The last time we went to Parc Omega we had a blast. You can read about our adventures and tips here. It was so much fun not only getting to feed carrots to the animals in an up close and personal way, but to learn about the different habitats, species and diverse area that Parc Omega hosts. It was wonderful to see the passion and care that they put into everything they do and the animals who live there.
When they invited us back to check out their maple sugar shack, it was an easy decision for all of us to return. Not only did we realize that this was a great way to spend some time outdoors as the snow was still on the ground (and we were sulking about it), but also, I am always ready for some maple taffy. 
This time of year is when the maple sap is flowing and maple syrup producers are busy. The sugar shack at Parc Omega is unique in that it’s a smaller production and uses old-school techniques. Sap is collected by hand with buckets on the trees, and boiled in a wooden shack. It reminded me of when my grandfather would collect sap and boil it outside in a giant pot. That syrup always had a bit more smokiness to the flavour, it was often darker and delicious in a different way than what we can get at the store. The syrup at Parc Omega was like my childhood.
We were treated to maple taffy (a huge hit with my family, always) and we tucked into the tabled cabin with a wood burning fire place to warm up while we ate. The Sugar Shack area is a central hub for the walking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails making it the perfect mini stop if you are out and about.
Naturally, while the maple syrup area was a highlight for me, getting to see the animals was a huge attraction for the kids. I can’t tell you how many times each of them told us they were having a great time. We saw a black bear who was recently out of hibernation, and learned about the elks and deer losing their antlers and growing them back at this time of year. We saw baby boars (which were adorable!) and learned about the timber wolves during a feeding presentation.
We also got a peek at their new lumber camp which has tables for eating, a place to warm up and a food counter. This is an area that is expanding in the upcoming months and by summertime it sounds like it’s going to be another exciting area to check out, grab a bite and relax in between all of the excitement. Stop by the lumber camp if you want to rent snow shoes and head to the sugar shack!
The sugar shack will be open until April 2, unless the snow sticks around, then they may extend the opening. Even as the weather warms up, you’ll find plenty to do at Parc Omega. Visit the animals, grab a bite to eat (there is a new menu that currently includes a lot of tasty bites!) and attend educational demonstrations and shows to learn more about the animals around.
Don’t forget! Bring plenty of carrots or grab some bags at the main lodge of Parc Omega! The animals (and your kids) will thank you!
Disclosure: Parc Omega invited us to attend and gave us tickets and lunch. All opinions are my own. Thank you Parc Omega for the fun visit!
What an awesome place! Definitely going to check it out! Thanks =)