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Travel Your Guide to Skiing in Muskoka
Discover the Best Ski Resorts in Muskoka
When winter blankets the Muskoka region in fresh powder, it transforms into a haven for ski enthusiasts, offering a variety of ways to experience the season’s best adventures. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of downhill skiing, the tranquility of cross-country trails, or the fun of snow tubing and snowshoeing, Muskoka’s resorts cater to every kind of snow lover. From the expansive slopes of Blue Mountain to the family-friendly runs at Hidden Valley Highlands and the Nordic trails at Lake of Bays, each destination brings its own charm and unique set of amenities. With ski schools, rental shops, and cozy lodges, these resorts make it easy for beginners and seasoned skiers to hit the slopes. This guide explores Muskoka’s top ski resorts and highlights the many ways to enjoy this winter wonderland, from alpine skiing to peaceful backcountry trails.
Top Ski Resorts
Blue Mountain Resort, Collingwood, Ontario
Phone: (877) 445-0231
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $89 CAD
Blue Mountain Resort is Ontario’s largest ski destination, featuring 43 trails across 365 acres of skiable terrain, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced skiers. This vibrant resort offers a dynamic mix of terrain, including gentle slopes, steep runs, and terrain parks with features for freestyle enthusiasts. The charming Blue Mountain Village at the base hosts après-ski dining, boutique shops, and events such as the Blumination Dream Trail, a winter lights festival. The resort also has a variety of accommodations, including the upscale Westin Trillium House plus the Scandinave Spa, offering hot baths in a serene outdoor setting. With ski rentals, snow tubing, and ski lessons, Blue Mountain is a comprehensive winter retreat for all ages.
Horseshoe Resort, Barrie, Ontario
Phone: (800) 461-5627
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $69 CAD
Just south of Muskoka, Horseshoe Resort is known for its family-friendly ski environment, offering 29 ski runs and 30 kilometers of Nordic trails. This resort is ideal for downhill and cross-country skiing, with a ski school, terrain parks, and night skiing on select trails. Families enjoy additional winter activities, including snow tubing, snowshoeing, and fat biking on groomed trails. The on-site Amba Spa provides relaxing treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. A variety of dining options and cozy accommodations complete the experience, making Horseshoe Resort a top winter destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, Huntsville, Ontario
Phone: (705) 789-1773
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $45 CAD
Hidden Valley Highlands offers Muskoka’s only alpine skiing experience, with 15 groomed trails that appeal to beginner and intermediate skiers. Located on the shores of Peninsula Lake, this intimate ski area offers a welcoming atmosphere with ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and seasonal passes for regular visitors. The cozy lodge features a café and snack bar, providing a warm spot to unwind between runs. Guests can stay nearby at Hidden Valley Resort, which offers lakeside accommodations and winter activities. Hidden Valley’s friendly community vibe makes it a favorite for families and locals looking for a laid-back ski experience.
Mount St. Louis Moonstone, Coldwater, Ontario
Phone: (705) 835-2112
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $74 CAD
A family-owned gem near Muskoka, Mount St. Louis Moonstone features 36 trails and 8 chairlifts, providing a variety of slopes for all levels, from gentle beginner trails to advanced runs. With its Burton Riglet Park, kids can safely learn to snowboard in a fun, dedicated space. The resort’s terrain park also features jumps, rails, and half-pipes for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. With on-site rentals, a ski shop, and dining options, Mount St. Louis Moonstone makes for an accessible, fun-filled day trip for families and seasoned skiers alike.
Cross Country Skiing
Lake of Bays Snow Resort, Baysville, Ontario
Phone: (705) 767-1601
Season: December to March
Day Pass: Starting at $15 CAD for cross-country skiing
Lake of Bays Snow Resort offers a unique backcountry experience on Muskoka’s serene trails. This resort specializes in cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking, with trails that wind through the tranquil Muskoka forest. Snowshoe rentals and guided tours are available, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the winter landscape. The rustic lodge offers hot beverages and a gift shop with local products and winter gear, providing a warm and welcoming spot to relax.
Frequently asked questions
Planning a ski trip to Muskoka? Find answers to your top questions about the region’s best winter activities, ski resorts, and trails. From family-friendly slopes to scenic cross-country skiing routes, Muskoka offers a winter wonderland for all skill levels.
Yes, Muskoka is a fantastic winter destination with options for both downhill and cross-country skiing. Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area, located near Huntsville, is the primary ski resort in Muskoka, offering downhill skiing and snowboarding on various trails. For cross-country enthusiasts, Muskoka boasts an extensive network of trails across its beautiful, snowy landscapes, with popular options like Arrowhead Provincial Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, and the Lake of Bays.
Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area is Muskoka’s go-to location for downhill skiing and snowboarding. The resort has 15 trails, ranging from easy beginner slopes to more challenging runs for intermediate and advanced skiers. It has a vertical drop of around 100 meters (330 feet) and features a terrain park for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. Hidden Valley is family-friendly, with lessons and rentals available, making it perfect for newcomers to skiing as well as families with young children.
Muskoka is well-known for its cross-country skiing trails, which wind through beautiful forests, lakeshores, and scenic valleys. Arrowhead Provincial Park, near Huntsville, is particularly popular, with over 30 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for all skill levels. The park also has a stunning ice-skating trail through the woods. Algonquin Provincial Park offers longer trails for more seasoned skiers, while Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery in Bala provides a unique experience with trails running alongside cranberry bogs.
The best time to ski in Muskoka is from mid-December to early March, depending on snow conditions. January and February generally offer the most reliable snow coverage, thanks to the region’s cold winter temperatures. Muskoka’s resorts and parks have snowmaking capabilities to help extend the season, ensuring good skiing conditions even when natural snowfall is low.
Winter temperatures in Muskoka generally range from -10°C to -5°C (14°F to 23°F) in January and February, although they can dip lower during cold spells. These temperatures make for excellent skiing conditions, and the area’s reliable snowfall ensures a solid base on the slopes. Visitors should dress warmly, in layers, with a windproof outer layer to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Yes, Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area offers night skiing on select evenings. This provides a unique experience of skiing under the stars, with the resort’s trails lit up for evening sessions. Night skiing is popular for both locals and visitors looking to extend their time on the slopes. Check Hidden Valley’s schedule for specific night skiing days, as availability can vary.
In addition to downhill and cross-country skiing, Muskoka offers a range of winter activities. Arrowhead Provincial Park is famous for its 1.3-kilometer ice-skating trail through the forest, a unique experience for visitors. Snowshoeing is popular across Muskoka, with trails at Arrowhead, Algonquin Park, and Torrance Barrens. Snowmobiling is another popular activity, with trails crisscrossing Muskoka’s forests and lakes. For a cozy winter experience, you can even visit Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery for winter wine tastings alongside snow-covered cranberry bogs.