BEST ACTIVITIES TO DO IN MUSKOKA

Here are plenty of fun activities to do in Muskoka, from the countless hiking trails to waterfalls to exploring the provincial parks and lakes in the area, there are countless amount of fun activities to do in the Muskoka region. The Muskoka region stretches from Algonquin Park in the east to the rugged windswept shores of Georgian Bay in the west and is one of Canada's most popular vacation destinations. Here are some of the Best activities to do in Muskoka.

Muskoka Lakes

The Township of Muskoka Lakes is a cottage country paradise. Miles of boating, natural wonders, a vibrant history, and a superb quality of life attract visitors from around the world. Muskoka has 80 Lakes, including three big lakes that define the Muskoka experience: lakes Muskoka, Rosseau, and Joseph. Enchanting old Muskoka cottages and spectacular boathouses dot their shores. Still, more than 80% of our land retains its natural cover and the municipality maintains 85% of the naturally vegetated shoreline. Parks and beaches provide public access to our pristine waters. Natural wonders include the striking geological and biologically diverse Torrance Barrens. It’s also North America’s first dark sky preserve, where the “ancient constellations and planets shine forth in majestic profusion,” as described by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Along with the hiking trails at the Barrens, nearby Hardy Lake Provincial Park and the Huckleberry Rock Lookout are two more of seven trails not to be missed. In winter, there are trails for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, skiing, and skating.

Port Carling

Explore the beautiful lakes of Muskoka with boat cruises departing from Port Carling. Enjoy scenic tours, sunset cruises, or private charters to experience the stunning waterfront scenery. Port Carling is known for its quaint shops and boutiques. Explore the main street and browse through unique stores offering clothing, artwork, home decor, and more. Indulge in delicious meals at local restaurants and waterfront eateries. Witness the operation of the historic locks that connect the lakes of Muskoka. Watch as boats navigate through the locks, creating a fascinating spectacle. Port Carling is the famous hub of the lakes from where you can access all three big Muskoka Lakes: Rosseau, Joseph, and Muskoka. Make sure you visit the infamous Port Carling Wall.

Gravenhurst

Gravenhurst has a colorful history. Lumbering and sawmills were important. In fact, at the turn of the century, there were sawmills on Gull Lake and Lake Muskoka, with logs floating to cover much of Gravenhurst Bay. The mills are gone and today the Muskoka Wharf is buzzing with different activities. A scenic boardwalk traces the same shoreline. Along the way, stop to enjoy a meal at one of the many places to delight the palate – everything from chef-prepared specialties to more casual meals and even a coffee shop and tea house. The wharf is anchored by the historic steamship cruise office at one end and the Muskoka Discovery Centre museum at the other. Explore the Muskoka Wharf, a vibrant waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and scenic views of Lake Muskoka. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, rent a boat or kayak, or simply relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Take a cruise on the RMS Segwun, North America's oldest operating steamship. Enjoy a scenic tour of Lake Muskoka aboard this historic vessel, learning about its fascinating history and taking in the beautiful sights. Visit the Muskoka Steamships and Discovery Centre to learn more about the history of steamships in the region. Explore exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the maritime heritage of Muskoka. You could also enjoy the outdoors at Gull Lake Rotary Park. This park offers walking trails, picnic areas, a beach, and a playground. It's a great spot to relax, have a family outing, or go for a swim. 

Muskoka Discovery Centre

Welcome to the one-of-a-kind Muskoka Discovery Centre where Muskoka’s steamship, wooden boat, and grand resort legacy are honored. Interactive play for families is available in KidZone. See the amazing new 'Watershed Wonders exhibit with its spectacular 96' touchscreen virtual aquarium and many other interactive displays! Explore our one-of-a-kind museum that inspires curiosity and feeds the imagination of persons aged 1 to 101. When you explore the exhibits and galleries you will get to know Muskoka. Galleries include the Water Gallery, Wooden Boat Gallery, the Settlers, Steamships, Hotels & Wooden Boats Exhibit, and KidZone Family STEAM Engagement Gallery. It is recommended to visit this Discovery Centre before going on the Steamship.

Muskoka Steamships

Nothing says Muskoka like the Discovery of Lake Muskoka on a historic Muskoka Steamship, RMS Segwun. Hop aboard the amazing Royal Mail Ship Segwun, North America’s oldest operating steamship, or take a trip on Wenonah II with all its modern conveniences. Celebrate your wedding, birthday, anniversary, or any other special event with us with the beautiful backdrop of the Muskoka Lakes. It’s the one-of-a-kind way to experience Muskoka! Muskoka’s steamship heritage is older than Canada's. The first ship steamed Lake Muskoka in 1866. In 2017, we marked the amazing RMS Segwun’s 130-year history. She is North America’s oldest operating mail steamship. Wenonah II, a modern interpretation of a traditional steamship, is named in honor of Wenonah, the first steamship to sail Lake Muskoka. 

Bracebridge

Whether you are a thrill seeker, art enthusiast, foodie, nature lover, shopper, or festival-goer, Bracebridge has it all! Explore the town’s historical streets or take a leisurely walk, snowshoe, or cross-country ski on one of the year-round trails. Experience simplistic living at its finest – wind down and enjoy the best nature has to offer! Once you arrive, it doesn’t take long to feel at home. While shopping in local stores, you will connect with merchants and business owners who will make you feel at home. You will be astonished by the unique shops and businesses the town has to offer and the tailored services each provide. craft-beer enthusiasts can sip the exceptional and refreshing brews at our local restaurants or take a tour of Muskoka Brewery – enjoy samples and see first-hand how their award-winning beers are produced. Explore the shops and restaurants in downtown Bracebridge. Discover local boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries. Enjoy delicious cuisine in the various restaurants and cafes, featuring local and international flavors. 

Waterfalls

There are three waterfalls you must visit in Bracebridge: Bracebridge Falls, Wilson Falls, and High Falls. Start your tour at High Falls, a must-see. Marvel in this grand chute, but don’t leave until you’ve come across the secret waterfall (Little High Falls) and walking bridge, a popular spot for family photos. Just north of downtown Bracebridge, Wilson’s Falls should be the next place on your list of places to visit. There is a fantastic 3.6km hiking trail that leads to an amazing view of the falls, so if you want to take the scenic route make sure you bring your hiking shoes. Bring a packed lunch and enjoy the falls from the picnic area offered along the trail. Located right in the heart of Downtown Bracebridge at the Silver Bridge, the Bracebridge Falls is the trademark sight of the town. Take the Bracebridge Bay Trail, with ten information plaques along the way that brings the area’s history to life. Come at night and see the falls and bridge lit up for a stunning mix of urban and nature.

Santa's Village: The Muskoka Theme Park

Welcome to Santa's Village and Sportsland! This popular family amusement park in Bracebridge, Ontario has been Santa’s summer home for over 65 years. Kids from 2 to 92 can spend the day cruising the Muskoka River, riding Rudolf's Roller Coaster, or riding Santa's train. Test your driving skills in Sportsland on our Grand Prix go-cart track. Batting cages, miniature golf, or laser tag will challenge even the most experienced sports buff!! It is an ideal family vacation with something for everyone. With kid’s rides and coasters, a splash pad, live entertainers, games, go-karts, petting zoos, souvenirs, and of course, that magical visit with Santa Claus. This theme park destination has it all! Nestled around Santa’s Village, the Muskoka Zip Lines and Aerial Park offers all the excitement of a modern aerial adventure park with the added bonus of being next to a bustling amusement park. The facilities offer an adventure experience for all ages. Spend the day with us and try everything or spend a few minutes and take a leap from the Jump Tower for a quick shot of adrenaline!

Huntsville

Huntsville is a vibrant, vast, and wondrous playground that attracts visitors from every corner of the world to enjoy the serenity and warmth of a small community nestled amongst the lakes and trees overflowing from nearby iconic Algonquin Provincial Park. Huntsville has numerous options to catch some winks before you head out to explore or experience our special corner of the universe – whether you are here to vacation, do business, or appease your adventure lust we have the right place for you from family-operated lodges and resorts, cozy bed and breakfast homes, cottage rentals and full amenity hotels and spectacular resorts or relish the natural beauty of the many area campgrounds as you drift off to sleep under a blanket of stars. Huntsville is located near several lakes, including Fairy Lake, Peninsula Lake, and Lake Vernon. Enjoy water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or rent a boat to explore the beautiful waterways. Head to Lions Lookout for panoramic views of Huntsville and the surrounding landscapes. This scenic viewpoint offers a great photo opportunity and is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset. 

Arrowhead Provincial Park

The Most Popular thing to do in Huntsville is visit Arrowhead Provincial Park; visit Arrowhead Provincial Park and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. During the Winger, exploring the forest on skates is a must-do for any winter enthusiast. Already one of Ontario’s most popular winter attractions, the Arrowhead Ice Skating Trail was named one of the Top 50 Canadian Winter Experiences by Flight Network, and one of 19 Stunning Natural Ice Skating Rinks Around the World by Travel+Leisure. The 1.3 km Ice Skating trail winds through the thick Muskoka forest and is a winter experience like no other. If you get to skate the loop after a fluffy snowfall, consider yourself in luck. Being surrounded on all sides by snow-covered evergreen trees is an absolutely stunning sight and one that you won’t soon forget. Bring your family and watch your kids whip around the track with the perfect backdrop, or surprise your loved one with a romantic ‘hand-holding’ skate through the forest. Make reservations on ontarioparks.com. 

Muskoka Heritage Place

Visit Muskoka Heritage Place, a living history museum that includes the Muskoka Museum, Pioneer Village, and a vintage train ride. Explore historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits showcasing the region's heritage. Touch the Past in Huntsville at Muskoka Heritage Place, the home of the Muskoka Museum, Muskoka Pioneer Village, and the Portage Flyer Train. Life in the late 1800s is historically recreated with genuine settlement dwellings from the Huntsville area while costumed narrators demonstrate pioneer life and engage and entertain our visitors with pioneer demonstrations and hands-on activities. Stop by the museum for a chronological journey beginning with settlement, development, industry, and tourism; and don’t forget a ride on The Portage Flyer steam train while you’re here! Muskoka Heritage Place is the primary historical center in Huntsville, featuring two museums, 18 authentic pioneer buildings, and a genuine open-aired train ride, all situated on a beautiful 90-acre site. Depending on your interests and time constraints, your options are to visit any or all of these venues, all in one stop, all on one property.

Lion's Lookout

Head to Lions Lookout for panoramic views of Huntsville and the surrounding landscapes. This scenic viewpoint offers a great photo opportunity and is especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset. If you’re looking for an all-encompassing view of Huntsville, look no further than Lion’s Lookout. A quick drive from downtown Huntsville and you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you gaze down at the town below. This vantage point provides magnificent views of the Muskoka River and Fairy Lake and is a favorite spot to take in the fall colors. The lookout structure, a four-pillar, red-roofed gazebo sits upon a natural rock and is bordered on one side by an aged stone wall. In the mid-1900 the Lion’s Club took responsibility for the upkeep of this structure and from then on this sightseeing location has been known as Lion’s Lookout. Take a moment to peruse the signage boards which provide a brief history of the area as well as an interesting perspective on how the landscape below has changed over the past 100 years. Be prepared for the steep drive-up! There are two small parking lots situated above and below the lookout structure. There are several picnic tables scattered throughout the site. The Lion's Lookout trail is 1.3 km long and it is considered an intermediate-level trail because of the steep inclines throughout the hike.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Park offers a vast network of hiking trails, catering to various difficulty levels and distances. Some popular trails include the Lookout Trail, Centennial Ridges Trail, and the Track and Tower Trail. These trails offer breathtaking views of the park's forests, lakes, and rolling hills.  Algonquin Park is a paradise for paddlers. With over 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometers of canoe routes, you can embark on multi-day canoe trips or leisurely paddle on one of the park's many lakes. Canoe rentals are available at various outfitters and access points within the park. Algonquin Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, black bears, beavers, loons, and wolves. Take a wildlife viewing tour or explore the park's interior by foot or canoe to increase your chances of spotting these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The park offers numerous campsites for both car camping and backcountry camping. Enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness, sleep under the stars, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. It's essential to book campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons. Algonquin Park is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The park's lakes are abundant with various fish species, including trout, bass, and pike. Obtain a fishing license and cast your line in one of the park's many lakes and rivers. Visit the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre to learn more about the park's natural and cultural heritage through interactive exhibits. The Algonquin Art Centre features artwork inspired by the park, showcasing the talents of local artists. Take a drive along Highway 60, which cuts through the heart of Algonquin Park. Enjoy scenic viewpoints, lookout areas, and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Keep an eye out for the vibrant fall foliage during autumn. With its breathtaking vistas, stunning wildlife, and diverse ecosystems, Algonquin Park offers fantastic opportunities for photography. To visit Algonquin Park, reserve your Vehicle Permit ahead of time; the cost of a daily pass is $21 per vehicle.

Georgian Bay

Georgian Bay Township has been a way of life since the first resorts and boat liveries sprang up more than a hundred years ago. Rich in history, the region was dominated by the lumber industry in the 1800s and became a thriving tourist community with easy boat access from Georgian Bay to the Trent-Severn Waterway, bustling with fishing groups, tourists, and barges filled with lumber and supplies for the growing cottage communities along the water. Known for the friendly, courteous people who live, work, and play here, this township provides the best services for its visitors: the marine mechanic who fixes your boat; the staff who serve up some of that wonderful home-style or gourmet meals; the builders who craft fine year-round homes, quaint cabins or grand, Muskoka-style cottages. Georgian Bay is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities; cast your line and try your luck at catching various fish species like bass, pike, walleye, and salmon. Enjoy water activities, Georgian Bay is perfect for boating, sailing, kayaking, and canoeing. Explore the many bays, inlets, and islands, and enjoy the stunning scenery as you navigate the waters.

Bruce Peninsula National Park

Explore Bruce Peninsula National Park; this stunning national park is known for its rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and the famous Grotto—a breathtaking cave formation. Enjoy hiking trails, camping, swimming, and scenic viewpoints. In the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, this scenic park features towering cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment plunging into the blue waters of Georgian Bay. World-famous hiking in a rugged landscape, home to orchids, ferns, and black bears. The rocky shorelines and vibrant woodlands of the Bruce Peninsula invite explorers and hikers of all ages. Venture out from your campsite or yurt to the rugged shoreline of Georgian Bay or visit the boardwalk trails of Singing Sands on Lake Huron. The Georgian Bay shoreline including the Grotto, Halfway Log Dump, and surrounding trails is a popular area of the park. A visit to these locations requires you to plan ahead. Please note that first-come, first-served parking lots at the Visitor Centre, Little Cove, and Singing Sands fill up early every morning and do not provide access to the Grotto. Check Parks Canada Website to make reservations for the Grotto & Cyprus Lake area or Halfway Log Dump. 

Georgian Bay Islands National Park

The Most popular attraction in Georgian Bay is Georgian Bay Islands National Park, it consists of 63 small islands or parts of islands in Georgian Bay, near Port Severn, Ontario. The total park area is approximately 13.5 km². Prior to the creation of Fathom Five National Marine Park, Flowerpot Island was also a part of the park. The islands blend the exposed rocks and pines of the Canadian Shield with the hardwood forests found further south. The park can only be reached by boat and all of the islands are open to the public. Discover the scenic islands of Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Camp, hike, bike, or paddle your way through the park's beautiful landscapes and clear waters. Daily admission per adult is $6.25 per season if you want to just visit during the day. For those who are interested in Camping, they offer both Cabin and Primitive Campsites. 

Fathom Five National Marine Park

Fathom Five National Marine Park is  Located near the Bruce Peninsula, this marine park is home to shipwrecks, underwater caves, and vibrant marine life. In the traditional territory of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, this park has sparkling blue water, rugged shoreline scenery, and the famous Flowerpot Island rock formations. World-renowned scuba diving on 24 shipwrecks, in the heart of the Great Lakes. Go scuba diving or take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the submerged treasures. Admission to Fathom Five National Park is $8.50 per adult. While you're at Fathom Five National Marine Park, book a local boat to hike to Flowerpot Island. Most visitors start at Beachy Cove and hike to the flowerpots. From there it is a short hike to the historic light station. For a more rugged and adventurous hike continue around the full loop which passes through rocky terrain and has steep stairs. 

Discovery Harbour

Step back in time at Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene. Explore the reconstructed 19th-century British naval and military base, take a guided tour, and learn about the region's history. Discovery Harbour traces its roots back to the original British naval and military base in Penetanguishene, built to safeguard access to Upper Canada after the War of 1812. "His Majesty's Naval Establishment on Lake Huron", (as it was first called) kept ships prepared to supply British posts to the northwest. By 1820, it was home to over 70 people, including sailors, officers, shipwrights, and soldiers. Five large ships, 15 smaller vessels, and numerous workshops and dwellings were built. In 1828, a British garrison on Drummond Island was relocated to Penetanguishene. By 1834, Canada was defended exclusively by these forces. An impressive stone Officers' Quarters was built in 1845. The military occupied the site until 1856. 

If you are looking for a place to go to for your weekend getaway or a summer vacation, Muskoka is a perfect destination.