Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country, Muskoka is a premier four-season destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a dynamic real estate market. Covering approximately 6,475 square kilometers, Muskoka is home to over 1,600 lakes, rugged granite landscapes, and dense forests that offer breathtaking scenery year-round. Known for its crystal-clear waters, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, Muskoka attracts visitors and homeowners seeking a peaceful retreat away from the city while still enjoying modern amenities.
Muskoka Summer
The Muskoka region includes quaint yet thriving towns such as Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Bala, each offering unique attractions, local businesses, and recreational activities. Muskoka’s economy thrives not only on tourism and hospitality but also on luxury real estate, outdoor recreation, and local artisan industries, making it a well-rounded and sustainable community. With its proximity to Toronto (just a two-hour drive north), Muskoka has become a sought-after destination for both seasonal cottagers and permanent residents, many of whom are drawn by the opportunity to work remotely while enjoying a higher quality of life.

Muskoka’s blend of a dynamic real estate market, diverse demographics, and rich cultural attractions makes it an enticing destination for prospective homeowners and visitors alike.

Exploring Muskoka’s Iconic Lakes

Muskoka’s numerous lakes provide an array of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to swimming and paddling. 

Best Lakes for Boating & Water Sports

For those who love the thrill of boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing, Muskoka has several lakes with expansive open waters ideal for motorized boats and high-speed recreation:

Lake Muskoka – One of the largest and most iconic lakes in Muskoka, offering extensive boating routes, marinas, and luxury waterfront properties. Popular spots include Gravenhurst Wharf and Beaumaris Marina.

Lake Rosseau – A favorite among boaters and cottagers, this lake provides large, open waters with beautiful island properties and connects to Lake Joseph for extended boating excursions.

Lake Joseph – Known for its pristine waters and high-end cottages, Lake Joseph offers excellent conditions for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.
Gloucester Pool – This scenic lake connects to the Trent-Severn Waterway, making it a top choice for boaters looking to explore beyond Muskoka.

Fairy Lake – Located in Huntsville, this lake is great for boating and has a direct connection to Peninsula Lake, offering an extended boating route.

Jet Ski Maskoka

Lakes with Sandy Beaches & Swimming Areas.

While Muskoka is known for its rocky Canadian Shield landscape, several lakes feature sandy shores that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly beach outings:

Sand Lake – As its name suggests, Sand Lake is known for its soft sandy bottom and clear waters, making it one of the best places to swim in Muskoka.

Peninsula Lake – Near Hidden Valley Resort, this lake has sandy stretches ideal for beachgoers.

Skeleton Lake – This unique lake features sandy beaches and clear, deep waters, providing an ideal spot for swimming and paddle boarding.

Mary Lake – Located near Port Sydney, this lake is a great family destination with shallow, sandy shores.

Echo Lake – A small, tranquil lake near Baysville with soft sand and gentle slopes for safe swimming.

Muskoka Beach

Best Lakes for Fishing in Muskoka

Muskoka is a top-tier fishing destination, home to various species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, lake trout, and muskellunge. Here are some of the best fishing lakes:

Lake Muskoka – Offers an excellent mix of smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and muskellunge.

Lake Joseph – Known for its deep, clear waters, this lake is a great spot for lake trout and smallmouth bass.

Sparrow Lake – A favorite among anglers looking for walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike.

Skeleton Lake – Provides excellent fishing opportunities for brook trout, smallmouth bass, and lake trout.

Kahshe Lake – A well-known location for pike and bass fishing.

Go Home Lake – An excellent fishing destination for smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike.

Muskoka Fishing

Non-Motorized Lakes for Canoeing & Kayaking

For those looking for a quiet, motor-free environment to enjoy paddling and nature watching, several lakes in Muskoka prohibit or limit motorized boats:

Bella Lake – A peaceful, non-motorized lake near Huntsville that is great for canoeing and kayaking.

Echo Lake – A quiet and pristine lake near Baysville, perfect for non-motorized water activities.

Wolf Lake – Offers a serene paddling experience surrounded by dense forests and wildlife.

Muskoka Kayaking

Popular Attractions and Festivals

Muskoka’s allure extends beyond its real estate, offering a plethora of attractions and events that celebrate its rich culture and natural splendor.

Attractions

Muskoka Wharf: Located in Gravenhurst, this 89-acre development features retailers, restaurants, and hosts events like Pirate Fest and the Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market.

RMS Segwun: Also based in Gravenhurst, the RMS Segwun is North America’s oldest operating steamship, offering scenic cruises on Lake Muskoka.

Santa’s Village: Situated in Bracebridge, this Christmas-themed amusement park provides family-friendly entertainment, including the upcoming Yeti Trek roller coaster set to open in 2025.

Festivals

Bala Cranberry Festival: Held annually in October in the town of Bala, this festival celebrates the local cranberry harvest with food, crafts, and entertainment, attracting over 20,000 visitors.

Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival: Scheduled for July 18-19, 2025, at Gull Lake Park, this festival features live music and art, offering a vibrant cultural experience.

Fire and Ice Festival: Bracebridge’s signature winter carnival, featuring tubing, ice sculptures, and fireworks, is set for January 25, 2025.

Bala Cranberry Festival

Muskoka Real Estate

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Showing 161 to 170 of 862 Properties

1002 BAGLEY ROAD Gravenhurst (Morrison) Ontario $1,399,000 ID#: X12146486

Red Brick Real Estate Brokerage Ltd.

Welcome to 1002 Bagley Road, Severn Bridge (Gravenhurst) - a rare, newly built (2024) post-and-beam bungaloft on the Trent-Severn Waterway, offering deep water access for swimming and boating fun, full...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
305 - 32 BRUNEL ROAD Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $1,398,000 ID#: X12103790

RE/MAX Professionals North

Welcome to The Riverbend, where urban convenience meets Muskoka Luxury along the shores of the Muskoka River. An exclusive condominium community with only 15 suites. From every suite, in every...

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
8814 GEORGIAN BAY SHORE Georgian Bay (Baxter) Ontario $1,395,000 ID#: X12014670

Royal LePage In Touch Realty

You're going to want to see this brand new custom built waterfront cottage that is nestled in the tree tops atop a hillside with a panoramic view of the bay....

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
1333 WALKER LAKE DRIVE Lake of Bays (Sinclair) Ontario $1,389,000 ID#: X12044688

RE/MAX Professionals North

This stunning modern home designed for comfort and luxury, offering Muskoka living at its best with breathtaking views and access to Walker Lake, almost 6 acres of hardwood with exceptional...

  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
16LK-1 WOLF ISLAND Gravenhurst (Morrison) Ontario $1,375,000 ID#: X11994691

Sotheby's International Realty Canada

Own an entire island in MUSKOKA! Experience the epitome of lakeside luxury on Wolf Island - a stunning 1.85-acre paradise with 1,320 feet of pristine water frontage offering spectacular views...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
24 BIRCHWOOD DRIVE Huntsville (Brunel) Ontario $1,369,900 ID#: X12077165

Royal LePage Lakes Of Muskoka Realty

Nestled in highly sought-after Woodland Heights, this stunning country property offers an unparalleled blend of serene forest surroundings & modern luxury. The gorgeous park-like estate lot is located on a...

  • 3 Beds
  • 3 Baths
1020 AMELIA CRESCENT Gravenhurst (Morrison) Ontario $1,365,000 ID#: X12151628

Royal LePage Lakes Of Muskoka Realty

Book your showing for this wonderful custom built family home sitting on 3 acres with an amazing 2400 sq ft shop! Easy hwy access but set in a quiet leafy...

  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
99 VERNON REACH ROAD Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $1,359,000 ID#: X10440305

Sotheby's International Realty Canada

Introducing a Stunning Lakefront Lot - Perfect for Your Dream Cottage! Welcome to this breathtaking lakefront lot, a true gem waiting to be discovered. With approximately 275 feet of frontage...

1020 STEPHENS BAY ROAD Bracebridge (Muskoka (N)) Ontario $1,350,000 ID#: X11974276

Cocks International Realty Inc.,

Discover total privacy without sacrificing convenience on this 10.5-acre Muskoka retreat set well back from neighbours yet only a short drive to groceries, schools, health care, and Hwy 11. Completed...

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
17470 GEORGIAN BAY SHORE Georgian Bay (Gibson) Ontario $1,350,000 ID#: X11982086

RE/MAX By The Bay Brokerage

Life's perfect in Palisade Bay! West exposure, crystal clean deep water...331 feet of rocky shore and a pristine 3 bedroom cottage with professionally built bunkie, are all good reasons why...

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
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