Top 10 Winter Hikes & Snowshoe Trails For Photography in Muskoka (Ontario)
Top 10 Winter Hikes & Snowshoe Trails For Photography in Muskoka (Ontario)
Though best known to most for summer time nature adventures. Muskoka in the winter has just as much opportunity to get outside. Snowshoeing, skiing, fat biking, or snowmobiling are some the activies for getting outside.
Below is a list of the best trails for snowshoeing and hiking.
1. Hardy Lake Provincial Park – Torrance
Multiple loop options winding past frozen lakes, wetlands, and rocky Canadian Shield outcrops. Excellent for longer snowshoe hikes in quiet backcountry-style terrain.
Address: Hwy 169, Torrance, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
2. Huckleberry Rock Lookout – Bracebridge
A short trail leading to panoramic views over snow-covered lakes and forest. One of the best winter landscape viewpoints in Muskoka, especially near sunrise or sunset.
Address: 1057 Milford Bay Rd, Bracebridge, ON, GET DIRECTONS
3. Arrowhead Provincial Park – Huntsville
Offers winter hiking and snowshoe trails through dense forest, plus Stubb’s Falls and the famous forest skating trail. A full winter experience in one park.
Address: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
4. Hatchery Falls – Utterson
A short forest walk leads to a series of waterfalls that become partially frozen in winter, creating beautiful ice formations and flowing water contrasts. It’s a quieter, tucked-away spot that feels intimate and wild in the snow. Great for long-exposure photography.
Address: Hwy 141 area, Utterson, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
5. Bracebridge Resource Management Centre Trails
A large network of forest and riverside trails suitable for winter hiking, snowshoeing, and fat biking. Peaceful and locally loved.
Location: Hwy 11 area, Bracebridge, ON, North Parking Lot - GET DIRECTIONS | South Parking Lot - GET DIRECTIONS
6. Wilson’s Falls Trail – Bracebridge
A scenic riverside trail leading to frozen falls and snowy Muskoka River views. A moderate loop that feels adventurous without being too difficult.
Address: Wilson’s Falls Rd area, Bracebridge, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
7. Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve – Torrance
A completely different winter landscape, open Canadian Shield, windswept rock, scattered pines, and snow-dusted wetlands. It feels vast and rugged compared to Muskoka’s forests. Ideal for minimalist winter photography and dramatic skies, especially near sunset or on clear nights.
Address: Southwood Rd, Torrance, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
8. Lions Lookout – Huntsville
A short uphill walk to a lookout over Fairy Lake and Huntsville. Snow adds depth to the rolling hills and townscape views.
Address: Lookout Rd, Huntsville, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
9. High Falls, Potts Falls & Little High Falls – Bracebridge Area
A cluster of waterfalls that become impressive frozen cascades in winter. Great for icy textures and moving water photography.
Location: High Falls Rd area, north of Bracebridge, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
10. Walker’s Point Lookout Trail – Torrance
A short and easy trail to a scenic viewpoint over Lake Muskoka. Perfect for a quick winter walk or beginner snowshoe trip.
Address: Walkers Point Rd, Torrance, ON, GET DIRECTIONS
Winter Hiking Tips for Muskoka:
- Wear insulated, waterproof boots and consider traction cleats or snowshoes.
- Dress in layers with wind protection.
- Start earlier than you think, winter daylight is short.
- Bring a thermos and extra gloves; cold drains energy fast.