When you think of spring, your mind probably goes straight to tulips, sunshine, and perfectly timed patio weather. And yes… we do get that in Collingwood… but it never sticks around for long.
Spring, But Make It Collingwood
The real version of spring here is a little messier, a little moodier, and, honestly, much more fun. Think bluebird ski days one minute, maple syrup the next, and cozy dinners that feel well-earned after a full day outside. This is our guide to the perfect spring day in Collingwood – rain or shine.
Start With Coffee (Obviously)
Like every good day around here, we start with coffee-and not just any coffee. A stop at Gibson & Company is basically non-negotiable. Whether we’re in a flat white mood (we usually are), or leaning matcha/tea for a slower morning, they’ve got it dialed.
From there, we wander. Downtown Collingwood in the morning has this easy, just-woke-up energy. Shops opening their doors, locals doing their usual loops, and that crisp air that makes everything feel fresh.
We pop into a few favourite spots (like Okay Alright) and, without fail, grab doughnuts from Nicky’s Doughnuts. The strawberry-filled sugar doughnut is a must!
Late Winter Energy: Ski Hill Shenanigans
Once we’ve done our downtown lap, it’s time to lean into what makes this area special this time of year, the crossover season where winter refuses to leave, and we’re not mad about it.
Early spring brings some of the most fun, slightly chaotic ski events of the year.
At Beaver Valley Ski Club, the Beaver Valley Banked Slalom is one part race, two parts party. Snowboarders carve their way through a winding course, but the real highlight? The energy at the bottom – music, après, and a great crowd.
Then over at Blue Mountain Resort, the Retro Pond Skim is exactly what it sounds like. Costumes, chaos, and people attempting (and often failing) to skim across an icy pond on skis or boards. It’s hilarious, it’s iconic, and yes, a drink is highly recommended while watching.
Maple Season (The Sweetest Detour)
Spring here also means one thing: maple season.
If you’ve never experienced a sugar shack, this is your sign. It’s equal parts tradition, science, and pure patience. Maple trees are tapped, sap is collected, and then boiled down for hours (and hours… and hours) into that golden syrup we’re all obsessed with.
A visit to Beaver Valley Maple is one of our favourite ways to experience it. Their guided tours take you through the woods, into the production process, and end, thankfully, with a syrup tasting.
And if you’re around at the right time, the Sap Boil Party hosted by Down Home is absolutely worth it! It has the whole vibe! Think outdoor fires, carefully crafted food and drinks, fresh syrup, and that unmistakable smell of maple in the air.
When Spring Actually Shows Up
Later in the season, when the snow finally gives up and the trails start to wake up, we trade ski boots for hiking shoes.
Singhampton Trail (Siegerman’s Side Trail) is one of our go-to easy walks, about 40 minutes, lined with early wildflowers and a rushing river that feels extra dramatic thanks to the melt.
And of course, parts of the Bruce Trail are perfect for a longer wander. If you know, you know… this is also fiddlehead and ramp season. Foraging these little spring treasures (responsibly, always) feels like being let in on a local secret.
End With a Really Good Dinner
After a full spring day, filled with coffee, wandering, maybe a little snow, maybe a little mud, we’re ready to settle somewhere warm and cozy.
Whether it’s a long, wine-filled dinner, something casual and comforting, or a spot that leans a little more elevated, this area consistently delivers when it comes to food. It’s the kind of dining scene where you don’t need to try too hard to have a really good night. Check out our guide to local restaurants here.
And when the evening winds down, there’s something especially nice about knowing you don’t have to go far. A cozy stay at Somewhere Inn feels like a natural extension of the day; comfortable, thoughtful, and exactly where we want to land after soaking up everything a Collingwood spring has to offer.
This post is written by our on-site team in Collingwood. Our favourite thing? Sharing what we love about Collingwood and the surrounding area. Need help planning your trip? Reach out to us. Let’s connect!