Weather

Ontarians, like most Canadians, love to talk about the weather, probably because it can fluctuate so greatly. Because the region’s temperature and seasons are noticeably different depending on the time of the year, you can visit Ontario’s Highlands multiple times and experience something new each time you return – and also not know what to expect. To help you navigate the differences between seasons we’ve put together this quick guide.

Spring

In spring, you can expect milder temperatures and more frequent rainy days. As the days and weeks progress, the days get longer and warmer and you’ll see many more people in the area begin to cycle, ATV, and enjoy the outdoors. Spring attire can vary from pants and a light coat to shorts and a sweater or long-sleeved shirt on warmer days. We recommend bringing a rain jacket, umbrella, and rubber boots for puddle jumping.

Average spring temperatures:

Summer

Summer is a wonderful time of year in Ontario’s Highlands and is characterized by hot weather and frequent clear skies. Many people like to escape the summer heat and head to cottage country (or as we like to call it, ComfortCountry) for outdoor adventures such as boating, fishing, and paddling along the region’s many lakes and rivers. Provincial parks are popular summer spots for hiking, recreational geology, and swimming. Packing a swimsuit, towel, shorts, and tank tops is a must. You’ll also want to bring a long-sleeved shirt and pants for the cooler evenings, especially if you are camping. Don’t forget sunblock! Getting sunburn is a possible reality and a real vacation spoiler. Most importantly, bring an appetite for adventure – there are many summer festivals and events you won’t want to miss.

Average summer temperatures:

Fall

With autumn comes cooler temperatures and shorter days. The leaves on the trees turn from shades of green to fiery reds and burning oranges. The chilly winds in later months will be brisk and refreshing, but also call for a sweater. Make sure to pack pants and long-sleeved shirts as well as a jacket for colder days and evenings. It’s not excessive to pack a hat and light scarf – plus you’ll look stylish. The break from the heat makes fall in Ontario’s Highlands a great time to get in a game of golf or one last fishing trip.

Average fall temperatures:

Winter

In winter, you can expect to encounter the coldest months in the region – but with proper clothing, this season can be one of the most fun and enjoyable. Ontario’s Highlands receives plenty of snow, making this the time of year to get active and participate in downhill skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and dogsledding. We recommend bringing a warm winter jacket appropriate for below freezing temperatures, along with a hat, scarf, mittens, warm socks, and insulated boots. After all, it’s always easier to remove a layer!

Average winter temperatures: