Discover Muskoka: A Summer Escape Only Two Hours From Toronto
Muskoka has been a favourite summer getaway for over 150 years, and it’s easy to see why. Just two hours north of the city, it offers a slower pace, fresh air, and endless lake views.
With more than 100 places to stay, from cozy cottages to full-service resorts, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, get outside, and soak up the quintessential Canadian escape.
Muskoka is consistently named a top destination in Canada. Recently recognized by National Geographic, The Telegraph, Cottage Life, The Globe and Mail, Forbes, Canadian Geographic, Travel + Leisure and more. The beautiful backdrop is a popular hotspot with celebrities with a number of high profile visitors to the region (Victoria Beckham waterskiing anyone?). Check out the map on how to get to Muskoka! *NEW* You can now reach Muskoka via Air Canada Landline. Book your Air Canada trip to YQA and the second leg of your trip will be on a luxury motorcoach.
Nostalgia and Nature Meets Luxury and Relaxation
There’s something about Muskoka that brings you back to the kind of summer you thought only existed in movies (think Dirty Dancing). Just a short trip from the U.S. border, this lakeside region feels both nostalgic and refreshingly untouched. Where days unfold slowly and the simple moments are the ones you remember most.
Mornings start with coffee on the dock, mist rising off the lake, and the quiet call of loons in the distance. By midday, it’s all about being on the water. Boating, swimming, or trying something new with local operators like Muskoka Wake or SWS Muskoka, where you can try waterskiing or wake surfing. Looking to taking a calm moment? Rent a canoe, kayak or SUP from a rental company (Algonquin Outfitters, Liv Outside, Silver Gull Outdoors) or many resorts and cottage rentals include non-motorized boats.
Quaint Communities Around Every Bend:
One of Muskoka’s greatest charms is its collection of small, character-filled towns. Each offering something a little different, yet all rooted in that warm, welcoming cottage-country feel. Muskoka isn’t just one place. It’s a collection of nearly a dozen unique communities, similar to the Hamptons or the Adirondacks for those in the U.S. Things you don’t want to miss! A buttertart from Humble Pie Buttertart Factory in Baysvillle, a coffee from Affogato Cafe in Huntsville, a paddle on Gull Lake with Silver Gull Outdoors in Gravenhurst, lunch in Port Carling at Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill or head over to The Pearl in Bala. For those lovers of art and culture, Explore Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery with 103 outdoor murals inspired by the Group of Seven (one mural was even painted by Barack Obama).
100+ Places To Stay in Muskoka
From family waterfront resorts and cozy cottage resorts to boutique motels, luxury rentals and unique stays, Muskoka has accommodations for every getaway. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, family vacation or outdoor adventure, you’ll find the perfect place to stay surrounded by lakes, forests and stunning natural beauty. Muskoka is home to the famous cottage featured in the hit series Heated Rivalry! That is available to rent, hosted by Jayne’s Luxury Cottage Rentals.
Explore Muskoka from the Water
The best way to see Muskoka is from the water. The best seats in the house are on the boat, where you can take in the cottages, towering trees and iconic granite shoreline.
- Muskoka Steamships sail on the Wenonah II or Wanda III on Lake Muskoka. Lunch and high tea cruises available.
- Sunset Cruises cruise on Peerless II from Port Carling on Lake Rosseau, Lake Muskoka or Lake Joseph. Intimate boat with commentary.
- Muskoka Cruises enjoy the lake as you cruise down the Muskoka River or on Lake Rosseau
- SS Bigwin view the spectacular colours as you travel around Lake of Bays. Closed for 2026.
Experience Gravenhurst: Muskoka Must Do’s
- A cruise on the historic RMS Segwun or impressive Wenonah II sailing from the Muskoka Wharf
- Explore the Muskoka Discovery Centre with 9 million dollar expansion
- Dine and stroll at Muskoka Wharf overlooking Lake Muskoka
- An exceptional high tea experience at Blue Willow Tea Shop
- See art and culture at Gravenhurst Opera House
- Visit to the historic Bethune House
Guide to Gravenhurst
PLACES TO STAY: Looking for places to stay in Gravenhurst, the gateway to Muskoka? Check out our comprehensive guide to accommodators in Muskoka. From Hotels, Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Cottage Rentals, Camping, Resorts and more!
Click here for 18 places to stay in Gravenhurst
THINGS TO DO: Gravenhurst has fantastic activities from iconic boat cruises, hiking trails and more.
Click here for 34 things to do in Gravenhurst
Explore the Hiking Trails Across Muskoka
Muskoka Favourites:
- HARDY LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK – A very popular spot near Torrance with three hiking loops. Two are 3km and one 9km.
- SCHOOL HOUSE TRAIL – 5.3km out-and-back easy trail. This trail is great for birding and hiking. Located in Georgian Bay.
- LIMBERLOST FOREST & WILDLIFE RESERVE – Offering more than 70km of trails. Located outside of Huntsville, rivals Algonquin Park.
- TORRANCE BARRENS DARK SKY RESERVE – World’s first permanently designated Dark Sky Reserve.
- OXTONGUE RAPIDS – 1km out-and-back trail in the Village of Dwight. Ending with a stunning waterfall.
- LION’S LOOKOUT – The lookout trail is roughly 1.5km long with a steep incline and stunning views of Huntsville.
- STUBB’S FALLS TRAIL – 2.6km trail that includes a stop by Little East River. Located in Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville.
- WILSON’S FALLS TRAIL – 4km loop trail along the Muskoka River and Wilson’s Falls in Bracebridge.
- HAHNE FARM TRAIL – 3.7km out-and-back trail that features a granite ridge view overlooking the woods of Gravenhurst.
- HUNTER’S BAY TRAIL – 4.6km trail one way, with access at many different spots in Huntsville . Enjoy scenic boardwalk sections by the Vernon Narrows.
- STRAWBERRY POINT TRAIL – 5km return trail through country lanes and wooded area offers a panoramic view of Lake Muskoka. Located in Bracebridge.
- WALKER’S POINT LOOKOUT – A moderately short climb leading to a panoramic lookout point where sightseers will enjoy stunning views of Lake Muskoka.
- HAZELWOOD TRAIL – 2.5km out-and-back trail, just outside of Port Carling. Runs besides a large beaver pond.
Explore Huntsville:
Muskoka Must Do’s:
- A day visit to Arrowhead Provincial Park
- Hike to the Lion’s Lookout over looking Huntsville
- Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery self guided tour with 103 murals
- Enjoy an event from Huntsville Festival of the Arts including their summer program
- A hike along the boardwalk at Hunter’s Bay Boardwalk Trail
- Try stand up paddle boarding with a guide at Find Your Wild
- Step Back in Time at a Pioneer Village at Muskoka Heritage Place
Guide to Huntsville:
PLACES TO STAY: Looking for places to stay in Huntsville, the getaway to Algonquin Park? Check out our comprehensive guide to accommodators in Muskoka. From Hotels, Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Cottage Rentals, Resorts and more!
Click here for 23 Places to Stay in Huntsville
THINGS TO DO: Huntsville is home to endless adventures from outdoor explorations, shopping downtown and an art and culture hotspot.
Click here for 54 Things To Do in Huntsville
Muskoka offers a wide range of events from live music, family fun and local festivals. Here are some key events not to be missed this summer. Visit our Event Guide for a full list.
- May 15 & 16 – Dwayne Gretzky at The Kee to Bala
- May 16 –Muskoka 2/4 Craft Beer Festival in Huntsville
- May 22 – Motown Gold at Gravenhurst Opera House
- May 23 – Shuffle the Decades at Rene M. Cassie Theatre in Bracebridge
- May 28 – Floydium at Gravenhurst Opera House
- May 30 – A Candlelite Soul Tribute to Bruno Mars at the JW Marriott in Rosseau
- May 30 – Amanda Keeles at Gravenhurst Opera House
- May 30 – Murder Mystery at Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst
- June 1 – August 31 – Huntsville Art Crawl
- June 6 – Venture Fest: Muskoka Brewery’s 30th Anniversary
- June 13 & 14 – Gravenhurst Triathlon and Duathlon
- June 18 – 21 – The Overland Gathering – Muskoka
- June 19 – 21 – Bala Bay Diva Pride Weekend
- June 21 – National Indigenous Peoples Day in Huntsville
- June 26 – 54-40 at The Kee to Bala
- June 27 – Big Sugar at The Kee to Bala
- July 1 – Canada Day Celebrations across Muskoka
- July 5 – IRONMAN 70.3 Muskoka in Huntsville
- July 11 –Vintage Boat Show at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst
- July 11 – August 30 – Pirate Cruises on the Wenonah II in Gravenhurst
- July 11 & 12 – Bracebridge Triathlon & Duathlon
- July 17 – 19 – Muskoka Arts & Crafts Summer Show in Bracebridge
- July 17 & 18 – Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival in Gravenhurst
- July 18 – Nuit Blanche North 2026 in Huntsville
- July 24 – 26 – Muskoka Boat and Cottage Show at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst
- July 31 – Moonlight Madness in Bracebridge
- August 1 & 2 – Piratefest at Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst
- August 7 – 16 – Muskoka Chautauqua Summer Festival
- August 8 – Kim Mitchell at The Kee to Bala
- August 8 & 9 – Dockside Festival – Gravenhurst
- August 8 & 9 – Baysville Arts and Crafts Festival
- August 14 & 15 – The Sheepdogs at The KEE to Bala
- August 21 & 22 – The Beaches at The Kee to Bala
- August 25 – Music Cruise with the Awesome 80’s Bon Jovi and More
Looking to learn more? Check out the comprehensive Waterfall Guide to Muskoka
1. Bala Falls – Located in the heart of charming Bala, the Bala Falls is a great spot to stop and enjoy a picnic with the family with an incredible backdrop.
2. Minnehaha Falls – This hidden gem of a waterfall is a bit difficult to find, but once you find the trail it’s worth the trek! Be prepared to hike on loose soil, steep slopes and some slippery rock.
3. Ragged Falls – Named one of the 10 best waterfalls in Ontario, this waterfall on Oxtongue River is a must-see. There is roughly a 1km hike to this beautiful cascade from a parking area
4. Oxtongue Rapids – This amazing destination on the Oxtongue River is believed to be the inspiration for The Red Maple, one of A.Y. Jackson’s (member of the Group of Seven) most celebrated paintings.
5. Hatchery Falls – Take a 26-minute hike along a well-marked trail with a beautiful waterfall waiting for you at the finish line, Hatchery Falls.
6. Bracebridge Falls – Explore one of the trademark sights of the community at the Bracebridge Falls. Located right downtown, the Silver Bridge and Bracebridge Falls is an iconic scene.
7. Wilson’s Falls – is the wildest and most scenic falls on the North Branch of Muskoka River. Located just to the north of the Downtown area off of River Road
8. Muskoka Falls -This brilliant waterfall is carved into a large gorge at Muskoka Falls, showing the eroding power of the falls over thousands of years.
9. High Falls and Little High Falls – Bracebridge
There are five waterfalls located at the High Falls site. These include Pott’s Falls, Muskoka Canyon Falls, Little High Falls, Big High Falls and a 5th man-made falls to accommodate the High Falls Water Park.
Muskoka Favourites:
- HARDY LAKE PROVINCIAL PARK – A very popular spot near Torrance with three hiking loops. Two are 3km and one 9km.
- SCHOOL HOUSE TRAIL – 5.3km out-and-back easy trail. This trail is great for birding and hiking. Located in Georgian Bay.
- LIMBERLOST FOREST & WILDLIFE RESERVE – Offering more than 70km of trails. Located outside of Huntsville, rivals Algonquin Park.
- TORRANCE BARRENS DARK SKY RESERVE – World’s first permanently designated Dark Sky Reserve.
- OXTONGUE RAPIDS – 1km out-and-back trail in the Village of Dwight. Ending with a stunning waterfall.
- LION’S LOOKOUT – The lookout trail is roughly 1.5km long with a steep incline and stunning views of Huntsville.
- STUBB’S FALLS TRAIL – 2.6km trail that includes a stop by Little East River. Located in Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville.
- WILSON’S FALLS TRAIL – 4km loop trail along the Muskoka River and Wilson’s Falls in Bracebridge.
- HAHNE FARM TRAIL – 3.7km out-and-back trail that features a granite ridge view overlooking the woods of Gravenhurst.
- HUNTER’S BAY TRAIL – 4.6km trail one way, with access at many different spots in Huntsville . Enjoy scenic boardwalk sections by the Vernon Narrows.
- STRAWBERRY POINT TRAIL – 5km return trail through country lanes and wooded area offers a panoramic view of Lake Muskoka. Located in Bracebridge.
- WALKER’S POINT LOOKOUT – A moderately short climb leading to a panoramic lookout point where sightseers will enjoy stunning views of Lake Muskoka.
- HAZELWOOD TRAIL – 2.5km out-and-back trail, just outside of Port Carling. Runs besides a large beaver pond.
Fall is brewing in Muskoka!🍻 Explore our local craft beer scene at @muskokabrewery, @sawdustcitybeer, @canvasbrewing, @clearlakebrewingcompany and @lb_brewing.
Looking for a brewery adventure? Hop aboard the Muskoka BrewBus (@brewbuscanada) on Saturday, October 24th for @oktoberfestmuskoka’s OktoberBaus experience! Enjoy a complimentary mug, fills at each stop, tours, trivia and plenty of laughs as you visit Muskoka Brewery, Clear Lake Brewing, Sawdust City and Bracebridge Barrelhouse. Discover fall brews and specialty dishes along the way!
🚌 Choose your departure:
• 10am from Muskoka Brewery
• 11:30am from Bracebridge Barrelhouse
• 3pm from Muskoka Brewery
Please arrive 30 minutes before departure. This is a 19+ event.
Gather your crew and book your spot through Oktoberfest Muskoka! 🍻
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka
Dock days are still going strong 💚💙 Okay, maybe a little chillier, but just as stunning 🤩.
📸 @hayleyknits_ @sherryb2854
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka
Fall colours aren’t over yet! 🍂 Explore Muskoka by water with a sunset cruise aboard Peerless II (@sunsetcruisesmuskoka), sailing until October 25.
Colours are still stunning in Muskoka Lakes, Gravenhurst and Bracebridge, while Huntsville and Lake of Bays are past peak but putting on a beautiful golden encore. ✨
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka
🍂 It’s Bala Cranberry Festival weekend in Muskoka! October 16–18 brings cranberry treats, artisan shopping, live music and family fun to Bala!
📍 Maple Avenue, Bala
• Friday: 10am–5pm
• Saturday: 9am–5pm
• Sunday: 9am–3pm. (balacranberryfestival.on.ca) @balacranberry
Enjoy artisan markets, buskers, inflatables, a trackless train and more! Saturday and Sunday also feature reptile and Science North exhibits, plus cranberry crafting.
Don’t miss Saturday’s Duck Race at Bala Falls at 3pm and Sunday’s Cranberry Queen judging at noon!
🎟️ Adults 13+: $15 daily / $20 weekend
Children 5–12: $5 daily / $8 weekend
Kids are FREE Friday! Prices plus HST.
Muskoka Cranberry Route is on with 45+ stops across the region. Swipe for more details!
Make it a full cranberry adventure with wagon tours, wine tasting or the Cranberry Plunge at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery! Activities require separate tickets and advance reservations at cranberry.ca.
🚌 In-town shuttles available; Gravenhurst shuttles require preregistration.
🐾 Leashed dogs welcome outdoors.
Tickets, maps and full schedule: balacranberryfestival.on.ca
Cranberry marsh snaps from @okayadele
#DiscoverMuskoka #BalaCranberryFestival #Muskoka #discoveron #explorecanada
Muskoka: Home of the Stars starts THIS weekend! ✨🌌
Over 100 tickets have already been sold! Join us for an evening of stargazing, constellation stories or night sky photography at beautiful locations across Muskoka.
With 18 experiences with expert guides from October 16 to November 7, find your perfect night under the stars! Tickets ONLY $10!
✨ FULL SCHEDULE ✨
📅 Friday, October 16
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville
📅 Saturday, October 17
• Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Lorne Street Beach, Gravenhurst
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
📅 Sunday, October 18
• Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes
📅 Friday, October 23
• Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst
• Astro-Photography 101 — Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville
📅 Saturday, October 24
• Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst
• Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky — Wilson’s Falls, Bracebridge
• Astro-Photography 101 — Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville
📅 Friday, October 30
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
• Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky — Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst
📅 Saturday, October 31
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
📅 Friday, November 6
• Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky — Wilson’s Falls, Bracebridge
• Astro-Photography 101 — Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes
📅 Saturday, November 7
• Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky — Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes
• Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience — Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
• Astro-Photography 101 — Dwight Beach, Lake of Bays
#DiscoverMuskoka #HomeOfTheStars #Muskoka
Thanksgiving weekend in Muskoka 🍂🦃 Fall colours, festive markets, live music and plenty to feast on! The ultimate long weekend in Muskoka 💚💙.
🍁 October 9–12
* Sandhill Nursery Fall Festival on all weekend. Buy tickets in advance
* Muskoka Cranberry Route: Explore over 45 stops featuring cranberry
🎶 October 9
* Friday Market at Hale Muskoka
* Muskoka Beatles at Bracebridge Hall
* Fleetwood Mac Mania at Algonquin Theatre
* Haunted Harvest Trail at Sandhill Nursery
🍂 October 10
* Forest of Light at Sandhill Nursery
* In Autumn Festival & Market at Hale Muskoka
* Rosseau Pumpkin Festival
* Muskoka Lakes Museum Fall Open House
* Wenonah II Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise
* The Peca Farm Fall Edition
* Bracebridge Farmers’ Market
* Mini Markets at Jack & Stella
* Friendsgiving Buffet at PK Lodge
* Fall Market at Taboo Muskoka
✨ More to explore
* Blue Rodeo at The Kee to Bala | Oct 9 & 10
* Halloween Spooktacular at Santa’s Village | Oct 10–11
* Muskoka Heritage Place rides | Oct 10 & 11
* Thanksgiving cruises aboard Peerless II | Oct 10–12
* Special Mini Putt at Northern Escapades | Oct 10–12
* Harvest activities at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery
* Fall wagon rides at Back of Beyond | Until Nov 30
🦃 Thanksgiving dinners at Deerhurst Resort, Christie’s Mill, Lighthouse45 at Rawley Resort, The Rosseau JW Marriott, Tall Trees, Muskoka Bay Resort, Cast Iron Restaurant, PK Lodge Muskoka and Windermere House.
Save this post, tag your weekend crew and check with each venue for details and reservations. 💛
#DiscoverMuskoka #Muskoka #ThanksgivingWeekend #discoveron #explorecanada
Muskoka is glowing! 🍁 📍 @explore.huntsville captured by @navigatorvisuals
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada
It’s officially, we’re peaking🍁. Recent photo by @victoraerden 💙💚.
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka #fallcolours
From fall adventures and starry nights to getaway weekends and holiday celebrations, there’s plenty to look forward to in @explore.huntsville this season.
Add these late-Fall events to your calendar:
• @sandhillnursery Fall Festival: Through October 25
• Muskoka: Home of the Stars guided stargazing: October 16–November 7
• Tiny Tots Parade @downtownhuntsville & Great Pumpkin Trail @muskokaheritageplace: October 31
• Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend @deerhurstresort: November 6–8
• Uncorked in Muskoka Wine Weekend @deerhurstresort: November 20–22
• Community Tree Lighting & Santa Claus Parade @downtownhuntsville: November 27
• Muskoka Market: Huntsville Holiday Edition @downtownhuntsville: November 28
Whether you’re planning family fun, a weekend with friends or a little holiday shopping, find your reason to get away to Huntsville.
Save this list and start planning your visit! 🍁
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka
Muskoka is bursting with red, and we’re not just talking maple trees! 🍁❤️
With 45 stops along the Muskoka Cranberry Route, there’s plenty to sip, taste and explore. The fun continues until Bala Cranberry Festival weekend, wrapping up October 18!
Get out and explore the berry best season!
Visit our website or link in bio to find every stop!
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada
A little exploring. A little unwinding. A whole lot of Muskoka. 💙💚🇨🇦
@cranberry.ca
@muskokasteamships_dc
@cacaoboysbala
@nutty.chocolatier
@sherwoodinn
@muskokacrossing
@sandhillnursery
@thelimberlostforest
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka
The Muskoka Chair Tour is here! 🍂 20+ trails across Muskoka where you can find Muskoka Chairs waiting for you! Nothing beats stretching your legs and finding the perfect place to sit back and take in the view, especially with the fall colours on full display.
Bring a camera to capture those picture-perfect moments along the way. How many Muskoka Chairs have you found?
Find them at:
Walker’s Point Lookout Trail
Hardy Lake Provincial Park
Moon River Lookout
Bala Town Dock
The Wall in Port Carling
James Bartleman Island
Port Sandfield Swing Bridge
Huckleberry Rock Lookout
Windermere Dock
Chamberlain Trail
Hahne Farm Trail
Old Stone Road Trail
Kahshe Barrens Trail
Wilson’s Falls
Bass Rock Park
Kelvin Grove Park
Boyd’s Bay Dock
Bracebridge Resource Management Centre
Arrowhead Provincial Park
Lions Lookout
Dwight Beach
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
& More to Come!
Visit our website to plan your Muskoka Chair Tour with details on each location and interactive map! 🥾
This program is in partnership with @explore.huntsville, @visitbracebridge, @experiencegravenhurst, @muskokalakestwp, @georgianbaytownship, @lakeofbaystwp
#discovermuskoka #discoveron #explorecanada #muskoka #muskokachairtour
Fall in Muskoka
Fall in Muskoka is pure magic. Explore vibrant forests, scenic drives, waterfront towns and crisp autumn air. Hike colourful trails, paddle quiet lakes, sip local craft beer and cozy up at a lakeside resort. From fall festivals to breathtaking lookouts, Muskoka is the perfect escape to experience Canada’s cottage country at its most beautiful.
