Muskoka is a Winter Wonderland!
While Muskoka is well-known for its stunning lakeside views in the summer and crimson leaves in the fall, it is just as sensational a destination in the winter. Without a doubt, the snow-capped pine trees, glittering small-town lights, and quiet serenity make the region absolutely magical in the winter. But there is perhaps nothing more magical than a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Muskoka’s winter wonderland with The Back of Beyond Equine Centre. With cozy sleigh ride experiences for both families and couples, this is one snowy adventure that should not be missed.
Family Sleigh Ride & Campfire
A dash through the snow, crackling campfire, and chance to visit with the centre’s ponies make for a memorable family experience.
Begin your adventure with a tour of the equine centre led by the knowledgeable staff. Children will have the opportunity to meet with the 14 horses and ponies and learn more about the animals. Most of the animals are retired or rescued and have their own unique story, which is sure to engage kids.
Next, pile into one of the farm’s comfy red wagons and get cozy under a sea of blankets. Take off an enchanting journey through the scenic woodland trails and rolling hills. Don’t forget to bring your camera to snap some photos of the gorgeous Muskoka landscape.
Afterwards, get toasty as you sit by a crackling campfire and sip hot chocolate. And, as everyone in Muskoka knows, no campfire is complete without marshmallows, which is why staff will provide you and your family with some to roast over the glowy embers.
Finally, return to the barn to brush one of the ponies. Kids will have the chance to choose a photo of their favourite horse, ensuring that they’ll remember this day long after you’ve left the stables.
For more information, visit their website
Romantic Evening for Partners
Looking to impress a loved one with your superb date-planning abilities? The Romantic Evening Sleigh Ride with the Back of Beyond Equine Centre has you covered!
Cuddle up with someone special in a cozy red, traditional horsedrawn sleigh and soft blankets. Glide along the snow-covered trails and relax against the light of the moon and trailside lanterns. The peacefulness of the Muskoka forest and absolute silence, except for the crunch of the snow, makes this a very intimate, charming experience. Finish off your sleigh ride by warming up with a hot beverage and some roasted marshmallows at a toasty campfire.
Insider tip! This is the perfect setting for a winter proposal. The snowy, intimate atmosphere in scenic Muskoka is like a scene straight out of your sweetheart’s favourite holiday romance film.
For more information, visit their website
Meet the Horses
The Back of Beyond Equine Centre is a unique facility because most of its horses are retired or rescued. They receive much love, support, and care at the farm. As a part of your tour of the stables and sleigh ride, you’ll get to learn more about the horses’ unique stories. Here are just a few of the horses you’ll meet:
- Jackson – A retired show-jumper, and one of the biggest boys on the farm at 17 hands. He is very friendly and loves to eat.
- Velvet – Loves to be brushed and has a striking white mane. She came to the farm from the SPCA and is very friendly.
- Brady – A team player who enjoys his food! He loves to hang out with the other horses and generally pulls the smaller sleighs.
- Apollo – One of the older horses at the centre, but you wouldn’t know it because of his big personality. He is a great teacher and leader and likes to take care of the rest of the herd.
- Beau – A true beauty with gorgeous blue eyes and a white and black mane. He was found abandoned in a field when he was young but now enjoys a comfortable life on the farm. He loves people and has a definite bounce in his step.
For more information, visit their website
Plan your trip to the Back of Beyond Equine Centre
Winter is a perfect time to plan your trip to the Back of Beyond Equine Centre. The Family Winter Sleigh Ride experience is available for bookings from late November to late March. Reservations for the Romantic Winter Sleigh Ride can be made from early December to early March. All sleigh ride experiences can be scheduled through their website.
For more information on when to visit and admission, visit their website
COVID-19 Modifications
The Muskoka region, including the restaurants and local businesses discussed above, have taken several precautions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing procedures must be followed. Masks are required for entry into all buildings and when social distancing is not possible. Frequent hand-washing is encouraged and everyone must self-isolate if experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms. For more information regarding COVID-19, please visit our COVID-19 Updates page.
The Back of Beyond Equine Centre has increased its sanitization procedures and is practicing social distancing. They are open by appointment only and all requests for bookings must be made online, by calling the centre at 705-789-1605, or by email at bkbeyond@vianet.ca.
For more information about COVID-19 modifications, visit their website
