The crunch of tires on freshly fallen snow, the beauty of a winter landscape blanketed in white, and the comforting warmth of a crackling fireplace after a day of adventures – these are just some of the many reasons we love an epic Ontario winter road trip. Owning a 4X4 Jeep Wrangler for several years, I can attest that driving in snow is nothing but joy!
But I have to admit, my first-ever vehicle was a blue 2001 Suzuki Katana motorcycle, so the only car I drove in the winter was my parents’ station wagon, which I once spun out in a circle on the snowy highway. Don’t tell my mom!
We live in a beautiful province with many incredible destinations just a short drive away. And as Canadians, like it or hate it, (yes I’m talking to you my fellow Torontoians) there is no season quite like winter.
However, navigating the roads in Ontario requires careful planning and preparation—especially the further North you go! From ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready to mastering winter driving techniques, here are a few key winter driving safety tips to ensure everyone enjoys your next snowy getaway.
Pulling on experience (donuts in parking lots included), I have put together the following guide to winter road safety, including tips for navigating icy roads, our winter road trip essentials, and must-visit destinations perfect for the quickly approaching holiday season.
So, buckle up, grab your mittens, and get ready to discover the magic of winter road-tripping in Ontario!
Understanding Winter Driving Risks
Having enjoyed many a winter road trip from Toronto, we know first-hand the unique challenges travellers face on Ontario roads at this time of year.
One of the biggest dangers we must be aware of is black ice. Aside from it being an endearing nickname, my friend Gregory from the website Follow Summer used to call me! Have you heard the phrase “black ice” but never understood the difference between it and normal icy conditions? If so, you’re not alone! Many newer drivers and those new to the areas where black ice occurs are confused by the term. So, let’s break it down…
When driving on normal, wet, or icy roads, the road will have a shiny surface. This lets you know that you’re approaching an area to be concerned about and adjust your driving habits accordingly.
Black ice gets its name because this clear, smooth ice is transparent, allowing the black of the road to show through, making it almost invisible. This makes it considerably more dangerous as many drivers won’t realize they are coming up on a patch of ice until they are on it and losing control.
Reduced visibility is another significant concern. Anytime we are asked about winter driving safety tips, we always caution people about how much snowfall, heavy fog, and blowing snow can severely limit visibility. This makes it difficult to see other vehicles, pedestrians, road signs, and other hazards on the road.
Finally, extreme weather events can create hazardous driving conditions. Even if you avoid driving during a significant storm, a winter road trip after a storm or blizzard may mean facing dangerous or even impossible driving conditions.
These events can bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously low temperatures, leading to road closures, power outages (including traffic lights and streetlights), and even whiteout conditions where you have virtually zero visibility.
This is why it is important to familiarize yourself with how to drive safely during the winter months (and when to stay safe at home).
Tracking Ontario Winter Road Conditions
Knowing that the roads can get bad (and quickly), staying informed about winter road conditions is essential for safe travel.
One of the easiest ways to check on whether the roads are safe to travel is Ontario 511, a website and mobile app from the Ontario government that offers real-time information on road closures, construction, and winter driving conditions. You can access information about the conditions on specific highways, sign up for personalized alerts, and even view live traffic cameras to see the conditions first-hand.
Many townships also offer localized road reports for their area on their website.
In addition to official resources, there are many community-based options. Local Facebook groups and apps like Nextdoor allow neighbours to share their real-time experiences with fellow drivers, including specific road conditions, accidents, and weather alerts. There are groups specific to many towns and cities, as well as groups like Road Trip Ontario: Your Ontario Road Trip Hub and Ontario Storm Reports.
Local radio stations frequently share traffic and weather updates, offering valuable information on road closures, accidents, and driving conditions. When I’m not deep into a good podcast, I listen to Talk Radio AM640 in Toronto, where they do a track check every 30 minutes or so.
I recommend checking multiple sources to make sure you have the most up-to-date information. There have been times when I learned from a Facebook post to avoid a specific area before the problem was made aware on official channels. This is why we believe you can make the most informed decisions about your travel plans by combining information from official sources like Ontario 511 with community-based resources.
How to Prepare Your Car for Winter
A safe and enjoyable winter road trip in Canada starts with preparation. This means ensuring everything is in order BEFORE you head out on the roads. This includes vehicle preparation and planning out your route/plans for your upcoming adventure.
Here are a few key vehicle preparation tips for winter travel:
- Winter Tires: These specialized tires are designed with deeper tread and a unique rubber compound to offer better traction on snow and ice. In some regions of Ontario, winter tires are legally required during specific periods.
- Battery Check: Extreme cold temperatures can significantly impact your vehicle’s battery performance. Consider having your battery tested by a qualified mechanic to avoid potential issues when planning a longer winter road trip—big shout out to my mechanic, Vito and his team over at Danforth Auto Centre.
- Coolant Check: Make sure you’re using a winter-grade antifreeze as it has a lower freezing point, preventing your engine from overheating or freezing in extreme cold. Regularly check your coolant levels. Carry additional antifreeze in case you need to top it up along the journey.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: In the harsh winter conditions of Ontario, maintaining a clear windshield is paramount for safe driving. Windshield washer fluid plays a crucial role in removing snow, ice, slush, road salt, and grime that can obstruct your vision. Always keep an extra bottle of this stuff as well.
- Full Tank of Gas: We recommend always maintaining a full gas tank when possible. Running out of fuel in extreme weather conditions can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. This is an emergency that’s easily avoided in most circumstances with a bit of forward thinking.
You can also take steps to make sure you and your passengers are as comfortable as possible during your travels. Dress in layers. Always bring winter gear like hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots, even if you don’t want to wear them while driving. Having them close at hand ensures you can gear up if you need to go out in the cold.
When planning your winter road trip route, consider where you will stop. Picnic areas and park stops that offer an excellent bathroom break location during the summer months may not offer everything you need in the winter. Many areas close public park bathrooms during the off-season.
Book cabins, lodges, hotels, or winter campsites well in advance, especially during the peak holiday season. These spots are in high demand and often fill up quickly. This is especially important if you’re travelling with pets, as not all locations are pet-friendly.
Note: This information is for general knowledge and guidance only. Always consult a qualified mechanic for vehicle maintenance and refer to local regulations regarding winter tire requirements.
Winter Road Trip Emergency Kit
In our opinion, one of the most important things you can do to prepare for winter driving safety is to have a well-In my opinion, one of the most important things you can do to prepare for winter driving safety is to have a well-equipped winter car safety kit. Unexpected events like sudden snow storms, icy roads, or vehicle breakdowns can quickly turn your epic road trip into a dangerous situation. This kit includes the gear you need to keep everyone safe regardless of what Mother Nature and Jack Frost may send your way.
A comprehensive winter road trip emergency kit should include the items you need to stay safe and comfortable if you become stranded. This includes (but isn’t limited to):
- Jumper cables
- A windshield brush/scraper
- A shovel
- Blankets
- Extra warm clothing (hats, gloves, a warm jacket)
- A fully stocked first aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Cellphone adapter/charger
- Non-perishable snacks
- Drinking water
- Sand or cat litter for traction
Be sure to consider all travellers when putting the kit together. For example, if you are travelling with children, you will need hats, gloves, and warm clothing in their size. If you’re travelling with a pet, there are additional pet-specific items you will need to add to your first aid kit. By gathering and packing all these items before you head out on your journey, you are making winter weather safety a priority. If you already have a winter car safety kit, check it regularly and replace any expired items to ensure you’re never caught unprepared.
Driving Safely in the Ice and Snow
Safe driving in the ice and snow requires adjusting your driving style. Here are a few winter driving safety tips to keep you and your family safe on your next adventure:
- Gentle Acceleration and Breaking: Maintaining control of your vehicle in winter driving conditions means taking a gentle approach. Avoid sudden movements that can cause your vehicle to skid, especially on slippery surfaces.
- Increase Following Distance: Allow extra trim to react to sudden stops or changing road conditions, such as black ice or snow-covered patches.
- Keep Your Eyes Open for Black Ice: As mentioned above, black ice can be nearly impossible to see on the roads. Watch out for a darker patch on the roads with an unusually smooth surface. You may also notice other drivers slowing down or swerving suddenly when travelling through this area.
- Steer into a Skid: If you do hit a slippery patch, regain control by guiding your vehicle in the direction it’s naturally sliding or steering into the skid. This goes against our natural instinct to steer back out of it. However, this winter driving technique allows the tires to regain traction and significantly lowers your risk of a spin-out.
When to Call Off Your Winter Road Trip
Preparing for a winter road trip is essential, but don’t overlook the importance of knowing when to postpone your trip when considering winter weather safety.
If severe weather warnings are issued for your planned route, such as blizzard warnings or ice storms, it’s best to delay your trip. Road closures and hazardous driving conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents and make travel extremely dangerous.
Carefully monitor the weather forecasts and road conditions leading up to and throughout your trip. If conditions change during your travels (which can happen quickly and without warning at times), consider finding a safe place to shelter and postpone the remainder of your journey. Remember, your safety should always be the top priority!
Our Favourite Winter Road Trip Destinations in Ontario
Ontario offers so many incredible destinations for winter road trips. The most challenging part is deciding where to go. It’s a struggle we face every year as we plan our travels, although it’s arguably a good struggle to have!
To help you decide, here are a few of our favourite places to visit in Ontario during winter:
For those seeking festive cheer, many places across the province are known for their Christmas markets and holiday festivities. Consider exploring charming villages like Elora, which has beautiful twinkling lights and displays.
Niagara-on-the-Lake transforms into a winter wonderland after the snow falls, with its picturesque vineyards and adorable local shops.
For a truly unique experience, consider taking a trip to Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula. Here, you’ll experience the magic of a winter wonderland along the rugged coastline, which includes beautiful waterfront views and cozy winter cabins.
For outdoor lovers, Ontario offers many thrilling destinations for outdoor winter adventures, including winter hiking, camping, skiing, snowshoeing, and more. One such location is Muskoka – a popular destination well-known for its many outdoor activities and must-see stops, like Deerhurst Resort and Hidden Valley.
Algonquin Provincial Park is a breathtaking year-round spot, offering breathtaking winter beauty with its snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. Visit for the day or book a campsite for a weekend getaway. Another popular spot for winter camping is Killarney Provincial Park. Here, you can hike through snow-covered trails and witness the beauty of its frozen landscapes first-hand.
Wherever you go, you will surely enjoy the beauty and excitement this incredible province offers!
Enjoy the Magic of Ontario’s Winter Wonderland Safely this Season
If you’re planning on heading out for an adventure this season, it’s crucial to remember that winter road-tripping in Ontario is about more than just reaching your destination. It’s about embracing the journey – including the beautiful winter landscape and the cozy moments with loved ones.
By following the winter driving safety tips in this guide and carefully planning and preparing, you can ensure a safe and memorable winter getaway for the whole family.
So, gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and get ready to discover the magic of winter in Ontario. Explore charming towns, explore thrilling outdoor adventures, and create lasting memories that will warm your heart long after the snow melts away (and don’t worry, it will eventually).
Embrace the magic of winter this season. Happy travels!
