Discover Muskoka's Hidden Gems With The Edge of Muskoka Experience
Welcome to Muskoka, where adventure meets relaxation. Whether you’re looking to explore picturesque lakes, enjoy unique dining experiences, or simply unwind in nature’s embrace, Muskoka has something for everyone. Our guide to the best places to stay and dine will help you uncover hidden gems and make the most of your visit. From the serene shores of Sparrow Lake to the engineering marvel of the Big Chute Marine Railway, your Muskoka adventure awaits.
Places to Check Out in Muskoka
Sparrow Lake, on the edge of Muskoka, is a picturesque destination. Tour the lake and do some swimming and fishing as well as enjoying some great restaurants on shore. There are two government docks, one on the west shore by Bayview Wildwood Resort and the other on the Northeast corner of the lake by the Muskoka Beach House/ The Pines Restaurant. Each of these places offer a place to stop and stretch your legs, go for a walk or just enjoy the leisure time. Like most lakes, there are submerged rocks, and areas to avoid, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area before leaving the dock. The Navionics and Waves apps are a great way to see where you are, where you are going as well as your depth and the obstacles to avoid. We strongly recommend these navigation assistance options.
Experience the beautiful Severn Waterway to Lock 43, Swift Rapids. This known as The Giant and is the deepest Lock on the Trent/ Severn System. There is a picnic area and washrooms to stop and stretch your legs and experience the boats going through this incredible lock. This would be a good 2-3 hour roundtrip from the Sparrow Lake Launch Site.
Full Day Trip
Venture through this magnificent lock for the full experience and heading North you will come to The Waubic Restaurant on your starboard side (right side) accessible only by water. Stop in for a bite to eat and a truly unique dining experience. A little further down stream you will come through Severn Falls. There is a convenience store and the Riverhouse Restaurant.
Keep on trekkin’ down the river and you will come to the Big Chute Marine Railway, a true engineering marvel that can pick boats up to 100 feet long (30.48 m) and 24 feet (7.32 m) wide. There is a government dock where you can tie up and check out the Big Chute in full operation and an elevated viewing area to watch the boats carried up and down the 60 foot (18m) change in height. It is the only marine railway of its kind in North America.
Travelling upstream
From Sparrow Lake you can travel upstream to Lock 42 and beyond into Lake Couchiching. We also offer a launch directly into Lake Couchiching if that is your destination. Lake “Cootch” is a relatively recreational mooring areas in the province, Chief Island. The northwest corner of the island has a shallow area that is perfect to drop anchor and enjoy some swimming and wading in the sun (don’t forget the sunscreen). Chief Island is also a protected area of The Chippewas of Rama First Nation and has long been revered as a sacred site that holds immense historical and cultural value. It is not accessible to the public. To access mooring passes for this area, please contact the Ojibway Marina website.
Also on Lake Couchiching, is the Port of Orillia and Couchiching Beach Park. At the park, there a very nice picnic area, playground for the kids, and a beach. If you get a bit of a hunger on, there are two great restaurants within a short stroll, Studebakers and Fionn McCools.
Places to Stay
Places To Relax & Dine
Point Patio / Lauderdale Marina
- (705) 791-3663
- 3500 Lauderdale Point Crescent, Severn Bridge
Bayview Wildwood Resort
The Pines @ Muskoka Beach House
The Waubic Restaurant (Water Access Only)
The River House (Severn Falls)
- (705) 686-7850
- 1726 Earl Haid Ave, Severn
The Big Chute Restaurant
- (705) 756-2641
- Township of, Georgian Bay
Ready to embark on your Muskoka adventure?
Ready to explore the beauty and charm of Muskoka? Discover the best spots to relax, dine, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, our guide will help you make the most of your Muskoka adventure. Contact us now to start planning your unforgettable experience!