Winter in Muskoka

Pen Lake from Colonial Bay (photo by Ben Howell)

We know, we know. There are still some leaves hanging on the trees and daytime temperatures are in the teens this week, so why are we already talking about winter? 

Well, we like winter. The Muskoka landscape is stunning when it’s blanketed in a soft cushion of white (and particularly so when it’s lit up with a gorgeous sunset like in this photo of Pen Lake from Colonial Bay). Plus, there are lots of ways to play in the snow in Muskoka: downhill skiing and snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, skating, and snowshoeing (see our previous post about winter activities here or you can find more information on our website here). 

When you get tired of being outside (or if it’s not your thing in the first place), you can visit the shops in historic downtown Huntsville, relax in front of a crackling fire, share a hearty meal with friends and family or attend some local events.

Here are a few upcoming events to kick off winter in Muskoka:

Warren Miller’s Flow State, Algonquin Theatre, November 16

Santa Claus Parade, Main Street Huntsville, November 30

A Portage Flyer Christmas, Muskoka Heritage Place, December 22

Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade, Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, December 24

New Year’s Eve Family Skate, Canada Summit Centre, December 31

If you’ve never experienced Muskoka in the winter, why not make the trip this year? You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here. (Don’t forget to check out our winter special from December 21-January 7!)

The Howell Family

Savouring Muskoka

An early morning shot from the dock at Colonial Bay

Muskoka in the fall is a pleasurable assault on the senses. Brilliant red, orange and yellow trees make beautiful vistas even more so; fallen leaves crunch and swirl underfoot; crisp morning air is gradually warmed by the rising sun; the smell of a crackling fire offers the promise of warmth; and local chefs bring out the best of the season with mouth-watering, hearty dishes.

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend at Colonial Bay (and hope all of our Canadian friends did too). We even had the first snowfall of the year, albeit a small one. Ski season isn’t far off!

In the meantime, it’s still a great time to visit Muskoka and enjoy what Fall has to offer. The colours have now passed their peak for this year but there are still a lot of leaves on the trees making for a beautiful Fall drive or a hike in the woods. If you like horses, it’s a lovely time of year to go for a trail ride. Algonquin Highlands Trail Riding is a short drive to the east of Colonial Bay.

This coming weekend (October 13-14) is the annual Bala Cranberry Festival, a celebration of all things cranberry. You can tour the marshes where the berries grow and sample a variety of cranberry products, including wines from Muskoka Lakes Brewery.

If that only whets your appetite for more of Muskoka’s culinary best, don’t forget to visit one of Muskoka’s award-winning craft breweries or delectable locally-owned restaurants.

And, as always, when you’re done exploring, your cozy waterfront cottage awaits at Colonial Bay. Check our availability for the rest of the Fall season and heading into winter here.

We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Howell Family