5 Fall Muskoka Hikes

Make the most of cooler temperatures

As the days become shorter and the chill in the evening air becomes more pronounced, it’s clear that summer has come to an end and fall is on its way. It will soon be time to trade in the hot weather and summer relaxation for cooler temperatures and fall fun.

The combination of cooler weather and changing leaves means that fall is the perfect season for hiking. Here are 5 breathtaking hikes that allow you to fully appreciate Muskoka’s fall charm. Don’t forget a camera, because you won’t want to miss all the terrific photo opportunities!

Read on to learn more about 5 fall hikes in the Muskoka region.

Lions Lookout Trail

Lookout Rd, Huntsville, ON

If you’re looking for an all-encompassing view of Huntsville, look no further than Lions 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 favourite spot to take in the fall colours. The lookout structure, a four pillar, red roofed gazebo of sorts, sits upon natural rock and is bordered on one side by an aged stone wall. In the mid 1900’s 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 and interesting perspective on how the landscape below has changed over the past 100 years. Be prepared for the steep drive up! For this reason the lookout is open spring, summer and fall but is closed for the winter season. Two small parking lots are situated above and below the lookout structure, There are several picnic tables scattered throughout the site. Mature oak trees are prominent at the top and the area behind and leading up to the lookout is well forested-I was visited by two deer passing through. Learn more

From the bottom: 1038 Main Street, Dorset. From the top: 1154 Dorset Scenic Tower Road (off of Highway 35 North, just north of the Town of Dorset).

A challenging hike from the Dorset Museum to the top of the ‘Dorset Mountain’ where one can climb the steps up the 25m Fire Tower and view a panorama of 800km² of forest and numerous lakes. This is a must-see for anyone wanting to truly experience the Highlands. This trail can also be hiked from the top of the ‘Dorset Mountain’ down to the museum. If you want to start at the top (option available May to October), a fee to drive up to the access point/picnic area is applicable. During the open season there’s also a gift shop/visitor information centre, washrooms and numerous photo opportunities at the top of Dorset Mountain. Please see the Dorset Tower page for more information. Map Learn more

Kahshe Barrens Trail

1342 Highway 11 N, Kilworthy

Kahshe Barrens Trail is one of the most naturally preserved and rugged trails in Gravenhurst and consists of two loops – Casey & Kadz.

Both loops offer views of majestic oaks and evergreens.
Kadz loop is hilly and provides a fantastic view of the beaver pond at Lookout Ridge.
Casey loop is similar in terrain but features a picturesque stream. Learn more

Ragged Falls Oxtongue River Hiking Trail

Hwy 60, Before the entrance to Algonquin Park

This is the shortest trail on our list, at just 1 km in length, but the beauty of the Ragged Falls more than makes up for the lack of distance. Named one of the 10 best waterfalls in Ontario, the thundering whitewater of Ragged Falls perfectly captures the extreme force of glacial meltwater. The waterfall’s natural glory is magnified by the backdrop of red, yellow, and orange leaves during the fall season. The trail is located along the Highway 60 corridor, just prior to Algonquin Park’s West Gate entrance. Learn more

Huckleberry Rock

1057 Milford Bay Rd, Bracebridge, ON

Wander along some of the oldest rocks in the world on this 2.5 km loop trail, considered to be moderately challenging. Over the years, glaciation, erosion and fire have exposed the pink granite surface of the rock, creating a one-of-a kind hiking experience on the Canadian Shield. Don’t miss the scenic lookout, which is considered by locals to be one of the best places to view the sunset in all of Muskoka. Be sure to follow the white ribbons in trees and white paint on rocks to stay on the trail. Learn more