Sure, you’ve been to Muskoka in the summer, but have you seen it in the fall?
Muskoka is known for some of Canada’s best fall colours, as the canopy of leaves changes to a kaleidoscope in September. “Fall might just be the best time to be in Muskoka,” says Val Hamilton, the Executive Director of Muskoka Tourism. “The fall colours are mesmerizing, paired with quiet trails and fantastic water temps.”
Those looking to experience the early fall colours have plenty of options.
Dorset Fire Tower is one of the most popular destinations in Muskoka during the autumn colour explosion. Situated on a ridge overlooking Lake of Bays, the fire tower itself is 100 feet high and 465 feet in total above the lake.
Visitors and locals have been making the trek up Huckleberry Rock in Milford Bay for more than a century. Hikers can take a seat on a rock formation that is one of the oldest on the planet and enjoy the sunset over Lake Muskoka.
Just north of Gravenhurst off Highway 169, the Walker’s Point Lookout remained a hidden gem for years. Recently renovated by the Township of Muskoka Lakes, the one km lookout trail, known locally as Berry Mountain, provides another stunning view over Lake Muskoka.
Superb stargazing
When the lights go out, Muskoka offers an entirely different type of breathtaking experience. A canvas of stars explodes across the night sky, offering some of the best stargazing experiences in central Ontario.
The world-famous Torrance Barrens dark sky preserve presents an unparalleled opportunity to view the celestial ballet in all its glory. A photographer’s dream, this is a 4,000-acre, fully preserved conservation area protected from urban lights. Lying atop a smooth granite rock bed, it offers numerous observation points for optimal viewing.
From late October until the end of November a new program called Astronomical Adventures Across Muskoka will allow stargazers to take part in planned hikes, enjoy music under the stars, and participate in guided stargazing experiences.
Cranberry season runs from September 20 until October 20, with the Muskoka Cranberry Route featuring 50-plus cranberry experiences and tasty treats across the region. During the world-famous Bala Cranberry Festival (October 18-20) there are wagon tours, wine tastings and the cranberry plunge, where visitors can put on a pair of hip waders and then climb into the bog with the bright red floating berries.
TEXT MATT DRISCOLL
