This post was originally published on the Tourism New Brunswick blog.
The holidays have come and gone. And March Break feels like a lifetime away. Fight the winter doldrums with a stay at one of these 5 totally Canadian winter getaways. We've selected options where you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile right from your front door so you can really feel like you're tackling the season head-on. Think you're not a snow lover? We're betting a few nights at one of these spots will change your mind...
1. Winter shelters at New Brunswick's National Parks
Best for: Nature lovers who don't want to wait 'till summer for their park fix.
Both Kouchibouguac National Park and Fundy National Park have groomed snowshoe, cross-country ski, and fat bike trails throughout the season. This is a great way to explore the beauty of these two parks under winter's snowy blanket. Plan on staying the night because there are cosy options at each. Kouchibouguac offers 3 rustic shelters accessible by trail in the South Kouchibouguac campground. Fundy has 2 nicely secluded rustic cabins, along with winterized oTENTiks and yurts in Headquarters Campground. They all have heating so your toes will be nice and toasty after a day of exploring. If you prefer to sleep a little closer to nature, bring your tent for winter camping.
Learn more:
Kouchibouguac National Park / Fundy National Park
2. Dream domes at Ridgeback Lodge
Best for: Ditching conventional accommodations for a night under the stars.
Imagine glamping in your very own geodesic dome complete with fireplace and Scandinavian-chic interior. Yep, it's as awesome as it sounds. A snowy landscape provides all the more reason to snuggle beneath the stars, but don't plan on hibernating too long - snowshoe and hiking trails for guests wind through the lodge's pristine property.
3. Snowmobile-friendly Lodges
Best for: Anyone who loves pulling up to their doorstep by snowmobile.
These lodges are well-known among the snowmobile crowds who frequent New Brunswick's Northern Odyssey and other snowmobile trails. The accommodations are about as sled-friendly as it gets and you're pretty much guaranteed a good time at all of them. Lodge restaurants are typically packed with riders from near and far and a jovial atmosphere is standard Did we mention they're also located right on the trails? If you were born to ride, these spots are for you.
Learn more:
Moose Valley Sporting Lodge / Wilson's Four Season Resort / Adair's Wilderness Lodge
4. Winter survival training at Mount Carleton Provincial Park
Best for: Being able to say you slept in a snow cave.
How hardcore are you? The guides at Nepisiguit Adventures will take you through the ins and outs of winter survival in one of New Brunswick's Appalachian parks. Learn handy skills like outdoor cooking, fire-building, and constructing a winter shelter. Stay the night in your specially built snow cave or a heated log cabin - the choice is yours.
5. Belleisle Bayview retreat
Best for: Living out your yurt dreams in a secluded natural setting.
This AirBnB overlooks ice-capped Belleisle Bay with just the right combo of rustic luxury and nature. Split your time between the artsy walkout unit, the cosily furnished yurt, and the forest. Make the 15 minute drive to the Midland Ice Caves for a seriously cool winter adventure.