When winter comes to North Bay, Ontario, the landscape transforms into a sprawling white playground. While many people familiar with an Ontario winter may have tried cross country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding or ice skating, if you’re not from the Canadian North you may have never had the opportunity to enjoy these classic local favourites.
Here are four must-try outdoor winter activities in North Bay that deliver thrills, heartwarming connections, and a true taste of that northern wild.
Ice Fishing on Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake
By the time January rolls around, Lake Nipissing becomes a 875 square km adventure park, a hotbed for snowmobiling and a premier destination for some of Canada’s best ice fishing.
If you’re an ice fishing first-timer, it couldn’t be easier to get started on Lake Nipissing in North Bay. You can literally walk onto the ice from Shabogesic Beach or the North Bay Marina, cut your first ice fishing hole, drop a line and settle into your camping chair with a warm bevvie and friends.
If you want to make a weekend of it and have a fully supported ice fishing experience, first-timer or not, Perreault’s Prime Time Ice Fishing is your ticket to a comfortable and safe ice fishing getaway right from Downtown North Bay. For a guided experience package for beginner’s, try Lake Nipissing Outfitters, they specialize in helping newbies of all ages have a safe and memorable experience,
What You Need to Know
- Fishing Licence: An Ontario fishing license is required for all fishing seasons. An exception is on Family Fishing Weekend.
- Ice Fishing Rods, Bait & Gear: many outfitters can provide the gear you need. Confirm what’s included when booking.
- Overnight Ice Bungalows: many outfitters rent heated bungalows with sleeping facilities suitable for groups. Confirm what you need to bring, but plan on bringing drinking water, food, flashlights, matches, camping chairs etc.
- If you’re new to Canadian winters, you’ll want to know a little more about how to stay warm in North Bay when ice fishing or trying any of these local adventures!
Why Ice Fishing is Special in North Bay
- North Bay is a premier ice fishing destination: In one word, Lake Nipissing, at 874 km² it’s Ontario’s 3rd largest inland lake.
- There are many experienced outfitters, bait and gear services and ice hut rentals in North Bay . If you’d rather not overnight on the ice, most local motels gladly cater to ice fishing and snowmobiling guests.
- Bonding with your family & friends: Ice fishing is a northern tradition and a great opportunity to slow down and get close to nature with your favourite people.
Kicksledding with Sisu Adventures
Kicksledding is one of those activities that feels deeply rooted in Nordic traditions but somehow belongs perfectly in the snowy woods of Northern Ontario. At its heart, it’s simple: a sled with skis on runners, propelled by the human (you) and optionally pulled by a dog.
What Sisu Adventure Offers
- Gear rentals: Sisu Adventures— based in North Bay — offers kicksleds for rent in winter, making the activity accessible to visitors and locals alike.
- Guided & self-guided experiences: They run curated “Sisu Winter Adventure” experiences, as well as a “Learn to Kicksled” series so you can try it in a supportive environment.
- Community vibe: Their mission is about wellness, connection, and nature — not just thrills.
Where to Go
- North Bay’s winter trails — including Laurier Woods, Kate Pace Way and along frozen shores — are perfect terrain for kicksledding.
- Because the sled is foot-powered, you move at a gentle pace, giving you time to breathe in the forest, hear your sled glide, and soak up the calm of winter.
It’s part Nordic heritage, part Canadian winter dream.
So, if you are looking for an inclusive, family friendly and low barrier winter activity then give Sisu Adventures and kicksledding a try this winter.
Fat Biking with Remedy Rides
Winter fat biking is an exhilarating and heart-pumping activity that leaves you with no worries about feeling cold! In fact, you’ll be happy you dressed in your winter layers with the heat you generate!
The best and most enjoyable way to experience Fat Biking on snow as a beginner, and for experts too, is on groomed trails. Much like cross-country skiers appreciate well-groomed trails, Fat Bikers are grateful for wide-groomed trails through the forest and lakeside that make it much easier to ride on snow.
What Remedy Rides Offers
- Gear rentals: Remedy Rides offers Fat Bikes and Winter Helmets for rent in winter, making it easy for visitors and locals alike.
- Guided & self-guided experiences: Remedy Rides maintains 20km of groomed fat biking trails on the Stepping Stones Trails through forests, along rivers and across lakes, minutes from North Bay. He’s got guided experiences for beginners and self-guided packages too. Book a Fat biking experience with Remedy Rides.
- Local Expertise: Rod Bilz, the owner of Remedy Rides is a long-time cycling and trails advocate. He’s been involved with the Trans Canada Trail and Laurentian Escarpment trail projects in North Bay…and, he knows North Bay’s trails like the back of his hand.
If you’ve got your own fat bike and would like to explore on your own, read our guide to Fat Biking in North Bay and guide to Fat Biking gear for beginners.
Polar Plunge with SOMA: Fire and Ice
Now, this is the kind of winter activity that’s equal parts exhilarating and community-building: the polar plunge.
Experience winter at its boldest during the SOMA: Fire and Ice Polar Plunge on Trout Lake on Saturday, February 27, 2027, right in front of Average Joe’s. Now, in its fourth year, this signature winter event blends adrenaline, wellness, and pure Northern Ontario magic. Warm up with a guided yoga session to center your breath and prepare your body, then embrace the exhilaration of a polar dip through the frozen cut ice. Before and after your plunge, unwind in the inviting Nordic-style sauna, or gather around a crackling campfire on the frozen lake, taking in the serene winter landscape. Cap off your experience with a delicious meal at Average Joe’s, where cozy lakeside views and hearty comfort food complete this unforgettable Fire and Ice adventure.
What are the benefits of a polar plunge:
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Boosts circulation and immunity: Cold-water immersion stimulates blood flow and can strengthen the immune system, helping your body adapt to stress and fend off illness.
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Elevates mood and reduces stress: The shock of cold water triggers the release of endorphins and adrenaline, leaving you feeling invigorated, energized, and mentally refreshed.
Tips for Planning your Visit
Planning a winter adventure in North Bay starts with a little preparation to make the most of your experience. Book your accommodation early, especially on weekends and during peak winter events, to ensure you have a cozy base close to all the action. Dress smart with warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy winter boots to stay comfortable in changing conditions. For the three must-try winter activities — from fat biking to kicksledding — make sure to gear up for safety by following instructor guidance, using proper equipment, and staying within your comfort level. If you’re taking on the thrill of a polar plunge, follow instructor guidance and be aware of your limits. And don’t forget to capture the moment — snow-covered forests, kick sleds, and beautiful sunsets over a frozen Lake Nipissing make for unforgettable photos and video content that showcase the magic of winter in North Bay.