Summer Activities in Bala-Muskoka

Muskoka is situated in the middle of three lakes – Muskoka, Rosseau and Joseph, making it home to scenic trails and beautiful views that you’ve got to try out!

Hardy Lake Provincial Park Trails run along the shores of Hardy Lake and feature beautiful Precambrian rock landscapes!

Distance from cottage: 22 minutes
Difficulty: moderate to difficult
Length of trails: 3 km to 8 km 

Highway 169, Torrance ON

Another great trail is Port Carling Mural Walk featuring a stride through the picturesque town of Port Carling. This is a great beginner trail with a total length of 2.5 km. For a more challenging option we highly suggest the Torrance Barrens Conservation Reserve. This beautiful area was designated as the world’s first permanent dark sky reserve. This striking land includes trails ranging from 3 km to 6km. The highlight of this park is the spectacular view of the night sky making it a must see for star-gazers!

If you are looking to rent boats, kayaks, water skis and more, check out Bala Cove Marina. They have been serving the community for over 15 years and offer a multitude of services and activities for the whole family! Another great option for boat rentals is the established Walkers Point Marina known for their outstanding quality and customer service. 

If you are feeling adventurous Summer Water Sports operates a marina on Lake Rosseau with Sea Doo and boat rentals. They also offer waterskiing, wakeboarding and flyboarding instruction. Lastly, they feature a ski show that has been a 50-year-old Muskoka summer tradition! Watch on land or by boat every Tuesday at 7:30 pm.  Another great option is SurfSkateFly, offering the thrill of surfing without the need of large waves! 

Distance from cottage

Bala Cove Marina: 15 minutes

Summer Water Sports: 30 minutes

If you are looking for a family friendly adventure, look to the sky! Muskoka has two aerial parks filled with games and zip line courses. 

Muskoka Zip Lines and Aerial Park is a great option for families. The park includes exciting activities such as taking a leap of faith from Jump Tower, zip lines and obstacle courses. Be sure to check out the combo packages and plan your day! Open for the season on May 16 through Thanksgiving. Treetop trekking is another option that offers ziplines, balance logs, wooden bridges and Tarzan swings. 

Distance from cottage

Muskoka Zip Lines and Aerial Park: 45 minutes

Treetop trekking: 1 hour

For people who want a taste of the western experience, Winding Fences offers a unique trail ride package that starts out with a quick orientation before heading out for a ride through the ranch’s pastures, forest trails and quiet country roads. If you are looking for an activity the whole family can share, Twin Maples Farm offers horse drawn waggon and carriage rides!

Distance from cottage: 45 min (both)

Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery is a family owned farm that is known for its Cranberry Plunge where participants can wade into a sea of floating cranberries! The harvest season is from Sept 25 to Oct 24 and children must be accompanied by an adult and be at least 4′ 6″ (137 cm) tall.

The farm also offers wine tasting, maple syrup tapping tours and more! 

Distance from cottage: 17 min