The Peak of Fall Colours

Algonquin Park Fall Colour Report

Muskoka’s fall colours are fleeting. Within a few short weeks the landscape will turn from lush green to brilliant reds, orange and gold and then they’ll be gone. Peak colours, when viewing is at its best, will occur over the next few weeks.

You can follow the fall colour report yourself here.

We’ve talked before about the best places to view Muskoka’s beautiful fall colours by car, foot or bike, but we also recommend getting up close and personal with the trees to learn more about them (respectfully, of course). Most people associate the changing colours with sugar maples for their stunning red leaves, but many tree species change leaf colour in the fall. You can learn more about the tree species in our region in the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources Tree Atlas (pictured in the image below).

Do you remember learning in a school science class why trees change colour? If you’ve forgotten, here’s an infographic that covers the basics. [source]

We are enjoying perfect fall temperatures right now—warm, sunny days with bright blue skies and cool, clear, cloudless nights that are perfect for viewing the stars. (Did you know that it’s dark enough here to see the milky way in the night sky?) We’d love for you to visit us this fall to enjoy the colours—some say it’s the best season to be here. (We say, any season is a great season in Muskoka!) You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here if you’re planning a fall trip. And don’t forget that Canadian Thanksgiving is just around the corner!

The Howell Family

Enjoying Fiery Fall Colours

Autumn is a great time to hit the open road: sunny blue skies, crisp air, gorgeous colours and less

traffic. If you’re planning to visit Muskoka this fall, here are some classic drives, tours and hikes you should try out.

Classic fall drives

Lake of Bays tour:  approx. 90 km (1.5 hours or more, depending on the number of times you stop)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 east through Dwight to Highway 35.
• Turn right onto Highway 35 to Dorset. (If you have time, the hike up to the Dorset Fire Tower provides a beautiful vantage point over Lake of Bays.)
• Right onto Highway 117 to Baysville. (If you detour along Old Highway 117 to Norway Point, you can arrange for a water taxi to Bigwin Island.)
• Right onto Brunel Road in Baysville.
• Right onto South Portage Road (Muskoka Road 9).
• Left onto Highway 60 and back to Colonial Bay.

Huntsville Chain of Lakes tour: approx. 100 km (2+ hours, depending on the number of stops)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 East to South Portage Road (Muskoka Road 9).
• Right on South Portage (Muskoka Road 9) to Muskoka Road 23
• Right on Muskoka Road 23 back to Highway 60 (You have just circled Peninsula Lake)
• Left on Highway 60 to Highway 11 (Passing Fairy Lake)
• Left onto Highway 11
• Right on Ravenscliffe Road
• Left on E Fox Lake Road
• Left on Hoodstown Road (Muskoka Road 45)
• Right on South Drive (still Muskoka Road 45)
• Left on Etwell Road
• Left on Aspdin Road (You have just circled Lake Vernon)
• Right on Highway 11 to Port Sydney
• Right on Muskoka Road 10 through Port Sydney (Passing Mary Lake). Consider stopping for a picnic lunch at the public beach in Port Sydney.
• Left on Brunel Road to Huntsville (If you have time, stop at the Brunel Locks and watch the boats or at Lions Lookout above the Canada Summit Centre for a sweeping view of Fairy Lake and the Town of Huntsville)
• Right on Main Street
• Right on Highway 60 and back to Colonial Bay

Algonquin Park Tour: approx. 180 km to the East Gate of Algonquin Park and back (3+ hours depending on how often you stop)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 East to Algonquin Park (a visitor’s pass is required for the park - you can purchase one at the West Gate) 
• The drive through the park is beautiful and offers abundant opportunities for short hikes or viewpoints.

Hiking

The viewing deck at the Algonquin Visitor’s Centre (at km 43) will give you the most accessible panoramic view in the park or check out these trails: Hardwood Lookout (13.8km); Track and Tower (25km); Centennial Ridges 37.6km); Lookout Trail (39.7km) and Booth's Rock Trail (40.3km). For other hiking trails in the area, check here.

Guided Tour

Don’t like to drive but still want to take in the scenery? Check out this tour offered by the Town of Huntsville during Thanksgiving:

Guided Tour of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, Saturday October 12^th – Thanksgiving Weekend!!

Photo courtesy of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery

Take a guided bus tour of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery in Huntsville and outlying communities.  This tour will feature a collection of world-class re-production murals celebrating the unique artwork of Canada's Tom Thomson and The Group of Seven.   The tour travels through Huntsville, Dwight, Port Cunnington, Dorset, Baysville and back to the Town of Huntsville.  Includes lunch at Port Cunnington Lodge and a stop for brewery samplings.  All of this with the spectacular backdrop of nature's fall colours.  Meet at Algonquin Theatre, Tom Thomson statue at 8:45am. Tour Guide and transportation included.  Bring visiting family and friends on this fabulous Thanksgiving weekend event.  Tour Guide: Gerry Lantaigne, Artistic Director.  Seats are limited, so register early!

8:45am-5:30pm

$95.00 per person

LINK for more information: http://huntsville.ca/en/living/LeisurePrograms.asp

LINK to Register online:

https://onlineca.activecommunities.com/huntsville/Activities/ActivitiesAdvSearch.asp and click on Adult Programs. Online registration number: 12682.

Classic Cars

Photo via the Downtown Huntsville BIA

If you’re not up for the drive but want to see some classic cars, check out the Shades of Autumn Antique, Classic and Custom Car Show this weekend on Huntsville’s Main Street:

If four wheels are your passion, this one day car show is an adventure that will accelerate your heart rate. 300 exhibits up and down the main drag, trophies and door prizes – this is one automotive competition that you can take in on two feet.

We hope to see you soon, or if you’re just driving past give us a honk on your way by. There are still some waterfront cottages available for the Thanksgiving long weekend. If you’ve never visited Muskoka in the fall, why not now?

The Howell Family

Our Muskoka Om

Is there a better way to relax than yoga? Okay, we’ll admit that sitting dockside in a Muskoka chair is pretty good, too. But when you combine the two—yoga and water (not the Muskoka chair)—it becomes a magical experience. Yoga on the beach, on the dock or on the water is a wonderful way to practice.

This summer we had yoga on the dock with Andrea Johnston from Karma Connection Yoga. Doesn't it look like fun?

Whether you choose to join a group class like this one, get some private instruction, or practice on your own, you might find that you feel a deeper connection with nature during a waterfront session. You can even do yoga on the water! SUP or Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga is gaining popularity and is offered by several studios around Muskoka. Or you could just rent a SUP from a local outfitter and try it yourself. It’s easier than it sounds! This video from Active Turtle in Bala will give you a tiny taste of what it's like to balance on the water.

If you’re relatively new to yoga and are looking for a simple practice to start your day on solid ground, check out this video from Wendy Martin of Sacred Breath Yoga / Ahimsa Yoga in Huntsville.

No matter when, where, or how you choose to do it, yoga can be a great addition to your vacation. And when you're done, that Muskoka chair on the dock awaits.

The last long weekend of the summer is here already! You wouldn't know that fall is almost upon us...look at those temperatures! 

We still have a few waterfront cottages available for this weekend. Why not join us for one last blast of summer?

The Howell Family

Muskoka: An Artist’s Paradise

Mark Kulas painting (photo via Artists of the Limberlost)

The Muskoka landscape with its natural beauty, abundance of wildlife and peaceful atmosphere Open Studio Tour is on August 17 & 18 from 10-6.
have been attracting artists for years. This coming weekend, you can see the works of our local artists just up the road from Colonial Bay. The Artists of the Limberlost

Each studio is open to the public so that you can see the art, techniques and working environment of the artists. The studios also invite guest artists to exhibit their work. Here’s who you’ll see if you take the tour this weekend:

Studio 1
Jerry Friedman - driftwood sculpture
Guests:
Brad Wookie - wildlife watercolour
Barb Ten Eyke - painter

Studio 2
Susan Higgins - fused & stained glass
Guest: Vicki Sharp - jewellery

Studio 3
Brian Markham - woodturning
Guests:
Carol-Ann Michaelson – pottery
Bob McLean - painting

Studio 4
Mark Kulas – painting (pictured above)
Guest: Dan Hill - pottery

Studio 5
Catherine O’Mara - egg tempera painting
Guests:
Cirvan Hamilton - contemporary furniture
Rudi Stade - rustic furniture

Studio 6
Brenda Wainman Goulet - bronze sculpture
Guest: Elizabeth Siegfried - photography

Studio 7
Jeff Miller - oil & acrylic painting

To see more of Muskoka’s talented artists, consider taking in these other art experiences:

• The Art Space by the Huntsville Art Society (across from River Mill Park in Huntsville, open Tues – Sun). In addition to art, from Aug 15-21 you can enjoy The Art Space Sessions—intimate concerts featuring local musicians.
• Have you found all of the murals in the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery? Celebrating the unique art of Tom Thomson and The Group of Seven, these large outdoor murals are scattered throughout Huntsville with satellite installations in Algonquin Park, Dorset, Dwight, and Baysville. Take a tour of the downtown Huntsville collection using this map.
• To the west of Colonial Bay in the heart of Algonquin Park is the Algonquin Art Centre. Their current exhibit celebrates The Canadian Sheild. The Algonquin Art Centre is open daily (10-5) until October 21.

Summer isn’t over yet. If you’re looking to make one last getaway before the kids go back to school or your Fall schedule starts in earnest, check the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

We hope to see you soon!
The Howell Family

Fire & Fun

Here comes the long weekend! And with it, comes Firefest, THE big fireworks event for our neighbouring town of Dwight. It is always held on the Saturday of the long weekend in August, starting at 5:00 pm on Dwight Beach and wraps up about 10:00 pm with a fireworks show from a barge in the bay. It’s also a fundraiser for the local volunteer fire department. If you’re in Muskoka for the long weekend, it’s a great event with live music, fun activities, great food and, of course, fireworks!

Closer to home (as in our own backyard) you can enjoy fire of a different sort. Throughout the summer we have a campfire for our guests to enjoy. We regularly host corn roasts— there’s nothing quite like corn on the cob roasted over an open fire—and ‘smores nights. Or if a plain, ole marshmallow is your thing, you can roast those, too! Join us and relax fireside for a great end to a summer day. 

Young guests enjoying Friday night 'smores.

Summer is also the time for a classic summer sight: fireflies. They sometimes make an appearance at Colonial Bay, much to the delight of our guests. They may be small, but they elicit almost as many smiles as seeing a moose or a bear. And you can catch & release them (unlike moose and bears). Apparently this year has produced a bumper crop in Ontario, but this weekend may be your last chance to see them. They’re usually gone by early August.

The fireflies may be gone, but we won’t be! You can see the availability of our waterfront cottages here. There’s still more than a month left of summer and then we’re into the beautiful colours of fall. We hope you’ll visit us soon!

The Howell Family

What’s SUP? Surfing the lakes in Muskoka

Nicolle Stand Up Paddleboarding on Pen Lake

Stand Up Paddleboarding (or SUP) is rapidly gaining popularity for its accessibility and its unique vantage point on the water. Nicolle is a huge fan of SUP (that’s her in the photo), so we thought we’d share a little bit about this emerging sport.

SUP has its roots in surfing but because you propel yourself with a paddle rather than relying on the waves, it can be done on any body of water and is ideal for exploring Muskoka’s lakes and rivers.

It’s easier than it looks. Stand Up Paddleboards are wide and surprisingly stable. You can start out kneeling until you get a feel for the balance and then gently stand up when you’re ready. Your feet should be hip-width apart and parallel (not one in front of the other). Keep your knees slightly bent, your toes pointed forward and your back straight. That’s it. Once you begin to paddle, it’s even easier to remain stable.

Paddling is a bit different than in a canoe or kayak. Here are some more tips and a video from REI:

• The elbow (angle) of the paddle faces away from you.
• Keep your arms straight and twist from your torso as you paddle. Think of using your torso to paddle rather than your arms. You have more strength in those abdominal muscles than in your arms.
• Push down on the paddle grip with your top hand.
• Plant the paddle by pushing the blade all the way under the surface, pull it back to your ankle, then out of the water.
• When you're beginning, keep your strokes fairly short and close alongside the board. No need to overpower it.
• A small draw stroke at the beginning of the paddle stroke will keep you going forward.
• To go in a reasonably straight line, paddle about 4 or 5 strokes on one side, then switch to the other.
• When you switch sides, you'll reverse hand positions.

On a Stand Up Paddleboard, you get a unique perspective that you can’t get from a boat or a canoe. (Have you ever tried standing up in a canoe? We don’t recommend it!) You can see farther over the water and deeper into the water than from a canoe or kayak. Paddleboarding is also a great core workout and you can even do yoga on one!

If you want the feel of surfing on the lakes, you can also surf behind a boat or with a bungee using The Muskoka Surfboard. Here’s a picture of Luke giving a demonstration at the recent Rotary Dockfest in Huntsville.

Luke on a Muskoka Surfboard at Rotary Dockfest in Huntsville

Both SUP and surfing are fun, family-friendly activities and we hope you’ll try them the next time you’re at Colonial Bay. (And we hope that's soon!) You can see the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

From the waterfront,

The Howell Family

Happy Canada Day long weekend!

Psst…it’s someone’s birthday soon. You know who we mean, don’t you? Canada, of course! The first long weekend of summer has finally arrived and with it an abundance of activities to celebrate Canada Day. You can find a full list of all of Huntsville’s Canada Day celebrations here, but these are some of the highlights:

• O Canada in River Mill Park, 10 a.m. – dignitaries, cake, the Muskoka Concert Band and eco-crafts (if you’re hungry, arrive early for the Lions Club Peameal on a Bun breakfast at 9:00)
• Strawberry Social and Steam Up Day, Muskoka Heritage Place, 10–4 – entertainment, strawberry scones, and demonstrations (village/train admission fee required)
• Huntsville Train Station open house, 10–4
• Brunel Locks celebration, 11–4 – free hot dogs and drinks!
• Trillium Jazz Band on the Town Hall steps, 11–1
• Royal Canadian Legion, starting at noon – pipe band, wildlife exhibits, and dunk tank, plus a free roast beef dinner at 5 p.m.
• Fireworks, Avery Beach in Huntsville – at dusk (10:00)

As for the rest of the weekend, there’s still lots to do:

• Check out Huntsville’s newest farmers’ market, the 100k Farm, Fresh & Homemade Market on Saturday from 9-1 (beside Pharmasave downtown)
• Stop for ice cream
• Take a cruise on Lake of Bays in the newly refurbished SS Bigwin (Sunday at 11:00)
• Go hiking, biking, take a driving tour, go golfing, try geocaching, or do some watersports (even surfing!)
• And if you’re staying at Colonial Bay you can (taking a deep breath here): swim, canoe, kayak, read a book, boat, play badminton, tell tales at the campfire, play volleyball, go fishing, play horseshoes, sail, build sand castles, sun bathe, go water tubing, go paddle-boating, play a board game, roast marshmallows, watch wildlife, or relax in a Muskoka chair, all without ever leaving the property!

We hope you have a wonderful long weekend. If you’re still looking for somewhere to relax, we have just a few waterfront cottages still available. Details here. 

Happy Canada Day!

The Howell Family

Sweet treats in Muskoka

After a hot day spent playing in the water, on the beach or on the trails, a cool treat is the perfect end to the day. Whether you prefer ice cream, frozen yogurt and gelato, Muskoka has them all!

Some delicious-looking scoops from Belly Ice Cream

• Kawartha Dairy, Highway 60 east of Huntsville – Ice cream by the cone or tub, treats and locally produced condiments, maple syrup and honey.
• The Nutty Chocolatier, Downtown Huntsville – Ice cream and lots and lots (did we say lots?) of chocolate and candy.
• Belly Ice Cream, Downtown Huntsville – Unique flavours of ice cream hand-made right here in Huntsville!
• Yogs, Downtown Huntsville – Frozen yogurt and ice cream.
• That Little Place by the Lights, Downtown Huntsville – Authentic gelato…yum. (And delicious food, too!)

If you’re heading out to Algonquin Park, check these out, too:

• Two Rivers Store, Highway 60 in Algonquin Park at km 31.4 – Soft serve and scooped ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes.
• Opeongo Store (Algonquin Outfitters), 6.2 km north of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park at km 46.3 – Scooped ice cream and sundaes (you can even build your own: Cherry Chocolate Smores, anyone?).

And if you don’t like ice cream but are still craving something sweet, check out one of Muskoka’s delicious bakeries:

• Schat Bakery and Café, Downtown Huntsville – Dutch pastries and artisan breads (plus a full café with sandwiches, soups and salads).
• Henrietta’s Pine Bakery, Highway 60 in Dwight – Pastries, breads and sandwiches to go.

The weather is getting warmer, the lake temperature is rising and summer is just a week away! We hope you’ll come for a visit – summer is the ideal time to experience the best of Muskoka. You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here. 

We hope to see you soon!

The Howell Family

Summer, Straight Ahead!

Muskoka is a beautiful place to be any time of year but she really shines in the summer. With an abundance of water sports, outdoor activities, cultural events and opportunities to just relax, summer in Muskoka is fabulous! Here are some of the things you can look forward to if you plan to visit us in the next few months:

• For anytime fun, try hiking, biking, driving tours, golf, geocaching, or a variety of watersports (even surfing!)
• Muskoka Lakes Spring Art Tour, June 8 & 9
• Farmers’ Markets in Dwight (NEW!) on Tuesdays, Gravenhurst on Wednesdays, Huntsville on Thursdays, Rosseau on Fridays and Bracebridge on Saturdays
• Canada Day Fireworks in Huntsville and a Strawberry Social at Muskoka Heritage Place, July 1
• Nuit Blanche North street festival, July 13
• Algonquin Park Wolf Howls, Thursday nights in August
• Huntsville Jazz Festival, Aug 1-3
• Artists of the Limberlost Open Studio Weekend, Aug 17-18

Come and see what else Muskoka has in store! You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

With warm summer thoughts,

The Howell Family

Let Summer Begin!

After a few false starts, it looks like summer temperatures are here to stay! Check out these temperatures for the coming long weekend:

Victoria Day weekend, a.k.a. May 2-4, is the unofficial kick-off to summer. It’s been eagerly anticipated this year. So what to do with this sunny weather?

• Canoeing and kayaking – We have canoes, kayaks and paddleboats available for use by our guests. Take a quiet paddle around our bay and look for the loons (you’ll probably hear them before you see them!)
• Swimming – For some, a dip in the lake on the May long weekend is an annual tradition, no matter how cold the water is. Why not join them?
• Fishing – Pen Lake is home to a variety of fish species, making for some great fishing. (But remember that a fishing license is required before you head out!)
• Hiking – There’s a fabulous selection of hiking trails all just a short drive from Colonial Bay. Don’t forget to take your camera—you never know what you might encounter!
• Art-walking – Take a walking tour of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, large-scale reproductions of some of the Group of Seven’s famous works. Stop for ice cream while you’re at it.
• Stargazing – Yes, we know this isn’t a sunny weather activity, given that it’s at night. But the starry skies in Muskoka are truly spectacular. If you have a smartphone or tablet, download Google Sky (for Android) or Star Walk (for Apple devices) to find out exactly what you’re looking at.
• Visiting the past – Muskoka Heritage Place offers a glimpse into Huntsville’s history with its pioneer village, train and museum.
• Relaxing – You come to Muskoka to relax, of course. And for that, there’s a Muskoka chair waiting just for you.

We still have a few waterfront cottages available for the long weekend. You can see our availability here and we hope to see you soon!

With warm summer thoughts,

The Howell Family

Muskoka is Wheelie Fun!

Now that Spring appears to have finally arrived, it’s an ideal time to get out on two wheels to explore the roads and trails around Muskoka.

Old Railway Bike Trail in Algonquin Park

For cyclists, there are plenty of both moderate and challenging routes for both road and mountain biking. Check the Bike Muskoka website for routes and maps. Among the favourite local routes for road cyclists are Limberlost Road, directly across from Colonial Bay, and the Spin the Lakes routes through Lake of Bays. If off-road is more your style, check out the Buckwallow Cycling Centre between Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. They have more than 30 kilometres of both single and double track trails. For more family-friendly cycling, head to Huntsville’s Fairy Vista Trail, a paved 3.4-kilometre path or try the 10-kilometre Old Railway Bike Trail in Algonquin Park.

Motorcycles and other vehicles can enjoy the same road routes as cyclists, with the advantage of being able to go longer distances. We’ve mentioned these local driving tours before, but they’re worth mentioning again. Spring, with its lack of foliage, is an ideal time to travel these routes looking for wildlife that might otherwise be hidden amongst the trees.

Lake of Bays tour:  approx. 90 km (1.5 hours or more, depending on the number of times you stop)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 east through Dwight to Highway 35.
• Turn right onto Highway 35 to Dorset. (If you have time, the hike up to the Dorset Fire Tower provides a beautiful vantage point over Lake of Bays.)
• Right onto Highway 117 to Baysville. (If you detour along Old Highway 117 to Norway Point, you can arrange for a water taxi to Bigwin Island.)
• Right onto Brunel Road in Baysville.
• Right onto South Portage Road (Muskoka Road 9).
• Left onto Highway 60 and back to Colonial Bay.

Huntsville Chain of Lakes tour: approx. 100 km (2+ hours, depending on the number of stops)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 East to South Portage Road (Muskoka Road 9).
• Right on South Portage (Muskoka Road 9) to Muskoka Road 23
• Right on Muskoka Road 23 back to Highway 60 (You have just circled Peninsula Lake)
• Left on Highway 60 to Highway 11 (Passing Fairy Lake)
• Left onto Highway 11
• Right on Ravenscliffe Road
• Left on E Fox Lake Road
• Left on Hoodstown Road (Muskoka Road 45)
• Right on South Drive (still Muskoka Road 45)
• Left on Etwell Road
• Left on Aspdin Road (You have just circled Lake Vernon)
• Right on Highway 11 to Port Sydney
• Right on Muskoka Road 10 through Port Sydney (Passing Mary Lake). Consider stopping for a picnic lunch at the public beach in Port Sydney.
• Left on Brunel Road to Huntsville (If you have time, stop at the Brunel Locks and watch the boats or at Lions Lookout above the Canada Summit Centre for a sweeping view of Fairy Lake and the Town of Huntsville)
• Right on Main Street
• Right on Highway 60 and back to Colonial Bay

Algonquin Park Tour: approx. 180 km to the East Gate of Algonquin Park and back (3+ hours depending on how often you stop)

• From Colonial Bay, take Highway 60 East to Algonquin Park (a visitor’s pass is required for the park - you can purchase one at the West Gate) 
• The drive through the park is beautiful and offers abundant opportunities for short hikes or viewpoints. The viewing deck at the Visitor’s Centre (at km 43) will give you the most accessible panoramic view in the park. 

The big news in Muskoka right now is all of the recent flooding. Our thoughts are with the homeowners and businesses who have been displaced or sustained damage from the high waters. Fortunately, the water level has begun to recede in northern Muskoka and clean-up and restoration efforts have started. If you’re inclined to help those who have been affected, donations can be made to the Salvation Army in Huntsville at 4 Mary Street E.

From our Muskoka chair to yours,

The Howell Family

Thinking of Spring

We’re thinking of spring here in Muskoka! We had a great winter with some of the best conditions for outdoor activities in years. Even though spring has arrived on the calendar, it’s taking its time making an appearance. There are signs that spring is on its way, though. Some spring birds have arrived, the snow has disappeared in sunny spots and is receding in others.

Here are some of the other things that generally happen this time of year in Muskoka, as the natural world awakes from winter.

In April:

• Bears, reptiles and amphibians start to emerge. (There are reports that bears have emerged in Algonquin Park. We’ll have to wait until May to hear those spring peepers, though!)
• Ice on the lakes breaks up. (There are some patches of open water on some lakes, but still lots of ice out there this year. For a fun contest to predict the ice out date in Algonquin Park, check out the Canoe Lake Ice-Out site.)
• Wolf pups are born.

In May:

• Moose calves are born.
• Monarch butterflies return.
• Trilliums bloom.

Some of these events may be delayed this year, but Spring has definitely begun. For what happens year-round in the natural world in Muskoka and Algonquin Park, check out this Calendar of Natural Events created by Algonquin Eco-Watch.

This is a beautiful part of the world in which to watch nature in all its glory. If you plan to come and visit, we have waterfront cottages ready for you arrival! You can see our availability here. And if you book a 2-night stay for spring, you could be eligible for $100 in gas and travel vouchers from the Explorers’ Edge Spring Fuel and Fun program. You have to book before April 19, though!

We look forward to seeing you soon,

The Howell Family

Signs of Spring in Muskoka

The Easter Bunny at Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area

Spring may have arrived on the calendar but there’s still some winter left in Muskoka. With Easter weekend falling at the end of March this year, conditions are perfect for a long weekend full of snowy activities that normally aren’t possible at Easter. Local ski slopes and Nordic ski/snowshoe trails are all reporting good spring conditions. It’s not too late to play in the snow one last time! Even the Easter Bunny likes to ski.

He’ll have to take a break for the Annual Muskoka Heritage Place and Nutty Chocolatier Easter Egg Hunt, though. Head over to Muskoka Heritage Place from noon – 1:00 pm on Sunday, March 31. Kids of all ages can embark on a chocolate treasure hunt, searching for the golden eggs to win prizes. Admission is free.

Our recent cold nights and warm days mean another sweet treat is on its way. The maples that provide such a beautiful show in the Fall begun to offer up the beginnings of yummy maple syrup. The best place to buy maple syrup is right at the farm gate of local producers. You can find a list here.

We hope you’re out enjoying the spring weather, no matter what it looks like right now. And summer will be here sooner that you think. Whether you plan to visit Muskoka for the Easter long weekend or once summer weather arrives, we hope you’ll choose to stay with us! You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

With thoughts of Spring,

The Howell Family

Muskoka: Fun For Everyone

We love Muskoka and we know that you do, too! Part of its attraction, beyond natural beauty and friendly people, is that there’s something for everyone to do here. Families and singles, young and young-at-heart, two-legged and four-legged friends… there’s an attraction, event or activity to please everyone.

We’re not surprised that National Geographic Magazine included Muskoka in its newly-released book, “100 Places That Can Change Your Child’s Life,” adding to Muskoka’s earlier National Geographic designations as one of the 10 Best Summer Trips in 2011 and one of the Best of the World in 2012. It’s an amazing place for kids to explore, play or just hang out.

Muskoka is also an attractive destination for active seniors and two upcoming events will showcase their skills as athletes: 

• Huntsville welcomes the Ontario 55+ Winter Games from February 26-28. More than 1000 athletes will compete in outdoor and indoor events including Alpine Skiing, Badminton, Curling, Duplicate Bridge, Ice Hockey, Nordic Skiing, Prediction Skating, Table Tennis, Ten Pin Bowling and Volleyball.
• From March 4-10, the Arrowhead Nordic Ski Club hosts the 2013 Canadian Masters National Championship at Arrowhead Provincial Park. Skiers aged 30 to 85+ will compete in races from 5km to 20 km in length. Check both websites for the event schedules and come cheer on the athletes!

Family Day weekend just ended – sunny, blue skies and crisp winter air made perfect conditions for outdoor activities – and March Break is just 3 weeks away. If the long-range forecast is to be believed, we’ll still have plenty of snow and balmy winter temperatures for you to ski, snowshoe, and play outside. So get out of the city and come visit for one last winter adventure, why don’t you?

Whether you decide to visit now or when summer makes its glorious return, we’d love to see you at Colonial Bay! You can see the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

The Howell Family

Going To The Dogs In Muskoka

There’s no end to the fun you can have in the snow in Muskoka. We often talk about skiing and snowshoeing and snowmobiling, but this weekend you can experience winter with some four-legged friends. 

Photo by Stacie Morris

It’s the 19^th annual Kearney Dog Sled Races, just a short drive north of Huntsville. In addition to sledding and skijoring races, there’s a whole bunch of family fun happening: kid and mutt races, face painting, an antique snowmobile display and parade, chainsaw carving, musicians, and tons of food!  

To get you in the spirit, here’s some history and info on dog sledding and skijoring:

•  “Sled dogs have coexisted and cooperated in partnership with humans for many thousands of years in the northern regions of North America and Siberia. Archeological evidence puts the earliest date at over 4,000 years ago. Some anthropologists suggest that human habitation and survival in the Arctic would not have been possible without sled dogs.” (International Federation of Sled Dog Sports)
• “The first written account of a race was an informal challenge between travelers on the route from Winnipeg to St. Paul in the 1850s. In 1886, the first Saint Paul Winter Carnival featured sled dog races and ski competitions as part of the festival to glorify the attractions of winter in Minnesota.”
• The most common dog-sledding commands are: Hike (start pulling), gee (veer right), haw (veer left), easy (slow down), whoa (stop) and on by (pass another team or other distraction).
• Skijoring is Norwegian for ski driving. In this sport, a dog (or dogs) pulls a cross-country skier using harnesses and a rope.
• You don’t need to have a Husky to skijor! Any enthusiastic breed that can follow commands will do, including Pointers, Setters, Golden Retrievers, Labs, American Bull Terriers, and Mastiffs.

If you aren’t coming to Muskoka this weekend or want to try dog sledding and skijoring for yourself, check out these local businesses:

• Call of the Wild Adventures
• Snow Forest Adventures
• Voyageur Quest
• Wilderness Adventures
• Chocpaw Expeditions
• The Bike Shop in Gravenhurst

There’s still lots of winter left in Muskoka! Enjoy it while it lasts (and don't forget about one last fling during March break!). If dog sledding and skijoring aren’t your speed, join us at Colonial Bay for other winter activities. You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

Have fun in the snow!
The Howell Family

Family Day Weekend Fun in Muskoka

Family Day Weekend is February 16-18. Here are 10 ways to get outside and celebrate with family and friends in Muskoka:

1. Alpine Skiing – Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area is a truly family-friendly ski hill with slopes for all ages and abilities. The Algonquin Outfitters Winter Carnival is back on Sunday, February 17 with fun outdoor activities and demos. Plus, there’s face painting in the chalet by Painted Kids.
2. Cross Country Skiing – Arrowhead Provincial Park has 29 km of track-set, cross-country ski trails and 12km of skate skiing trails. Each trail is rated for difficulty and ranges from beginner to expert. You can rent both classic and skate skis at the fully stocked Park Pro Shop.
3. Skating – Arrowhead Provincial Park’s skating trail is open late Saturday, February 16 and Sunday, February 17. Skate under the stars until 9:00 p.m. (with some added light from tiki torches along the path). A campfire will be roaring to warm fingers and toes or roast some hotdogs and marshmallows. The Cann Lake skating rink, at the corner of Brunel Road and Forbes Hill Drive in Huntsville, will also be open, weather permitting, all weekend for outdoor skating.If you prefer your fun indoors, the Canada Summit Centre has indoor public skating – check the link for the schedule.
4. Family Gold Rush Challenge at the Canada Summit Centre – “This Family friendly outdoor game will have you searching for gold all around the Canada Summit Centre. Be careful though, we've heard that gold bandits have been seen in the area!” Fee of $3.00 per person and minimum requirement of one adult per group.
5. Shopping – When you get tired of playing in the snow, check out some of our local businesses, cafes, and restaurants. Historic Downtown Huntsville has something for everyone: sporting goods, clothing, home décor, candy, toys, art and more!
6. Snowshoeing – Arrowhead Provincial Park has There are over 6km of marked snowshoe trails . Travel along Mayflower Lake or stomp your way to Stubb's Falls. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Park Pro Shop.
7. Biking – Biking in the winter? Yep! You can rent a snowbike from Algonquin Outfitters and tackle snowy trails on two wheels.
8. Art – The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery never closes! That’s because most of the installations are hung outside in public spaces. Wander the streets of Huntsville on foot, or hop in your car to find more art in Algonquin Park, Dorset, Dwight, and Baysville.
9. Winter in the Wild Festival in Algonquin Park - A full day of indoor and outdoor events on Saturday, February 16, 2013. All activities are free with the purchase of a daily vehicle permit (except for food). There’s a guided winter bird walk; a snowshoe winter wildlife excursion; skating with a campfire, and barbecue; winter camping demonstrations; and a night hike wolf howl. Check the link for locations and schedule.
10. Play in the snow! Build a snow family. Build a snow fort and have a snowball fight. Make snow angels. Or make yourself a snow Muskoka chair to sit and enjoy the view.

We hope you have a fantastic long weekend no matter how you choose to enjoy it. And if you need a place to stay, there’s always the waterfront cottages at Colonial Bay! You can view our availability here.

Here’s to winter fun!

The Howell Family

Winter Carnival Fun in Muskoka

Canadians have long embraced winter. We don’t have much choice, really. Mother Nature brings us a hefty dose of snow and cold (some years more than others) and we break trails, build forts, slide down hills and then warm our hands by a roaring outdoor fire. It’s hard to keep us inside.

Kids' fun at the Dwight Winter Carnival

So every new year we look forward to the slate of winter carnivals in January and February to celebrate the best of winter in our communities. These are family-friendly events with activities for everyone to enjoy. The fun kicks off next week in Port Sydney and carries through until the end of February in Gravenhurst.

January 23-27, 56^th Annual Port Sydney Winter Carnival: New this year is Rabbie Burns Night on January 23, complete with a roast beef dinner, haggis and bag pipes. The popular Grand Marche, a showcase of Muskoka restaurants, is back on Friday night. On the weekend, there’s skating, bonfires, face-painting, human curling, music, entertainment, and food, food and more food. (And more! Check out their website for details.)

February 1-3, 46^th Annual Port Carling Winterfest: The weekend is chock full of entertainment including dancing, skating, wagon rides, kids’ activities, competitions and even a Polar Bear Dip.

February 15-16, 23^rd Annual Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival: With tons of outdoor activities, snow sculpting, food, and demonstrations, this carnival is worth the drive to Dorset. Events are still being planned, so check back to their website for more information.

February 21-23, 43^rd Annual Dwight Winter Carnival: Just up the highway from Colonial Bay, the Dwight Winter Carnival is a small but mighty local favorite. They’re still planning events for this year, but in the past we’ve been treated to a dance, demonstrations, dog sledding, mini-snowmobiles, balloon rides and one of the best pie competitions around (and you can even buy one to take home). Check their website soon for more information on this year’s events.

February 22-24, Gravenhurst Winter Carnival: With a demolition derby, polar bear dip, glow in the dark skating, and bed races, the Gravenhurst Winter Carnival has some of the most interesting and entertaining winter carnival events around. Go to their website for a full list of activities and events.

Besides these fun events, winter is a fabulous time to explore the quiet beauty of Muskoka. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through Muskoka’s forests and across its lakes (be sure to check ice conditions first!) are an unparalleled experience. As always, we look forward to having you visit us at Colonial Bay, no matter what time of year. You can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

Stay warm out there!

The Howell Family

2012 at Colonial Bay

It's been a great year here at Colonial Bay. We had wonderful guests, some here for the first time and some familiar faces back to see us again. In every season, Mother Nature delivered gorgeous views and amazing weather to help make everyone's holiday memorable.

Winter Sunset at Colonial Bay

Spring Sunset at Colonial Bay

Summer Waterskiing at Colonial Bay

Fall Colours at Colonial Bay

And we updated our entrance sign with help from Gus at Hilltop Signs (looks good, doesn't it?).

Colonial Bay Cottages new sign

This summer, our guests enjoyed swimming, water skiing, playing in the sand, fishing, kayaking or just relaxing in a Muskoka chair by the beach. Our new Saturn inflatable water toy was a big hit!

Kids flip for Saturn!

Weather conditions were perfect for spectacular Fall colours this year and winter arrived right on time to give us a great start to the ski season (still waiting on a bit more though...come on, Mother Nature!)

Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area

You can view more photos from the past year on our Facebook page (Don't forget to LIKE us if you haven't already!).

We hope your year has been fabulous, too, and we look forward to seeing some of you at Colonial Bay in 2013. As always, you can view the availability of our waterfront cottages here.

Best wishes for a healthy, happy and fun-filled new year!
The Howell Family