When most people plan a trip to Canada they usually think of heading for the Rocky Mountains in British Columbia. Some venture to the big city lights of Montreal, Quebec, Vancouver and Toronto, but few are aware of the wonders of Muskoka, Ontario, a mere 90-minute drive north of Toronto.

The region is a magical place surrounded by over a thousand glistering lakes and thundering waterfalls that weave in and out of the land. In autumn, the vast wilderness, with its maple trees and cranberry bushes, turns into a breathtaking display of color. Its name- Muskoka- comes from the native Algonquin language and means “land of the red earth.” Just East of Muskoka is the Algonquin Provincial Park, a vast wildlife sanctuary that can only be explored by canoe or on foot. However, on the outskirts of the park there are a few campsites. Heading west, Georgian Bay is where multi-colored glacial rock formations left behind by the last ice age reveal the earth’s history.

The first settlers to arrive in Muskoka in the early 1800s came with all intentions to farm the land, but soon realized it was nearly impossible due to the uncompromising and immovable rock from the Canadian Shield that occupies nearly half of Canada’s total area. Instead of turning away from the beautiful landscape many turned to fishing, hunting and logging. With the region gaining a name in outdoor sports, many modern settlers have opened lodging and food businesses to accommodate the rise in tourism. Today, Muskoka consists of many small townships each one having its own distinct flair and unique offerings.

Muskoka can be enjoyed any time of the year making it truly a four-season holiday destination. Whether you visit in the spring when nature is awaking, summer when the lakes are a refreshing welcome, autumn when the leaves change color or winter for the snow sports, there is something for everyone.

Spring (Mar-May)

Warm spring days melt the snow to reveal the many trails that lay hidden over winter to allow for excellent hiking and biking adventures. Fishing, canoeing and kayaking are also quite popular in the springtime.

When nighttime arrives just sit back in a famous Muskoka chair and enjoy the show from the skies above. Meteor showers, lone shooting stars, the Milky Way and the glow from the aurora borealis can be seen on any clear night.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Water is the theme when it comes to the hot months of June, July and August. Water-skiing, boating, fishing and swimming are a few refreshing ways to spend the hot, sticky days. Cruise along millionaires’ row – the much coveted hang-out for Hollywood stars, artists, musicians and even American and Canadian politicians. Summertime is also festival time, with music, arts, crafts and fireworks showcasing throughout the months.

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Artists consider Muskoka in the autumn months to be like a living canvas of radiant colours that could easily rival the world’s greatest paintings. It is also cranberry season and Muskoka is Canada’s cranberry capital. The harvest festival serves up a huge range of cranberry products and other delicacies to tempt the palates of young and old.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

“Walking in a winter wonderland”, time to bring out the woolly jumpers and long johns. Cross-country skiing, ice skating, tobogganing, dogsledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and romantic winter sleigh rides pulled by gorgeous Clydesdales- horses that is- are a few of the activities that can keep one busy in the winter months. Later in the day, snuggle up to a warm fire with hot chocolate and marshmallows – another great Canadian tradition.