February 16th is Family Day in Canada
Family Day
Snowshoe
Campfire Cookout
Join us for a 3km snowshoe trek through the forest and across the beaver pond.
Return to the Ark for campfire roasted hot dogs, S'mores, hot chocolate and cider.
Family Day is about spending time together — and winter is part of that here in Canada.
Just $75 per family
Instead of staying indoors or trying to plan something complicated, this is a simple way to get outside together, enjoy the snow, and share a few hours as a family.
We’ll head out on a relaxed 3km snowshoe walk through the forest on groomed, well-flagged trails, including a loop past the frozen beaver pond. The walk takes about an hour and is designed to be comfortable and easygoing for families.
After the hike, we’ll gather back at the Ark around a warm campfire. Hot dogs (including veggie options), hot chocolate, cider, and classic campfire s’mores will be waiting — along with time to slow down, laugh, and enjoy being outside together.
No experience is needed. Snowshoes are provided if you don’t have them. Just dress for the weather and come ready to enjoy a classic Canadian winter morning with your family.
Family Day Snowshoe Schedule - February 16
~9:30am - Arrive at the Ark (map below) and gear up
10am - Head out on an out-and-back loop to a beaver pond, approximately 1.5km each way
11:00 - 12:45 - Back at the Ark for a relaxed campfire with hot dogs (meat and veggie), S’more fixings, hot chocolate, and cider
1pm - head back home for a well earned nap!
What ages is this event best suited for?
This experience is designed for families with children roughly ages 6 and up. The snowshoe walk is relaxed and on groomed trails, but children should be comfortable walking for about an hour with breaks.
We had a trail race here this past fall where a 4 year-old completed the 3k event. So ultimately, participation is at the parent's discretion.
Do we need our own snowshoes or experience?
No experience is needed. If you can walk, you can snowshoe!
We have a variety of Atlas Snowshoes available for those who don't have them. The walk takes place on a well-flagged, easy-to-follow trail. Just dress warmly for the weather and wear lightweight winter or hiking boots.
What happens if the weather is very cold or snowy?
This is a winter event, and cold and snow are part of the experience. As long as conditions are safe, the event will run as planned. Luckily for us, snowshoeing is the warmest winter activity around. Hiking generates heat, and being surrounded by trees protects us from the wind.
After the snowshoe walk, families will gather around the campfire in the backyard area of our home, with access to the venue portion of the house to use the bathroom and change into dry, warm clothes before settling in around the fire.
If weather conditions make it unsafe to proceed, we’ll contact registered families with next steps.
What should we bring?
Please dress for winter conditions and plan for two parts of the experience.
For the snowshoe walk:
- winter boots
- snow pants (optional)
- warm layers
- gloves and hats
For the campfire:
-a dry, warm layer to change into if needed
Snowshoes, food, and hot drinks are provided.
Are dogs allowed?
We love dogs — we currently have four rescue dogs here at the Ark. That said, for this particular event, dogs aren’t allowed.
Out of respect for all families attending — including kids or adults who may be nervous around unfamiliar dogs — we’re keeping this experience dog-free so everyone can relax and enjoy the morning comfortably.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Because space is limited to 10 families, registrations are non-refundable. If you’re unable to attend, you’re welcome to transfer your spot to another family.
Map & Directions to the
Off Grid Ark
© Copyright The Off Grid Ark. All Rights Reserved.
