Every year, visitors will descend upon Muskoka towns to point, click and share all their Instagram-worthy pics of the fall foliage. Whether you choose to walk, run, hike, boat, bike, paddle, putt or drive your way through Muskoka in the fall, there are activities for everyone. Here are some of the best places to see fall colours in Muskoka:

Lookouts in Muskoka

Lion’s Lookout (Huntsville): This lookout provides panoramic views of downtown Huntsville  overlooking the Muskoka River as it meets Fairy Lake. There may be lineups on peak weekends and parking is limited.

Huckleberry Rock (Muskoka Lakes): A popular hiking destination that rewards visitors with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and the North part of Lake Muskoka.

Dorset Lookout Tower (Dorset): Climb this tower for an elevated perspective of the vibrant fall colours across the Lake of Bays. Visitors are welcome to climb to the observation deck, which is 142 metres (465 feet) above Lake of Bays, and enjoy the view from the tree-top lookout as well as ground level lookouts. Facilities include picnic sites, restrooms, a tourist information kiosk, a gift shop and a hiking trail. Advanced tickets must be purchased on weekends beginning the 3^rd week of September. Tickets are available for purchase at the Algonquin Highlands website.

Ticket holders must arrive during their chosen time frame, however there’s no time limit to how long they wish to stay on site. On weekdays, with the exception of Thanksgiving Monday, tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased at the gate upon arrival.

Open daily 9am – 6pm until Thanksgiving weekend

Waterfront in Muskoka in the fall

Taking in the fall colours in Muskoka when you are on a lake is something special to witness. Weather by boat, canoe, kayak or sitting on a dock, the scenery is spectacular. Here are some activities we recommend:

Muskoka cruises: Take a cruise down Muskoka river into Muskoka lake to enjoy the fall colours from the water. Boating tours and lakeside views provide a unique perspective on the changing leaves. Visit Muskoka Cruises for more information. 

Any Lake in Muskoka: If you are lucky enough to spend time on a lake in Muskoka then you will be fascinated by autumn’s brilliance. The surrounding hillsides, covered in rich fall colours, reflect in the lake’s calm waters, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Kayaking, Canoeing, Boat: Rent a kayak, canoe, boat or PWC from local outfitters for a serene paddle among the colourful leaves. Exploring Muskoka’s lakes and rivers by boat or canoe is a must during the fall season. Rental options and guided tours are available for those looking to experience the waterways up close. Look for rentals at Algonquin Outfitters in Huntsville and paddle right off the waterfront docks in downtown Huntsville. In Bracebridge you can rent from Algonquin Outfitters as well, and LIV Outside. In Gravenhurst, rent a motor boat from Muskoka Boat Rentals, in Port Carling rent from Algonquin Outfitters.

Muskoka Hiking and Provincial parks

Muskoka is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails for all levels of experience. Popular trails provide stunning views of the fall colours.

Algonquin Provincial Park : Algonquin Provincial Park is perhaps the most famous spot for experiencing fall colors in Muskoka. Known for its expansive forests and serene lakes, the park offers some of the best spots. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails that lead to scenic lookouts, providing panoramic views of the vibrant foliage. Popular trails like the Lookout Trail and Centennial Ridges Trail offer breathtaking vistas that capture the essence of fall in Muskoka. Review the Algonquin Fall Colour report for more information. 

Arrowhead Provincial Park (Huntsville): Arrowhead Provincial Park is renowned for its unique fall activities and photographic opportunities and is just a 10 minute drive from Huntsville. The park’s trails wind through dense forests, leading to scenic spots and trails from varying elevations including Big Bend Lookout, Scenic Stubbs Falls, Arrowhead Lake and Mayflower Lake. In addition to hiking, the park offers other fall activities, such as mountain biking and bird watching, making it a versatile destination for nature enthusiasts.

Georgian Bay Islands National Park: Exploring Georgian Bay Islands National Park during the fall is an unforgettable experience. The park’s islands provide a peaceful retreat surrounded by vibrant foliage. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities here, offering a tranquil way to admire the changing colors from the water. The park’s diverse ecosystems create a rich tapestry of colors that delight visitors.

Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve: Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve is a peaceful, year-round wilderness haven with twenty private lakes and more than 10,000 unspoiled acres of mixed forest. For the best views, head to Echo Rock or Lookout Trail. Only 25 minutes from Huntsville, Limberlost Forest is a great free alternative to Arrowhead Provincial Park. Open daily 9am – 5pm.