Getting through winter here in the Great White North can be a little rough. Thankfully, now that we’ve reached the Family Day weekend, there’s some spring light at the end of the tunnel. But winter isn’t quite done with us yet!
Ever helpful, Canadians are quick to share tips for surviving the long, cold months – from layering up before you head outdoors to laying in supplies for an extended Netflix binge. But there’s one tip that tends to get lost in the mix: embracing the season.
While the elements are beyond our command, our mindset is something we can control. We can choose to be positive and excited about winter, and to engage in outdoor activities that support our mental and physical health.
Ready to get outside and make the most of winter this Family Day? Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) has you covered.
Connect With Nature This Winter
Get Outside!
Explore the outdoors and discover a new trail at one of TRCA’s many wilderness locations.
NEW!
Use Avenza Maps during the winter months to explore the trails at Albion Hills Conservation Park and Kortright Centre for Conservation. You will find new QR Code signs to connect you directly to TRCA trail maps. The Winter Trail Map at Albion Hills is now in effect.
![]() Albion Hills |
![]() Kortright Centre |
VIEW ALL TRCA CONSERVATION PARKS & LANDS
Get to Know the Local Winter Wildlife



HOOT AND HOWL
Saturday February 18, 2023 – 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Cold Creek Conservation Area, Nobleton
Whoooo goes there? Join TRCA to learn about owls and coyotes in the Greater Toronto area! Discover their unique calls and amazing nighttime adaptations.
ALL ABOUT BIRDS: CAVITY NESTERS
Tuesday February 21, 2023 – 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Webinar
Home is where the hole is! Explore the fascinating world of chickadees and other cavity-nesting birds and find out what is being done to support these species.
WINTER WONDERS
Thursday February 23, 2023 – 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Southfields Community Centre, Caledon
Learn how wildlife survive chilly weather, and find out how to recognize their tracks and signs.
PAINTING IN THE PARK: WINTER BIRDS
Saturday March 4, 2023 – 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | 1:30 to 4:00 p.m.
Tommy Thompson Park, Toronto
Learn painting techniques while immersed in the unique beauty of Tommy Thompson Park! Enjoy a short hike through Toronto’s Urban Wilderness to gain inspiration from nature, then take part in a guided workshop that will help you create your own unique work of art.
SNOWSHOES AND SNOW-CLUES
Saturday March 4, 2023 – 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Claireville Conservation Area, Brampton
Enjoy an introduction to snowshoeing as you learn to track and identify signs of local animals, and discover their secrets for surviving the frigid weather.
View the TRCA calendar for more winter events.
Savour the Sweetest Time of Year


COMING SOON: SUGARBUSH MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL
March 5-April 1, 2023
Bruce’s Mill Conservation Park, Stouffville; Kortright Centre for Conservation, Woodbridge
The Sugarbush Maple Syrup Festival is just around the corner! Enjoy demonstrations and activities – and, of course, real maple syrup! Special family fun activities on weekends and during March Break.
Get Ready for March Break Adventures


TRCA MARCH BREAK CAMPS
March 13-17, 2023
Tommy Thompson Park, Toronto; Lake St. George Field Centre, Richmond Hill
Book a slot for your kids to enjoy a March Break camp experience at Tommy Thompson Park or Lake St. George. Campers will embark on guided hikes, play nature-based games outdoors, create nature crafts, and develop a connection with the natural world.
MAPLE DAYS AT THE VILLAGE
March 13-17, 2023
Black Creek Pioneer Village, Toronto
Celebrate the sweetness of maple syrup season! Join us at the Village during March Break and discover the old-fashioned skills needed to take this sweet treat all the way from tree to table.
Enjoy Year-Round Adventure at TRCA Parks
A TRCA Conservation Parks Membership Pass provides access to outdoor recreational experiences across the GTA.
Get free admission to locations including Black Creek Pioneer Village, Bruce’s Mill Conservation Park, Heart Lake Conservation Park, and Kortright Centre for Conservation, along with free parking and exclusive discounts on recreational activities.