21 Winter Activities in Nova Scotia You’ll Want to Try This Season
Winter was the first full season we experienced in Nova Scotia, and like many newcomers, we were on the lookout for fun things to do. I’ll be honest—I’m not a huge fan of the cold unless I’m on the move. So, most of our outdoor adventures are active ones—think snowshoeing along quiet trails, skating on frozen ponds, chasing frozen waterfalls and making the most of blue-sky winter days.
But Nova Scotia’s winters offer more than just outdoor fun. Whether you’re bundling up for a brisk walk on the beach or warming up at a local café after a snowstorm, there’s something about this season that makes the province feel peaceful and cozy.
So, whether you love winter sports or prefer indoor escapes, this guide has something for you. From snowshoeing and skiing to ice festivals and seaside strolls, here’s our list of the best ways to make the most of winter in Nova Scotia.
Outdoor Winter Adventures
Nova Scotia’s snowy landscapes make it easy to stay active and enjoy the season. Whether you’re into skiing, snowshoeing or simply sledding down a hill, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season.
1. Skate Outdoors
Skating is a classic Canadian winter activity and Nova Scotia is no exception.
There are plenty of frozen ponds and lakes to skate on throughout the province – be sure to check ice thickness first though! If you’re looking for an outdoor rink, here are some top spots to lace up your skates:
- The Emera Oval (Halifax) – The largest outdoor, artificially refrigerated ice surface east of Quebec, this is the top spot to go skating in Halifax. There are free skate (and helmet) rentals – check the schedule for open skate times.
- Ingonish Outdoor Rink (Ingonish) – Set near the base of Cape Smokey, this community-maintained rink offers outdoor skating with views of the highlands.
- Truro Civic Square (Truro) – Set in the heart of Truro, this picturesque skating rink is surrounded by festive lights and is beautiful to skate on at night.
- Benjamin Bridge Winery (Wolfville) – Set in the middle of the vineyards, the winery offers a unique skating experience with fire pits nearby to warm up afterward. Bring your own skates and helmets, and enjoy a glass of wine or a warm non-alcoholic drink by the fire.
2. Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Nova Scotia may not have towering mountains, but you can still hit the slopes for a fun winter adventure. Whether you’re looking to practice your turns or enjoy panoramic views from the top of a hill, the province’s ski spots offer a great mix of family-friendly fun and scenic downhill runs.
Here are some of the best places to ski or snowboard:
- Ski Wentworth – The largest ski hill in Nova Scotia, with 23 runs and night skiing.
- Ski Martock – Just an hour from Halifax, Martock is great for beginners and families.
- Ben Eoin – A Cape Breton favourite, known for its incredible views of Bras d’Or Lake from the top.
- Cape Smokey – Home to Atlantic Canada’s first gondola, this hill offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
👉 For more info, here’s a full post on the best ski hills in Nova Scotia.
3. Try Cross-Country Skiing
If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Nova Scotia’s winter landscapes at your own pace. With quiet forested trails, open fields, and scenic coastal routes, there’s no shortage of places to glide through the snow. Many trails are groomed for a smooth experience, but you can also venture off the beaten path for a more rugged adventure.
Some of the best spots for cross-country skiing in Nova Scotia:
- North Highlands Nordic (Cape Breton) – A top-rated spot with expertly groomed trails and equipment rentals.
- Keppoch Mountain (Antigonish) – Known for its scenic trails and welcoming community vibe, with routes for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
- BLT Trail (Halifax area) – This flat and scenic multi-use trail is easy to access and perfect for a relaxed winter outing.
- Long Lake Provincial Park (Halifax) – A beautiful spot close to the city, with wide, snow-covered paths and beautiful lake views
- The Harvest Moon Trail (Annapolis Valley) – A long, multi-use trail that stretches for kilometres through picturesque farmland and forested areas.
4. Go for a Winter Hike
Winter is one of the best times to head out for a hike—no bugs, crisp air, and peaceful trails. Whether you’re sticking close to Halifax or exploring other parts of the province, there are plenty of great places to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
In the Halifax area, Shubie Park is our go-to weekly spot for a winter hike. The well-maintained paths make it easy to enjoy, even after a fresh snowfall. Point Pleasant Park is another favourite, with coastal views and forested trails that feel peaceful, even on the busiest days.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike that will get your heart rate up, Franey Trail in Cape Breton offers a steady climb with incredible views at the top. The Skyline Trail is another must-visit in the winter—imagine the stunning coastal views with snow-covered cliffs in the distance.
Just bundle up, bring some traction if it’s icy, and enjoy the fresh air—it’s a great way to warm up during the cold months!
5. Explore a Trail on Snowshoes
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to explore Nova Scotia’s snowy trails, especially if you love winter hiking. You don’t need much experience to get started—just strap on your snowshoes and head out. Whether you’re looking for wide-open paths or rugged backcountry routes, there are plenty of trails to choose from.
If you don’t have your own snowshoes, there are lots of places to rent them for the day or the week. Many recreation centres in the Halifax area offer free snowshoe rentals, and Decathlon in Dartmouth (Mic Mac Mall) rents both kids’ and adult-sized snowshoes.
Some of our favourite places to go snowshoeing:
- Cape Split (Blomidon) – This iconic trail is spectacular in the winter, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy.
- Cole Harbour Heritage Park (Halifax area) – A family-friendly spot with open paths and marsh views that look stunning in the snow.
- Uniacke Estate Museum Park (Mount Uniacke) – Quiet forested paths that wind around a frozen lake.
- Amherst Point Bird Sanctuary (Amherst) – A peaceful trail perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying a quiet, snow-covered landscape.
- Kejimkujik National Park – Keji is another fantastic spot to go snowshoeing, with marked routes through forested trails and along frozen lakeshores.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers—snowshoeing is more of a workout than you might expect, and you’ll warm up quickly.
6. Chase Frozen Waterfalls
Chasing waterfalls might seem like a summer activity, but they’re absolutely stunning in the winter when they start to freeze over. By January, many falls are partially frozen, and by February, some are completely covered in ice and snow, transforming into natural winter sculptures.
We’ve been to Webber Falls in winter when it was so covered in snow that you couldn’t even see the water beneath! But other spots, like Wentworth Falls and Johnson River Falls, still show glimpses of rushing water through the ice and are breathtaking in colder weather.
If you’re looking for an easier trek, Victoria Park Falls in Truro is a great option, with well-maintained paths and multiple waterfalls to admire. Our favourite? Johnson River Falls—a peaceful spot not far from Halifax that feels like a hidden winter gem.
👉 Looking for more waterfalls near Halifax? Check out our guide for even more ideas!
7. Try Winter Camping
Winter camping isn’t for everyone—but if you love the idea of waking up to snow-covered trees and total peace and quiet, it might be worth trying. While most provincial parks close after Thanksgiving, there are still a few campgrounds that stay open through the winter.
Cabot Shores in Cape Breton offers yurts, domes, and cabins for a more comfortable winter camping experience, while Norse Cove Campground on the Eastern Shore has cozy shelters in a beautiful forested setting. If you’re set on tent camping, check for family-owned campgrounds that allow winter stays—some have sites with fire pits and easy access to nearby trails.
If you’re new to winter camping, look for spots that offer heated shelters or cabins—you’ll appreciate the warmth after a day out in the cold!
8. Go Sledding
Sledding is a fun and simple way to make the most of a snowy day. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or introducing your kids to the thrill of racing down a hill, there are plenty of great spots to try across the province. Grab your favourite sled—or even a crazy carpet—and get ready to have some fun!
Some popular sledding spots:
- Citadel Hill (Halifax) – A popular downtown spot with a huge, wide, sloped hill.
- Burgher Hill (Kentville) – This huge hill is the site of the popular pumpkin people October, and a favourite, but steep, sledding spot in the winter.
- Haliburton House Museum Grounds (Windsor) – While this historic site is one of the top things to see in Windsor year round, in the winter, the surrounding grounds make it a fantastic spot to go sledding. The gentle slopes make it perfect for families with younger kids or anyone looking for a fun but relaxed ride.
- Ashby Corner Park (Sydney) – A family-friendly hill with gentle sections, making it perfect for the littlest sledders.
👉 Here’s some of the best sledding spots in Halifax
Unique Nova Scotia Winter Experiences
9. See the Bay of Fundy Ice Caves
Walking on the ocean floor is a bucket-list experience any time of year, but in the winter, it’s even more magical. Along parts of the Bay of Fundy, massive icicles form over sea caves, creating an incredible winter scene.
One of our favourite spots to see the ice caves is near Walton Lighthouse on the Minas Basin. During low tide, you can walk along the exposed ocean floor to see the towering icicles clinging to the cliffs. There are also other hidden spots along the Bay of Fundy where ice caves form—near Burntcoat Head Park there are some good caves to see as well.
Pro Tip: Always check tide schedules before heading out, and be mindful of changing weather conditions to ensure a safe adventure.
10. Take a Winter Getaway
There’s nothing like a winter getaway in Nova Scotia—whether you’re relaxing at a cozy seaside cabin or staying at a resort with snowy trails and outdoor hot tubs. For an oceanfront escape, White Point Beach Resort offers cozy cabins by the waves and bonfires on the beach. For something lakeside, Inverary Resort in Baddeck has beautiful views of the Bras d’Or Lake and plenty of winter activities.
If you’re looking for something more secluded, Mersey River Chalets offers riverside cabins with woodstoves—perfect for a peaceful, nature-filled weekend. On a clear night, the dark skies here are perfect for stargazing.
👉 Here’s our full list of cozy winter getaway ideas.
11. Head to the Beach
As Canada’s Ocean Playground, Nova Scotia has no shortage of beautiful beaches to explore. No matter where you are in the province, you’re only about an hour from the coast. And while it may be chilly, a winter beach walks is the perfect way to clear your head and enjoy some fresh sea air. Bundle up and bring a thermos of something warm!
There are some great beaches around Halifax, but our personal favourite spots are Rainbow Haven Beach for its wide, open shoreline, and Lawrencetown Beach, where you may even catch sight of winter surfers braving the icy waves. They’re both close enough to the city for a quick afternoon walk but still feel miles away from the city.
Some other great beaches to visit are Martinique Beach, which is the longest beach in the province, Mavillette Beach in Yarmouth and Inverness Beach in Cape Breton.
Just bundle up and enjoy the fresh sea air – it’s a true Nova Scotian winter tradition.
12. Stock Up on Storm Chips
A true East Coast winter tradition! Covered Bridge’s Storm Chips are a mix of flavours all in one bag—think BBQ, salt and vinegar, dill, and ketchup.
You’ll see them fly off the shelves whenever a big snowstorm is in the forecast. Grab a bag, hunker down, and embrace the cozy storm-day vibes.
13. Relax at a Nordic Spa
If you’re looking to warm up and unwind, a trip to the spa is the perfect winter treat. Nova Scotia’s Nordic spas offer a relaxing mix of hot and cold therapy, with outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and cozy areas to relax. You might not think of heading to a spa in the winter – I mean, who wants to walk around in a bathing suit when temps are below freezing – but you don’t even notice it after a hot cycle.
Last January, we went to Oceanstone, near Peggy’s Cove, and it was sucgh a fantastic experience to be sitting in a hot pool outside while the snow was falling. There’s also Sensea nearby, which was offers hot tubs overlooking the water, wood-burning saunas, cozy firepits and heated hammocks to relax in.
For a full list of options, check out our guide to the best Nordic spas near Halifax—perfect for a peaceful day trip or a winter weekend escape.
14. Head to Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is iconic year-round, but the winter experience really is something special. The famous lighthouse stands tall no matter the weather, but the wild waves and fewer crowds – we’ve been the only ones there sometimes – make it an amazing spot to visit in the winter months.
It can be cold and windy though, so bundle up, and then warm up with a cup of soup or seafood chowder at the Sou’Wester Restaurant near the lighthouse.
Festivals and Foodie Events
15. Dartmouth Ice Festival
January 31 – February 2, 2025
The Dartmouth Ice Festival is one of our favourite winter events. Every year, downtown Dartmouth puts on a fun weekend filled with stunning sculptures, live music and family-friendly activities. It’s incredible to watch the artists at work, carving massive blocks of ice into beautiful creations that line the street from Alderney Drive to Victoria Road.
Bundle up – it’s chilly but there are plenty of local shops and cafes along Portland Street to warm up at.
16. South Shore Lobster Crawl
February is peak lobster season along Nova Scotia’s South Shore, and Lobster Crawl is a month-long celebration of all things lobster.
From Peggy’s Cove to Barrington, which is known as the Lobster Capital of Canada, you’ll find special events and activities, and even the chance to meet Lucy the Lobster, who “predicts” the arrival of spring each year on February 2nd.
And of course, there’s delicious lobster dishes, from the classic lobster roll to creative lobster-inspired poutine.
17. Dine Around Halifax
February 1 – 28, 2025
February is the perfect time to treat yourself to a great meal, and Dine Around Halifax makes it easy. This month-long event features special prix fixe menus from some of the city’s best restaurants, with options priced at $10, $20, $30, $40, $50 or $60.
It’s a great excuse to try a new spot or revisit an old favourite—especially when menus often highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a gourmet multi-course experience, you’re bound to find something delicious.
👉 Looking for more info? Here’s a full article on the best winter festivals in Nova Scotia to enjoy this year.
18. Icewine Festival
February 14 – 16, 2025
The Nova Scotia Icewine Festival is a celebration of winter’s sweetest treat—locally made icewine. If you haven’t tried it before, icewine is made from grapes that are left to freeze on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavours. The result is a rich, sweet wine that pairs perfectly with desserts, cheeses, or just a cozy winter afternoon.
And you can sample some of this delicious wine at the Nova Scotia Icewine Festival, which takes place mid-February each year.
Held in the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia’s main wine region, the festival features tastings from some of the province’s best wineries, along with food pairings and winter-themed events.
This year’s festival is hosted at Luckett Vineyards, where you can taste different wines, including, of course, the rich, golden icewines of Nova Scotia’s wineries.
Even if you’re not a wine lover, it’s a fun winter outing to help brighten up the colder months with scenic vineyard views, great food, and a cozy atmosphere.
Cozy Indoor Winter Activities to Try
19. Warm Up Indoors at a Museum
When the cold starts to bite, it’s the perfect excuse to explore some of Nova Scotia’s best museums and indoor attractions. Whether you’re into history, art, or marine life, there are plenty of ways to stay warm and entertained. We won’t list them all, but here are a few great spots to check out:
- Museum of Natural History (Halifax) – Always a local favourite, this museum has an ever-changing lineup of exhibits. Their latest exhibit is worth checking out!
- Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (Halifax) – Learn about Nova Scotia’s deep maritime history, including artifacts from the Titanic and Halifax Explosion.
- Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (Halifax) – A fascinating spot to explore stories of immigration to Canada, with interactive exhibits and local history.
- Fundy Geological Museum (Parrsboro) – A hidden gem where you can learn all about fossils, geology, and the ancient creatures that once roamed the Bay of Fundy.
- Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic (Lunenburg) – Even in the off-season, this museum is an iconic stop in Lunenburg, showcasing the province’s fishing heritage.
- Art Gallery of Nova Scotia (Halifax) – Featuring local and international artists, this gallery is a perfect spot to spend a quiet afternoon immersed in art.
For even more ways to warm up, check out our post on the best indoor things to do in Halifax on a rainy day.
20. Try Curling
If you’ve never tried curling, winter is the perfect time to give it a shot. Many community rinks across the province offer learn-to-curl events or drop-in games. It’s a fun way to spend a winter afternoon with friends—and yes, there’s always post-game snacks and drinks.
21. Catch a Sports Game
Cheering on a local team is a fun way to spend a winter evening—and it’s a great excuse to warm up indoors with some rink-side or arena energy. Halifax is home to the Mooseheads, a popular minor league hockey team that’s part of the QMJHL (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League). If you’re in Cape Breton, you can catch the Cape Breton Eagles, who play in the same league and bring just as much excitement to the ice.
For something different, check out the Halifax Thunderbirds, the city’s professional lacrosse team. We went to a game last January, and it was such an incredible experience that our kid now plays lacrosse! The games are fast-paced, loud, and packed with action—so if you’re bringing kids, headphones or ear protection might be a good idea. But it’s also a super fun, family-friendly night out that’s well worth it.
Conclusion: Fun Winter Activities in Nova Scotia You’ll Love
Winter in Nova Scotia offers an incredible blend of outdoor adventure and cozy indoor escapes. Whether you’re exploring snowy trails, hitting the slopes, or enjoying local festivals, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.
What’s on your winter bucket list this year? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out our other guides for even more travel inspiration across the province!
More Inspiration For Your Nova Scotia Bucket List
10 Festive Things to Do in Nova Scotia in December
The Best Halifax Christmas Events to Get You in the Festive Spirit
Halifax in December: A Local’s Guide to Festive Fun in the City
10 Great Places to Go Sledding in Halifax
21 Fun Winter Activities in Nova Scotia To Try This Season
Winter Getaways in Nova Scotia: The Best Cozy Escapes
Where to Find the Best Ski Hills in Nova Scotia
Winter Festivals in Nova Scotia to Enjoy This Season
21 Fun Things to Do in Halifax in the Winter
