Muskoka is known for being Ontario’s cottage country, and because of all the lakes there, there are some very scenic views to enjoy no matter the activity. I actually started writing this blog post 3 years ago when I lived in Muskoka and am just now getting around to finishing it. I am so excited to be sharing these trails with you!
Waterfalls, cliff top views, rock formations, lakes, forests… Muskoka might be your next hiking destination!
By The Way… Muskoka does have a few Provincial Parks within its borders but I did not include those in this post just to focus on the other trails.
Trails
Solitaire Lake – Huntsville
Solitaire Lake is located in Limberlost forest and is one of my favourite areas to hike! Such a hidden gem, At this specific trail you hike the perimeter of the lake, and finish up at a lookout. Please note that there are waterfront cabins (that you can stay at) that you will be coming across so please be respectful and follow the marked detours to not disturb the fellow visitors. Another thing to note is that there is a waiver on the Limberlost website that is required to be filled out prior to arrival. Parking here is free, too!
Buck Lake – Huntsville
Buck Lake is also located in Limberlost forest and it is a smaller lake that you hike the perimeter of. I don’t really have a preference of Solitaire or Buck Lake, they are both beautiful and are a mix of rugged trail and boardwalks with lookouts over each lake. Best enjoyed in Summer or Fall, but they are open in Winter and have Winter activities available.
Hunters Bay – Huntsville
Any fellow boardwalk lovers out there? At Hunters Bay there is a lakeside boardwalk to enjoy. I personally prefer it at sunset!
Hardy Lake – Gravenhurst
Hardy Lake has 2 hiking trails but I have only done one which is the 8KM loop. I love this trail because it has a mix of scenery types that you will encounter along your way – my favorite portion of the trail being the iconic boardwalk spot about halfway in.
Peninsula Trail – Gravenhurst
I found this trail on AllTrails one day when searching for a hike to do with my toddlers and now it’s a common trail for us when we’re in the area! You can either just hike to the point and enjoy the views of the lake and rocks, or you can continue to walk the pier and checkout the beverages, treats, shops and boats. This is another great sunset spot and hidden gem!
Huckleberry Rock – Milford Bay
This trail is uphill for the first section but my toddlers are capable of doing it (if that gives you any motivation). This is such a beautiful area year round, but can be a little tricky to navigate around the top if you aren’t familiar with it because there are no clear trail markings. I definitely recommend AllTrails for following this one, you’ll know you are at the main lookout once you see the Adirondack Chairs…I mean, Muskoka Chairs.
Trails Featuring Waterfalls
Wilsons Falls – Bracebridge
This is one of my favorite gems in Muskoka because it’s a cute little hiking area but also a great little “beach” day area – not that it is sandy, but it has rock formations that create shallow pools to lounge in on a hot day.
High Falls, Potts Falls & Little High Falls – Bracebridge
Muskoka’s most popular waterfalls. Parking is only open in warmer seasons and it can get busy but I definitely recommend viewing the waterfalls and walking to each waterfall. This area is so beautiful and I find that photos here always look great because the lighting through the trees always looks so romantic.
Hatchery Falls – Muskoka Lakes
Hatchery Falls is a beautiful waterfall that I highly recommend checking out if you’re in the area! But please note that it is also not a very well marked trail, so finding it is best done with an app like AllTrails. (Hey AllTrails, want to sponsor me?)
Roadside Stops
Lions Lookout – Huntsville
I have seen this lookout documented as a 1 – 2 KM hike but when I visited I drove to the top of the road and parked in the free parking lot and only took a few steps to be at the lookout. A beautiful sunrise spot!
Dorset Tower & Peak-a-boo Rock – Dorset
It currently costs $2.50 to walk in here and about $12 to drive in here. Peak-a-boo Rock is a cute lookout of the lake, and it does have a fence. Dorset tower is great to test if you’re afraid of heights as the stairs are quite steep and narrow. The very top of the tower is full boxed in so I actually prefer the views from the stairs here. There are also outhouses and a gift shop here!
Walkers Point – Muskoka Lakes
This is just under 1KM so I’m considering it a roadside stop here. Once you reach the lookout point you’ll be greeted with two Muskoka chairs and beautiful views of treetops and lakes in the distance. I personally love this stop in the Fall the most. Wear bug spray in Spring/Summer!
So, what do you think – will Muskoka be your next trip to soak in all the views and lake life?
Did you know…
- Muskoka has over 1600 lakes
- “Muskoka chairs” are crafted from Ontario pine or cedar and designed specifically for relaxing with a view of the lake
- Muskoka has its own style of lakeside cottage architecture
Until next time,
Keep on trekkin’
Kate 🥾 🌲
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