City of Owen Sound

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Vacation Guide2009 Vacation Guide - available online

Did you know?
Owen Sound is the 7th snowiest city in Canada, according to the book "The Day Niagara Falls Ran Dry: Canadian Weather Facts and Trivia," by David Phillips. We get about 340 centimetres of the white stuff each year, making the city a perfect vacation spot for winter activities.

Winter in Owen Sound

Ice Skating
outdoor rink at Harrison Park click image for large version

All ages and skill levels will enjoy lacing up their skates and meeting with friends and family on their choice of 2 indoor rinks and 1 outdoor artificial surface. 

Don't worry what the weather is outside as you delight in special skating times at either the Bayshore Community Centre or the Coliseum.  Plan your week with the skating schedule or, savour the beauty of Harrison Park as you're enveloped by nature on the outdoor artificial ice surface.  This is where the HOSE rule takes effect; Hockey on Odd days; Skating on Even.


Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing
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Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing can be enjoyed on numerous trails close to home.  Residents of the city break trails throughout Harrison Park or at neighbouring Conservation areas of Inglis Falls, Pottawatomi or Hibou.  Explore many more trail opportunities with the Bruce Grey Trails Network chart

Have you tried cross country skiing at night?  Try something new on a lit route at the Sawmill Ski Trail 1 km east of the lights in Hepworth.

Enjoy Cross Country Skiing on 10 kms of groomed trails at Cobble Beach also offering skating on the green. 

Beginners or visitors may consider renting equipment at Suntrail Outfitters, Thorncrest Outfitters or weekends only from Saint-Dominique-Savio School at 800 23rd St. East.  Call Marc-Andre Proulx for a pick-up appointment at 519-477-0653.

Don't forget your camera and remember to share your experiences on the Feedback page of our website.

 


Snowmobiling
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The Owen Sound Eastside Snowmobile Club is an active local group involved in the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs.  Snowmobile trails enter the city at various points with easy access to accommodations, restaurants, gas stations and shopping opportunities.  Current trail conditions change often during the season so check regularly, and please ride with safety in mind.  We want you to visit again.

For even more information on Snowmobiling check RideGreyBruce.com.


Tobagganing
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For kids it's the best part of winter, and for adults it's one of the best secret workouts you can get.  Owen Sound's Harrison Park has one of the best tobagganing hills in the region, sporting both a smaller hill for toddlers and a more advanced decent for thrill seekers.  Later, stop at the Harrison Park Inn Restaurant for a hot drink and a bite to warm up. 


Hockey
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Owen Sound is the smallest city in Ontario (and one of the smallest in Canada) to boast an OHL Major Junior 'A' Hockey Team. The Owen Sound Attack play at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre arena, and we're proud of this organization.

Minor Hockey plays a significant role to our youth, so support them and come out to a game or tournament.

If you prefer a more hands-on approach to hockey, bring your equipment for some shinney action at the Bayshore Community Centre, or remember that odd numbered days are considered hockey days on the outdoor artificial surface at Harrison Park.


Curling
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The Bluewater Curling Club and The Grey Granite Curling Club offer curling as an indoor winter sport option.  This sport exercises strategic skill, team play and physical agility beneficial to mind, body and spirit of all ages.


Dog Sledding
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Dog sledding is an exciting activity that is becoming vastly popular.  Be lead through open fields on a manmade sled by a team of dogs into a winter wonderland.

Grey County is home to a couple of dog sledding outfitters, both offering their own unique experience and picturesque landscapes.  Orientation and guided tours are provided along with personal introductions of the dogs in hopes of alleviating any apprehensions.

Rob Roy Snow Dogs

Singing Dogs Dog Sled Adventures

 

 


 

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