Haliburton really does have it all, from scenic beauty to a diverse history and a wide array of activities both on water and land. A popular Ontario cottage country destination the Haliburton Highlands boast stunning lakes and forests with added beauty of the great Canadian Shield.
Top Summer Activities in Haliburton Highlands
Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve
Located in the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve is part operating sawmill, research facility, and education centre. A sustainably managed forest with a vast history it is recognized for its ecotourism. Over twenty businesses operate within the confines of the forest, many offering summer activities including Canopy Tours, Wolf Centre, Group Experiences, Camping, Accommodations and Recreational Trails.
Just 2.5 hours north of Toronto, the Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve is one of the premiere wilderness adventure destinations in all of Canada. It is a major force in the hardwood lumber industry, with three operating sawmills across 100,000 acres and home to one hundred lakes, millions of trees, and numerous wildlife species.
Enter 1095 Redkenn Rd, Haliburton, ON K0M 1S0 into your Google Map or GPS and head for an epic outdoor adventure.
Stanhope Heritage Museum
Despite its small stature the Stanhope Heritage Museum has one of Ontario’s largest archives of pioneer history and records. Completely volunteer-run, the Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area through exhibits, events, and programming. Steeped in a rugged past of logging, the fully restored Hawk Lake Log Chute sets an example of earlier times when many rural communities were developed in the region.
Just a two-hour and twenty-minute drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport, Stanhope Heritage Museum is located at 1123 N Shore Rd, Algonquin Highlands ON. Just north of the town of Minden with easy access off Hwy 35 in scenic region of Haliburton Highlands. This summer activity opens to the public on June 29th.
Highland Boat Tours
All ages friendly, boat tours are one of the most quintessential cottage country past times. Haliburton’s Highland Boat Tours offer passengers of ten or fewer a 1.5-hour tour on the five-lake chain in Haliburton Highlands. With a variety of itineraries, guests who book a private group cruise can choose from tours of Upper Lake Kashagawigamog, Lower Lake Kashagawigamog, Canning Lake, or create a customized experience. Private charters can also be booked for birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, club socials or corporate groups.
Upper Lake Kashagawigamog Tour encompasses Head Lake, Grass Lake, and the upper basin of Lake Kashagawigamog. Patrons board the boat at the Town Docks in Dysart or from their cottage or home dock in the area.
Lower Lake Kashagawigamog Tour departs from the Highlands Boat Tour dock in Ingoldsby, or the captain will pick up passengers from one of the resorts or even their own private dock. This tour boats the scenic shores from Marcus Beach narrows to Ingoldsby.
Canning Lake Cruise hosts passengers riding from the Narrows in Ingoldsby to Graham's Landing at the southwest end of Canning.
Another scenic cruise, “Lost Haliburton” is a once-weekly guided tour departing from the Haliburton town dock, Lost Haliburton explores the colourful history of lost lodges. This tour is operated in partnership with the Haliburton Highlands Museum and is open to the public in July and August.
Highland Boat Tours offer morning, afternoon, sunset and evening cruises. Highland Boat Tours is located at the docks of Ingoldsby, Ontario K0M 2K0. Give them a call at 705.457.5442 to book your scenic cruise aboard the Lady of the Lake and learn the history of Haliburton.
Sir Sam’s Ski Hike & Bike
If you are looking for heart pumping adventure head to Sir Sam’s Ski Hike & Bike on Eagle Lake, Haliburton. Best known as an Ontario downhill ski destination, Sir Sam’s opens its trails to hikers and bikers from May and throughout the summer.
Summer Bike Camps at Sir Sam’s are a popular option for youth looking for the thrill of adventure. The camp experience not only gets the adrenaline pumping, it provides an opportunity to connect with nature, make new friends and create lasting memories in cottage country.
Get to Sir Sam’s Ski Hike & Bike by entering their address: 1054 Liswood Road, Eagle Lake, ON into Google Maps or Waze and start your summer activity.
Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa
Drop the kids at camp and enjoy your time at a historic Ontario inn nearby. Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa offers an opportunity for couples and friends to reconnect and relax in the heart of nature.
A popular adults-only couples retreat just 20 minutes from the Muskoka border, Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa provides exceptional dining experiences at Twin Fires where they treat preparing food as a work of art. The Inn & Spa also offers a unique WaterSpa for ultimate relaxation plus a wide array of outdoor activities both on and off the water.
Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa is located at 1491 Sir Sam’s Rd, Eagle Lake, ON, just one minute from Sir Sam's Ski Hike & Bike.
Experience Summer in Haliburton Highlands
Nestled within the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield, the Haliburton Highlands beckon adventurers, tourists, residents, and cottagers alike. With its unspoiled beauty just two and a half hours from Toronto, Haliburton Highlands offers an escape from the city where life slows down, except when you are experiencing the thrill of adventure!
Real Estate in Haliburton with The Janssen Group
Looking to sell or buy a waterfront or rural property in the Haliburton area? The Janssen Group Associates, Drew Bishop, Broker & Kristin Bishop, Realtor possess exceptional knowledge, experience, and the skills you need to navigate the intricate landscape of properties in Haliburton.
Selling or purchasing rural and waterfront property is unique and it takes the right agent to 'navigate these waters'. Drew & Kristin’s local expertise will guide you every step of the way. Reach out to The Janssen Group local real estate agents Drew & Kristin aka The Bishops today and let them make your Haliburton Highlands cottage or home real estate dreams a reality.
