There are few things more Canadian than paddling a canoe or kayak across a placid lake or river in search of adventure. Better still if that body of water you’re crossing is in Muskoka, a vast area north of Toronto that’s home to countless lovely lakes just waiting to be explored by those with a yearning to experience the great outdoors, whether for a few hours or a few days.
The options for would-be paddlers are endless. Most resorts and inns across Muskoka are situated overlooking water and provide the basics for those wanting to try their hand at this rapidly growing pastime, whether it be a canoe or a kayak. Some vacation properties are even stocking the increasingly popular paddleboards, a form of surfboard that’s powered and steered by oar while standing. Although not intended for traveling the kind of distances undertaken with other paddle sports, paddleboards are a favourite with those looking for short bursts of water-based fun while providing a good workout at the same time.
Paddles & Portages
For those wanting to venture further afield, a number of Muskoka-based companies offer everything needed for longer excursions, whether it be a day-trip into easily accessible areas of Algonquin Park, or lengthier excursions lasting up to a week that delve deep into the heart of the park’s 2,400 lakes and 1,200 kilometers of streams and rivers.
While a number of businesses in Muskoka offer affordable rentals of personal watercraft such as canoes and kayaks, the best option for those wanting to spend a night or more camping and portaging is to visit a professional outfitters who make it their business to ensure you’ve got everything needed for a fun and safe trip, from lifejackets right down to your favourite food (freeze-dried if need be).
In addition to providing the basics, as well as water taxi services, fishing tackle and camping supplies, companies such as Algonquin Outfitters, The Portage Store and Swift Canoe & Kayak can assist with securing the services of a professional guide, a good option for first-timers.
M U S K O K A Chautauqua
One of Muskoka’s longest-running and most iconic cultural institutions, Muskoka Chautauqua, continues a tradition that started almost 100 years ago when the region attracted many of North America’s leading writers to its tranquil retreats, making a name for itself as Canada’s literary summer capital in the process. Muskoka Chautauqua has in fact been a focal point for artists and writers (as well as readers) since 1922 when its Reading Circle was established to introduce and advance the works of Canadian authors in particular. This vibrant arts community continues to attract visitors and participants, most of them drawn for the opportunity to experience personal growth, enrichment and renewal, as well as the opportunity to share thoughts and ideas. These days, Muskoka Chautauqua serves as one of the region’s most important cultural hubs, encompassing the arts, education and reflection while providing a place where practitioners and leading thinkers alike can share innovative and creative ideas, all while enjoying Muskoka’s splendid natural backdrop.
Part of a larger North American movement set up to share education and the arts, Muskoka Chautauqua also continues to host numerous fun cultural events throughout the year. Highlights include the always-popular Flavours of Muskoka event (June 28th) showcasing the region’s gourmet foods, wines and beers, and the group’s key event, ChautauquaFest, a 10-day celebration of art, music and literature taking place in and around Lake Muskoka (August 13th – 23rd).
Other Muskoka Chautauqua events worth checking out include the always popular Walking in My Mother’s Shoes, a celebration of moms and motherhood that takes place each year at the JW Marriott near Mother’s Day (May 9th) and which tells family stories through music, painting, prose and poetry. Also of note are the group’s Canada Celebrations (July 1st), a family-friendly affair with fireworks, cake and special events for the kids throughout the day.
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