Spring has nearly sprung in Muskoka!
Nothing better than seeing the arrival of spring in Muskoka; warmer weather, melting snow, budding trees, and blooming flowers! Immerse yourself in the lively forests and secluded waterways. Embark on a wildflower hike and uncover delicate orchids, enjoy the melodies of birds, paddle towards roaring waterfalls, and explore the renowned Maple Trail of the region. There’s no better time to start planning your spring fling getaway than right now!
Enjoy the Outdoors
There are so many options for hikers to choose from in the springtime. In Gravenhurst and Bala, you can find lady slipper orchids and trilliums along the granite shorelines as well as in the hardwood forests of Hardy Lake Provincial Park. Nearby, in the Torrance Barrens Conservation Area you can find carnivorous sundew and pitcher plant in the wetlands. In Lake of Bays, the Limberlost Forest & Wildlife Reserve has 70 km of scenic trails that lead to lakes, lookouts, and mossy woodlands.
Bracebridge, commonly referred to as the heart of Muskoka, is renowned as the prime destination for mountain biking enthusiasts in the region. Located adjacent to Highway 11 North, the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre boasts an extensive network of 19 km woodland trails that run parallel to the Muskoka River. LIV Outside, situated in Bracebridge, offers self-guided half or full day cycling tours with a range of networks and trails suitable for riders of all expertise levels. Visitors can enjoy the ease of renting all necessary equipment from LIV Outside without the hassle of transporting their own equipment for a seamless experience. There are plenty of other locations to explore for cycle touring, training and trekking.
Paddle by Muskoka’s Beautiful Waterfalls
The optimal period for canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding along the river and catching sight of the breathtaking waterfalls is from spring to early summer. Bracebridge offers a chance to paddle on the Muskoka River and admire the splendid South Falls, which holds the record for the tallest vertical drop waterfall in the region. If you are on the fringes of Algonquin Park, then you can take pleasure in a half-day paddle in the wilderness, starting from Oxtongue Lake and culminating at Ragged Falls. There are many waterfalls to explore in Muskoka!
Family Attractions
Looking for activities for the whole family that are appropriate in any weather conditions? Muskoka is home to incredible attractions, art and culture exhibits and family fun!
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Muskoka Discovery Centre: Located in Gravenhurst, the Muskoka Discovery Centre offers interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the history, culture, and natural environment of the Muskoka region. Families can learn about the area’s steamship heritage, explore hands-on exhibits, and enjoy scenic views of Lake Muskoka. Don’t miss the 9 million expansion featuring the Muskoka Story.
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Muskoka Escape Room – ZigZag: Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Muskoka’s escape room. Where families work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and escape from themed Muskoka rooms within a set time limit. It’s a fun and challenging activity that encourages teamwork and communication.
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Indoor Sports Facilities – Climb Muskoka: Climb Muskoka is a 6,400 sq. ft indoor rock climbing facility in Bracebridge. Take in a full range of bouldering terrain, 33′ route walls with top rope, lead and auto belay stations. A second story mezzanine has space for stretching, free weights and cardio equipment.
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Art Galleries and Studios: Explore Muskoka’s vibrant arts scene by visiting local art galleries and studios, where families can admire works by local artists and even participate in hands-on art workshops or classes. It’s a great way to unleash your creativity and support the local arts community. Don’t miss the self led Group of Seven tour in Downtown Huntsville.
- Connect with a goat and nature. Walking a goat is a fun family friendly activity that’s suitable for all ages? Consider trying out Muskoka Goat Away! Their charming goats are easy to walk on a lead, and they will take you through lovely forest trails and country lanes, tailoring the experience to your abilities. They’ll go at your pace and let the goats help you unwind and de-stress. Simply put, with goats and walking, happiness is guaranteed!
Goats + Walking = Happiness– - Shopping and Dining: While not specifically geared toward families, Muskoka’s downtown core’s offer boutiques, and restaurants that provide a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Enjoy a leisurely day of shopping or treat yourselves to a delicious meal at one of Muskoka’s many restaurants or breweries.
Attend an Event
Muskoka hosts world-class events every season of the year. From rocking musicians, art tours, brewery tours and so much more. Click here to access the event calendar.
March 10 – April 26: Maple Bush Wagon at Back of Beyond Equine Centre
March 15: Enjoy songs of Brett Kissel at the JW Marriott Muskoka.
March 15: Lennon.Live: Love Is Real at the Algonquin Theatre
March 19: Snowed In Comedy Tour at the Gravenhurst Opera House
March 21: Alan Doyle Welcome Home Tour at Deerhurst Resort (By HFA)
Mar 21: The Alphabet of Awesome Science at Algonquin Theatre (By HFA)
March 22: Grace 2: Celebrating The Tragically Hip at Algonquin Theatre
March 26: Ladysmith Black Mambazo (By HFA)
March 29: Elton Rohn Tribute at Gravenhurst Opera House (By Peter’s Players)
April 4: It’s Too Late to Stop Now, the Music of Van Morrison at Gravenhurst Opera House
April 12: The Jim Cuddy Band at JW Marriott
April 18: Gowan at Algonquin Theatre (By HFA)
April 25: The Celine Experience at Gravenhurst Opera House
April 26: Hells Bells (AC/DC Tribute) at Gravenhurst Opera House
April 26: Muskoka Maple Festival
May 2: The Traveling Milburys at Gravenhurst Opera House
May 3: Mudmen in Concert at Gravenhurst Opera House
May 9: Ron James: Not Nearly Done Yet at Algonquin Theatre
May 9 – 25: Muskoka Arts and Crafts Spring Art Show
May 10: Chilliwack at JW Marriott
May 10: The Alan Jackson Experience at Gravenhurst Opera House
May 16: Dylan Gosett at Kee to Bala
May 17: Muskoka 2/4 Craft Beer Festival in Huntsville
May 24: Spin the Lakes Tour
May 24: Cypress Hill: O Canadabis 2025 at Kee to Bala
May 24 – 25: Muskoka Cottage & Lifestyle Show
May 30: The Bowie Lives at Gravenhurst Opera House
May 31: The Spirit of Patsy Cline at Gravenhurst Opera House
Spring in Muskoka is quickly approaching, so don’t miss out on all the spring fun to be had! Whether you’re looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, to revitalize your sense of adventure or get in touch with nature, do it in the fresh Muskoka air! Book your getaway before it’s too late and get that spring back in your step!
