Winter at Stubb’s Falls – Arrowhead Provincial Park (Photographer’s Field Notes + Video)
Arrowhead Provincial Park, located just north of Huntsville, Ontario, becomes one of Muskoka’s most peaceful and visually striking destinations once winter arrives. Snow settles into the forest canopy, ice forms along the Little East River, and Stubb’s Falls takes on a completely different character than it has in summer or fall. For photographers, this is when the landscape becomes simplified, textured, and dramatic.
Why Stubb’s Falls is Special in Winter
In winter, Stubb’s Falls is framed by frozen rock, ice buildup, and snow-covered banks while the river continues to flow beneath. This contrast between moving water and frozen surroundings makes it an ideal subject for long-exposure photography. The surrounding forest is quieter, with fewer visitors, allowing you to work slowly and wait for the right light.
Snow also acts as a natural reflector, bouncing soft light into shaded areas of the falls and helping reveal detail in rock and ice that would normally be lost in shadow.
Getting There
Stubb’s Falls is accessed by the Stubb’s Falls Trail inside Arrowhead Provincial Park. The trail is short and relatively easy, but in winter it is packed snow and often icy in places, especially near the river. Waterproof winter boots with traction or microspikes are strongly recommended.
A small bridge crosses the Little East River just upstream from the falls. This is the most popular viewpoint and offers an excellent angle for photographing both the waterfall and the surrounding forest.
Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsvile, Ontario, Canada - DIRECTIONS
Best Light for Winter Photography
During clear days the best time to photograph Stubb’s Falls in winter is early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is low. Low winter light creates long shadows and highlights the texture in snow, ice, and rock. On overcast days, the soft light works well for capturing subtle detail in the frozen edges of the river.
After fresh snowfall, the scene becomes especially clean and minimal, making it easier to create strong compositions without visual clutter.
Camera and Shooting Tips
Use a tripod to allow for longer shutter speeds. Exposures between half a second and two seconds will soften the water while keeping the surrounding ice sharp, creating a strong contrast between motion and stillness.
A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on ice and wet rocks, revealing more detail in the water and frozen surfaces. Be careful with exposure, as bright snow can fool your camera’s meter into underexposing the scene.
Shoot from multiple angles. The bridge provides a classic viewpoint, but if conditions are safe, moving closer to river level can give you a more dramatic perspective with snow-covered rocks in the foreground.
Waterfall Shutter Speed Effect Chart
Shot Gear List:
Winter Conditions and Safety
Winter conditions at Arrowhead can change quickly. Ice forms along the riverbanks, and snow can hide uneven ground. Stay back from slippery edges and avoid climbing on ice formations near the falls.
Cold temperatures also affect batteries, so keep spares in a warm pocket and expect shorter battery life.