CROSS COUNTRY SKIING © TREVOR LUSH
Less than an hour from Ottawa or Kingston, and about four from Toronto or Montréal, Lanark County is the cozy, close-to-home winter escape that feels worlds away. Think crackling fires, tranquil forests dusted in snow, and heritage towns where genuine hospitality is simply a way of life. Bundle up and bring your appetite—here, cold days turn into warm experiences filled with food, fun, and Lanark County charm.
THE ART OF WINTER EXPLORATION
Lanark County is stitched together by well-maintained snowmobile trails that weave through its welcoming towns in one scenic loop. Ride the Ontario East Rails & Trails routes for sweeping views of rivers, farmland, and the rugged Canadian Shield.
Prefer to move at a slower pace? Strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore favourites like Murphy’s Point Provincial Park and the Perth Wildlife Reserve, with peaceful paths through maple forests and wildlife-rich wetlands. Families love Mount Pakenham for beginner-friendly downhill skiing, lessons, and snowshoe tracks that wind through scenic surroundings. And when nostalgia calls, grab your toboggan or lace up for outdoor skating—the simple joys that make winter magic.
SEASONAL COMFORTS, CRAFTED LOCALLY
After a day out in the fresh winter air, Lanark’s culinary scene is the perfect place to warm up. Settle into Black Tartan Kitchen, Michael’s Table, the Sterling, or North Market for tasty seasonal menus that spotlight local producers. Linger over a latte and a pastry at the Foundry or Bob’s Bakery—comfy cafés where great conversations pair perfectly with homemade baked goods.
Raise a glass to winter at Cartwright Springs Brewery, Top Shelf Distillery, and 4 Degrees Brewing—where every savoury sip tells a story.
SMALL TOWNS WITH BIG CHARACTER
Winter brings out the beauty of Lanark County’s heritage towns, where preserved streetscapes and twinkling storefronts set the scene for exploration. Immerse yourself in hands-on history as you discover Wheeler’s Maple Museum, dive into the region’s textile roots at the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum, and step back in time at the Perth Museum—each offering a deeper look at the stories that shaped the county.
Follow the Lanark County Art & Heritage Tour to meet makers, browse galleries, and spot outdoor art where you least expect it. And if your travels bring you here in February, Perth’s Frost & Fire Festival adds a spark to the season, offering a day buzzing with live music, bustling artisan markets, outdoor skating, and plenty of marshmallow-toasting moments. It’s one of those classic winter gatherings that brings the whole community out, offering a joyful reminder of why small-town winters feel so special.
ONTARIO’S MAPLE CAPITAL
As winter begins to ease and the light lingers a little longer each day, maple season returns to Lanark County—Ontario’s Maple Syrup Capital. Sugarbushes come alive, evaporators billow with sweet steam, and that first golden pour of the year tastes like pure promise. Plan your visit now so you’re here when the taps run and “maple everything” makes its way onto menus across the county.
PLAN YOUR COZY GETAWAY
Winter here unfolds at its own pace: bright days on the trails, slow meals in welcoming spaces, and small towns where hospitality is genuine. Whether you’re craving a wilderness-chic retreat with Cabinscape, the boutique comforts of The Monte, or the riverfront calm of Closs Crossing, there’s a stay that fits the way you like to travel.
Settle in, slow down, and let Lanark County make your winter weekend feel wonderfully at home.
Visit the Lanark County Tourism website at lanarkcounty.ca/winter and plan your trip today. Follow @lanarkcountytourism on Facebook & Instagram.
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Welcome to Lanark County, where the charm of rural living and the breathtaking beauty of nature unite to create an unforgettable experience. Step into a world where rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and picturesque landscapes paint the backdrop for your perfect getaway.