First time in Muskoka? Here are the best things to do in Muskoka – that aren’t gambling! You must check out these attractions if you are visiting Muskoka. And to make a plan to visit these places, book First class flight tickets now and enjoy these places to the fullest.
Hello, winter! Snow-covered trees, frozen landscapes, and adventures await! The perfect winter in Ontario opens up a whole new world of outdoor activities. And Muskoka is the heart of Ontario winter. The Muskoka region is cottage country, but in the colder months, it turns into a snow-lovers paradise.
Why Muskoka?
First of all, why visit Muskoka in winter? The District Municipality of Muskoka, more commonly known as Muskoka, is an Ontario cottage country. It lies between Georgian Bay and Algonquin Provincial Park and is home to more than 1,600 lakes thanks to its spectacular location in the Canadian Shield.
The three major towns include the Muskoka District, Graven Hurst to the south, Brace Bridge in the center, and Huntsville to the north.
Muskoka is just two hours north of Toronto and has been named by National Geographic as the #1 best summer trip in the world.
But what about winter?
When the snow starts to blow, the Muskoka region comes up with amazing things to do in Muskoka in winter. From skiing to skating to dog sledding, there is something for everyone.
On average, Muskoka receives over three meters of snow each winter! And the temperature is not too kind, even with an average low of -17 ° C. But that means you have to be prepared. If you’re driving, you need good winter tires or preferably a 4×4. And dressing needs to be warm with lots of layers.
Winter in Muskoka can be incredibly rewarding, so pack your snow pants, and your warm clothes and let’s go!
How to get to Muskoka
The easiest way to get to Muskoka is by car. Taking Highway 400 North and then Highway 11 North will take you to Graven Hurst, Brace Bridge, and Huntsville. Be warned; this highway can be bad in winter, so plan your drive accordingly.
If you don’t want to drive, you have the option to fly. That’s right, FlyGTA has a Muskoka route that takes you from Billy Bishop Airport in Toronto to Muskoka Airport near Graven Hurst. You can rent a vehicle from there!
If you just want to come and stay in the provincial parks, there is also a park bus that leaves from Toronto and travels to Ontario’s parks.
Where to stay in Muskoka in winter
There are lots of options in Muskoka. Seriously, hundreds to hundreds of hotels, motels, inns, resorts, campsites, cabins, cottages, and more.
To get the full Muskoka experience, I was hosted by Garth and Rebecca at their lovely Airbnb cottage in Huntsville, near Wolegib Modern Waterfront Retreat. This three-bedroom cottage is on the Muskoka River and feels like you are in a place of solitude and comfort.
This modern cabin is just minutes from downtown Huntsville and feels like a little piece of paradise on its three-acre lot in winter.
The inside has a modern rustic vibe with heavenly bedding, a large sectional sofa that surrounds the wood stove fireplace, and large windows so you can watch the snowfall from the comfort of the inside. Below is a recreation room with games!
The only problem with this place might be getting you there. It’s located about 1.5 kilometers by gravel road, and the last 100 meters is a massive hill that you’ll need to have the fully all-wheel drive to navigate. Of the three vehicles we had between us over the girls’ weekend, only mine was able to tackle the hills (Go Jeep!) The other two had to be pulled out.
If you’re looking for a shorter stay, check out Aux Box, an off-the-grid style mini cottage near Volegib. This tiny cabin is perfect for two people who want to get away.
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There is no end to amazing things to do in Muskoka in winter. Everything from snowshoeing to ice skating and skiing takes place here. The area includes three small towns and the incredible wilderness found in Arrowhead Provincial Park. You can also visit the nearby Algonquin Provincial Park, which is one of the oldest in Canada.
Snowshoe at Arrowhead Provincial Park
Snowshoeing is easily one of my favorite winter activities. You’re in fresh snow, breaking the trail and using a terrific indigenous invention that allows you to walk over deep snow. Most of the trails in Muskoka turn into snowshoe trails once enough snow has accumulated on the ground.
The best place to go snowshoeing for the first time is in Arrowhead Provincial Park. There is an easy two-kilometer trail that has only a few hills and leads you to a beautiful spot with a view of Stubb’s Falls.
This place is the most beautiful in the whole park! But you can’t miss seeing Big Bend. This short, easy trail leads you to an awesome lookout point over the Big East River. It’s like our own little horseshoe in Arizona!
Arrowhead isn’t the only place to snowshoe in Muskoka. You can lease them in the Limber lost Forest, in the Algonquin, and on many other great trails around the region.
Wild Festival at Algonquin Provincial Park
Want to find out more about winter activities in provincial parks like hiking, skiing, and camping, but you’re not sure where to start? Then head to Algonquin Provincial Park during its annual event, the winter in the Wild Festival.
During this weekend fest, you can participate in group activities like hiking, snowshoeing, and birding, learn about winter camping in performance, go ice skating, visit the Algonquin Arts Center and listen to the lectures on the forest.
It’s a great way to dive into winter activities while still having access to expertise and advice! The winter in the Wild Festival is held each year over Family Day weekend (mid-February) and is hosted by Friends of Algonquin Parks and Ontario Parks. All activities are free with the purchase of a daily vehicle permit.
