Muskoka Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Muskoka with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more!


Muskoka, located in Central Ontario, is a popular vacation destination known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. With over 1,600 lakes, winding rivers, and dense forests, Muskoka offers a picturesque backdrop to explore and unwind. In this comprehensive travel guide, we share our top recommendations for things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Muskoka.

Introduction to Muskoka

Muskoka is a region in Central Ontario, roughly two hours north of Toronto. The region is known for its pristine natural beauty and stunning waterfront properties that attract visitors from around the world. Muskoka offers a range of activities for tourists, including hiking, boating, fishing, skiing, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Muskoka

There are several exciting places to visit in Muskoka. Here’s a list of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Muskoka Lakes Museum
  2. Bethune Memorial House
  3. Tree Museum
  4. Muskoka Heritage Place
  5. Dorset Heritage Museum
  6. Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh

Natural Attractions of Muskoka: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Algonquin Provincial Park
  2. Bracebridge Falls
  3. Santa’s Village
  4. Muskoka Wildlife Centre
  5. Hardy Lake Provincial Park
  6. Arrowhead Provincial Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Muskoka

Muskoka is a hiker’s paradise, with several well-maintained hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Muskoka:

  1. Muskoka River Trail
  2. Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve
  3. Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve
  4. Oxtongue River Trail
  5. Buckwallow Cycling Centre
  6. Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail

Best Things to Do in Muskoka: Activities and Tours

Muskoka offers a range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Boat tours of the local lakes and waterways
  2. Canoeing and kayaking
  3. Fishing
  4. Skiing and snowboarding in the winter
  5. Zip-lining at Treetop Trekking
  6. Golfing at one of the several golf courses in the region

Week-Long Itinerary for Muskoka

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Muskoka, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Bracebridge, including the falls and historic downtown
Day 2 Visit Algonquin Provincial Park for a day of hiking and nature watching
Day 3 Take a boat tour of Lake Muskoka and the surrounding area
Day 4 Visit some of the local museums and historical sites
Day 5 Try some adventure activities such as zip-lining or treetop trekking
Day 6 Spend the day relaxing on one of the public beaches in the region
Day 7 Visit Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh or one of the other local farms for an agricultural experience

Food and Drink Scene of Muskoka

Muskoka has a vibrant food and drink scene, with several local restaurants, cafes, and bars offering delicious dishes and drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Muskoka maple syrup
  2. Butter tarts
  3. Smoked salmon
  4. Local produce
  5. Muskoka Brewery’s beer

Local Beverages

  1. Ice wine
  2. Muskoka Brewery’s beer
  3. Georgian Bay Spirit Co.’s gin
  4. Bracebridge Brewing Company’s craft beer

Where to Stay in Muskoka: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Muskoka offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some top recommendations:

  1. Deerhurst Resort
  2. JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa
  3. Severn Lodge
  4. The Grandview
  5. Old Mill Motel
  6. Algonquin Cottages

What to Buy in Muskoka: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Muskoka is home to several local businesses and markets selling unique products and souvenirs. Here are some recommendations for local products to bring back home:

  1. Maple syrup products
  2. Local produce and jams
  3. Arts and crafts from local markets
  4. Muskoka-made beer or wine

Local Culture and Customs of Muskoka

Muskoka is a welcoming community with a unique culture and customs. Visitors should take note of the following:

  • Respect the local natural beauty and always leave the surroundings as you found them.
  • Be respectful of the Indigenous communities in the region.
  • Follow all local laws and customs.

Best Time to Visit Muskoka

The best time to visit Muskoka is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, the region is also stunning during the fall, with the vibrant foliage creating a beautiful backdrop.

Do’s and Don’ts of Muskoka

Do:

  1. Respect the local history and culture.
  2. Visit the local farmers’ markets and support the local businesses.
  3. Be mindful of your impact on the environment.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  2. Disrespect the local Indigenous communities.
  3. Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Muskoka

Muskoka is generally a safe destination for visitors, but visitors should always take precautions and be aware of their surroundings. Visitors should:

  1. Never leave valuables unattended in parked cars or on the beach.
  2. Use sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
  3. Check weather conditions before outdoor activities.

Health in Muskoka

Visitors to Muskoka should take the usual precautions and visit a doctor before traveling to ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and have any necessary medication. Mosquitos and ticks can be present in the region, so visitors should take precautions and use insect repellent.

Getting to Muskoka: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Muskoka can get there via several transport options:

Airports Near Muskoka

  1. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
  2. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
  3. Muskoka Airport (YQA)

Bus Stations Near Muskoka

  1. GO Transit Bus Station in Barrie
  2. Ontario Northland Bus Station in Bracebridge
  3. Greyhound Bus Station in Huntsville

Other Options

  1. Car rental
  2. Private shuttle service

How to Get Around in Muskoka

Visitors can get around the region via:

  1. Personal car rental
  2. Taxis and private shuttle services
  3. Public transit is available in certain areas.

Where to Go Next from Muskoka: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Ontario, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth visiting:

  1. Blue Mountain Village
  2. Collingwood
  3. Owen Sound
  4. Wasaga Beach
  5. Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Conclusion

Muskoka is a scenic and peaceful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Muskoka has it all. Use this travel guide to plan your next trip to Muskoka, and don’t forget to take in the stunning natural beauty of the region.

The dock at the Lake of Bays Sailing Club The dock at the Lake of Bays Sailing Club Pond at the Torrance Barrens Pond at the Torrance Barrens RMS Segwun (built 1887) RMS Segwun (built 1887)


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