Road trip to outdoor adventure, relaxation and fall colour in Muskoka

Just a few hours drive north of Toronto, the Muskoka region is famed for sparkling freshwater lakes, mixed wood forests, rocky Canadian shield formations and iconic wildlife. It’s also home to luxurious resorts, charming communities and endless outdoor activities.

The vivid landscape views of crimson, ochre and gold foliage during the fall season is the perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation in Muskoka.

And the best part? You’ll love how much more value your dollar has in Ontario, Canada.

Huntsville and Algonquin Park

Approx. distance and travel time from Toronto: 145-175 miles (235-280 kilometres), 3-3.5 hours

Nestled in the heart of some of Ontario’s most stunning landscapes, Huntsville and Algonquin Provincial Park are popular tourist destinations.

Serving as the gateway to Algonquin Park, Huntsville is surrounded by pristine lakes and mixed forests. This charming town has a vibrant arts scene, historic downtown, local shops and boutiques and a variety of great restaurants. Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most famous wilderness areas with a vast network of hiking trails and canoe routes.

Parking and permits

Parking in Huntsville: Free three-hour parking is available on Main Street or park for longer in free all-day public lots.

Algonquin Park Daily Vehicle Permit: Purchase a daily vehicle permit to visit and park in Algonquin (valid from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) Book your permit up to five days in advance and display it clearly on your vehicle’s dashboard.

Places to stay in Huntsville and Algonquin

Deerhurst Resort: Located just minutes from downtown Huntsville overlooking Peninsula Lake, Deerhurst offers a range of accommodations and an abundance of on-site activities like paddling, hiking and cycling as well as several dining options and a full schedule of entertainment year-round.
Location: 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville

Trillium Resort & Spa: Lakeview chalets facing the sparkling waters of Devine Lake and cozy cottages surrounded by towering hardwood trees provide the ultimate Muskoka experience. Open until October 31, 2023.
Location: 848 Clearwater Lake Road, Port Sydney

Arowhon Pines: Book an all-inclusive, secluded getaway in rustic lakeside log cabins in the forest. Open until October 8, 2023.
Location: Arowhon Road - Lease 1295, Algonquin Park

Killarney Lodge: Relax in your cozy cabin with lakefront porch and soak in the serene ambiance of the surrounding forest and sparkling waters. Open until October 22, 2023.
Location: ON-60, Algonquin Park

Bartlett Lodge: Stay in one of the “backwoods luxury” cabins or cottages and enjoy nature at your doorstep and fine dining in the most historic dining room in Algonquin Park. Open until October 22, 2023.
Location: Highway 60, KM 23, 7, Algonquin Park

Things to do in Huntsville

Treetop Trekking Huntsville: Swing, climb and zip through the forest canopy and see the splendor of fall colour from a different vantage point.
Location: 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville

Lions Lookout Trail: Find awe-inspiring views of Fairy Lake and the city of Huntsville from the Lions Lookout Trail, which is accessible via a short, uphill hike.
Location: Lookout Road, Huntsville

Huntsville Festival of the Arts: Musical, theatrical, dance and visual arts performances and exhibitions are held throughout the year.
Location: 37 Main Street East, Huntsville

Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve: This free network of well-maintained hiking trails through forest and along picturesque lakes vary in length and level of difficulty.
Location: South Limberlost Road, Huntsville

Golf at Deerhurst Resort: Play a round of golf at one of two classic Muskoka courses, beautiful Deerhurst Highlands and famed Deerhurst Lakeside.
Location: 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville

Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery: Take a self-guided tour of 90 murals honouring the art of Tom Thomson and the Group of Seven located in Huntsville and the surrounding region.

Things to do in Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Outfitters: Choose from a variety of guided and self-guided paddling day trips that vary in length and ease. After your excursion, grab a bite to eat at the Portage Grill at Canoe Lake or Lake of Two Rivers Café & Grill.
Locations: Guided excursions depart from their Canoe Lake, Lake Opeongo and Oxtongue Lake locations.

Algonquin Adventure Tours: From fishing, bicycling and canoeing trips to birding and fall colour tours, experience the best of Algonquin Park offer on a fully guided day trip.
Location: 1023 Cooper Lake Road, Dwight

Algonquin Logging Museum: Learn about the history of logging from the early timber days to present-day forestry management.
Location: Highway 60, Algonquin Park, Whitney

Where to eat and drink in Huntsville

Henrietta’s Pine Bakery: Styled after traditional European bakeries, Henrietta’s is a favourite with locals and visitors. Customers line up for their delicious baked goods and desserts including sticky buns, tarts and cakes.
Location: 92 King William Street, Huntsville and 2868 ON-60, Dwight

Beavertails: Satisfy your sweet tooth craving with a classic Canadian pastry coated with cinnamon sugar and other sweet toppings.
Location: 69 Main Street East, Huntsville

Tall Trees Muskoka: Upscale restaurant in a renovated heritage home featuring a seasonal, three-course menu, signature desserts and seasonally inspired cocktails. For something different, dine “alfresco” in one of the heated gazebos and keep an eye out for deer!
Location: 87 Main Street West, Huntsville

Canvas Brewing: Sample craft ales and lagers like the German-inspired or a smooth Ember ale with hints of toffee and caramel on the patio or in the taproom. Catch live music on most weekends.
Location: 12 John Street, Huntsville

That Little Place by the Lights: Rustic, home-cooked Italian dishes like pasta, gnocchi, pizza and lasagna plus a secret bar menu make this intimate eatery and seasonal patio a spot you’ll want to visit again.
Location: 76 Main Street East, Huntsville

Extend your trip: If you have extra time, take the opportunity to drive northwest to Parry Sound and embark on a sightseeing float plane tour with Georgian Bay Airways. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure over historic sights, natural wilderness, Georgian Bay’s rugged coastline and the 30,000 islands.
Location: 11A Bay Street, Parry Sound

Find more amazing things to do in Ontario.

If you are looking for more trip planning support, connect with one of our travel counsellors who can help you build your road trip itinerary.