The Great Canadian Wilderness is Calling (and it’s closer than you thought…)
In a year for Canadians to explore their own backyard and to embrace what it means to be a true “Canuck”, one region of Ontario not only offers iconic experiences to evoke your sense of national pride, but also easy access to them.
Located 2 hours north of Toronto, 2.5 hours west from Ottawa, and 1 hour south of North Bay, this region of Ontario is home to some of most popular vacation spots in the nation, including Canada’s oldest provincial park.
Where to Visit
Algonquin Park
Canada’s most famous provincial park is a bucket list travel destination for visitors from all over the world. Located just 2-1/2 hours north of Toronto and 3 hours from Ottawa by car, visitors to the park will find one of the most impressive landscapes in the nation, one that inspired members of Canada’s famous Group of Seven painters.
A nature lover’s paradise, in summer, paddlers in Algonquin Park can select from more than 2,000 kms of canoe routes with hundreds of campsites for setting up your headquarters. Fish, swim, hike and relax, and keep your eyes open for a mighty Canadian moose – you never know when one will cross your path!
For information on Algonquin Park (including permits and passes), visit Ontario Parks or the Friends of Algonquin Park. And be sure to stop in at the Visitor Centre. Looking for more parks to explore? There are plenty to choose from and private campgrounds too.
Almaguin
Just twenty minutes north of Muskoka, the Almaguin Highlands of Ontario features all that its neighbour to the south has to offer – but in its own unique way. This area is one of the province’s best kept secrets when it comes to places that are guaranteed to impress four-season travelers looking for something new to explore. With thousands of lakes and rivers, rolling hills and lush forests, and its location on the west side of beautiful Algonquin Park, this region is an outdoor enthusiast’s undiscovered dream come true.
From the largest freshwater lake in North America without an island (Lake Bernard in Sundridge) to the beautiful Magnetawan River, from historic villages with captivating heritage, shops and dining, to charming festivals and events, the Almaguin Highlands offers visitors much to discover.
Find numerous outfitters who’ll help prepare you for a visit into Algonquin Park (via multiple westerly access points) or Mikisew Provincial Park, meet members of the local arts community who will welcome you when you stop by one of the numerous studios and galleries that dot the region, and marvel at the Screaming Heads art installation in Burk’s Falls, recognized as one of Ontario’s most unique attractions.
For more information on the Almaguin Highlands of Ontario, visit ExploreAlmaguin.ca
Loring-Restoule
At the northern tip of this region you’ll find one of Ontario’s hidden gem destinations. Check out two provincial parks nearby (Restoule and Grundy), outdoor pursuits from boating and fishing to hiking and paddling, and lot of traditional Ontario vacation accommodations, from cottage resorts to pitching a tent on Crown Land.
Take a trip across Highway 522 to check out the Golden Valley, Commanda (including the amazing Commanda Museum!), Port Loring (visit the Port Shores) and more unique stops, and then detour north on Highway 524 to visit beautiful Restoule (including a visit to Board’s Honey Farm). The entire intersection of 522/524 is one of the nicest road trips in the province. This is off the grid as nature intended, and it doesn’t get much better than this for those who really want to “get away from it all”.
For more information, visit LoringRestoule.com
Muskoka
With a backdrop of thousands of sparkling freshwater lakes and majestic forests, Muskoka is a world-renowned vacation spot that offers exceptional accommodation, shopping, dining, golf, entertainment, and outdoor adventure – all in an unforgettable wilderness setting.
Known for the iconic Canadian resorting tradition, Muskoka is home to some of the nation’s finest accommodations. Hotels, motels, B&Bs, inns and campgrounds are also available to suit every traveler, from those who like a pampered vacation to those who enjoy roughing it in a tent. This is Ontario’s hot spot for family adventures, with everything from amusement parks (Santa’s Village!) to water parks at local resorts waiting to entertain. There are tons of fun museums and exhibits, including the Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame and the Misko-Aki Indigenous experience at the Muskoka Discovery Centre. And don’t forget the golf – over 30 courses including championship properties await the golf fanatics in the family.
Muskoka is also a designated arts community, and artists and studios are everywhere. Studio tours abound as well, including the Artists of the Limberlost summer event. Not to be missed is the Muskoka Arts & Crafts Annual Summer Show at Annie Williams Park in Bracebridge.
Culinary adventures await as well, with five craft breweries and one winery to be found here: Canvas Brewing Co., Clear Lake Brewing Co., Lake of Bays Brewing Co. (which includes their flagship location in Baysville, as well as the Huntsville Brewhouse and Bracebridge Barrelhouse) Muskoka Brewery, Sawdust City Brewing Co., and the Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery. Head to the famous cranberry marsh in Bala all year round, and sample all sorts of products made from the ruby red berry.
There’s always something happening in Muskoka – events in every season. From the summer concerts at the iconic Kee to Bala and the Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival, to the simple pleasure of lazying on a dock all day.
For more information, visit Muskoka Tourism
West Parry Sound District
Nestled on the rugged shores of Canada’s largest fresh water archipelago and part of the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Mnidoo Gamii, the west Parry Sound district is home to some of Ontario’s best outdoor adventuring.
From guided paddle tours with Georgian Bay Tours to expeditions with Diamond Waters Sailing, to on-and-off road cycling with rentals from Parry Sound Bikes, the area is a four-season magnet for on-the-water and on-the-trails enthusiasts (snowmobiling, anyone?) And don’t forget all the fabulous golf courses, including Manitou Ridge, Seguin Valley Golf Club and Parry Sound Golf & Country Club.
From Parry Sound harbour you can set out along the region’s famous shoreline with 30,000 Islands Cruise Lines aboard the Island Queen or Islander X, or enjoy a dinner cruise on the MV Chippewa III. Get a birds-eye-view of this remarkable ecosystem during a flight with Lake Country Airways and take a guided island tour, or just enjoy the scenery from the float plane as you head out to lunch at the world famous Henry’s Fish Restaurant on Frying Pan Island. You can take a guided fishing expedition out of Georgian Bay Marina or spend the day visiting the makers of “Made in Parry Sound.”
Explore the stunning provincial parks located nearby, including Killbear, Massassauga, Oastler Lake, Grundy, Sturgeon Bay and French River – and take part in interpretive programming during the summer months to learn a little bit more about wildlife and ecosystems in this part of Ontario. You can also traverse the Park-to-Park Trail system – over 200kms of linking trails, and naturalist and Indigenous representatives from the Georgian Bay Biosphere Mnidoo Gamii also sometimes offer guided opportunities to explore this unique ecological area.
Visit Downtown Parry Sound, check out the fascinating exhibits at the West Parry Sound District Museum, then afterwards head up the iconic on-site fire tower for an exceptional view of the bay, or enjoy a rest among the beautiful displays of Tower Hill Heritage Garden. Also discover the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts (home to great concerts, the Bands on the Bay series in summer, and the world-renowned classical music Festival of the Sound).
When you’re ready to experience some local flavor, enjoy dining at one of the many fine eateries located here. And if you’re a craft beer enthusiast then you’re in luck – the west Parry Sound district has two: Norse Brewery is located just north of town in Nobel and you’ll find Trestle Brewing Company nestled just underneath its namesake landmark, the Parry Sound Trestle Bridge, which was once painted by legendary Canadian artist Tom Thomson. And if you’re into craft spirits you’ll want to check out Legend Spirits Co., they can be found here too.
Additionally, there are many incredible marinas that dot the coast, welcoming sailors and motorboaters alike. Be sure to explore all the municipalities of the west Parry Sound district, each with their own unique sense of place and wonderful stops along the way.
For more information, visit Parry Sound Tourism
South Algonquin
Just outside the East Gate of Algonquin Provincial Park, discover South Algonquin, a diverse and unspoiled four-season wilderness destination where you’ll find a less-travelled path into Canada’s oldest provincial park, and avoid the crowds found closer to the West Gate.
Explore the headwaters of the mighty Madawaska River that flows along the borders of this beautiful region (all the way to Ottawa!) or venture onto one of the many quiet lakes found here, which offer both solitude and serenity. Seek out unique accommodations – from waterfront resorts to off-the-grid camping and glamping – and immerse yourself in the incredible landscapes that are everywhere you turn.
Plan a guided trip with knowledgeable staff at outfitters located in Whitney and Madawaska, or join them for a guided trip into the woods. Discover what inspires the local artists at the Whitney Village Market, learn about the rich logging history of the area at J.R. Booth Park, explore the expansive trail systems that traverse the region, treat yourself to a homemade meal from any one of the locally-owned establishments here, and end your day with camera-in-hand while you enjoy some of the most spectacular dark sky viewing Ontario has to offer.
For more information, visit MySouthAlgonquin.ca
Accommodations to Suit Every Traveler
Whether you prefer rustic camping or luxurious resorts, the Great Canadian Wilderness just north of Toronto has accommodations to match your preference:
Planning Your Visit
- Camping: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry sites allow you to immerse yourself in nature.
- Cottage Resorts: Experience the quintessential Canadian getaway with a stay at a lakeside cottage resort.
- Hotels and Motels: Convenient and comfortable options are available throughout the region.
- Inns and Bed & Breakfasts: Enjoy personalized hospitality and charming accommodations.
- Luxury Resorts: Indulge in upscale amenities and services at one of the area’s premier resorts.
- B&Bs: Meet with friendly hosts and enjoy more intimate hospitality.
