Gravenhurst
Gravenhurst, known as the “Gateway to Muskoka and the North,” was settled in the 1860s and incorporated in 1887. Named after a British novel (Gravenhurst by William Henry Giles Kingston), the town became a key transportation hub with the arrival of the **Grand Trunk Railway (1862). Its location on the large and deep Muskoka Bay, which is connected to Lake Muskoka, made it a centre for steamship travel, logging, and tourism. Famous as the birthplace of Norman Bethune (renowned Canadian doctor and humanitarian), Gravenhurst remains a charming lakeside town nestled between the shores of Muskoka Bay and Gull Lake with a rich maritime heritage.
Top Tourist Destination
- RMS Segwun & Wenonah II (Muskoka Steamships)
- RMS Segwun (1887) is North America’s oldest operating mail steamship, offering scenic cruises on Lake Muskoka.
- Wenonah II is a modern replica of a classic steamship, providing dining and sightseeing tours.
- Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre (Grace & Speed)
- A museum showcasing Muskoka’s golden age of wooden boats, including the many famous and historic wooden launches.
- Features vintage boats, maritime artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
- Bethune Memorial House
- The restored childhood home of Dr. Norman Bethune, now a National Historic Site with exhibits on his medical and humanitarian work.
- Downtown Gravenhurst
- Charming boutiques, antique shops, and local artisans.
- Gull Lake Rotary Park & Muskoka Wharf
- A scenic waterfront area with picnic spots, a beach, and a boardwalk.
- Home to the steamship docks and summer events like the annual ACBS antique boat show, concerts and festivals.
- Walking & Hiking Trails
- Muskoka Beach Park Trail – Lakeside path with swimming access.
- Gravenhurst Centennial Trails – Forested trails for hiking and snowshoeing.
- Hardy Lake Provincial Park – A rugged, scenic hiking loop with lake views and very possibly the best park in all of Muskoka!
- Local Arts & Culture
- Gravenhurst Opera House– Historic venue hosting concerts, theatre, and events.
- Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour Showcases local artists.
Why Visit?
- Historic steamships & boat culture
- Scenic lakefront parks & trails
- Unique shopping & dining
- Rich heritage
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