Part of Muskoka’s appeal is that there is something for everyone. Always new, always unexpected and nowhere is this truer than in the often-overlooked north.
The Huntsville and Lake-of-Bays region could be excused if it had a bit of an inferiority complex. It’s always been overshadowed by Lakes Rosseau and Muskoka to the south. Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, and Port Carling receive the lion’s share of the attention, and the visitors. But that’s unfortunate, because Muskoka’s north is refreshing and exhilarating.
The heart of the region’s tourism industry is, and has been for the past century, the world famous Deerhurst Resort. It’s the ideal place from which to kick off an exploration of the area.
“Deerhurst has always been a special place, ever since it was built 110 years ago by my grandfather,” says Bill Waterhouse, who ran the resort in the 1970s and 1980s; the third generation of Waterhouse to do so. “There’s something almost rejuvenating about
the location. I love it here.”
But northern Muskoka is too picturesque to experience solely from the enchanting grounds of Deerhurst. Set aside at least some time to explore the natural and historic highlights
of the region.You don’t have to go far from the resort to experience adventure and excitement. In fact, it will come directly to you, in the form of a Hummer courtesy of ERA Tours that picks you up from Deerhurst’s
main pavilion.
A Hummer tour through the ruggedly beautiful scenery of northern Muskoka is a trip on the wild side. Officially called the HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle), the Hummer more than lives up to its designation, plowing over or through the toughest terrain, climbing slopes of 60 degrees, and doing it all with power and style.
This is an opportunity to experience its legendary capabilities first-hand, as an expert driver puts the vehicle through its paces on your behalf. It’s a pulse-pounding experience and the chance of a lifetime.
For something a bit more sedate but no less interesting, step back in time at Muskoka Heritage Place, a recreated pioneer village with fourteen restored buildings that collectively provide a glimpse at life in the harsh frontier that was 19th century Muskoka. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride around the charming community, taste pioneer cooking, watch the blacksmith work his trade, and try your hand at various pioneer skills. The highlight of the visit is, for most people, a brief excursion aboard the Portage Flyer, a century old steam train that in years past served the world’s shortest rail-line, a mere ---of track linking Lake of Bays and Peninsula Lake.
When you return to comforts of your accommodations at the end of an afternoon’s visit to Muskoka Heritage Place, it’s impossible not to reflect on the contrast between the stark lifestyle that those who settled the region endured and the well-heeled guests who stayed at the elegant resorts which made Muskoka famous.
Muskoka is also well-known for its crystalline lakes. It’s only appropriate, then, to spend some time out on the water, and what better way to do so than on an entertaining and informative boat cruise? Lake of Bays Water Taxi takes passengers around scenic Lake of Bays aboard a 26-foot luxury pontoon boat, pausing along the way at points of interest or to allow people to take a cooling dip in the pristine waters.
“I’ve lived here all my life and yet I still learned things about the area’s history from taking the cruise”, says Mr. Waterhouse. “Its money well spent; I can’t recommend it enough”. ?
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One further recommendation: ask about the sunset cruise. For the romantic at heart, this is an unforgettable experience.
A bit further away, but still tantalizingly near at hand, is Algonquin Park. This 7,700 square km nature preserve must surely rank as one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth, and it cries out adventure.
The best way to experience Algonquin Park is up close and personal, by leaving the car far behind and setting off into the untouched interior, full of stunning lakes and landscapes that seem to have never felt the touch of man.
Experienced outdoors people can surely handle the excursion on their own, but for most of us a guide is recommended. Arrange for a guided hiking, biking, or canoeing trip through Algonquin’s pristine wilderness.
A highlight of the park that anyone can enjoy is the Algonquin Logging Museum, which traces the history of the industry in the area through a number of fascinating displays. It’s not to be missed.
Finally, don’t ignore the town of Huntsville, a community with its share of charm. You can easily spend an afternoon browsing through the numerous quaint shops that line its streets and enjoying lunch in one of the many restaurants Your camera will be kept busy photographing the historic buildings located within the downtown core (hint: the town hall and All Saint’s Anglican Church are among the most photographed buildings in Muskoka).
Whether your vacation is spent in action-packed adventure or in the pursuit of relaxation, a northern Muskoka getaway is a memorable getaway.
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