Spring Hiking in Muskoka
Spring is a time to get outdoors and explore Muskoka. A hike along one of the many trails in the district is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in the springtime. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, (take along rain-gear if the clouds seem threatening) and wear good, comfortable boots. Bring along a daypack with some goodies and water, and tuck in a small 1st aid kit, too. Once you have your gear together there are many choices. Below is a short list of a few of the region’s great trails. The information is only an overview – for all the trail details go to the website mentioned below.
The South Monck Trail near Bracebridge is a 7.5-km long hiking, and mountain biking trail. It boasts a few hills, but is rated as a moderate level trail. It’s a scenic hike, with some good chances to find some woodland wildflowers in the mixed woods, and see some field birds out on the open hilltop. The trail entrance is accessed from behind the Zeller’s store in the Bracebridge Shopping Centre, (off of highway 118 west). Look for the Trans Canada Pipeline, and follow the trail from there.
Other trails in Bracebridge include the 2 km Wilson’s Falls Trail (follow Cedar Lane to McCauley Public School, and go behind the school to the trailhead); the 5 km Strawberry Bay Point Trail, (follow Beaumont Drive to Stephen's Bay Road and travel just over one km to Strawberry Bay Road.); and the 8 kms of trails at the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre, located on the east side of Highway #11, just north of #117 exit.
Gravenhurst has several fine trails, including the Devils Gap Trail, a 6 km return trip with an optional 8 km extension past lakes and beaver ponds. It is located approx. 2 km along the Sniders Bay Road, off Muskoka Rd 169. West of Gravenhurst, near Bala, is the Torrance Barrens. Famous as a Dark Sky Reserve, it also has an 8 km + trail network, Take the Muskoka Rd 169 out of Gravenhurst, and turn south on Southwood Road for 7 kms to the Dark Sky Reserve.
For a complete list and descriptions of all trails visit
www.muskokatrails.com.
