Muskoka Lakes
The Township of Muskoka Lakes, established in 1871, is the heart of Muskoka’s Big Three cottage region, renowned for its rugged beauty and pristine lakes. Originally inhabited by the Anishinaabe people, the area became a logging and farming hub in the mid-1800s. With the arrival of the Northern Railway in the late 19th century, tourism boomed as wealthy families from Toronto and the U.S. built grand summer retreats along its shores. By the early 20th century, Muskoka Lakes evolved into Canada’s premier cottage country, famous for its luxury lakefront estates, historic steamships, and wilderness charm. Today, it remains a world-class destination for boating, fishing, and lakeside living.
Tourist Destinations in Muskoka Lakes
- Port Carling – The “Hub of the Lakes” home to the Muskoka Lakes Museum, the iconic swing bridge, and boutique grocery and shopping stores.
- Bala – Known for Bala Falls, the Kee to Bala concert venue, and the Cranberry Festival (October).
- Windermere – A quaint village with the historic Windermere House resort and marina.
- Minett** – Luxury resort area on Lake Rosseau featuring the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka.
- Glen Orchard** – A quiet small lakeside community on pretty Butterfly Lake
- Torrance – Access point to Lake Muskoka again via Bala Bay and also home to the Dark Sky Preserve at the Torrence Barrens Park for stargazing.
- Foots Bay – A small village on Lake Joseph popular with boaters.
Key Attractions
- Muskoka Steamships (RMS Segwun, Wenonah II) – Historic cruises on Lakes Muskoka and Rosseau and Joseph.
- Hardy Lake Provincial Par – Hiking trails and scenic lake views. Many refer to as the best park in Muskoka.
- Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery -Fruit wines and farm-fresh products.
- Bala’s Moon River – Famous for its waterfalls and scenic boating and canoeing
- Wharf in Port Carling – Waterfront dining, shopping, and boat-watching and home to the bi-annual Muskoka Lakes Association antique boat show .
- Township of Muskoka Lakes: Canada’s #1 Inland Cottage Destination.
- The area is now synonymous with luxury lakefront cottages, attracting celebrities, business leaders, and families seeking a pristine wilderness escape. Reasons for its fame include:
- Three Major Lakes (Muskoka, Rosseau, Joseph) – Interconnected waterways perfect for boating.
- Historic Resorts – Like historic Clevelands House (now being redeveloped) and The Rosseau, currently offering high-end lakeside stays.
- Year-Round Appeal – Summer boating, fall foliage, winter cross country skiing, snowmobiling and spring summer fall and winter fishing.
- Exclusive Cottage Communities– Multi Million-dollar estates with private docks and stunning views.
- Hollywood North – A popular filming location for movies and TV shows.
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