A summer getaway in Muskoka Lakes
Just 2 hours north of Toronto, Muskoka Lakes has long been a popular summer getaway for families escaping the hot days in the big city. Its 1,600 lakes and waterways are achingly beautiful, particularly when the surrounding forests burst into bright colors during fall. Don't take our word for it, the cottages of Muskoka Lakes even draw in the odd Hollywood celeb like Tom Hanks or Goldie Hawn. If you're lucky enough to nab a waterfront Muskoka Lakes vacation rental in summer, you can spend sunny days out on the water, while cozy winter getaways are ideal for snowy sports.
Full steamship ahead to Muskoka Lakes
While it's true that Mukoka Lakes' biggest draw is kicking back next to the waterfront, there are some fascinating attractions to see. History buffs should drop into the Muskoka Discovery Centre which depicts the area's rich shipbuilding heritage and houses the RMS Segwun, the oldest working steamship on the continent. Alternatively, at the Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum off Hwy 12, you can find a charming little collection of historical buildings dating back to the early 19th century. The former waterfront home of Canadian humorist and writer, Stephen Leacock, is now a museum which is well worth an afternoon of discovery.
Bring your rod to Muskoka Lakes
When you leave the city behind and arrive at your Muskoka Lakes vacation rental, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor activities. There's more than 50,000 fishable acres of water to cast your line in and daily charters can take you out to the best spots, where you'll hook in northern pike and largemouth bass. If that's not your thing, you can stomp along the lakeside trails, or launch your canoe to paddle silently across the water in search of wildlife. If you've brought your mountain bike, the scenic forested paths provide seriously adrenaline-inducing days out.
Kick back in Muskoka Lakes
There's no right or wrong time to stay in a Muskoka Lakes vacation rental. The area experiences all 4 seasons, sometimes on the same day. Unsurprisingly, summers are the busiest time, with families descending on the lakes to escape the bustle of the big cities. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting in the shoulder seasons. Spring is characterized by warm, bright days, while Muskoka is often ranked as one of the best places to see the fall colors in Canada. If snowy landscapes are more your bag, nab one of the cozy rentals between November and February.
Hear the howl of wolf packs at Muskoka Lakes
There are few places in Canada that measure up to the wildlife encounters of Muskoka Lakes. For the best chance of spotting animals, try to head out early in the morning, or at dusk, when they are most active. A hike around the lakes might reveal anything from a shy fox darting along the banks, to little porcupines rustling around the forest floor. If you're lucky, you might spot an elusive lynx or bobcat and it's not uncommon to hear the howl of wolf packs at night. The highlight for many is spotting bald eagles, even in the height of winter.
Traveling to and around Muskoka Lakes
The nearest airport is in Muskoka, ON (YQA), located 18.1 mi (29.1 km) from the city center.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing