Weekend in Muskoka - Motorcycle Touring in Ontario’s Cottage Country

This article was written by Martin Lortz

As a motorcyclist in Ontario, planning your next ride can be a delightful challenge. There's so much to explore and enjoy, but never enough time. With 17,000 kilometers (10,563 miles) of paved roads to choose from, a number that will double if you add gravel and dirt to the mix, the options are plentiful. In addition to that, the fact that Ontario is larger than many countries makes planning a weekend outing a challenge.

Thankfully, our next moto adventure is just a short ride away.

Muskoka, with its picturesque lakes and winding roads, is right in our backyard, making it the perfect destination for a day or weekend trip.

When you think of Muskoka, you might envision shimmering lakes and upscale cottages, and you'd be right. But the challenge of plotting a road among the lakes created a twist-and-turn two-wheeled playground that keeps us coming back.

This region, which we often call Muskoka as a ride destination, is actually the Great Canadian Wilderness and stretches far beyond Lake Muskoka's confines. It encompasses a landscape from Algonquin to the shores of Georgian Bay and north to Lake Nipissing. Here, you will find many roads worthy of a spot on Ontario's best motorcycling roads list, and it even has its own list of top ten motorcycle roads.

Yes, there is a price to access this playground, and it's the same price as leaving the GTA in any direction, and it is in the form of time spent on big roads shared with many. But a mere 90 minutes to the north, you turn onto Southwood Road, where a sign promises a twisty road for the next 30 kilometers and that all is good in the world.

Southwood Road has suffered from some surface issues in the past, but most of the problem areas have been repaved, and the ride is back on. The Cross Roads Restaurant in Rosseau is a fantastic lunch spot, and the journey along Highway 632 makes getting here a blast. From here, options are plenty: Highway 141 east or west, the fantastic Highway 518 via Tally-Ho Swords Road or Aspdin Road towards Huntsville.

While a day ride in Muskoka is a great experience, extending your stay to explore all the top ten roads in the region is even better. With accommodation options ranging from camping to motels to high-end resorts, finding a place to rest your head for the night is a breeze. Once I park my bike for the night, I enjoy exploring on foot and prefer accommodations with nearby amenities.

In Bracebridge, the Inn at the Falls offers cozy rooms, beautiful river views, and walking distance to shops and restaurants. The on-site Italian restaurant Basilico serves delicious food, making it even more convenient.

In Huntsville, there are many accommodation options within walking distance of downtown, where you can enjoy a meal overlooking the water. If you are after a more resort-like setting, located on the outskirts of town, Deerhurst Resort is the place to be.

The recently opened Best Western Plus Hotel in Parry Sound is situated just off the highway, making it easily accessible. As for dining options, you're in for a treat. There are numerous choices within walking distance of the hotel, and a gas station is conveniently located as you leave the hotel parking lot.

The best motorcycle rides offer more than simply the journey; a motorcycle adventure in Muskoka provides more than just fantastic roads.

Ride through the world-famous Algonquin Provincial Park, stop at the interpretive centre to learn about the park, and at the Lake Of Two Rivers store for some ice cream.

Climb the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, located off Highway 35 just north of the village of Dorset.

In Huntsville, explore the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, a collection of over 90 world-class murals celebrating the unique artwork of Tom Thomson and The Group of Seven. The Gallery is a free public art experience displayed on the walls of many businesses and buildings throughout Huntsville.

Between Burk's Falls and Magnetawan, take a short detour to the Screaming Heads sculptures, a must-see attraction in the area. Artist Peter Camani created the surreal experience. Discover giant cast-concrete sculptures throughout his 310-acre property.

In Port Loring, plan a lunch stop at either Roxie's Diner or Jake's Place and hang out with the locals before continuing along the remote Highway 522.

Killbear Provincial Park offers Georgian Bay views and time on the beach. The nearby Snug Harbour is an excellent spot to enjoy a meal at Gilly's Snug Harbour Restaurant.

When you're near Parry Sound, board the Island Queen and cruise through the 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay. Explore the inner islands of the Big Sound and some of the most beautiful islands and channels on the Bay, including the famous Hole in the Wall.

Discover waterfalls in Bracebridge. Crossing the Silver Bridge, you can view Bracebridge Falls from your bike's seat. Just north of town, Wilson's Falls is a short detour worthy of a visit.  

In Gravenhurst, cruise Lake Muskoka aboard a historic steamship and learn about the area's boating history at the Muskoka Discovery Centre.

If you, like me, enjoy a post-ride barley and hops-based beverage, aka beer, craft breweries abound in the area. My favorites are as much about the beer they produce as their dining options; I enjoyed lunch stops at Trestle Brewing in Parry Sound and Clear Lake Brewing in Torrance at the north end of Southwood Road. Just a couple minutes up the road from Clear Lake Brewing, you can beat the summer heat at the Muskoka BeerSpa.