Top 5 Family Activities in Muskoka, Ontario in the Winter

Muskoka, Ontario is known mostly for being a summer playground for anyone wanting to get out of the city and spend some time at the lake. Millions of visitors flock there each year, mostly in the summer, but did you know it’s also a great winter destination? We’ve previously featured the top winter activities in Muskoka, but now we’re focusing specifically on family activities. Here are the top 5 family activities in Muskoka to enjoy in the winter.

Family Activities in Muskoka - snowshoers on a frozen lake — Source: Township of Muskoka Lakes

During the winter Muskoka transforms into a winter wonderland, with frozen lakes and generally reliable snow cover from January through March. Because winters tend to be longer than you’ll find in the cities, Muskoka revels in the winter, filling it with outdoor activities! Most of these activities are family-friendly, so it’s a great destination for people wanting their kids to experience a “real” winter. Book your winter-ready cottage accommodations with CottageLINK Rental Management today and plan your visit to Muskoka to discover the magic of an Ontario winter!

1. Family Activities in Muskoka | Skiing & Snowboarding at Hidden Valley Highlands

Family Activities in Muskoka - kid skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands ski resort — Source: Ski Hidden Valley

Centrally located in Huntsville, Hidden Valley Highlands is the perfect place to go for downhill skiing or snowboarding! With 15 hills ranging from beginner to double black diamond and a terrain park, and 4 lifts, there’s enough variety for skiers of all skill levels. If you’re new to skiing, or wish to have a refresher course, ski school is available. No need to cut your day short either – there are lights and night skiing is possible three times a week, and every night during holiday periods.

2. Arrowhead Provincial Park | Ice Skating | Cross Country Skiing | Snowshoeing & Hiking

Family Activities in Muskoka - skaters on the ice trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park — Source: The Great Canadian Wilderness

Family Activities in Muskoka | Ice Skating Trail

If the ice in front of your waterfront cottage rental is frozen with a smooth enough surface, and you have a shovel handy to clear it, you may be able to skate right in front of the cottage!

Another option though, especially if you prefer to skate along a trail rather than in a cleared rink, is Arrowhead’s ice skating trail, a 1.3 km trail through the forest. Fire and Ice Nights are held every Friday and Saturday night, and it’s even more magical then, with torches along the trail lit. This is extremely popular though, so we highly recommend booking your permit in advance. These can be purchased online up to 5 days ahead of your planned visit.

Cross Country Skiing

If you prefer the cross country type of skiing rather than downhill, groomed trails are also available at Arrowhead Provincial Park. The 33 km of groomed trails can be used for either classic or skate skiing. The trails are also used for ski races held on several days through the winter, so it would be a good idea to check the park’s website before heading out to see whether there’s a race going on before heading out.

Family Activities in Muskoka - snowshoers on a trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park — Source: Huntsville Adventures

Family Activities in Muskoka | Snowshoeing and Hiking

If your speed is more winter hiking or snowshoeing than ice skating or skiing, don’t worry – there are trails for you as well! There are many trails that can be used for hiking and snowshoeing in the winter including the popular Stubbs Falls trail.

With the sheer variety of winter activities available, you’re sure to find at least one that appeals to you, making Arrowhead Provincial Park a great place to visit during the winter! There’s lots more to discover at Arrowhead Provincial Park.

3. Back of Beyond Equine Centre

Family Activities in Muskoka - kid with horse at Back of Beyond Equine Centre — Source: Back of Beyond Equine Centre

If you’re nostalgic for the romance of an old-fashioned winter experience, visit the Back of Beyond Equine Centre. This is a sanctuary for rescued and retired horses, and besides other activities they offer horse-drawn sleigh rides in the winter. It’s an idyllic way to enjoy Muskoka’s winter scenery.

4. Family Activities in Muskoka | Tobogganing & Sledding

Family Activities in Muskoka - kid getting ready to sled down a snowy hill — Source: Discover Muskoka

Unlike many of the municipalities outside of Cottage Country, Muskoka still encourages sledding! Many of Muskoka’s parks and hills turn into sledding hotspots during the winter. Pack a sled before making the trip to the cottage and head to local favourites like Kerr Park in Bracebridge. Please note that Arrowhead Provincial Park used to allow tubing, but it’s no longer available there.

5. Family Activities in Muskoka | Winter Carnival

Family Activities in Muskoka - Winter Carnival - kids in plastic bubbles — Source: Discover Muskoka

Communities throughout Muskoka feature annual winter carnivals. Wherever you’re staying there’s sure to be one nearby, and you can enjoy the winter festivities! Find the nearest Winter Carnival and see more information on the best winter events for your Muskoka cottage rental.

Conclusion

You’ll find that Muskoka, Ontario, is brimming with family-friendly activities that cater to a wide range of interests throughout the year, and winter is no exception. Whether you’re downhill skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands, snowshoeing at Arrowhead Provincial Park, enjoying a sleigh ride at the Back of Beyond Equine Centre, or simply building snow people and forts in the cottage’s backyard, you’ll find a traditional, old-fashioned snowy winter experience awaiting. Plan your trip to Muskoka with CottageLINK Rental Management today and create memories that will last a lifetime!