Exploring Muskoka: A winter road trip with the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

As winter settled over Muskoka, Ontario the landscape transformed into a stunning, snow-covered canvas. The trees, heavy with fresh snow, glistened in the sunlight, and the air had that crisp bite that only comes with the coldest days of the season. It was the kind of stillness that makes you feel as though the world has paused — yet beneath that quiet, the winter landscape begged to be explored.

My partner and I, ready for adventure, packed up our Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and hit the road from Hamilton to Muskoka, eager to explore this winter wonderland. With the Outlander’s Super All-Wheel Control handling the snowy roads and its reliable comfort keeping us cozy, we set out to embrace the elements. From quiet, snow-covered trails to the off-grid solitude of the woods, our weekend was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Our drive started on the monotonous highways that snake past Toronto — lanes packed with traffic and bordered by endless stretches of concrete. To ease the grind, we relied on the Outlander PHEV’s adaptive cruise control, which effortlessly maintained the perfect distance from the cars ahead. The Outlander’s attention to comfort also made the drive more than bearable: The heated seats and three-zone climate control kept us warm, ensuring the cold didn’t dampen our spirits. The cabin’s thick insulation blocked out the howling winter wind, creating a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for chatting or enjoying our specially curated road trip playlist from the crisp-sounding Bose speakers.

Before we knew it, the urban sprawl faded behind us, and the highways gave way to winding, quieter roads lined by trees and open nature. The transition felt like a deep breath, setting the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.

With a successful hike under our belts, we were eager to reward our efforts the best way we knew how: with a crisp beer and a juicy burger. Our craving led us to Clear Lake Brewery, a roadside gem. The warm, rustic atmosphere offered the perfect contrast to the snowy world outside.

As we stripped off our layers and settled into our seats with beers in hand, the warmth from the crackling wood stove seeped into our cold boots and warmed our toes. The cozy atmosphere of the brewery was only made better by the lively banter of the staff, who were more than happy to share their local knowledge. They eagerly offered suggestions for nearby hiking trails, scenic views, and hidden gems around the area of Bala. Between the buzz of conversation, the flickering fire, and the vibrant flavors of our drinks, it felt like the perfect moment to pause and soak in the Muskoka charm.

Throughout our trip, the Outlander PHEV proved to be an invaluable asset. Its seven all-wheel drive modes and snow-ready features handled icy roads and snowy trails with ease, while its hybrid technology allowed us to explore remote areas without worrying about fuel or charging. Whether navigating through unplowed paths or enjoying the comfort of the heated cabin, the Outlander enhanced every aspect of our winter weekend.

As we drove back to Hamilton, we reflected on a trip that showcased the beauty of Muskoka in winter and the joy of venturing off the beaten path. With the right vehicle and a spirit of adventure, winter road trips like this are not just possible — they’re unforgettable.