5 surreal wonders to explore near Toronto this winter

You don't have to drive eight hours north of Toronto to experience the surreal wonders winter delivers to Ontario each year. As amazing as Lake Superior's ice caves are, there are incredible cold weather destinations far closer to the city and at least one that's hiding within our borders. From frozen waterfalls to epic snowshoe trails, there's no shortage of reasons to venture out into the snow and ice.

Here are five surreal wonders near Toronto to explore this winter.

Tiffany Falls

Is there a more adventorous and surreal-looking winter adventure than ice climbing? There aren't many places to safely try this awe-inspiring activity out in Southern Ontario, but Tiffany Falls is one of the incredible exceptions to the rule. One Axe Pursuits organizes climbing sessions at the falls as well as easier spots in and around Elora.

Dundas Peak and Spencer's Gorge

If you want to witness the beauty of frozen waterfalls without the pressure to climb them, head to the Dundas Peak / Spencer's Gorge area. While it's at its most popular during the fall, this area might look even more beautiful in the winter. There are are stunning snow covered vistas, but it's the frozen beauty of Webster's and Tews Falls that's most amazing. You'll need to brave the elements to get to these gems, but the view makes it all worth it. 

Torrance Barrens

There's no better place to go hunting for the Northern Lights than the Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve near Gravenhurst. It's a magical place during celestial events, but it's also incredible in the midst of winter even on a "normal" night, when the sky is filled with more stars than you will likely remember seeing before. And that's not to mention just how gorgeous the barrens are during the day. It gets terribly cold here, but the untouched expanse of Canadian wilderness is stunning.

Scenic Caves 

As far as epic snowshoe trails go, it would be hard to beat the one that snakes around Scenic Caves Adventures near Collingwood. There are about 10 kilometres of trails in the area that'll take you across the soaring 420 foot suspension bridge (the view after a fresh snowfall is sublime) and up to the highest point on the Niagara Escarpment. There's also an extensive network of cross country ski trails.

Leslie Street Spit

Guess what? You don't even need to leave the city to experience the surreal beauty of winter. Head down to the Leslie Street Spit after a windy cold spell, and you'll be confronted with some of the most wild-looking natural ice sculptures you could ever imagine. The rocky, debris-strewn shoreline of the spit makes the perfect canvas for this particular brand of winter's beauty. Don't forget to pack your camera.

by Derek Flack via blogTO