With hundreds of lakes and rivers to explore, water is at the heart of Muskoka's adventurous spirit. Whether gliding along serene shorelines at sunrise or paddling peacefully down a river, it can feel like you're miles from civilization — even when you're mere minutes away from populated areas — just you and the water.
Watch for turtles and herons at waters' edge, a loon diving into the depths, or maybe even a moose munching on tasty aquatic plants.
Whatever your chosen vessel — canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) — paddling the lakes and rivers of Huntsville and Algonquin Park is an experience like no other. Explore solo, with friends or family, or hire a guide to show you the ropes and the best places to paddle.
In Canoe Country, celebrated Canadian author and former Huntsville resident Roy MacGregor writes: "If the canoe is not on the Canadian flag, it is most certainly to be found in the Canadian imagination."
A means of transport perfected by the Anishinaabek and Algonquin peoples of this region, the canoe has long been a favoured vessel by those who love the water. Canoeing is a quintessential Canadian experience — the canoe was even chosen as one of the seven wonders of Canada.
It's the ideal activity for a family or group of friends: pack a lunch and head out on the water for a day of fun, or plan a multi-day trip and explore deep into the wilderness.
While canoeing and paddling are often synonymous, don't forget about the kayak! Its design and double-bladed paddles can make it easier to paddle and manoeuvre, particularly for beginners.
We have the Inuit peoples of Canada, Alaska, and Greenland to thank for the kayak and its covered deck, which helped to protect them from cold seawater. Today, they make for an exciting way to experience the water solo or with a friend.
If you want to change up your perspective, try a stand-up paddleboard — it's the closest we can get to walking on water. From a SUP vantage point you can easily see down into the water as well as getting a better view of the horizon.
Originally a twist on surfing, stand-up paddleboards have made their way inland to lakes and rivers for an unparalleled flat-water experience.
If you have the desire but not the gear, outfitters in Huntsville can set you up with everything you'll need for a great day — or days — on the water.
Algonquin Outfitters in Huntsville, conveniently located right on Town Dock, offers canoe, kayak, and SUP rentals along with friendly tips for getting the most out of your paddling experience. The prime location makes it incredibly easy to rent your gear and launch directly into the heart of Huntsville's beautiful waterways, with downtown dining and attractions just steps away.
At the visitors' centre at Arrowhead Provincial Park, rent a canoe, kayak, or SUP and explore tranquil Arrowhead Lake or Mayflower Lake. Or make a day of it and paddle from Arrowhead Lake to the Little East River, make a short portage around Stubb's Falls, and carry on up the Big East River to the spectacular bluffs at the Big Bend. Pause at the sandy beach across from the bluffs and then let the river carry you back downstream the way you came.
After working up an appetite on the water, nothing beats paddling directly to some of Huntsville's incredible dining destinations. The unique experience of securing your canoe or kayak at a restaurant's dock and stepping straight from water to patio creates memories that last long after the meal ends. On the Docks Pub lives up to its name with a welcoming atmosphere and hearty fare perfect for hungry paddlers, while Boston Pizza offers familiar favourites with stunning water views. For those exploring downtown Huntsville via Town Dock, an exceptional array of culinary experiences awaits just steps from the shoreline. Canvas Brewing Co. serves up craft beers in a vibrant setting, while Mill on Main combines historic charm with contemporary flavours. Little Place by the Lights offers an intimate dining experience, and these represent just a taste of the diverse restaurant scene accessible to waterborne visitors. There's something magical about transitioning from the tranquil rhythm of paddling to the warm hospitality of a lakeside patio, making every meal feel like a celebration of Muskoka's water-centered lifestyle.
To truly immerse yourself in Huntsville's aquatic wonderland, consider extending your adventure with an overnight stay that lets you experience the waters from dawn to dusk. There's something transformative about waking up to mist rising off the lake and having immediate access to launch your paddle for a sunrise exploration, when the water is glass-smooth and wildlife is most active. Evening paddles offer their own magic, with the chance to hear loons calling across the water as the day settles into twilight. An overnight stay allows you to discover different paddling routes without the pressure of a day trip timeline, whether that's exploring hidden coves, taking leisurely lunch breaks on secluded beaches, or simply floating peacefully and watching clouds drift overhead. The rhythm of multi-day water exploration – paddling, dining, resting, and paddling again – creates a deeper connection to Muskoka's natural beauty and lets the stress of everyday life truly melt away with each paddle stroke.