Nature Takes Flight: Birding in Muskoka

Flock to Muskoka for 20+ guided birding events! Spot stunning birds, join expert guides & explore nature’s best-kept secrets! Running April 12th – May 10th. Register now to reserve your spot.

Discover the beauty of Muskoka’s birdlife with Dale, an avid local birder who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to every outing! Take in an event in every corner of Muskoka with different topics and birds on each outing.

Grab your binoculars and discover the beauty of Muskoka, one bird at a time!

Each event $10 + tax per person

Event Guide

April 12: Hutchenson Beach, Huntsville – “Birdability: Accessible Birding” 8:30am – 11:00am
April 12: Echo Valley Trails, Lake of Bays – “What Sings in the Night” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
April 13: Hunters Bay Trail, Huntsville – “Learning Backyard Birds” 8:00am – 11:00 am
April 19: Gravenhurst Wharf and Penninsula Trail (Meet at the Discovery Center) Gravenhurst – “Birdwatching Basics” 7:30am – 10:00am
April 19: Echo Valley Trails (Echo Hills Rd, Dwight) Lake of Bays – “What Sings at Night?” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
April 20: Gravenhurst Wharf and Peninsula Trail (Meet at Discovery Center), Gravenhurst – “Birdwatching Basics” 7:30am – 10:00am
April 20: Kahshe Barrens Trail, Gravenhurst – “Spring Migrants on a Barren Landscape” 12:00pm – 2:30pm
April 26: Kahshe Barrens Trail, Gravenhurst – “Spring Migrants on a Barren Landscape” 7:30am – 10:00am
April 26: Queen Elizabeth II Wetlands PP, Gravenhurst “Early Spring Warblers” 3:00pm – 6:00pm
April 27: Dyers Memorial, Huntsville “Birds & History” 8:00am – 10:00am
April 27: Coopers Falls Trail, Gravenhurst “Birdwatching Basics” 3:00pm – 6:00pm
May 3: Kerr Park, Bracebridge “A Birder Classic” 6:00am – 10:00am
May 3: Torrance Barrens, Muskoka Lakes “Whip-Poor-Will and Woodcocks” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
May 4: Bracebridge Resource Management Centre, Bracebridge “Birds of a Pine Forest” 6:00am – 9:00am
May 4: Limberlost Forest, Lake of Bays “Wonders of Warblers” 6:30am – 9:30am
May 10: Schoolhouse Trail, Georgian Bay “Georgian Bay without the Bay” 6:30am – 9:00am
May 10: Hunters Bay Trail, Huntsville “A Song in the Air” 6:00am – 9:00am
May 10: Fairy Vista Trail, Huntsville “Wonders of Woodcocks” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
May 11: Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville “A Song is in the Air” 6:30am – 9:30am
May 11: Torrance Barrens, Muskoka Lakes “Whip-poor-wills and Woodcocks“ 5:30pm – 9:00pm

Your Birding Guide Dale

Dale is a passionate birder and outdoor enthusiast who has spent his life immersed in nature. Growing up in Muskoka, he was always drawn to the outdoors, but it was while hiking the region’s many trails that he first developed a keen eye for birds. A transformative moment in his early twenties—witnessing hundreds of ducks and several Sandhill Cranes—ignited a lifelong fascination.
In recent years, Dale has guided birding experiences in renowned locations such as Point Pelee National Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, and McGregor Point Provincial Park. His mission is to share his love for birds and nature, both to educate and inspire. He believes that birds connect us all—no borders, no fences—wherever you are, you can watch birds.

Local Birding Tips

The Lake of Bays Garden Centre is a must-stop for birdfeeders. Choose from one of their many different birdfeeder styles to welcome these feathered friends into your yard. They also offer a variety of birdseed, including suet cakes, logs, peanuts, and specialty mixes that birds will be sure to love.

Insider tip: peanuts are a favourite snack among birds. Order some peanut pickouts from the Lake of Bays Garden Centre to attract Blue Jays, Woodpeckers, and Cardinals to your backyard feeders.

Cacao Boys in Bala makes Easter Chick Chocolate Bonbons around the long weekend! The perfect treat after your birding adventures.

Where To Stay?

65 Places to Stay

Muskoka is home to 65 accommodators who are open year-round! From hotels, motels, cottage rentals, cottage resorts, bed and breakfasts and large family resorts. Find the perfect place for you.
Spring is a great time to visit with some of the best rates of the year!

Visiting over Easter? Explore dedicated Easter Getaway Packages from April 18 – 21.
Explore all Packages and Last Minute Getaways!

What Trails To Visit?

Spring in Muskoka offers hikers a variety of scenic trails showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Here are some notable options:

Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail: This 2.5 km trail near Milford Bay provides panoramic views of Lake Muskoka, especially rewarding during springtime. Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail
Hardy Lake Provincial Park Trail: An 8 km loop featuring serene lakeside views and diverse ecosystems, ideal for spring exploration. Hardy Lake Provincial Park Trail
Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve: Offering extensive trails through mixed forests and around pristine lakes, this reserve is perfect for spring hikes. Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve
Skeleton Lake Fish Hatchery Trail: A 1 km easy trail winding past naturalized hatchery ponds and along the river flowing from Skeleton Lake, showcasing small waterfalls and rapids. Skeleton Lake Fish Hatchery Trail
Stubb’s Falls Trail: This 2.6 km trail in Arrowhead Provincial Park leads to a picturesque waterfall, with early spring offering vibrant wildflowers and active songbirds. Stubb’s Falls Trail

FAQ

Do events run in inclement weather?
Yes! Events will run in any weather. Please dress for the weather. Some of the best bird spottings happen in the rain!
Will there be walking involved?
In most events there will be a walk (1km – 4km) on a local trail. Expect frequent stops!
Are children welcome?
Children are welcome, but the events are longer (2 hours+) so they may lose interest.
What do I bring?
Walking shoes, rain gear, optional to bring binoculars or walking sticks
What is the cost to attend?
There is a $10 fee + tax to attend
Where do the events take place?
Events are held across all six communities in Muskoka, featuring various trails and unique locations. Our goal is to showcase the region’s beauty and diverse landscapes.
Is there parking? When do I arrive?
Free parking is available at every location – please arrive 10 minutes in advance to meet the group and your Guide.