They are perfect for a great ice landscape: natural ice skating trails that magically wind through the forests of Canada.
Skaters bored with circling on artificial rinks can dash across the field without the risk of bumping into anyone.
Here, MailOnline Travel has rounded up some of the most impressive ice skating trails in the country, from dog-friendly trails with reindeer on site to 15km-long “maze-like” adventures.
They are open as long as the weather permits. Scroll down to learn more about these cool places…
Skating in Forêt – Ottawa
Patinage en Forêt is a “magical” ice skating rink in the forests of Lac-des-Loups, near Ottawa
Patinage en Forêt is open seven days a week weather permitting
This “magical” 3 km (1.8 mile) ice skating rink is located in the forests of Lac-des-Loups, just 45 minutes from Ottawa. Skaters can enjoy the trail seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to sunset, if the temperature is below freezing.
The site even hosts a “torch night”, a regular event where visitors can skate after dark, the icy path of which is illuminated by 350 torches.
A daily pass to the ice rink costs $18 (£14.37) for adults and $14 (£11.17) for children (ages six to 17). A season pass costs $114 (£90.99) for adults and $89 (£71.04) for children.
Snowshoeing, hiking and entrance fees are priced at $10 (£7.98) for a daily ticket and $40 (£31.93) for a season ticket.
For more details visit www.patinageenforet.com/precios-y-hourarios.
Domaine Enchanteur – Quebec
Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs to Domaine Enchanteur.
Domaine Enchanteur is located in the Mauricie region of Canada, between Montreal and Quebec City. It features a 15-kilometre (9.3 mi) “maze trail” for visitors to skate.
The site is dog-friendly and its website promises guests the chance to see animals like reindeer along the way.
For unsteady skaters, there is a snowshoe trail around the forest and sleds can be rented on site.
Tickets are priced at $24 (£19.15) for adults and $17 (£13.57) for children aged five to 12, while children under four are free.
Visit www.facebook.com/DomaineEnchanteur and www.dominioenchanteur.com for more information, including skating conditions.
River Oak Skating Route – Ottawa
River Oak is located just 30 minutes from Ottawa and has a 3 km long ice skating rink.
The site offers an outdoor rink where guests can play hockey and hosts evening sessions for skaters to enjoy after dark.
River Oak describes itself as “a natural playground.” It is located just 30 minutes from Ottawa and has a 3 km long ice skating rink surrounded by forests.
Visitors can rent equipment on site and there is even an outdoor ice rink for playing hockey. The site is open Thursday to Sunday, with evening sessions available.
A day pass for adults costs $19 (£15.16), while seniors and children can access for $15 (£11.97). The site offers a family day pass for $63 (£50.28).
River Oak advises checking periodically to see if the trail is open. Updates are posted on their Facebook page. – www.facebook.com/RiverOakEstates – and website, www.riveroak.ca/skating.
Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery – Ontario
Muskoka Farm and Winery is known for its blueberry fields, but when they freeze, the place transforms into a winter wonderland.
The ice trail at Muskoka Farm and Winery is described as a “unique experience”
Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery is located about two and a half hours from Toronto and is known for its blueberry marshes. Every winter, the swamp freezes, forming an impressive 1.2 km ice skating circuit.
Their website says, “With the forest on one side and blueberry beds on the other, this is a unique experience.” After skating, visitors can head to the winery for mulled wine or mulled cranberry cider.
The trail is open seven days a week weather permitting and a night skating session is scheduled every Saturday night.
Day passes for the ice trail are available for purchase on the winery’s website: cranberry.ca/product/ice-trail-pass. Prices start at $16 (£12.77) for adults and $12 (£9.58) for children under 12.
Arrowhead Provincial Park – Ontario
Arrowhead Provincial Park transforms into a winter wonderland in the colder months
During the summer months, Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville, Ontario, is known for its lush forest and sandy beaches. In winter, it transforms into a snowy paradise and offers a 1.3 km (1.8 mi) ice skating rink through the Muskoka forest.
This popular winter attraction features picturesque landscapes and various activities, from snowshoeing to skiing.
Visitors are encouraged to reserve well in advance, and equipment is available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis, according to their website. Snowshoes and ice skates are priced at $15 (£11.97) for three hours, while a full day of skiing will cost adults $32 and children $25 (£19.95). .
For more information visit www.ontarioparks.ca/parksblog/tips-for-checking-arrowhead-off-of-your-bucket-list/.