The Best Winter Activities in Muskoka

The winter season in Muskoka is like nothing else. From snowmobiling and skiing to ice skating and ice fishing, there’s something about the vibe in Muskoka during the winter months. It might be a little chilly, but that shouldn’t stop you from embracing every single second of it. With cold air, gloved hands and rosy cheeks, this list is chock-full of winter activities to keep you entertained and active during the season.

Here is a list of our top 5 favourite ideas for unique, exciting and adrenaline-pumping winter fun:

Image via Discover Muskoka

1. Skiing: Muskoka is an absolute haven for skiing during the winter, with kilometres upon kilometres of stunning trails to explore and adventure on. From downhill skiing to cross country skiing, Muskoka has it all. There are several places ideal for cross country skiing in Muskoka, such as Algonquin Park and Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve. If downhill skiing is more your thing, check out the Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area.
   Image via blogTO
2. Ice fishing: One of the most unique winter activities in Muskoka is travelling onto the frozen lake to catch some fish. Using anglers, you’ll be able to find quite the cold catch underneath the frozen ice. Oftentimes, you can even fry your fish right out on the lake. If you want to be completely guided, consider a 2-night package with Muskoka Shores Cottage on Three Mile Lake.
   Image via Discover Muskoka
3. Snowmobiling: Add a burst of adrenaline and ice to a winter afternoon with the true joy that one can only experience on a snowmobile. Muskoka has over 1,600 kilometres of trails perfect for snowmobiling, and you can make your way to the Muskoka Magic Loop and the Lake of Bays Watch. Muskoka is also right near the Round Algonquin Park Tour, which is one of the most well-known snowmobiling loops in the region.Image via Discover Muskoka
4. Ice skating: It’s not winter in Muskoka without a quintessential day of ice skating! Whether you’re holding hands with your partner or dancing around with the kids, The Arrowhead Ice Skating Trail is a great place to do so, smack dab in the middle of the Muskoka forest. You can find more of a community feel at Memorial Park Winter Village, or you can traverse down the Cranberry Ice Trail.
   Image via Fire & Ice Bracebridge
5. Bracebridge Fire & Ice Festival: Wintertime in Muskoka is the perfect time for a festival. The annual event features a mashup of FIRE and ICE which includes live music, games for the family, firepits scattered throughout Downtown, interactive ice displays, skating at Memorial Park, a firework display and much more.

From snowmobiling to ice skating, we live for the action and vibrancy of the Muskokas and believe that experiencing a Muskoka winter is something that everyone should do at least once. If you’re considering making Muskoka a more permanent home, our Gilbert + Burke team can build you a stunning place that works with the vibrancy and nature of the area that we all love so much. Connect with us here, and we’ll create something great together — after we get back from ice fishing, of course.