highlands nordic

The trail system is not vast but it is plenty for this recreational skiier. The trail conditions have always been groomed to perfection whenever I have been there. Larry's Glacier is such a fun downhill run and the climbs are just enough to make you feel you have done something. There is a really nice vibe to the place.... there are lots of very good skiiers, much better than me, but people are polite and friendly to skiiers of all levels. The lodge has everything you need (pro shop, rentals, food) and the home-style food is always an attraction.

Highlands Nordic is a decent resort. The XC ski trails seem to be better maintained than the snowshoe trails, though. Trail fees are inexpensive. Sections of the snowshoe trails need better signage. Try the homemade soups!

Highlands Nordic is our home ski club, so my bias has been declared. Friendly staff, well-groomed trails and good services. A range of trail options for beginner and advanced, pulls available for infants, sit skis for less-able bodied skiers and 15+km trails in a beautiful forest. Higher elevation means continual, great snow!

My partner and I went X-country skiing here earlier this week. Great trails, exceptionally well-marked. Good facilities in the chalet. Wonderful views from a few points on the trail. We did a "more difficult" trail and found it to be perfect for us. Once we completed the initial five km trail (yellow) we did part of it again. Next visit we'll do the orange (10 km) trail. If you're looking for a great X-country ski trail within an hour drive of Barrie this is one of them.

We have skied here for years, and now our kids are skiing with us and participating in the great programs offered at Highlands. Although the staff are often very busy, there is always someone willing to help. The pro shop stocks many of the best brands at reasonable prices, and the rentals are top notch stuff. On the trails, the snow is often the best around because of the location up high in the lee of Georgian bay (it snows when every other place is wishing it would). Grooming is very good- they use a mix of snowmobile and large machine when possible. The terrain is hilly but the rewards are great with views to Georgian bay and beyond as well as a giggle or two heading down the trails. Snowshoeing and tobogganing can be had as well which are both great as well and lots of fun for kids and adults alike.

I have had the pleasure of skiing at Highlands Nordic many times now, and have to say that they have the best trails in the area. There's a variety for every level of skier from beginner to expert. The facilities are great as is the snow grooming.

I organized a snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at a resort in Barrie but it turned out the place was closed to public due to races scheduled the same day. I had to scramble to look for another venue and found Highlands Nordic.I spoke with the Manager by phone and he was so warm and courteous and accommodating. He reserved a room for us and gave us a group rate (even when I said I was not collecting from my club members, which is when group rates apply), so that was really cool. Staff were friendly and helpful. Snowshoe trails were beautiful .. .tons of snow. Narnia Trail was a winter wonderland delight! So serene and peaceful. Cedar trees all blanketed with snow as we snowshoed our way through the woods. Highlands Nordic is the highest point of the Escarpment and we caught a glimpse of Georgian Bay. The lunch they serve was better than most ski resorts I've been and the rates were reasonable, not overpriced just like other resorts. Yes, I will be going back to Highlands Nordic, for sure, with my club.

Went here with my family of 7 and found that the tobogganing facilities were great. The hospitality of the staff behind the food counter was terrible at its best. They only ended up serving us when the line up behind was 8 people deep. As well, the locals at the chalet weren't very welcoming at all. One really has to wonder if these folks realize that tourism is the driver of the economy for this area. I'm not sure if these people just don't like visitors/tourists or if it was some other type of prejudice that these ignorant people have.I would not recommend this location to anyone unless you are one of the locals or look like one of the locals.

For a mere $3 you can go up and down a hill the whole day. Bring your toboggan or if you're lucky they have a few laying around for free.. We didn't cross country ski but the employees were wonderful and answered al of our questions. They rent skis and have a store with all the equipment. The teenagers were having as much fun as the little ones and the adults. It was great fun for everybody. Highly recommend as a fun and inexpensive afternoon.