Distance: 4-kilometre beginner Chickadee Trail loop; the 10-kilometre Dune Ridge Trail and Huron Trail loops; and everything else in between at Pinery Provincial Park
Average time to complete: 2-hours to a full day
Difficulty: novice and intermediate level trails; many flat open sections with some forested areas and a few rolling hills
Parking: daily admission fee at park entrance (9526 Lakeshore Road RR2, Grand Bend, Ontario)
General safety tips: check weather and trail conditions; wear proper clothing; carry plenty of water, snacks and safety gear; and always let someone know when and where you are going and your expected return, especially if exploring alone in limited cell service areas
I first came across this beautiful place while living in southwestern Ontario. I was an avid cross-country skier before moving south for work and found it difficult to adjust to the lack of snow. Until I visited Pinery Provincial Park, situated on the shores of Lake Huron. This gem can get large amounts of snow, not as much as I was used to but enough to get my ski fix a few times a year.
There is a fee to enter this provincial park and you can also pay to rent equipment, including the option to stay the night in a yurt or cabin. The trails are fairly well maintained, but not groomed daily. Some trails have set tracks and some where you might need to set your own track.
Dune Ridge Trail
My favourite is the 10-kilometre Dune Ridge Trail. This trail is more advanced than the others, with some steep hills and windy sections. Sections of this trail are over a paved road leading through the campground, but the trail does offer lovely views of the river and forested areas with a warming hut along the way.
Huron Trail
I also really enjoy the Huron Trail, its approximately 10-kilometres in length and offers some stunning views of Lake Huron. This trail requires you to drive to a different part of the provincial park. It is much more open than the other trails and on a windy day could be quite chilly so make sure to dress appropriately.
Chickadee Trail
The provincial park does offer shorter ski loops, such as the 4-kilometre Chickadee Trail where beginners can hone their skills. As well as an easy 11-kilometre skate ski trail, which is just a closed service road. There is also 5-kilometres designated for snowshoeing on the Cedar and Heritage Trails, as well as all the closed, ungroomed roadways and trails that offer lots of opportunities to explore.
With almost 40-kilometres of trails, there is something for everyone at this stunning provincial park. Just be sure to check the snow levels and trail conditions before coming here. I try and explore this place after a big snowstorm. As the snow tends to melt fast in southern Ontario, so you must be quick with your plans to enjoy this lovely place.