Muskoka After Dark: Winter Nights Full of Adventure

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 magical Muskoka!

1. Torchlit Skating & Snowshoeing Trails

Arrowhead Provincial Park: Glide along the iconic 1.3KM Ice Trail, lit by hundreds of torches on select Fire & Ice nights (most Friday and Saturday evenings). Skate under the stars and warm up by a roaring bonfire.
Experience the enchantment of skating under the stars with the Light the Night Skate Pass at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery. Every Saturday night, the iconic ice trail comes alive with the glow of torches, creating a breathtaking atmosphere for an unforgettable evening on the ice. Saturdays, 6PM – 9PM (weather permitting), $28 per person. This is an adult-focused experience, and children’s rates are not available.

Experience the magic of winter nights with the Light the Night Snowshoe Adventure at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery! Wander through torchlit trails and snow-covered woods, guided by your headlamp, as the serene beauty of Muskoka comes alive under the stars. Saturdays, 6PM – 9PM (weather permitting). $30 per person includes trail pass and headlamp. This is an adult-focused activity. Children’s rates are not available.

2. Nighttime Outdoor Rinks

Clear Lake Brewing: 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). Located in Torrance (between Bala and Gravenhurst).
Downtown Huntsville’s River Mill Skating Rink turns winter into a magical family playground! Open daily (weather permitting).
On select weekends, the rink transforms into an entertainment hub:
Funky Fridays: Skate to the beat while kids take center stage from 6-9 PM.
Silver Screen Saturdays: Glide into a cinematic winter wonderland.
Caesar Sundays: Treats for kids and adults make Sundays extra special.
After the sun sets, River Mill Park will be bathed in twinkling lights. Nighttime skating is open nightly from 5-9pm (weather permitting).

Grab your skates and head to Memorial Park in Bracebridge for a fun, free skating session under the winter sky! The rink’s open from dawn till 9PM. The park looks absolutely magical with twinkling lights and that perfect winter vibe – it’s the perfect spot for a cozy, carefree date.

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.
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.
Muskoka Dome: Your 5-THOUSAND-STAR GETAWAY. Eco-Luxurious Glamping. Nestled in the Muskoka Woods.
Tipi Adventure: Imagine living in a tipi, gazing at the stars, singing, and laughing around a campfire!

4. Cozy Accommodations with Bonfires and Fireplaces

5. More Nighttime Fun

Night Skiing at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area: Hit the slopes after dark for a thrilling ski adventure.
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.

6. Outdoor Dining

Tall Trees Muskoka – Enjoy heated patio dining with a charming, rustic ambiance in Huntsville.
Crossroads Restaurant – Relax by the outdoor fire tables while savoring local, seasonal dishes in Rosseau.
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka – Dine outdoors by cozy fire pits with stunning views of Lake Rosseau.
Deerhurst Resort – Experience winter dining at the resort’s outdoor spaces, complete with fire pits and hot drinks.
Muskoka BeerSpa – Sip craft beers and enjoy pub fare around fire pits in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

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!

Explore Huntsville:
Muskoka Must Do’s:

A day visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park
Snowshoe to the Lion’s Lookout over looking Huntsville
Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery self guided tour with 103 murals
Enjoy a winter event from Huntsville Festival of the Arts
Snowshoe or cross-country ski at Limberlost Forest
Have a guided winter experience from Find Your Wild
Ski or snowboard at Hidden Valley Ski Area

Guide to Huntsville:

PLACES TO STAY: Looking for places to stay in Huntsville, the getaway to Algonquin Park? Check out our comprehensive guide to accommodators in Muskoka. From Hotels, Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Cottage Rentals, Resorts and more!

Click here for 21 Places to Stay in Huntsville

THINGS TO DO: Huntsville is home to endless adventures from outdoor explorations, shopping downtown and an art and culture hotspot.

Click here for 52 Things To Do in Huntsville