Algonquin Highlands

Travel Guide

A forest with autumn foliage and a river.
A forested landscape with a lake and hills in the background.
A fast-flowing river with rocks and trees in a forest.
A calm lake surrounded by dense forest with a small boat tied to a dock.
A forest with tall trees, a lake, and a campfire area.

Head to Algonquin Highlands for serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic views from scenic lookouts amidst lush landscapes.

Algonquin Highlands is an ideal destination for outdoor and scenery travelers. You can explore natural attractions like Oxtongue Lake, which offers serene waters, and Ragged Falls, where you can appreciate the cascading beauty of the waterfall. For panoramic views, visit the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, which provides a vantage point to take in the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the area features various hiking trails, including Beetle Lake Trail, which is popular among hikers seeking to immerse themselves in nature.

Take time to wander the nearby areas, each known for its outdoor experiences. Carnarvon and Haliburton both provide access to scenic landscapes, while Algonquin Park is notable for its outdoor activities and features like Algonquin Provincial Park - West Gate and the Algonquin Visitor Centre. Haliburton also offers attractions such as the Haliburton Sculpture Forest and the Haliburton Highlands Museum, adding depth to your exploration of the region.

The best time to visit Algonquin Highlands is during the months of June to September when the weather is generally mild and mostly dry. This period sees more visitors, particularly from July to September, as many seek to enjoy the pleasant conditions. Conversely, the months from November to January are quieter, providing a more serene atmosphere for those looking to experience the area with fewer crowds.

Lakewoods Cottage Resort

Lakewoods Cottage Resort

3 out of 5
1109 Oxtongue Lake Rd Dwight ON
$80 nightly
The price is $90 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$90 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach cottage in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Oxtongue Lake and Beetle Lake ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (40 reviews)
"Updated cabin with new appliances. Great price. Awesome location close to the park. Easy check in. Will definitely be back!"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Lakewoods Cottage Resort
Algonquin Lakeside Resort

Algonquin Lakeside Resort

2.5 out of 5
4382 Hwy # 60, RR#1 Algonquin Highlands ON
$86 nightly
The price is $98 total per night from Dec 9 to Dec 10
$98 total
Dec 9 - Dec 10
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
6.8/10 (978 reviews)
"Great one night stay while we hiked some trails. Host was incredibly friendly upon arrival and what a spectacular view of the lake when we entered our clean room. Highly recommend."

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

Algonquin Lakeside Resort
The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town

The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town

Haliburton ON
Stay at this cottage in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a garden. Popular attractions Maple Lake and Beech Lake are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"Very unique house. Very accommodating. Would stay here again"

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026

The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lakewoods Cottage Resort

Lakewoods Cottage Resort

3 out of 5
1109 Oxtongue Lake Rd Dwight ON
Book a stay at this beach cottage in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Oxtongue Lake and Beetle Lake ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (40 reviews)
"Updated cabin with new appliances. Great price. Awesome location close to the park. Easy check in. Will definitely be back!"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Lakewoods Cottage Resort
The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town

The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town

Haliburton ON
Stay at this cottage in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a garden. Popular attractions Maple Lake and Beech Lake are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"Very unique house. Very accommodating. Would stay here again"

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026

The little Japanese Castle on the hill. Just 17 minutes away from town
Off the beaten path…

Off the beaten path…

Algonquin Highlands ON
Stay at this cabin in Algonquin Highlands. Enjoy an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Beech Lake and 118 - 35 Driving Range are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Everything was awesome! Andre Junior was great and prompt with communicating, as was his family!"

Reviewed on Oct 12, 2026

Off the beaten path…
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Algonquin Highlands attractions

Frequently asked questions

Is Algonquin Highlands worth visiting?
Algonquin Highlands is worth visiting for its natural attractions, including Oxtongue Lake and the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, which offers impressive views. Travelers can explore the scenic surroundings and also find local grocers, such as Highlands Market, for convenient self-catering options during their stay.
When is the best time to visit Algonquin Highlands?
The best time to visit Algonquin Highlands is from July through September, when the weather is typically pleasant for outdoor activities. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through January are a good option, offering a cooler, snowy experience.
What is a good itinerary length for Algonquin Highlands?
A good itinerary length for Algonquin Highlands is two to three days to explore Oxtongue Lake, visit the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, and see the Hawk Lake Log Chute. For a more relaxed trip, four to five days allows travelers to spend more time enjoying these natural attractions and the surrounding area.
What are the top things to do in and around Algonquin Highlands?
Algonquin Highlands offers natural beauty and unique landmarks to explore:


How do I plan a trip to Algonquin Highlands?
Plan your trip to Algonquin Highlands by searching for places to stay on Expedia. Book flights, rental cars, and activities like visiting Oxtongue Lake, Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, or Hawk Lake Log Chute in advance. Always pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Algonquin Highlands?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Algonquin Highlands by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Algonquin Highlands with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Algonquin Highlands trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Algonquin Highlands?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Algonquin Highlands can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Algonquin Highlands trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Algonquin Highlands trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Algonquin Highlands trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Algonquin Highlands trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Algonquin Highlands?
If it's your first trip to Algonquin Highlands, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Algonquin Highlands hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Algonquin Highlands hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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