Enjoy Muskoka on the quiet side

What's there to do in Muskoka in November? After the summer crowds have dispersed and the trees' fall colours have turned to their winter garb, Muskoka is still an amazing place to visit. Here are some options for local activities that you might find enjoyable.

Arrowhead Provincial Park

Stubbs Falls

Did you know that you can still hike and bike in Arrowhead Park after they've closed in the Fall? The trails are blissfully quiet and with less leaf cover you have greater opportunity to see wildlife. You can park at the gate and walk the 1.5 km to the park office (which is also closed, so be sure to bring snacks and water along). From there, you can access all of the trails. Stubbs Falls is particularly beautiful, especially if night-time temperatures have been cool -- look for icicle-covered branches at waters' edge. The park re-opens in the winter for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and skating. (The skating trail is one of our family's favorite winter activities!)

If being outdoors isn't your thing, there are lots of other options. Why not visit some of Muskoka's award-winning breweries? Most offer tours (and tastings!) year round. The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery is beautiful at any time of year and much of it can be viewed from the comfort of your vehicle or with short walks through downtown Huntsville. Local artisans are featured at galleries and shops throughout Muskoka. If you've never made the trip to the Oxtongue Craft Cabin, just a short drive from Colonial Bay near the neighbouring town of Dwight, it's a hidden gem.

Snow making at Hidden Valley Highlands

Of course, this time of year many of us are already thinking about winter and the fun that comes with it. Our local ski hill has been testing their snow-making equipment, turning their small corner of Muskoka into a winter wonderland. 

No matter what time of year you choose to visit, Muskoka has lots to offer. We hope you'll visit soon!

The Howell Family