When people cross into Muskoka, they are greeted with the phrase, “Once Discovered, Never Forgotten”. It’s true, no matter what time of year you explore the region, you’re bound to be captivated by the towering granite walls, swaying pines and shining waters. Since the late 1800’s, travelers have found a special respite and renewal in this region. Amongst the wild, regardless of which corner of Muskoka you find yourself, there is a rich history and vibrant present day ready to be explored. Away We Go Trips helps tourists, cottagers and locals alike discover Muskoka.
Many people discover Muskoka by hopping on a steamship cruise, hanging out with Santa, or hitting the greens for a good round of golf. Those are great options, but Away We Go Trips offer experiences that spice up the tourism landscape. You don’t need a boat or snowmobile to explore Muskoka - there are so many incredible stops within walking distance of any Muskoka downtown and an easy drive beyond.
Muskoka Tourism Industry
Much of Muskoka’s tourism industry depends on visits to the headliner locations, so they get a lot of attention, but Away We Go Trips is excited to offer explorers access to a deeper, wilder Muskoka with their day trips. Here are a few examples:
Johnston’s Fort - Port Carling
When wandering downtown through Port Carling, you might notice the stone wall along Medora Street. This property was once owned by Port Carling’s first postmaster, Benjamin Johnston, who built his home and boat-building business on the shore by the locks of the Indian River here in the mid-1800’s. He, and many other Canadians, were worried about the threat of Fenian invaders, which prompted him to build a fort to offer protection in case of a raid, and eventually built water towers on the site to support the growing town. The remains of his efforts are still there today, you just need to know what you’re looking for.
Dyer Memorial - Huntsville
Just a little north of Huntsville, in rural Williamsport where you’ll also find amazing local businesses like Maple Bluff Farm and North Ridge Farm, stands the 13m (42ft) tall Dyer Memorial. Detroit lawyer Clifton Dyer created this monument, which now holds both of their ashes, in tribute to his wife, Betsy Brown. The couple honeymooned in Huntsville in 1916 and loved it so much that they eventually purchased this property and built a cabin so they could escape to this private oasis whenever possible. After their deaths, a trust was established to ensure that the property would be protected as a nature reserve, which is now under the stewardship of Muskoka Conservancy.
The Tree Museum - Gravenhurst
If you drive east from Gravenhurst, beyond Muskoka’s only Drive-In Theatre, you’ll pass a subtle sign and tiny parking lot. From there, a calm stroll down an old road will take you past a pond that beavers have created that rests at a higher elevation and then on through a 1km immersive art experience. The art is scattered throughout the forest awaiting interaction from visitors, and popular installations include "A Chirp", "Outhouse", "Mound of Cars", and "In Sight", however the installations come and go without warning over the years so no visit is ever the same because you never know what you'll find each time.
There are so many special places ready to be discovered in Muskoka, and Away We Go Trips day trip routes get you in on the fun, flavour, heritage and culture, with loads of forests, lakes and waterfalls along the way. Their routes lead you to surprise locations, handling the logistics so you can focus on having a really great adventure.
Ready to Explore Muskoka?
Explore Muskoka with Away We Go Trips by following AWG’s adventures on Instagram & Facebook where they share tons of local intel too. Reach out today. Your route is ready - it’s time to really discover Muskoka!
Ready to Make a Move to Muskoka?
The Janssen Group is a team of highly skilled real estate agents helping buyers and sellers of waterfront real estate in the niche market of Muskoka. Realtors with The Janssen Group are highly connected in Ontario cottage country areas they serve including Huntsville & Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka South and central Muskoka. Contact them today to buy or sell homes or cottages in Muskoka.
