Autumn in Muskoka brings crisp air, a patchwork of color, and quieter trails that invite thoughtful exploration. This is the perfect season to experience lesser-known spots around Huntsville, Dwight and Dorset — places that combine natural beauty, local history, spectacular views and immersion in Muskoka’s natural settings.
Add these lesser-known spots to your Exploring Itinerary
Echo Valley Hiking and Biking Trails (Dwight)
Echo Valley offers a network of multi-use trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. The trails wind through mixed forest and offer varied terrain, with viewpoints that highlight fall colours. Echo Valley is a great option for active guests who want a bit more challenge and exploration away from busier routes.
*Pro Tip: Hiking for all abilities, biking for more experienced riders as the terrain and level of difficulty varies.
Mizpah Pioneer Cemetery (near Dwight and Huntsville)
Tucked away from the main roads, Mizpah Pioneer Cemetery is a small, reflective site that offers a window into the area’s early settler history. Stroll among weathered stone markers and mossed inscriptions while the surrounding maples turn. It’s an interesting stop for anyone interested in local history and quiet reflection; pair it with a hike on one or more of the many nearby trails at the Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve.
*Pro Tip: I tried to take my 10 yr old on this walk and she refused, saying it’s unadvisable to go into a cemetery. Maybe your kids are more hardy. 🙂
Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve (near Dwight and Huntsville)
Right around the corner from Limberlost Vacation Rentals, the Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve is a network of trails that showcases Muskoka’s mixed forests and wetlands. In autumn the reserve takes on warm gold and russet tones, with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Trails range from easy to moderate — ideal for guests seeking a short morning hike or an afternoon wander.
*Pro Tip: This is a great spot to walk your dog off-leash.
Dorset Lookout Tower (Dorset)
For exceptional vistas, the Dorset Lookout Tower rewards effort with a sweeping view over Lake of Bays and the surrounding forrested areas. The climb is a worthwhile brief workout; once at the top, you’ll get one of the best vantage points in the area for fall foliage photography. Visit on a clear day to maximize visibility across the Muskoka landscape.
This site is not open in winter months.
*Pro Tip: After your visit to the Tower head to Pizza on Earth, 5 mins away in the Village of Dorset. You’re welcome in advance. 🙂
Muskoka Heritage Place (Huntsville)
Muskoka Heritage Place (Huntsville)
Set within the Town of Huntsville, Muskoka Heritage Place combines museum exhibits with outdoor heritage displays and walking areas that highlight the town’s cultural history. In season, it’s a pleasant place to tour the pioneer village, ride the historical train, and discover the museum. The onsite trails and picnic areas make it a relaxed half-day stop for families and history enthusiasts. Heritage Place offers seasonal special events and while you’re there, consider walking up the neighbouring steep trail to Lion’s Lookout, offering panorama views of the town and lakes, especially spectacular in the Fall.
Muskoka Heritage Place (Huntsville)
The Dyer Memorial is one man’s tribute to his deceased wife. It’s been referred to as “Huntsville’s very own Taj Mahal.” Near the abandoned pioneer hamlet of Williamsport, seven miles north-east of the Town of Huntsville, Ontario, is a 42-foot high granite monument, sitting in a small clearing, on top of a secluded hill at the end of a dirt road sloping down to the Big East River.
The Dyer Memorial was built starting in 1956 by Detroit lawyer Clifton Dyer, as final resting place for the cremated ashes of his wife Betsy (Brown) Dyer.
Pro Tip: Although truly an over-the-top structure it’s fascinating that it’s preserved in this wild setting. Also it’s nice to see a monument to a woman.
Looking for Dog-Friendly place while you explore?
Some of the spaces in this blog are very dog friendly. And if you’d like a full day’s itinerary where your doggo can tag along, look here…
Did you know that most of our vacation rental cottages are also dog friendly?
Dwight Beach (in Village of Dwight)
Dwight Beach offers a lakeside escape with sandy shorelines and easy water access. In autumn the beach is quieter and offers gorgeous views of the colourful foliage around the Lake of Bays. With the sandy, shallow entry to the swimming area this is a perfect spot for learning swimmers and sandcastle enthusiasts.
*Pro Tip: Right up the road from the beach you’ll want to stop in at Erika’s Bakery.
Oxtongue Rapids Trail (Between Dwight and Dorset)
The Oxtongue Rapids trail follows sections of rushing water and rocky shorelines that are especially dramatic in autumn as forest colors contrast with the river’s flow. This trail is a good choice for enjoying an easy riverside walk with varied terrain and the sound of moving water.
Pro Tip: Hike first and then as you are heading back to Dwight on Hwy 35 keep a sharp eye out for Saigon Pho, extremely tasty noodle options!
Ragged Falls (just past Dwight, on the way into Algonquin Park)
Ragged Falls Provincial Park features a powerful, segmented waterfall tumbling through a rocky gorge. In fall, the surrounding deciduous trees frame the falls in brilliant hues, creating a dramatic setting for short hikes and photography. Boardwalks and viewing areas make it easy to take in the scene safely.
*Pro Tip: In summer months (if you’re a strong swimmer and wearing a life jacket), hike up mid-way into the falls and sit in one of the rushing pools to feel the river flow past you.
Fairy Vista Trail (Huntsville)
Fairy Vista is an intimate trail that combines short climbs with scenic outlooks. The path winds through mixed forest and opens to viewpoints overlooking valleys and lakes. All types of non-motorized trail access are good for this trail. Autumn colors here are often vivid and less crowded than more famous lookouts, making Fairy Vista a peaceful option for sunrise or sunset visits.
*Pro Tip: Ride your bike along the trail and back and then reward yourself with an ice cream cone from Kawartha Dairy, right next to the trail’s start.
Hunters Bay Trail (Huntsville)
The Hunters Bay walking trail follows the shoreline and offers accessible, leisurely walking close to town. In fall, the trail is a pleasant way to enjoy lakeside scenery, watch migratory birds and pop into downtown Huntsville for a warm drink afterward. It’s well-suited to guests who prefer gentle, scenic walks without extensive driving.
*Pro Tip: This trail circumnavigates Hunters Bay, a large bay leading from Lake Vernon into the river right into downtown Huntsville. Great location and lots to see with easy access.
Lions Lookout (Huntsville)
Lions Lookout provides another excellent perspective on Muskoka’s fall palette. This vantage point provides magnificent views of the Town of Huntsville, the Muskoka River and Fairy Lake and is a favourite spot to take in the fall colours. Not open in winter months.
*Pro Tip: you can drive up to the lookout BUT for a fun and quick challenge, park at the Summit Centre and walk up the steep slope instead. The view at the top is well worth the climb!
Planning Your Visits
- Timing: Peak fall color in Muskoka typically occurs from late September through mid-October, but timing varies year to year. Check local fall foliage reports before planning day trips.
- Accessibility: Many of these locations have short hikes or lookout stairs. Wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers for cool mornings and milder afternoons.
- Parking and Fees: Some provincial parks or lookout sites may charge parking or access fees; check each location’s official page before you go.
- Safety and Respect: Stay on marked trails, carry water, and pack out what you bring in. These are natural and historical sites — observe respectfully, especially at the Mizpah Pioneer Cemetery and Dyer Memorial.
Useful Links
- Ontario Parks: https://www.ontarioparks.com (for Ragged Falls and other provincial parks)
- Town of Huntsville trails and visitor info: https://www.huntsville.ca/en/explore-huntsville.aspx
- Dorset Lookout information (Dorset Village & Township resources): https://www.dorsetpark.ca (local tourism/park pages)
Limberlost Vacation Rentals: https://LimberlostVacationRentals.ca
We’re partnering with cottage owners in Muskoka who want to welcome guests into their spaces and are interested in a progressive, responsible and community-minded approach to hosting.
If that’s you, please get in touch.
Terri Hodgson
Limberlost Vacation Rental Management
LimberlostVacationRentals.ca
LinkedIn
Instagram @limberlostsustain
