It may sometimes seem as if the city of Toronto is empty in the summer, as its residents head north to visit Muskoka. A vacation destination for Ontarians for over 100 years, the natural area features forests, islands, beaches and some of North America’s best freshwater boating. Feel like an local after a few days, as the region’s small-town charm welcomes visitors as if they were family.
Experience the outdoors in true Canadian fashion by exploring on foot or by a mountain bike. See the breathtaking scenery of Algonquin Park, the enormous reserve in northeastern Muskoka. Join a boat tour to explore the 30,000 islands in the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, which abounds with astounding biodiversity. Watch the rapids speed down to Georgian Bay in the lower half of Bala Falls. For more relaxation, lounge on the sands of Wasaga Beach, one of the world’s longest freshwater beaches.
Appreciate more than the outdoors in Huntsville, the region’s largest city. Walk along the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, celebrating Canada’s most famous artists, or visit Muskoka Heritage Place. Give kids a treat with a visit to Santa’s Village, which celebrates Christmas in July alongside the go-karts, trampolines, mini golf and more of the on-site Sportsland.
Muskoka is north of Toronto, on the eastern side of Georgian Bay. Drive from Toronto in just over 2 hours or from Ottawa in 5. The closest large airport is in Toronto. Several ferry services offer connections to the Georgian Bay Islands in addition to tours of the lakes and bay. There are limited bus connections from Toronto to Muskoka and extremely limited public transportation in Muskoka itself. Personal vehicles are highly recommended. Check online for regulations about personal boats and other watercraft.
Join in a tradition that has been going since 1942 by jamming along with the Kee to Bala, a summer concert series that is the highlight of Muskoka’s season.