When autumn arrives in Muskoka, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of gold, amber, and crimson. Huntsville, nestled in the heart of this stunning region, serves as the perfect base for exploring some of Ontario's most spectacular fall foliage. This 4-day itinerary will guide you through the best lookouts, hiking trails, and local experiences that make Muskoka's autumn season truly unforgettable.
Click HERE to view the Muskoka Fall Colour Report to see the status of the colour change in the leaves!
Start your Muskoka fall colours adventure right in the heart of Huntsville. Begin your morning with a coffee from one of the charming downtown cafes - whether it's the artisanal brews at Affogato Café + Gelato, the cozy atmosphere of Downtown Espresso, the sweet treats at The Nutty Chocolatier, or the welcoming vibe at Threshold.
With your caffeine fix in hand, head to the Hunters Bay Trail for a gentle warm-up hike. This scenic trail features a unique floating dock portion that offers stunning water-level views of the fall foliage reflecting in the calm waters below. The trail provides an intimate introduction to Muskoka's autumn beauty before the day's main event.
The highlight of Day 1 is Lions Lookout, offering incredible panoramic views of Fairy Lake, the Muskoka River, and the entire downtown core of Huntsville. From this elevated vantage point, you'll witness a spectacular 360-degree canvas of fall colours stretching across the town and surrounding forests. The lookout provides the perfect opportunity for photography and quiet contemplation of nature's autumn masterpiece.
After soaking in the views, immerse yourself in local history at the Muskoka Heritage Place, where you can explore two fascinating museums and wander through an authentic pioneer village (open until mid-October). Also, don’t miss the chance to ride the historic Portage Flyer Train (open until mid-October) - a delightful way to see more fall scenery while learning about the region's railway heritage.
As evening approaches, return to Main Street for dinner on one of the downtown waterfront patios. Whether you choose the casual atmosphere of On the Docks Pub, the family-friendly Boston Pizza, or prefer waterfront views at Mill on Main or That Little Place by the Lights, you'll dine surrounded by the golden hues of autumn reflected in the water.
Day 2 takes you deeper into Muskoka's wilderness at Arrowhead Provincial Park. The short trail to Big Bend Lookout leads to an elevated deck offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and a fascinating glimpse into geological history - an exposed river delta left over from the ice age. This unique landscape feature, combined with the surrounding fall foliage, creates a truly memorable vista.
Before heading to Arrowhead, treat yourself to some local baked goods at Henrietta's Pine Bakery or Windmill Bakery - perfect fuel for your hiking adventure and a taste of authentic Muskoka hospitality.
After enjoying the panoramic views at Big Bend Lookout, extend your day with the Arrowhead Lake Trail, a 5.1-kilometre loop that winds around the perimeter of Arrowhead's major lake. This longer hike provides multiple vistas overlooking the lake and passes through a wetland area where Great Blue Herons are often spotted among the autumn reeds and colourful trees.
After working up a thirst on the trails, return to downtown Huntsville to experience the local craft beer scene. Both Canvas Brewing Co. and Huntsville Brewhouse offer excellent locally-brewed beverages and delicious food in welcoming atmospheres - the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking while reflecting on the day's natural beauty.
Prepare for an incredible driving tour as you venture out to the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower. This impressive observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views from 142 metres (456 feet) above Lake of Bays, providing one of the most expansive fall colour vistas in the region. For those who prefer to keep their feet closer to the ground, Peek-a-boo Rock offers an equally spectacular view across Dorset from a more accessible location.
The journey along Highway 60 is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to add excitement to your autumn experience. Stop at Treetop Trekking to glide through the colourful canopy on ziplines and aerial courses, or visit Find You Wild Muskoka to try your hand at archery and axe throwing surrounded by the vibrant woods.
Art enthusiasts will discover that this route is part of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery trail. While the main gallery is located in Huntsville, you'll encounter these stunning outdoor murals throughout your journey to Dorset, including stops in Dwight, Dorset itself, and Baysville. These artworks celebrate the same landscapes that inspired Canada's famous Group of Seven painters, making your fall colours tour a cultural experience as well.
Satisfy your appetite along the Highway 60 corridor with local favorites like 3 Guys and a Stove, Farmer's Daughter, or sample the diverse offerings from the various food trucks that dot this scenic route.
Dedicate your final day to exploring the legendary Algonquin Provincial Park, home to some of Ontario's most pristine wilderness and spectacular autumn displays. The Lookout Trail, a 2.1-kilometre loop, is fairly steep and rugged but rewards hikers with a magnificent view of several hundred square kilometres of Algonquin's endless forest canopy painted in fall colours.
Consider extending your Algonquin experience with a peaceful paddle on one of the park's many pristine lakes, where you can witness the fall foliage from a unique water-level perspective. The mirror-like reflections of colourful trees in the still water create some of the most photographable moments of your entire trip.
Continue following the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery trail with the final murals located at Oxtongue Lake and within Algonquin itself at the Portage Store. Visit the Algonquin Visitor Centre to learn about the park's natural history, explore the Algonquin Logging Museum (open until mid-October), or browse the Algonquin Art Centre (open until mid-October) to see how local artists capture the beauty you've been experiencing firsthand.
After a full day immersed in Algonquin's wilderness, return to Huntsville for dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants our town offers, reflecting on four days of incredible natural beauty and memorable experiences.
At the end of every day, Huntsville's vibrant community ensures there's always something happening after dark. Depending on when you visit, you might catch a live theatre show, test your knowledge at local trivia nights, or enjoy live music from talented local musicians. The town's evening entertainment scene perfectly complements the natural beauty you've experienced during the day, offering a chance to connect with locals and fellow travellers while sharing stories of your autumn adventures.
To fully experience everything Huntsville and the surrounding Muskoka region have to offer, booking an overnight stay is essential. The town offers a wonderful variety of accommodations, from hotels to rustic cottages. Staying locally allows you to experience the community's warm hospitality, enjoy leisurely mornings without the rush of day-trip schedules, and truly immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of Muskoka life. Whether you prefer lakefront views, downtown convenience, or secluded forest settings, Huntsville's accommodation options ensure you'll find the perfect base for your fall colours adventure.