Category: Safety & Regulations
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Spring paddling safety
Itching for ice out? We certainly are. But spring weather can be fickle. Hitting the lake too early, failing to respect weather conditions or paddling beyond your skill level isn’t just risky — it’s downright dangerous. We chatted with Paul Smith, past park superintendent of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, to get some top do’s and don’ts for…
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The 2024 total solar eclipse
On April 8 in the mid-afternoon, a rare astronomical event will occur for observers in Ontario: a total solar eclipse. We’ve compiled a few FAQ to ensure you’re aware of eclipse safety information and best practices should the eclipse overlap with a visit to one of our parks:
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Why is that a rule?
Excessive noise. Transporting firewood. Have you ever wondered why certain rules exist? Thought, research, and science go into the laws and policies that cover provincial parks and conservation reserves. And it helps to understand the rationale. Today, we’re sharing the logic behind a few of the rules our visitors ask us about most frequently:
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Backcountry basics: know your limits
You’ve heard about this fantastic new adventure through a friend, route guide, or Instagram. It looks kind of tough, and you’re pretty new to the whole backcountry thing. Still, you don’t want to miss out, so you decide to go for it. But as you start planning, there’s a little voice wondering if this is…
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Ice fishing safety all season long
Today’s post comes from year-round multispecies angler and writer Ashley Rae of SheLovesToFish.com. As the ice freezes up across the province, anglers will soon begin venturing out onto the hard water for some ice fishing action. Ice fishing is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors during our long, cold winters. Trust me, when…
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5 tips for sharing the winter trails
Many parks have well-maintained trails for winter use. Knowing the proper etiquette and rules for use helps to keep them safe for cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and hikers alike.
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Your guide to winter yurt and cabin camping
So you still haven’t had enough of the outdoors, even though winter has arrived? Neither have we! Day-tripping to your favourite park is a great way to get outside, but maybe you’ve decided to try an overnight stay this winter. Great choice! Yurts and cabins are a popular way to experience winter at Ontario Parks.…
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Don't leave it hanging
Our trees are spectacular organisms. They make oxygen, can live to be quite old, have beautiful foliage, provide homes and food for countless wildlife, and through transpiration of water through their leaves, can even influence the weather. Maybe our trees do deserve some form of decoration or recognition? I was out in my park the…
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Your winter preparedness guide
If you’re reading this, you’re likely a human being with a core body temperature around 37ºC. Your body works very hard to maintain this temperature. If it drops even a few degrees, moving, thinking, and other basic tasks become difficult. You will need to warm up quickly, or you may find yourself in a dangerous…