Summary of Things to Do in Muskoka This Winter
“They will tear you apart if you call it The Muskokas.” During our lunch in Huntsville, I learned that it’s simply Muskoka! Regardless of the name, Muskoka is stunning and, contrary to popular belief, it remains vibrant throughout the year! Here are the best things to do in Muskoka this winter.
Indeed, winter can be cold. However, when you dress appropriately and venture outdoors, it becomes quite enjoyable.
1. Stay at Cedar Grove Lodge
We chose Huntsville, Ontario for our winter escapade. Huntsville sits in the center of cottage country and has been acknowledged as a top destination by National Geographic.
Muskoka is the premier cottage destination in Canada, drawing celebrities like Goldie Hawn and Steven Spielberg, but it doesn’t simply shut down after fall.
In fact, winter in Muskoka has a unique charm. After filling our bellies with delights from 3 Guys and a Stove, we headed over to Cedar Grove Lodge for a three-night stay filled with winter activities.
Cedar Grove, an independent resort in North Muskoka, offers a more personal atmosphere while still providing four-star amenities.
Our cozy cabin featured a wood-burning fireplace, a luxurious bathroom with heated slate floors, and a jet tub. Directly situated by the lake, it was a picturesque retreat.
We enjoyed snowshoeing and ice skating right on site. End our first day by catching a hockey game, relaxing in Muskoka chairs by a fire as we watched the sunset, eagerly awaiting our 6:00 pm dinner.
2. Snowshoe in Algonquin Park
A highlight of our Muskoka adventure was snowshoeing in Algonquin Park. Having only seen it during summer, the winter landscape was a completely new experience.
Numerous trails cater to snowshoers wanting to explore this iconic Provincial Park. We rented our gear from Algonquin Outfitters and proceeded with our guide, Gord Baker, whose laid-back yet confident demeanor made us feel at ease.
His experience guided us over frozen lakes and along snowy trails beside flowing waterfalls. One memorable moment involved Gord demonstrating the importance of snowshoes, showcasing how they keep you above the snow!
Algonquin Outfitters provides all necessary rental equipment for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, along with helpful maps and recommendations. Don’t forget to check in at the park headquarters for the latest information on trail conditions.
While snowshoeing offers a great workout, some may prefer the rush of snowmobiling. The well-groomed trails around Explorers’ Edge boast hundreds of kilometers to traverse.
Snowmobiles come equipped with modern comforts like heated handlebars, ensuring your hands stay warm while riding—just don’t forget the toe warmers!
3. Snowmobile the Muskoka Trails
If you’re concerned about not having gear for a snowmobile ride, don’t worry! Backcountry Tours offers sled rentals, along with insulated helmets, winter coats, and snow pants.
Snowmobiling embodies the quintessential Canadian adventure, and Explorers’ Edge surely delivers with a range of options. The region includes 11 provincial parks, including Algonquin and Arrowhead, which remain open year-round!
From dogsledding to cross-country skiing, Muskoka has plenty to offer. We explored two unique attractions— skating on the ice trail and fat biking.
4. Skate on the Ice Trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park
Arrowhead Provincial Park offers a variety of activities in a compact area, perfect for families and couples alike!
The park’s main attraction is its 1.5 km ice skating trail, letting visitors glide through a tranquil forest setting, maintained impeccably by a Zamboni.
When we visited, the trail had just reopened after grooming, and the ice conditions were pristine—far superior to the choppy Rideau Canal we had skated on previously.
It’s both fun and convenient, with picnic tables, warming stations, and cabins available for resting and warming up by the fire post-skate.
5. Fat Biking
Both kids and adults enjoy the snow tubing park, and perhaps by next year, you’ll have the chance to ride fat bikes like we did during our visit. We tested this exhilarating new trend and believe it will soon dominate winter sports!
6. Snowtubing in Muskoka
Experience thrill in getting out on snow tubes and sliding down the hills—an exhilarating winter activity that delights visitors of all ages.
7. Take a Romantic Sleigh Ride
No winter adventure in Muskoka would be complete without a romantic sleigh ride with Back of Beyond Equine Centre. Cuddle up under a blanket as you traverse the picturesque forest, followed by hot chocolate and apple cider by the fire, where you can roast marshmallows.
If you’re looking for a delicious dining experience, consider having dinner at the Mill on Main. This Asian/English fusion cuisine is a wonderful surprise in this quaint town, and it is absolutely delicious.
This concludes your winter sampler in Huntsville. There’s so much to keep winter amusing and adventurous. So why wait? Gather your warmest clothes and enjoy a getaway to northern Ontario—you may just find yourself falling in love with winter!
For additional information on traveling to Muskoka, visit Explorers’ Edge.
