- When winter blankets Muskoka, it’s not just the days that shine – the nights come alive too! Picture torchlit skating trails, cozy spots to unwind under the stars, and outdoor adventures that make the most of those crisp winter evenings. Whether you’re up for some peaceful stargazing or an energizing trek through the snow, Muskoka’s got you covered. Here’s your guide to making the most of winter nights in this magical place!
1. Torchlit Skating Trails
- Arrowhead Provincial Park: Glide along the iconic 1.3-kilometre Ice Trail, lit by hundreds of torches on select Fire & Ice nights. Skate under the stars and warm up by a roaring bonfire. More details here.
- Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery: Enjoy skating on an outdoor rink and skating trail surrounded by Muskoka’s natural beauty, followed by a hot cider or hot chocolate to end your adventure. Discover more.
2. Nighttime Outdoor Rinks
- Clear Lake Brewing Company: Not your Ordinary Brewery Rink! Complete with chiller unit, they can count on consistent ice conditions through most of the Muskoka winter. From mid December through March, the rink is open with Brewery hours (Sun to Thurs 9-9, Fri and Sat 9-11) Discover more.
- The River Mill Skating Rink is no ordinary rink — it’s the heart of a winter extravaganza! The rink will be open daily (weather permitting) all winter long in downtown Huntsville.
After the sun sets, River Mill Park will be bathed in twinkling lights. Nighttime skating is open nightly from 5-9pm (weather permitting). -
Dwight Outdoor Rink: Outdoor rink, open seasonally and weather dependent. Lighting for evening use. Learn more
3. Stargazing Hot Spots
- Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve: Canada’s first dark sky preserves, offering incredible views of the Milky Way. Bring a telescope or just lay back and soak it all in. Plan your visit.
- Arrowhead Provincial Park: Bundle up and gaze at the dazzling constellations above, surrounded by the serene beauty of Muskoka’s snow-covered landscapes. Located in Huntsville, ON. Plan your trip.
- Muskoka Dome: Your 5-THOUSAND-STAR GETAWAY. Eco-Luxurious Glamping. Nestled in the Muskoka Woods. Plan your stay.
- Tipi Adventure: Imagine living in a tipi, gazing at the stars, singing, and laughing around a campfire! Plan your trip.
4. Cozy Accommodations with Bonfires and Fireplaces
- JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka
- Cedar Grove Lodge
- Tally Ho Inn
- Escape North-Muskoka A-frame
- Blue Water Acres
- Bondi Village Resort
- Blue Spruce Resort
- Timber Rock Cottage
- Nunny’s Retreat
- Cottage Creators-The Water’s Edge
- Muskoka Beer Spa
- Sherwood Inn
- Legacy Cottages on Lake Rosseau
- Windermere House
- Muskoka Bay Resort
- The Chalets on Lake Muskoka
- Pine Lake Paradise
- Side Tracked in Muskoka
- Rawley Resort
- Sunnylea Resort
5. Nighttime Snowshoeing
- Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery: Join a moonlit snowshoe trek across scenic cranberry marshes. Headlamps and mulled wine make it a truly magical experience. Explore more.
6. More Nighttime Fun
- Night Skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands: Hit the slopes after dark for a thrilling ski adventure. Get details.
- Twilight Cross-Country Skiing at Milford Bay: Glide through snowy, silent forests with just a headlamp and the crunch of snow under your skis. Bring your own skis, no cost to access. Located in Muskoka Lakes.
7. Outdoor Dining
- Tall Trees Muskoka – Enjoy heated patio dining with a charming, rustic ambiance in Huntsville. More info.
- Crossroads Restaurant – Relax by the outdoor fire tables while savoring local, seasonal dishes in Rosseau. Discover more.
- JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka – Dine outdoors by cozy fire pits with stunning views of Lake Rosseau. Learn more.
- Deerhurst Resort – Experience winter dining at the resort’s outdoor spaces, complete with fire pits and hot drinks. Explore dining options.
- Muskoka BeerSpa – Sip craft beers and enjoy pub fare around fire pits in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Plan your visit.
- The Mill on Main – Head to Huntsville for a casual outdoor dining experience, featuring heaters and cozy seating. Check it out
Embrace the Magic of Muskoka After Dark
Whether you’re skating through torchlit trails, soaking in starlit views, or cozying up by the fire, Muskoka’s winter nights are filled with wonder. Bundle up and make the most of these unforgettable nighttime adventures!