Are you looking to escape the city and want to enjoy a mix of awesome hiking trails, charming small towns, and see some of Ontario’s most beautiful places? Then this Toronto to Muskoka road trip is for you!
I’ve got everything covered, from the top things to do in Muskoka, where to stay, must-visit stops along the way, and even a few ideas on where to eat to help you plan your epic road trip to Muskoka. So, sit back, relax, and start conjuring up dreamy visits to waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and delicious treats.
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How to Get to Muskoka
How far is Muskoka from Toronto? It all depends on where you’re travelling from. But the Toronto to Muskoka drive is approximately two and a half hours or roughly 220 km. And while most people planning to go from Toronto to Muskoka will be by car, there are other options.
If you don’t have a vehicle but still want to enjoy a trip by car you can rent a vehicle. There’s also the option of the Ontario Northland Bus. And now, thanks to the Go Train running to Barrie.
Plus, Northland bus service has partnered with Go for paired tickets to get you there quicker on summer weekends. You can get tickets for between $40 and $50 depending on where your destination is and which station you’re coming from.
Another option for how to get to Muskoka from Toronto is by air. The Toronto to Muskoka flight with Porter Airlines is only 35 minutes and starts at $140 per person. Check flight deals here.
Best time to visit Muskoka
For many, the best time to visit Muskoka is in the summer, and specifically July and August. So, be aware that this is peak season and when the area is at its busiest. If you’re looking for perfect weather to enjoy the beaches in Muskoka, cottage life, or check out many of the top attractions then summer is ideal.
I always recommend visiting Muskoka in the fall, when the weather is still comfortable, the bugs are at bay, and the forests come alive with colour. It’s still a busy time in Muskoka, especially when fall colours are at their peak.
But if you plan a Muskoka getaway in the fall for during the week you’ll see far fewer people than when day-trippers flock to the area on weekends.
While it may not be for everyone, winter in Muskoka is another fabulous time to visit. If you love the outdoors, bundle up and head north and frolic in the winter wonderland that is Muskoka in the winter.
Depending on when you visit there is still a wealth of things to do, ranging from skate trails to maple syrup festivals, and Christmas craft shows to epic trails to snowshoe.
+10 Toronto to Muskoka Road Trip Stops
Planning a Muskoka road trip is thrilling! There are endless possibilities for fun stops along the way, depending on where you’re coming from and the time of year. Plus, it’s home to some of the best provincial parks and best places to visit in Ontario!
Below you’ll find over 10 amazing places to stop on your Toronto to Muskoka road trip. While most are ideal for summer road trips I also highlight things to do in the winter in each area too. Another key factor is your route. You can either take Highway 400 past Barrie towards the western part of Muskoka or Highway 11. You’ll find highlights and stops along both routes below. Plus a few fun winding detours in between.
So, pack your bags, load up the car, and let’s plot for one of Ontario’s best road trips!
Thornton
On your first stop out of Toronto, I recommend a pop into Innisfil for a little refreshment and colour! Located right off Highway 400, take the Innisfil Beach Road exit west, where you’ll find the quaint village of Thornton.
Many locals, like myself, call it – the Ice Cream Capital of Ontario! In this wee place, you’ll find at least three different ice cream shops. And there’s nothing finer than a pit stop for ice cream on a summer road trip.
If you need more than dessert then you’re in luck! Thornton has a bunch of great places to eat – it’s the number one thing to do in the area, eat! There’s everything from vegan fare to pizza.
And just down the road you’ll find one of the many amazing sunflower fields in Ontario. Laura’s Farm is a great place to stop in the summer for tasty fresh produce, snapping a few pictures in the sunflower fields, or even picking pumpkins in the fall.
For more places to see sunflowers, lavender, cherry blossoms, from farms to trails, check out the top places to find flowers in Ontario.
Barrie
Next up on your north to Muskoka road trip is a stop in Barrie. Set on picturesque Kempenfelt Bay, there’s a ton of things to do in Barrie, especially in the summer time.
But don’t worry, at only an hour north of Toronto, Barrie is a perfect day trip option or weekend getaway destination too if you’re eager to get to Muskoka.
Barrie makes a great stopping point to grab lunch or dinner on the way as the downtown core hosts a range of great restaurants like Indian, vegan, and a bunch of great quirky local options like The Grilled Cheese Eatery or The Lazy Tulip.
If you need a refreshing summer dip on a hot summer day, then Barrie is an ideal stop. Barrie’s home to incredible stretches of beach. Plus it has one of the best lakeshores in Ontario, for beach time, a dip in the water, or for a stroll if you need to stretch your legs.
The city also hosts a wide range of festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular Barrie festivals is Kempenfest, which is held every August long weekend. And any make for a fun stop on your way to Muskoka.
Road Trip decision: Do you want to go north along the Highway 11 route to Muskoka or take Highway 400? There’s no wrong decision! You can even take one way there and the other back, making the perfect Muskoka road trip circle route.
Highway 11 on a Muskoka Road Trip
Orillia
If you love an artsy town like I do then you’ll love a stop in Orillia. Located 30 minutes north of Barrie, Orillia is also on the water, nestled between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching.
Whether or not you stop in Barrie for something to eat you’ll want to stop in Orillia too. Orillia’s fun downtown is full of great shops, fabulous restaurants, and plenty of colourful art.
Take a wander along Mississauga Street to discover a wealth of public art displays, murals, and creative window fronts. And don’t forget to keep coming back because Orillia always has new art popping up.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Orillia, then you’re in luck. Consider taking in a performance at the Orillia Opera House or stroll along the beautiful lakeshore.
Another hidden gem in Orillia is the Leacock Museum National Historic Site. Named after the author, it’s also one of the top haunted places in Ontario.
But if all your after is great food then you’re in the right place. Orillia is home to one of the best places for donuts in Ontario, Mariposa Market. This historic and famous bakery has a wealth of tasty treats, including Texas-sized donuts, fresh-baked bread, and so much more.
Next door is one of the area’s best restaurants, Brewery Bay. Everything on the menu will delight your taste buds, but a few recommendations including their poutine, club sandwich, and my favourite – the cookie skillet!
Grab a Burger at Webers
A must stop on the way to Muskoka from Toronto is Webers. Since 1963, Webers has been feeding hungry cottage goers.
This old-school burger joint is located 10 minutes north of Orillia on Highway 11. Serving up their famous charcoal-grilled burgers, Webers has other classics on the menu. Road trippers can grab a burger, poutine, and shakes.
Webers has seen a lot of changes over the last 60 years. I remember only being able to stop there when heading north. Now, there’s a pedestrian bridge crossing the highway, so people travelling south can stop for a burger too. Another fun addition was the addition of a rail car that’s transformed into a place to dine.
The best part is that you can still grab a burger and fries for a reasonable price.
Insider Tips: Webers is only open on select days in the winter, so check ahead before you go. Plus, after decades of being cash-only, they also now accept debit cards.
Gravenhurst
YOU HAVE ARRIVED!! Gravenhurst is the gateway to Muskoka. And there is a boat load of things to do in Gravenhurst, including taking one of Muskoka’s best boat cruises.
With all there is to do and see in Gravenhurst I recommend spending at least two or three nights here. There is something for everyone’s interest in Gravenhurst, from historic sites to hiking trails. OH, and a bunch of great places for coffee and treats!
A good first place to start your few days in Gravenhurst is a wander along Muskoka Road South, to explore the downtown. Here you’ll find a range of shops, restaurants, the Gravenhurst Opera House, and a few of my favourite stops.
One of the top things to do in Gravenhurst is taking a cruise out onto Lake Muskoka. But a few other attractions include the Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site and Muskoka Discovery Centre.
For the outdoor lover, you’ll find a range of parks, beaches, and awesome trails in and around Gravenhurst. One must-do trail that is easy and scenic is the Peninsula Trail.
The trail winds around the Muskoka Wharf and out on a small peninsula with epic views of the town and over the water. It’s a great way to take in some of Gravenhurst’s stunning scenery as well as explore the shops and restaurants along the Muskoka Wharf.
Bracebridge
One of the greatest small towns in Ontario is Bracebridge. This Muskoka gem has so much to offer that you’ll want to stay at least two to three nights.
Located 15 minutes north of Gravenhurst, there are so many things to do in Bracebridge. There’s something for everyone’s interests that you’ll want to stay for a couple of days.
Bracebridge is a gem of a location for outdoor enthusiasts, any time of year. Whether you’re looking for awesome hiking trails, like a solid section of The Great Trail, or love chasing waterfalls, Bracebridge is a must-visit.
Beyond the hiking and waterfalls, one of which is right downtown, there are so many great activities and places to visit in Bracebridge. For families, make sure to plan a day at Santa’s Village, with its fun rides, attractions, and even lovely little beach.
For those looking to hit the water in the summer, there are a bunch of great beaches and places to rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other things to get you in and one the water – one of the main attractions in Muskoka.
And don’t forget to book a Muskoka cruise! One of which, the Lady Muskoka, departs from Bracebridge. There is a range of cruise options from Bracebridge, from lunch cruises to ones where you can experience the incredible Muskoka fall colours.
During your stay, you won’t have to worry about eating at the same place twice! There are so many fabulous cafes and restaurants in Bracebridge to choose from. For dinner, I recommend The Old Station, for lunch try Main St. Delicatessen, and for coffee get a cozy cup at Oliver’s.
Huntsville
The hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts in Muskoka is definitely Huntsville. Surrounded by a wealth of incredible parks, wild spaces, and hiking trails, Huntsville is an ideal stop any time of year.
It’s located roughly 30 minutes north of Bracebridge, Huntsville is the largest town in the Muskoka Region. And because of that, there are a ton of great things to do in Huntsville. So, you’ll want to plan to stay at least three nights.
For all the nature lovers out there, be sure to pack your hiking gear! With two of the best provincial parks in Ontario nearby, plus a range of other parks and lookouts, there is a bunch of great hiking trails in and around Huntsville. A great local trail to add to your Muskoka itinerary is Hunters Bay Trail.
A day in Algonquin Park is a must, especially since it’s less than an hour away. Another great park is Arrowhead Provincial Park, only ten minutes north.
And if you’re pressed for time you can do both in one day, hitting up Arrowhead’s Big Bend Lookout and Stubb’s Falls, as well as one of Algonquin’s shorter trails like one of the lookout trails.
But don’t worry, there is so much more to do in Huntsville. For art lovers, wander the downtown in search of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery Murals or book tickets to the Algonquin Theatre.
For history buffs, be sure to visit Muskoka Heritage Place. This fun, family-friendly attraction is the perfect blend of museum and pioneer village. And they also have an old steam train that runs scenic train rides – a must for a fall trip to Muskoka!
Highway 400 on a Muskoka Road Trip
Coldwater
So you’ve chosen to take the Highway 400 route from Toronto to Muskoka and are looking for great road trip stops. Consider a stop in the charming small village of Coldwater. Located approximately 25 minutes north of the 400 and 11 splits in Barrie, Coldwater is like a step back in time.
With lovely Victorian buildings, Coldwater is home to an 1833 mill in the heart of town. The mill now houses a restaurant, museum and gallery.
My favourite time to visit Coldwater is in the fall! The town is decorated for Halloween and there’s plenty of fun photo-ops.
Plus, Coldwater hosts one of the top things to do for Halloween, their annual Witches Walk! Another fun event during this time of year is the Coldwater Fall Fair.
Downtown Coldwater is full of adorable shops and cafes it makes for a lovely stop. And if you have a little extra time to spend, there is a surprising number of things to do in Coldwater. Head to the Coldwater Canadiana Museum to learn about the area’s history.
You can stretch your legs along a stretch of The Great Trail that runs through town. Or enjoy a little canoe ride along the Coldwater River and Matchedash Bay.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Many don’t realize it but the Georgian Bay Islands National Park is part of the Muskoka District Municipality. The park is within the world’s largest freshwater archipelago and covers 63 islands in Eastern Georgian Bay.
This incredible stretch of islands is located in Georgian Bay and is one of Ontario’s Group of Seven locations that was influential in many of their pieces of art.
The Georgian Bay Islands National Park is a hotspot in the summer for outdoor enthusiasts. There are 12 incredible hiking trails across the North and Southern parts of the main island, Beausoleil Island.
You can also camp on the island or reserve one of the park’s cabins. But if you’re pressed for time, consider a day trip to Beausoleil Island for a day of hiking, swimming, and soaking in the awesome natural beauty. You may even spot some of the wildlife that calls the area home!
Access to the Islands is only by boat. And if you don’t have one yourself you can take the Parks Canada Daytripper boat from Honey Harbour. But be sure to reserve a spot on the boat in advance!
If you’re looking for food for your visit or dinner afterward pop into The Hive. This beautiful boutique sells a range of Muskoka inspired home goods and apparel, as well as some great tasty treats that you can enjoy eating on their epic back patio with sweeping views of the bay.
More Must-Visit Places to Add to Your Muskoka Itinerary
Bala
If you’re looking for great food, history, and a pop of colour then be sure to stop in Bala. Located along 169 (a great route between Highway 400 and 11), Bala is one of Muskoka’s colourful small towns.
In Bala, you’ll find a wealth of great places to eat, shops, and even a few haunted spots! One of the best bakeries in Ontario, Don’s Bakery is located here. The bakery has been a staple for over 50 years and now is a must stop on any Muskoka road trip.
But there are more things to do in Bala than you may realize. There’s the Bala Museum, a restored home from the 1920s where Lucy Maud Montgomery once stayed.
For concert lovers, there’s The KEE to Bala, a historic gem. If you want to stretch your legs and learn a bit about the area you can enjoy a self-guided walk of historic Bala. You’ll find information plaques along the way showcasing historic buildings and sharing interesting tidbits about the area.
One of the things that have helped Bala rise to the masses is their incredibly popular Cranberry Festival. The Festival runs every year, the weekend after Thanksgiving, and is a wild ride of entertainment, boat loads of food to try – including cranberry flavoured everything and a host of local artisans.
But don’t worry if you’re visiting at a different time as you can still get a taste of it at Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery and Johnston Cranberry Marsh. It’s the perfect place to visit any time of year. Whether it’s in the summer for the wine, the fall for the cranberry marsh experience, or in the winter for its skate trail.
Baysville
Another little gem of a destination while road tripping through Muskoka is Baysville. Here’s you’ll find a few adorable cafes, Lake of Bays Brewing Company, and even a couple more of the Group of Seven Outdoor murals.
While it’s busier in the summer, I recommend visiting in the fall too as it’s one of the quieter places to take in the fall colours in Muskoka.
Dorset
On the edge of the Muskoka border is Dorset. This charming little small town in Muskoka is a popular place to visit in the summer and fall.
There is a range of things to do in Dorset, including the Dorset Museum, a cruise on the SS Bigwin, as well as a few cute restaurants and cafes. Plus, it’s the best place to take in one of the best lakes in Muskoka, Lake of Bays.
The most popular attraction is the Dorset Lookout Tower. Standing 30 metres tall, the Dorset Lookout Tower is one of the best places for views in Muskoka in the summer or fall!
Port Sydney
Another great stop to add to your Toronto road trip to Muskoka, especially in the fall, is Port Sydney. Many flock during the peak colour change in the autumn to catch a glimpse of the stunning red maple at Indian Landing.
Sitting on the banks of the Muskoka River, this iconic tree, with its branches reaching out over the water is a hotspot in the fall. And it has even been recognized by Forests Ontario as a heritage tree. But don’t forget to stop and see the Port Sydney falls too!
Best Parks in Muskoka to Add to Your Road Trip
It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Muskoka, with its vast expanse of parks you’ll always have endless hiking, snowshoeing, and paddling options to choose from. But below are a few of the best parks in Muskoka that you’ll want to add to your road trip itinerary.
Related Post: Muskoka Hiking Trails – Best Places to Hike in Muskoka
Algonquin Provincial Park
Ontario’s most popular park is Algonquin and there’s a good reason for that. Covering over 7000 square km, Algonquin Park is home to a wealth of forests and lakes.
Located less than an hour outside Huntsville, it makes for the perfect day trip. There are over 20 hiking trails that range from epic lookout trails to forest and marsh trails. Algonquin is also open for car camping, backcountry camping, and also has a variety of cabins and yurts.
Arrowhead Provincial Park
Another of Muskoka’s best parks is Arrowhead Provincial Park. Located just 10 minutes north of Huntsville, you can quickly pop in for a few hours or the day.
Arrowhead has 15 km of hiking trails, a beautiful waterfall, and even a skating trail in the winter. You’ll also find one of the area’s top views at Big Bend Lookout with its epic views over Big East River as it curves through the park.
There is camping available in the park across three campgrounds as well as ten camp cabins to rent.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
One of only five national parks in Ontario, Georgian Bay Islands National Park is a must visit! The park is made up of 63 islands and is home to Ontario’s only poisonous snake, the Massasauga rattlesnake.
There are twelve different hiking trails across Beausoleil Island, ranging from trails over the Canadian Shield to enchanted forested trails, and many full of epic views over Georgian Bay and of windswept pines.
The Park is also home to over 100 campsites on Beausoleil Island as well as five oTENTiks, and ten rustic cabins available by reservation if you want to stay in the park.
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
Noted as one of the most geologically unique places in Muskoka, Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is a must for any Muskoka trip. Covering over 4,500 areas, Torrance Barrens is home to a strange mix of landscapes, rare bird species, and Ontario’s only lizard species – the five-lined skink.
The park is located along Southwood Road, one of Muskoka’s most scenic drives, the park is only a half hour west of Gravenhurst. There are three different hiking trails to choose from.
There is no campground facility, but you can camp here as it’s on crown lands. But ensure you LEAVE NO TRACE! And even if you aren’t planning to camp here, you must at least visit it at night to take in the incredible night sky and if you’re lucky northern lights.
A few other great Muskoka parks that aren’t as popular but just as worthwhile are; Hardy Lake Provincial Park, Limberlost Forest, Six Mile Lake Provincial Park, Bigwind Lake Provincial Park, and J. Albert Bauer Provincial Park.
AND don’t forget to check out all of the amazing waterfalls in Muskoka!
Where to Stay in Muskoka
Choosing where to stay in Muskoka can be tough! There are so many incredible places to stay in Muskoka, ranging from resort style accommodation to cottage rentals. Check out these top Muskoka cottage rentals! So, it all depends on the type of stay you’re looking for. But there are a few top choices!
Deerhurst Resort
One of the most popular places to stay in Muskoka is the Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville. Located minutes from downtown and perched on Peninsula Lake, Deerhurst is a fabulous place to stay year round. This waterfront resort has a ton to offer its guests, from fantastic suites to an endless list of amenities and activities. There are swimming pools, a spa, a golf course, a water park in the summer, and more.
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for an incredible place to stay in Muskoka that is the full package then book your stay at the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa. Set on Lake Rosseau, this luxury resort has so much to offer beyond the stunning rooms, epic views, and fine dining. There’s a whole host of amenities including a spa, award-winning restaurants, and pool. The resort also offers a range of activities and things to do all year round like cultural workshops, guided snowshoe walks, and so much more.
Camping in Muskoka
Another great option for your time in Muskoka, especially in the summer and for nature lovers, is camping. There are a bunch of great parks that you can camp at, like Algonquin, Arrowhead, Georgian Bay Islands National Park, and Six Mile Lake Provincial Park. Plus there are a host of other campgrounds across Muskoka. Check out Ontario Parks to help plan your camping stay.
Vacation Rentals
If you’re planning to stay for an extended period of time, want privacy, travelling with a group, or looking for a unique place to stay then consider a vacation rental. There are a ton of great vacation rentals in Muskoka.
If you’re looking for more unique places to stay in Ontario – this post will inspire your next road trip. Or choose from one of these cute Airbnbs in Ontario!
Start planning your Toronto to Muskoka road trip today!
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