Happy 2021! I would typically start off the month of January with a fun list of all the amazing outdoor events taking place in Montreal. But we’re in lockdown with no where to shop, travel, dine or visit until at least January 11th. But we can always play outside. Due to popular demand on my Instagram account, I’ve rounded up my top 5 winter outdoor activities near Montreal to make January 2021 the best it can possibly be. Bundle up!

1. Les Glissades Domaine des Pays d’en Haut

Located in Piedmont, about 45 minutes from the city, this tubing centre is guaranteed fun for the entire family. Two-hour, four-hour or night passes are available and reservations must be made in advance to as to allow for social distancing. I recommend going as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

On our recent visit, we had Adrenaline passes which gave us access to the tubes, rafts and tornados. I actually preferred the rafts and tornados as we were able to go as a group (pulled up the hill by a chairlift that clipped on to the vessel) and the way down wasn’t too intense. The tubes slightly freaked me out but the kids loved them! There are two ways to get up: a 2-person chair lift or a magic carpet. Even the youngest of kids can enjoy an adrenaline rush in the toddler section.

A large tent with picnic tables is available for lunch as well as a casse croute window. A warming station inside lets you defrost for 15-minutes and the bathrooms are highly monitored and a mask is required.

2. Winter Sports at Oka National Park

The last time you may have been at Oka Park was during the summer to visit the beach. But this national park, 40 minutes from the city, is the perfect destination for tons of winter sports. Don’t know what kick sledding is? Neither did I. It’s the type of sled your child sits on and you push with one foot (like a dog sled). Sounds like a great workout that’s fun for the kids too! Kicksleds are available for rent at the park, along with fat bikes, cross country skis and snowshoes.

Access for kids under 17 is free and $8.90 for adults. A reservation is required, so book online before you go.

3. Yooners & Snow Scooters at Mont Sutton

Think you’ve already tried all winter sports? Ever been snow scooting down a ski hill? Or tried a yooner? It’s a cross between a sled and a bobsled. Mont Sutton is offering a number of thrilling packages including equipment rentals or a full all-access pass that includes a 1.5 hour lesson, rental and lift ticket for $115. Yooners are only for kids 8+ and those between 8-11 must be accompanied by an adult. Snow scooters are for kids 6+.

4. Mini Horses in Mirabel

If you have already walked with an alpaca at Verger Châmpetre or fed the deer at Parc Omega, why not care for a mini horse at this Mirabel farm? Kids as young as 18 months old can brush a mini horse, dress them up and then have them run around the stable.

The workshops are available for members of the same address who will each have their own horse. Reservations are required to ensure proper social distancing.

5. Winter Activities at Au Diable Vert

I learned about this Sutton destination on Instagram and can’t wait to go. With a 14 KM trail system this is the perfect outdoor destination for hiking or snowshoeing. Bring along a sled to take advantage of the numerous hills along the marked trails. And furry friends are welcome too!

While you’re there, visit the farm which is home to Highland cows from England. And if you want to make it a complete experience, spend the night in one of the treehouses or family pod cabins. Reservations are required for accommodations. The trail system can be accessed for $7.50/adult and kids 15 and under are free.