Guided Winter Tours in Muskoka with Liv Outside
Our guided adventures offer the opportunity to experience outdoor winter activities like ice climbing or fat biking, with instruction and support from an experienced guide. Our instructors are carefully chosen from our area’s outdoor community. They have deep backgrounds in outdoor recreation, safety, environmental awareness and having fun outdoors.
Our guides are always out exploring new areas for on-site and off-site adventures. They have worked hard to develop and expand our on-site trails into some of the best in Ontario.
We offer only the best in modern equipment, environment and instruction. Our Winter programs are a fun way to connect with friends, family, co-workers, and nature.
Book Your Guided Winter Tour
FAQ - please read before you book ice climbing adventure
Ice Climbing Adventure
Introduce yourself to the challenge and thrill of Ice Climbing in the natural beauty of the Muskoka Lakes and Halliburton with Southern Ontario longest running Ice Climbing School. Our program is located less than an hour from Bracebridge on one of Muskoka's best climbing areas. You will experience the adventure of hiking through our winter landscape to ascend 5 routes on up to 3 of the best natural Ice Falls in Ontario. Our experienced Guides will instruct you on various climbing techniques while utilizing the latest in Ice Climbing equipment. Join us for a fun and exciting day outdoors, and see why this sport is so addictive.
Location
We use a few great locations in the Muskoka area and because we are local we know which areas offer the best conditions, plus in most cases we are ready to go well before you arrive for your day of climbing. One of our favourites is Kushog Lake.
Where are you guys located?
We are located in Bracebridge, right in the heart of Muskoka. The area is well known as a cottage escape and is one of the finest recreational areas for the outdoor enthusiast. Our area receives the largest average amount of snow in Ontario and great conditions are always guaranteed from as early as mid December to as late as mid April.
How do I get there?
Our store is located at 271 Ecclestone Drive in Bracebridge, Ontario. See Map to our Location. Our climbing trips are located around the Muskoka area within an average 30-45 minute drive from our store. When you have been notified which site you will be climbing at view the map link associated to the site and follow google directions.
Where can we stay and where do we eat?
There are many good places to stay and dine around Bracebridge close to our store. For food we have our favourites, including Wabora for Sushi, Bo’s Thai, and the Old Station for regular fare. Download (link) our area map here or pick up a printed copy at Riverside Inn or at the shop.
Bracebridge Accomodations <http://www.bracebridge.com/accommodation.html
Bracebridge Dining http://www.bracebridge.com/dining_restaurants.html
I have never ice climbed before in my life. Can I take this course?
Absolutely! Introduction to ice climbing courses are specifically designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in ice climbing. These courses cater to beginners, providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and guidance to safely and confidently engage in this thrilling winter sport.
Who should take an intermediate course ?
Intermediate ice climbing is a course designed for those who have taken our Intro course or feel they are fit and capable enough to take on a more difficult challenge. It is ideal for those who have done indoor or outdoor climbing and would like to try it outdoor on frozen waterfalls for the first time. Some of our clients come out every year or this course even if they have climbed before because they like to know that our top-notch instructors set the routes they are climbing and we provide all the best gear.
What if I arrive Late?
If you arrive late please contact your guide with the mobile phone# provided and arrangements can be made to assist you in joining the group. Due to the nature of this activity if you are more than a ½ hour late the group cannot wait for your arrival and you will miss out on your adventure.
How many people are in the course?
In order to ensure clients get as much instruction time as possible we maintain a Guide to Client ratio of a Maximum 1 Guide to 4 clients. Most adventures are 6 to 8 participants.
What equipment is provided?
All Technical Climbing gear is provided including Ice Axes, Ice boots, Crampons, Harnesses, Helmets, Belay Devices, ropes etc. We only use the newest gear available and believe this offers you the best modern Ice Climbing experience. If you have any of your own equipment you would like to use please feel free and advise our staff when you are booking. We now offer rentals of gaiters and mitts. Please Inquire.
What are we required to bring?
We recommend layered clothing that is weatherproof and breathable. Include warm mitts as well as a pair of thinner gloves for climbing, proper headwear which will fit underneath helmets and 2 pairs of socks. We also recommend snow gaiters and sunglasses on sunny days. Our store offers a great selection of proper clothing and equipment. Everything you may need is available at a 10% discount to clients. If you would like to do some shopping you may order online or by phone and we can bring it to the site or better yet arrive the day before your climb to do some shopping in store and our experienced staff can provide the best advice.
Are there washrooms?
Please plan for no washroom facilities available. You may want to make a pit-stop before you arrive. Your Guide will carry some TP for any call of nature.
Should I bring a lunch?
For this trip we recommend that you bring a Medium sized pack with a lunch and energy snacks and at least 2L of water. We recommend a thermos of hot liquids to help keep warm.
How long does the course last?
Please check start and end time in the information bookled sent to you prior to the course.
How difficult are the climbs?
Ice climbing is rated on a WI scale, (Water Ice). It starts at WI 1 (Ice Walking) and progresses all the way to the top end of the scale at WI 7+ (Professional). Our Intermediate course will spend the day climbing WI3 to WI4. See our Intro course for easier grade climbing.
I am scared of heights. Can I do this course?
Some people have a natural fear of heights and they have found the course thrilling because of that exciting fear. You probably know yourself well and if ice climbing intrigues you, we welcome you.
I am a big guy. Will the ropes hold me?
The ropes are designed so that they can hold your truck. Unless you are as heavy as a truck, there should not be a problem. Our equipment is regularly checked between climbing days and our ropes are renewed on a regular basis.
What if I don't have a strong upper body?
Ice climbing is a combination of using your feet as well as your arms. These climbs are rated from medium to challenging so they are more vertical and will require more from your upper body. We recommend you start with our Intro course before giving this adventure a try.
How high are the frozen Icefalls?
The frozen Icefalls range from 70 feet to 90 feet.For the Intro Course we climb routes of 60 to 70 feet.
What if I get hurt or have an injury?
While fairly uncommon during these activities our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and carry a medical kit at all times. In the event of an injury you are our first priority. Steps will be taken to ensure you are safely cared for and transported should you need further attention.
Can I get a copy of the photos and video the instructor took?
The photos taken by the instructors are uploaded to our page for you to access after your climb. We will send you an invite to view your photos once we have put them up. If you would prefer to not have your images uploaded or photos taken please let your guide know. Liv reserves the right during any of it’s courses to take images for it’s marketing purposes.
Can I organize my own group?
Yes! We gladly accept personal and corporate groups and offer discounts for group bookings. We can offer any date that works with your schedule. Email or call us for details.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes, we can provide gift certificates for our courses. We also have a special holiday gift certificates for our ice courses. In order for these to arrive on time for the holidays please request prior to December 7
What Equipment do you Offer?
Our store offer a wide range of climbing equipment and outdoor apparel. We have everything to get you started on your own climbing pursuits and guarantee the best pricing on gear and apparel for our clients. We also offer equipment for rental to get you started.
I would love to become involved in Climbing. Can I learn with your guides?
Yes! We love to see our clients take climbing from an adventure to a regular passion and if you would like to help out with our courses you can learn rope set ups, help new climbers and become an assistant guide as well as get some more climbing in. Contact us after your climbing day and we’ll let you know how to apply.
FAQ - please read before you book fat biking adventure
Self guided adventure
You can bike on your own. It is easy. You will have a map of the trail and our staff will assist you with bike selection and information.
Guided private adventure
You want to spend time riding with your friends and family and learn about bikes and the area. Book guided private tour. We have experienced guides who are always ready to assist you and show you a good time.
What footwear is best to wear for fat biking?
Insulated winter walking footwear is the best option.
Where will we go for our tours?
The Bracebridge Resource Management Center fat bike trails. A map will be provided.
What is the minimum and maximum size of the tour groups?
The maximum number of participants for all tours we offer is 6 . For a private guided tour the minimum number of participants is 4.
What experience/fitness level do I need to have?
These tours are great as an introduction to fat biking, so no level of experience is necessary. Fat bikers must have some experience riding a regular bike. A basic level of fitness is recommended, however the tours are customizable to your group’s ability.
Where do the tours leave from?
Self guided tours depart from the Liv Outside store in Bracebridge. Most of the guided private tours start at the South Parking Lot at the Bracebridge Resource Management Center.
Are the tours condition/weather dependent?
Our tours will run in nearly all weather, but may be canceled due to very extreme conditions. In certain cases it may be necessary to reschedule a tour due to poor/low/unsafe snow conditions. Fat bikes are not just for snow, so are not affected by variable snow conditions.
What’s so great about Fat Biking?
Aside from being a blast in the snow, they are great fun to ride on almost any trail, any time of the year. Thanks to their versatility and ability to conquer any terrain, they are fast becoming an all season choice and of course the only one for snow. The wide, low pressure tires provide a lot of cushion and traction, plus excellent flotation in snow and a lot more stability than any regular bike. Think of them as snowshoes for your bike. They roll much easier than you would expect, take a spin and you’ll see why they are such a ‘big’ deal!
Where can I take the bike?
You can ride on roads and trails or anywhere the snow has been previously packed down. We will provide you with a trail map. Please ask our staff. We can recommend the best loops and trails to suit your ability and fitness level.
Can I ride on the snowshoeing trails?
Yes, as with any shared trails we ask that you be respectful of other hikers, snowshoers or cross country skiers sharing the path.
What are the best conditions for Fat Biking?
Ideal conditions for winter are medium to hard packed snow. Even if the conditions are not perfect, you’ll still have a great time taking a Fat Bike out for a spin. After a heavy snow, it’s important to check whether a trail has been packed down previously. Breaking trail is not ideal on a fat bike.
Do I have to wear a helmet for fat biking? Can I wear my ski helmet?
Yes, Ontario law requires that people on bicycles wear helmets.
Yes, you may wear your ski or snowboard helmet, although you may find it warm on a warmer day. There are also regular bike helmets available at the Liv Outside store. These worn with a thin toque underneath is a nice way to go on a warmer day, allowing you to remove it for the climbs and wear for the descents.
What clothing do you recommend wearing?
Dressing in layers, and carrying a pack to store those layers, is highly recommended for riding in winter. It is just as easy to overheat and sweat, as it is to under-dress and be miserable. Gloves are a necessity, and goggles or sunglasses are strongly advised to reduce glare and protect your eyes. A good rule of thumb: dress like you are going cross country skiing. You’ll likely be warm enough without a thick, insulative jacket, depending on the temperature outside.
What is your cancellation policy?
For self guided tours there are no cancellations within 24 hours and within 48 hours of your rental date for guided tours. You can reschedule or ask for the in store credit.
Do your Fat Bikes have gears?
Yes, a single 24 T chainring on the cranks paired with 10 speeds at the back.
Where do I pick up the bike from?
Bikes are rented from the Liv Outside.
Can we have a guide show us around?
Yes we offer guided fat bike tours at various times throughout the day. Please check our website for availability.
Select your desired date from the calendar to see availability.
Not all adventures are available everyday.
Searching Availability...
Searching Availability...
Searching Availability...
Searching Availability...