The Six Regions at a Glance
Muskoka splits into six municipal regions: Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, Muskoka Lakes, Lake of Bays, and Georgian Bay. The district stretches from Algonquin Park's edge in the east to Georgian Bay's windswept shore in the west.
Pick the region first and the resort second: each area has every resort type, but a completely different feel.
Gravenhurst: The Gateway
First town off the highway and home of the Muskoka Wharf, the steamships, the Muskoka Discovery Centre, and Sawdust City Brewing. Muskoka Bay Resort and Taboo sit here, along with Gull Lake's beach and free summer concerts.
Best for: first-timers, golf trips, cruise lovers, and anyone arriving by the returning Northlander train.
Bracebridge and Huntsville: The Working Hearts
Bracebridge is the waterfall town, with High Falls, Wilson's Falls, and Bracebridge Falls around a lively downtown, plus Santa's Village and Muskoka Brewery. Best for families and trail walkers.
Huntsville is the biggest town and the north's hub, close to Algonquin Park, Arrowhead's skating trail, Hidden Valley skiing, Deerhurst, and a 30-plus event summer arts festival. Best for four-season trips and Algonquin day runs.
Muskoka Lakes, Lake of Bays, and Georgian Bay
Muskoka Lakes township holds the classic postcard: Port Carling, the "Hub of the Lakes" at the locks between Lake Muskoka and Rosseau; Bala, the cranberry capital; and Windermere's grand old resort shoreline. Best for couples and boaters.
Lake of Bays is quieter cottage country around Baysville and Dwight, with the S.S. Bigwin, the Dorset lookout tower, and the 16 km Heritage Trail. Best for unplugging.
Georgian Bay township brings island scenery, Honey Harbour, and the ferry to Beausoleil Island's national park trails. Best for paddlers and rugged-landscape lovers.
Match Yourself to a Base
Want walkable dinners and events? Gravenhurst or Huntsville. Want waterfalls and family attractions? Bracebridge. Want the quiet classic lakes? Muskoka Lakes or Lake of Bays. Want wild island water? Georgian Bay.
Then pick the stay type in resorts and lodges and lock dates with travel deals and packages. Driving details are in plan your trip.