5 Popular Winter Photo Spots in Kawartha Lakes

Posted Wednesday February 26, 2025

Thick blankets of snow have transformed Kawartha Lakes landscapes into a breathtaking wonderland—one that’s perfect for capturing stunning photos. Whether you're an experienced photographer or just love snapping shots on your phone, the crisp air, snow-covered scenery, and golden light make for picture-perfect moments. Bundle up, get outside, and explore these five incredible winter photography spots this season.

1. Frost-Covered Trees Along the Victoria Rail Trail

The Victoria Rail Trail is a year-round favourite, but winter brings an extra layer of magic. After a fresh snowfall or during a cold morning, the trees lining the trail become dusted with frost, creating a dreamy winter tunnel. This is an ideal location for capturing serene nature shots, leading lines, and peaceful winter landscapes.

📍 Best Access Points: Lindsay, Kinmount, and Fenelon Falls have access points with parking available
📸 Photo Tip: Visit in the early morning when the frost is still clinging to the trees and the soft sunrise light adds warmth to your shots.

Explore more snowshoeing trails: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/snowshoeing.aspx 

2. Panoramic Views at Windy Ridge Conservation Area

Windy Ridge Conservation Area offers breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills and snow-covered forests. The open landscape provides an incredible sense of scale, making it a perfect spot for capturing vast winter scenes. Venture on the 1.8 km of multi-use trails by boot, cross-country skis, snowshoes, or fat bike to the lookout atop one of the area’s tallest ridges.

📍 Best Spot: Hilltop Lookout
📸 Photo Tip: A wide-angle lens works best to showcase the sweeping landscape, or test out your panorama setting on your smartphone. Try visiting during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting.

Plan your trip to Windy Ridge Conservation Area: https://www.kawarthaconservation.com/conservation-areas/windy-ridge 

3. Sunset Over a Snow-Covered Sturgeon Lake

Winter sunsets over Sturgeon Lake offer a stunning mix of colours against a white, frozen landscape. The lake’s expanse, sometimes dotted with ice fishers or snowmobilers, provides a peaceful winter scene. On a clear day, pinks, purples, and oranges reflect beautifully off the icy surface.

📍 Best Spot: Verulam Park (Bobcaygeon) or Snug Harbour
📸 Photo Tip: Capture the reflection of the sunset in the ice for an extra layer of depth in your composition. If the ice is clear, try getting low to include cracks or bubbles for added interest.

Learn more about visiting Bobcaygeon: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/plan-your-trip/bobcaygeon.aspx 

4. Snowy Forest Trails at Fleetwood Creek Natural Area

Fleetwood Creek Natural Area is a hidden gem for photographers who love winter forest scenes. Snow-covered trees, peaceful trails, and scenic lookouts over the rolling terrain make this an ideal location for capturing the quiet beauty of winter. Adventure is yours for the taking on three unique loop trails, offering a variety of activities from hiking and skiing to snowshoeing and biking through forests, meadows, and gentle hills.

📍 Best Spot: The Lookout on the Valley Trail
📸 Photo Tip: Look for small details—frosty branches, animal tracks in the snow, and the contrast of dark tree trunks against white snow make for striking images.

Plan your trip to Fleetwood Creek Natural Area: https://www.kawarthaconservation.com/conservation-areas/fleetwood-creek/ 

5. Winter Wildlife at Ken Reid Conservation Area

For those who love wildlife photography, Ken Reid Conservation Area is a must-visit in winter. The park’s quiet trails are home to deer, foxes, and a variety of birds, including chickadees that will land in your hand for a snack. Snow-covered boardwalks and frozen wetlands add to the picturesque setting.

📍 Best Spot: Marsh Boardwalk or Woodland Trails
📸 Photo Tip: Bring birdseed to attract birds for close-up shots, and use a telephoto lens to capture wildlife without disturbing them.

Explore more cross-country ski trails: https://www.explorekawarthalakes.com/en/explore/cross-country-skiing.aspx 

Tips for Winter Photography

• Best Lighting: Early morning and golden hour (before sunset) provide the most flattering light. Overcast days are great for even lighting and avoiding harsh shadows.
• Keep Your Gear Safe: Cold temperatures can drain battery life quickly—keep extra batteries in a warm pocket. Protect your camera from condensation by letting it adjust to indoor temperatures slowly after being in the cold.
• Capture the Atmosphere: Look for falling snow, animal footprints in fresh powder, and misty breath in the cold air to add life to your shots.