Do you have the winter blues? Travel to Lake Erie in the winter to see the lake like never before!
With these top 15 travel/vacation ideas you will ensure:
- Your family will stay busy in the wintertime
- You will see and try new things
- You will create memories that last a lifetime
What Are The Best Lake Erie Winter Vacations?
1. Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Trails Near Lake Erie
Lake Erie’s trails become snow-covered and magical in winter. This creates a setting like you have never seen before. For those who enjoy peaceful, immersive experiences in nature, snowshoeing or winter hiking in this region is a must.
- Top Trails: Presque Isle State Park, located in Pennsylvania, offers trails with views of icy lake vistas and frosty forests. Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands have paths that are perfect for spotting winter wildlife, while Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a wide range of snow-laden trails for all skill levels.
- What to Expect: Winter hiking here can include encounters with animal tracks, frozen lake views, and a quieter atmosphere, creating an escape from the busy summer months. Snowshoeing, in particular, allows you to explore deep snow without sinking, giving access to parts of the trail that might be inaccessible otherwise.
- Where to Rent Gear: Several shops around Lake Erie, such as at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offer snowshoe and pole rentals, making it easy to start exploring even if you don’t own equipment.
2. Ice Fishing Adventures on Lake Erie
Ice fishing is a beloved winter tradition on Lake Erie, where anglers brave the cold to catch perch, walleye, and other winter fish. This activity combines the thrill of fishing with the serene beauty of Lake Erie’s frozen surface.
- Best Ice Fishing Spots: Put-in-Bay and Sandusky Bay are popular locations for ice fishing, drawing anglers from around the region. East Harbor State Park is another notable spot, offering both open and sheltered fishing areas.
- Types of Fish to Catch: Winter on Lake Erie is prime for walleye and perch fishing, with these fish often found near the lake bottom in colder months. Ice fishing requires patience and some knowledge of where fish are likely to gather in winter, making it a rewarding challenge.
- Safety Tips: Always check ice thickness—generally, 4 inches is considered safe for walking, while 8-12 inches is recommended for fishing shelters. Dress in layers, bring a buddy and stay updated on weather conditions.
3. Winter Bird Watching
Lake Erie’s shoreline is a haven for winter bird watchers, drawing species that migrate south but stop here for the season. The colder months provide unique birdwatching opportunities, especially for those interested in spotting rare winter species.
- Best Birding Locations: Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, and Long Point in Ontario are prime spots to see wintering birds along Lake Erie’s shores.
- Species to Spot: Keep an eye out for bald eagles, snowy owls, and tundra swans. These birds are typically rare in other seasons, but they flock to Lake Erie’s warmer waters in the winter, making for a unique bird-watching experience.
- Birding Tips: A good pair of binoculars and a spotting scope can make birding easier. Dress warmly and consider going early in the morning or late afternoon, as these are prime times for bird activity.
4. Exploring Frozen Waterfalls
Lake Erie’s nearby waterfalls freeze into breathtaking ice sculptures in winter, offering photographers and nature lovers a unique view of these natural wonders. These are mostly on the eastern end of the lake in Pennsylvania and New York. However, eastern Ohio has some to visit listed below.
- Top Frozen Waterfalls: Sheldon’s Falls, Cuyahoga Valley’s Blue Hen Falls, and Brandywine Falls all transform into magnificent frozen cascades, each surrounded by frosty scenery that adds to their allure.
- Photography Tips: When photographing frozen waterfalls, consider using a tripod for stability and adjust for low light conditions. Wear crampons if you’re hiking close to these icy formations, as the trails can be slippery.
5. Cozy Cabin Getaways
A winter getaway isn’t complete without a cozy cabin, especially around Lake Erie, where cabins are tucked along the shoreline, providing both comfort and stunning views of the frozen lake. Picture sitting outside next to a fire in the wintertime!
- Top Cabin Spots: Geneva-on-the-Lake and Lake Erie Islands offer charming winter cabins equipped with fireplaces, lake views, and sometimes even hot tubs. Consider Middle Bass Island!
- Cabin Amenities to Seek: Look for fireplaces, lakefront views, proximity to trails, and private hot tubs to make your stay as relaxing as possible.
6. Ice Skating Rinks and Outdoor Ice Skating on Lake Erie
For a classic winter activity, head to one of the many ice rinks along Lake Erie. Some spots even offer outdoor skating on frozen lakes, providing a serene winter experience.
- Outdoor Ice Skating Spots: Cleveland’s Public Square and Erie’s Perry Square are popular places to skate in the open air, often decorated with holiday lights to create a festive atmosphere.
- Tips for Outdoor Skating: Wear layers and make sure to bring gloves. Most places offer skate rentals but check beforehand for rental hours and skate sizes.
7. Visiting Lake Erie’s Winter Wine Country
Winter is the season of wine tasting, and Lake Erie’s wineries offer a cozy retreat with seasonal events and tastings that make the cold worthwhile.
- Top Wineries: Explore Ohio’s wine country, North East PA wineries, or Ontario’s Niagara wine trail for a delightful day of tasting local wines.
- What to Expect on a Winter Wine Tour: Many wineries host events in winter, from wine and chocolate pairings to cozy evenings by the fireplace with live music.
8. Winter Festivals and Events around Lake Erie
The winter season brings unique festivals to the Lake Erie area, perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to enjoy seasonal festivities.
- Must-See Events: Erie Zoo’s Festival of Lights, Winterfest in Port Clinton, and Cleveland Winter Beerfest each offer a different slice of winter fun.
- Festival Highlights: You’ll find food trucks, live music, holiday lights, and plenty of local crafts to browse.
9. Lake Erie Winter Photography Hotspots
Lake Erie offers numerous photography hotspots, especially in winter when the landscape is covered in ice and snow. For photographers, these scenes create breathtaking photo opportunities. In the winter, specific bird species show up. This is a great opportunity to capture their beauty.
- Best Locations: Lighthouses, ice formations along the shore, and sunset spots are ideal for capturing winter’s beauty.
- Photography Tips: Use a tripod for stability, and try shooting during the golden hour for warm light on icy landscapes.
10. Snowmobiling Trails Around Lake Erie
Snowmobiling near Lake Erie is a thrilling way to explore snowy trails, and the lake’s surrounding parks and countryside are filled with paths designed for this winter sport. There are snowmobile trails all around Lake Erie, including Canada.
- Top Snowmobiling Locations: Erie’s trail system and Ontario’s lakeside trails are popular with snowmobilers.
- Safety Tips: Be sure to follow trail rules, check weather conditions, and bring a GPS or map.
11. Indoor Water Parks for Families around Lake Erie
If you’re looking to escape the cold but stay close to Lake Erie, indoor water parks provide a warm and fun-filled option for families. Great Wolf Lodge is an excellent choice for the whole family.
- Popular Water Parks: Kalahari Resorts, Great Wolf Lodge, Castaway Bay, and Splash Lagoon offer heated pools, slides, and lazy rivers that make for a great winter day.
- Why Choose an Indoor Water Park: These parks offer activities for all ages, from kiddie pools to adult relaxation areas.
12. Cross-country skiing near Lake Erie
Cross-country skiing is another fantastic way to explore Lake Erie’s parks and trails in winter, with paths suited for both beginners and experienced skiers. There are lots of trails to choose from made for beginners and expert skiers.
- Best Trails: Presque Isle State Park and Pymatuning State Park provide groomed cross-country trails for smooth skiing experiences.
- Rental Options: Many parks offer rental stations, making it easy to try out cross-country skiing without buying your gear.
13. Air Boat and Kiteboarding on Frozen Lake Erie
For those seeking adventure, ice boating and kiteboarding offer unique thrills. When Lake Erie freezes over, it becomes a playground for these lesser-known winter sports.
- Where to Air Boat: Frozen bays and open areas along the coast are ideal for ice boating, especially in calm, clear weather. You can bring your boat (must be registered) or hire a guide.
- Guide Information: Local guides offer air boat tours and ice fishing.
14. Historic Sites and Museums Open in Lake Erie’s Winter Season
Lake Erie’s historical sites and museums stay open year-round, offering a comfortable and educational option for colder days.
- Top Museums: Cleveland Museum of Art, Great Lakes Science Center, and the Maritime Museum of Sandusky.
- Why Visit in Winter: Indoor attractions mean warmth and fewer crowds.
15. Shopping and Dining in Lake Erie’s Lakeside Towns
Wintertime shopping and dining along Lake Erie is a treat, with cozy cafes and boutique stores. Many people choose road trips in the winter when mild weather hits. What a great time to go check out the stores and restaurants around Lake Erie.
- Popular Spots: Geneva-on-the-Lake, Port Clinton, and Sandusky each offer unique shops and restaurants with lakeside views.
- Winter Specialties: Try regional comfort foods and browse for local crafts, antiques, and winter-themed items.