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Next up is the Golden Encore, from October 10 to 19, when American beeches, birches, and poplars illuminate Muskoka’s forests with warm bronze and golden tones. These sun-loving trees thrive in open landscapes, adding brilliant highlights to the region’s rugged terrain.

Take a ride on a lovely Muskoka ship and see the fall colours. PHOTO COURTESY MUSKOKA STEAMSHIPS & DISCOVERY CENTRE
- Stay & Explore: With more than 100 places to stay, from cozy cabins to luxury resorts, there’s no shortage of Muskoka chairs perfectly placed to take in the spectacular fall colours. One of my fave places is the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa. I also quite like Sherwood Inn on Lake Joseph and the Villas of Muskoka on Lake Muskoka; a fine family resort run by Jayne’s Cottages. Here’s an item I posted about the Villas after a brief stay this summer.
- Cruise the Lakes: See the reflections of the season aboard a boat cruise in Dorset, Port Carling, Gravenhurst or Bracebridge. Gravenhurst is home to the Wenonah II, a fabulous ship that cruises the Muskoka Lakes. Don’t miss a chance to see the fall colours while relaxing on the ship!
- Hit the Trails: Discover quiet alternatives to Algonquin Park, like Limberlost Forest, Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Jevins and Silver Lake Conservation Area Trails, Huckleberry Rock, Bracebridge Resource Management Centre and Walkers Point Trail. Plus, countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. Hardy Lake Provincial Park is a very popular hiking area in Torrance, which is between Gravenhurst and Bala.
- Take a Drive: If you’re not able to hike or don’t feel up to a walk in the woods, take a drive around Dorset or Gravenhurst. One of my fave drives is Southwood Road, a two-lane road between Severn Bridge and Torrance.

Fall colours in Muskoka. Muskoka Tourism Photo
- Muskoka: Home of the Stars (October 17 – November 8)
Explore the night skies at 22 guided stargazing events across Muskoka. Each experience features a unique guide, location, and theme, all for just $10 per person. - Muskoka Cranberry Route (On Now until October 19)
Celebrate the harvest season with 40 delicious stops featuring cranberry-inspired menus, drinks, and treats — culminating with the Bala Cranberry Festival, October 17–19. - Sandhill Nursery Fall Festival (On Now Until October 26)
- Oktoberfest Muskoka (October 23 – 26)
A GREAT AUCTION FOR THE ADVENTURE TRAVEL CONSERVATION FUND
The nonprofit Adventure Travel Conservation Fund has become the world’s largest and most respected adventure travel and gear auction.
The auction is on now and runs until October 22. They have an amazing array of trips, experiences, and gear!
Among the items up for bid are trips to Antarctica, a yoga and surf camp in Costa Rica and a cycling tour from Venice to Pisa. There is also great travel gear from the likes of Patagonia and Unbound Merino, so check it out!











