When summer heat meets Muskoka magic, there's no better way to cool down than embarking on Huntsville's delicious ice cream trail. Huntsville offers a sweet collection of frozen treats that will satisfy every craving, from authentic Italian gelato to delicious frozen yogurt and of course all your favourite flavours of traditional ice cream. Whether you're a local looking for a new favourite or a visitor wanting to taste the best of Muskoka, Huntsville's ice cream scene promises unforgettable flavours and experiences.
Riverfront Entrance, 72 Main St E
Start your sweet journey in downtown Huntsville at Affogato Cafe + Gelato, Muskoka's destination for authentic Italian gelato flavours and products. This European-style café produces artisan quality Italian gelato by the scoop, in the form of cake, or even as a gelato bar or bite. On top of this, Affogato also offers specialty coffees, pastries and desserts—some with gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options.
For a truly unique experience, catch their Gelato Barge on weekends as they cruise Huntsville's lakes, bringing authentic Italian treats directly to your dock or cottage.
This sweet addition to downtown Huntsville features the famous Canadian pastries company's first location in Muskoka. BeaverTails offers a truly Canadian treat that's been delighting taste buds since 1978—hand-stretched, whole-wheat pastries that are both crispy and chewy, served piping hot and topped with an array of mouthwatering flavors.
The Huntsville shop offers a collection of classic ice cream products, including ice cream cones and cups crafted with the warm, comforting flavours of cinnamon and sugar pastry, then elevated with delicious toppings and mix-ins.
Belly Ice Cream makes everything with an obsessive attention to detail, creating artisan ice cream that showcases exceptional quality and craftsmanship. This local gem offers handcrafted chef-inspired flavours that showcase the taste of Muskoka.
Popular flavours include the delicious Blueberry Cheesecake, Chocolate Dipped Strawberry, White Chocolate Lemon, and the Obscene Chocolate Brownie.
Chocolato is a chocolate lover's paradise that boasts an impressive selection of 20 different dips, all crafted from 100% pure chocolate, offering endless possibilities to satisfy your sweet tooth. This unique establishment specializes in soft ice cream, gelato and sundaes, as well as drinkable desserts, dessert pizzas, waffles, fondues and more.
Whether you're craving a classic treat or yearning for a more adventurous creation, Chocolato has something to delight every palate.
A reliable stop on your ice cream trail, Dairy Queen offers their classic soft-serve treats, Blizzards, and signature cakes. Perfect for families seeking familiar favourites, Dairy Queen provides consistent quality and the beloved DQ experience that has made it a staple across Canada.
Kawartha Dairy's Huntsville store offers their full range of premium ice creams made with quality ingredients and traditional methods that have made them a beloved Canadian brand. Known for their rich, creamy textures and authentic flavours, Kawartha Dairy provides an extensive selection of both classic and innovative varieties.
From traditional vanilla and chocolate to unique seasonal offerings and specialty flavours, there's something to satisfy every palate. Their commitment to using real ingredients and time-tested recipes ensures each scoop delivers the exceptional taste and quality that ice cream lovers expect.
The Nutty Chocolatier serves as a charming haven for dessert lovers, showcasing rich, smooth ice cream varieties within a warm, old-fashioned sweet shop setting. Guests can savour both artisanal ice cream and refreshing frozen yogurt choices, all presented in a welcoming space that captures the essence of a vintage confectionery. From classic cones topped with generous scoops to tangy frozen yogurt creations and an array of chocolates and confections, The Nutty Chocolatier creates an ideal atmosphere for enjoying chilled treats.
After working up an appetite exploring Huntsville's sweet treats, dive into the incredible outdoor activities that make this Muskoka destination truly special.
Water Adventures
Launch right from downtown Huntsville with rentals from Algonquin Outfitters and explore the scenic Muskoka River by canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Head west upstream to Hunter's Bay with stops at Avery Beach for picnics and beach volleyball, or paddle east downstream under the historic Swing Bridge toward Fairy Lake, where you might spot the antique steam train beneath Lion's Lookout.
Provincial Parks
Algonquin Provincial Park, with its vast expanse of forests, lakes, and rivers, is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike scenic trails like the Centennial Ridges Trail, paddle along Canoe Lake, or camp under the stars while spotting diverse wildlife including moose and over 260 species of birds.
Just minutes from downtown, Arrowhead Provincial Park offers picturesque hiking trails, sandy beaches, and canoeing opportunities. During summer, enjoy biking, birdwatching, and swimming in Arrowhead Lake.
Unique Experiences
Challenge yourself with an exhilarating aerial adventure at Treetop Trekking Huntsville, navigating through zip lines, swinging bridges, and obstacle courses set amidst the lush forest canopy.
For a truly unique and therapeutic adventure, take a goat for a walk at Muskoka Goat Away, strolling through serene forest trails and country lanes with friendly goats on leads.
Cultural Attractions
Art lovers will appreciate the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, an open-air exhibit showcasing murals inspired by the famous Canadian painters and the man who inspired them, Tom Thomson.
You can even step back in time at Muskoka Heritage Place, a local favourite featuring a pioneer village, museum, and scenic train ride.
Scenic Views and Recreation
Take a short but steep hike to Lion's Lookout for breathtaking vistas—a must-visit spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Golfers can enjoy stunning fairways and challenging holes at golf courses across Huntsville, with breathtaking views of Muskoka's natural landscapes.
Turn your ice cream adventure into a memorable getaway by booking an overnight stay in Huntsville. The town offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget, from cozy lakeside cottages to full-service resorts and family-friendly hotels.
Many accommodations feature stunning lake views, private beaches, and easy access to both downtown Huntsville's attractions and the surrounding natural wonders. Whether you prefer the luxury of a resort spa, or the rustic charm of a Muskoka cottage, you'll find the perfect base for your sweet adventure.
Huntsville's ice cream trail offers more than just delicious treats—it's a journey through one of Ontario's most beautiful regions, where every scoop comes with a side of Muskoka magic. From authentic Italian gelato to your favourite flavours of traditional ice cream, this trail promises sweet memories that will last long after the last bite.