow View Farms, West Phelpston
If you’re looking for an exclusive old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride as a private event, Rainbow View Farms offers outings, class parties, birthday celebrations, wedding proposals, and more. A one-hour private ride is $225. Call to book: (705) 733-6821.
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Valley Ridge Family Farm, Ravenna
Snuggle up under a blanket and enjoy a magical 50-minute sleigh ride courtesy of two Clydesdale horses. The tour covers 128 acres of open fields and forested trails. Your driver will stop partway through so you can meet the horses and take photos. Finish the experience at the barn with hot chocolate around a campfire—and remember to take a few extra minutes to visit the farm animals. Allow for at least 1.5 hours at the farm. Group sleigh rides are $48 for one hour. Book online.
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