Huntsville/Lake of Bays Visitors Guide 2015/2016

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YOUR GUIDE TO CULTURAL & SPORTING EVENTS, DINING, SHOPPING & UNFORGETTABLE FRESH AIR EXPERIENCES! HuntsvilleAdventures.com

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Transcript of Huntsville/Lake of Bays Visitors Guide 2015/2016

Page 1: Huntsville/Lake of Bays Visitors Guide 2015/2016

YOUR GUIDE TO CULTURAL & SPORTING EVENTS, DINING, SHOPPING

& UNFORGETTABLE FRESH AIR EXPERIENCES!

HuntsvilleAdventures.com

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Cover PHoTo • Herman Wong Photography

ArT direCTioN & desigN dreams Becoming reality Marketing • 705-789-7135

PriNTiNgAben graphics Ltd. • 705-789-4404

ProduCed BYHuntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce

errors & oMissioNsFor a complete list of supportive Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber ofCommerce members, visit www.huntsvillelakeofbays.on.ca. every effort hasbeen made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this guide. if youhave any questions, comments or would like to advertise in future publications,please contact the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce.

For TourisM iNQuiries or iNForMATioN PLeAse CoNTACT:

HuNTsviLLe/LAKe oF BAYs CHAMBer oF CoMMerCe ~ oPeN ALL-YeAr

8 West street North, Huntsville, oN P1H 2B6

T: 705-789-4771 • F: 705-789-6191 • [email protected]

www.huntsvillelakeofbays.on.ca • www.huntsvilleadventures.com

Welcome to one of Ontario’s most beloved four-season destinations – the Town ofHuntsville, the Township of Lake of Bays,

and Algonquin Provincial Park — a vast and wondrous playground that attracts

tourists from every corner of the world. A place where people take life just a little bit easier, and maybe enjoy it just a bit differently

than their big city cousins.

contents

H U N T S V I L L E / L A K E O F B A Y S / A L G O N Q U I N P A R K

Town of Huntsville - Fun With A Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Happy Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Huntsville Festival Of The Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Huntsville & Lake Of Bays Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Attractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

For The Love Of Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Parks & Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

The Culture Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Of Squirrel Guards And Other Winged Predators . . . . . . . .20

Winter Fun In Huntsville & Lake Of Bays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Arrowhead Provincial Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

SS Bigwin Cruises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Lake of Bays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Muskoka Is Triathlon Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Flavour Adventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Celebrating Tom Thomson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Adventures In Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Thinking Of Relocating? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

For People Passionate About Algonquin Park . . . . . . . . . . .39

Where to Relax & Unwind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Diverse & Welcoming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

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iMAgiNe A suN dAPPLedMuskoka day. A warm breeze carries

soothing scents of mint, sweet grass,

apple blossoms and fresh-baked scones

on its gentle caress. You can hear bees

buzzing about their business. A majestic

monarch butterfly floats by; a lady bug

alights for a moment before flying away

home. You sit quietly, and see and hear

summer song birds, a garden snake, a

turtle, a really big ground hog, a shy fox,

a bold doe. The sun is sparkling over the

water of Cann Lake and you may even

see a beaver wake. A red-winged

blackbird takes flight from a bull rush with

a flash of winged colour. A caterpillar

munches lazily on a milkweed. The under

scent of the forest foliage is sharp with

the acrid scent of the inevitable pine. A

piglet squeals its delight at being alive. You

know that feeling.

You are on the village green at

Muskoka Heritage Place — an oasis of

serenity fronting Cann Lake just minutes

from the heart of downtown Huntsville.

You look around at the hand-hewn

squared log homes of early Muskoka

pioneers and wonder. Those were huge

trees! How did they fell them, square

them, and arrange them with dove-tailed

corners that remain square over 100

years later? How did they have the spirit

and resolve? You know they didn’t have

any mechanical or steam engines in the

bush. Most had only an axe. Few had an

oxen or a horse. However did they

manage? You know that not every day

was warm and gentle. Hardship was part

of daily life. How did they create the

countless objects of art that celebrate

their culture? When did they find the

time? When did we lose it?

if you take some time and investigate

the many stories left as a legacy by early

people from around these parts, you will

soon discover some common themes.

The original people here were generous

and shared their knowledge. Many of the

earliest newcomers would have perished

without native knowledge of what was

safe to eat in the forest and how to make

sap into sweet life-sustaining maple syrup

in the spring before the first berries

appeared.

settler pioneers also relied heavily on

the unwritten and unbreakable social laws

of survival: share with your neighbour.

do not steal from your neighbour. Mind

your own business. Many hands make light

work. save something for the future.

Barn-raisings go well with good food.

Make some music. guests are sacred. The

Pioneer Code: “use it up, wear it out;

make it last or do without.”

You ponder that at the dawn of

confederation of the dominion of

Canada in 1867 there were few laws, less

enforcement, no income or property

taxes, no organized social support or

communication networks. No stores, no

services, sparse neighbours, harsh

wilderness. How did they manage?

You look again at the regulation-sized

16-foot by 20-foot darling House circa

1868. it truly is a darling house and their

name really was darling. You go inside and

imagine the echoes of the large family

raised in this small space. A woman in

period costume tells you she never let

the fire go out, that her nine children (9!)

had many chores, including rolling

used-up paper to make tapers, as store-

bought matches were 1 cent a package

back then, much too dear for a darling in

the bush with zero, zilch, nil cash income.

The average annual family income in

Muskoka was $300 in 1901. in today’s

money, that equates to over $2 for a pack

FUN

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BY TERI SOUTER, MANAGER OF ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE, TOWN OF HUNTSVILLE

WITH A WARNING

THE PIONEER CODE:“USE IT UP,

WEAR IT OUT; MAKE IT LAST OR DO

WITHOUT.”

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of matches on an annual income of under $7,000. You wonder

about life without a match or a debit card. You can no longer

remember it; your children can’t imagine it.

A steam train whistle blows you out of your reverie and you

follow the sound of clanging metal past the blacksmith shop to

catch a ride on the open-aired train coach. You wonder exactly

how many bums have polished the seat you are sitting on in

over a century. You enjoy the Muskoka river waterfront and a

flattened penny. You still remember what pennies are, but you

wonder, will your grandchildren?

Before leaving you revisit one of the two museums onsite

with a whole new appreciation for what you are seeing. The gift

shop is a welcome reprieve from the past, and they take debit!

Muskoka Heritage Place is great way to spend any day, even a

rainy one. You will be so grateful for things like hot showers, you

and your family may remain semi-unplugged and yet totally

connected for a while. Join us at Muskoka Heritage Place and

just between us, although it all sounds like fun, we have to warn

you, somebody could learn something. u

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oN THe TrAiL iN ALgoNQuiNPark. if you like to enjoy the solitude and

beauty of the true outdoors while learning

interesting facts about natural and cultural

history, then come and enjoy one of the

many Park trails offered to do just that in

Algonquin Provincial Park. Whether you

are out for a short day-hike, an overnight

backpacking trip, on your bike, snowshoes

or cross-country skis, there are many ways

to experience Algonquin!

iNTerPreTive TrAiLs

The most popular and accessible of trails

in Algonquin would be the 15 dayhiking

interpretive trails along Highway 60. each

one focuses on a unique aspect of

Algonquin’s natural or cultural history.

There is a trail to suit every interest and

fitness level, from an easy 1.5 km board-

walk trail that introduces visitors to spruce

bogs and wildlife typical of the north

(spruce Bog Boardwalk, km 42.5), to a

demanding 10 km hike up a high ridge that

provides a breathtaking view over some of

Algonquin’s lakes and forests (Centennial

ridges, km 37.6).

All the interpretive walking trails vary

in length and are a scenic 30 – 70 minute

drive from Huntsville. For those wishing to

explore other areas of the Park further,

there are interpretive trails on the North

and east sides of Algonquin Park.

BACKPACKiNg TrAiLs

For more adventurous hikers, Algonquin

has three impressive networks of back-

packing trails, with loops that range from 6

km to 88 km in length. overnight back-

packing trips provide a new appreciation

for the backcountry of Algonquin Park. You

will complete your backpacking trip with a

sense of satisfaction and you will cherish

the memories of the wilderness that you

encountered on the trail.

BiKe TrAiLs

if you’d rather ride than walk then don’t

forget your bike! Whether you enjoy a

technical challenge on your mountain bike,

or prefer to stick to more leisurely trails

with the family, Algonquin has a bike trail

to suit you. The Minnesing Mountain Bike

Trail has four challenging loops (4.7 – 23.4

km in length) that will take 1-3 hours to

ride, and will bring you through hardwood

forests and beside lakes in the Park’s

largest wilderness zone.

if you prefer a more relaxing ride, then

be sure to visit the old railway Bike Trail,

accessible from Mew Lake, Kearney Lake,

Pog Lake and rock Lake and Coon Lake

Campgrounds. it stretches for 16 km

(one-way) from Cache Lake to rock Lake

along the bed of the old ottawa-Arnprior-

Parry sound rail line; this trail gives the

rider a chance to explore, through wayside

exhibits, the history of the rail line and a

different era in Algonquin.

WiNTer TrAiLs

Algonquin’s three excellent cross-country

ski trail networks provide an opportunity

to visit at a beautiful time of the year. The

winter is a great time to see wildlife, or at

least the tracks that they have left behind.

The Fen Lake ski Trail – a groomed trail

network that explores old hardwood

forests typical of the west side of

Algonquin – is located just inside the Park

at the West gate (about 30 minutes from

Huntsville) and has loops that range from

easy to more difficult (1.1 – 12.9 km). in

the winter, the Minnesing Bicycle Trail

becomes a wilderness ski Trail

(ungroomed), offering the skier a chance

to explore the Park’s winter wonderland.

The Leaf Lake ski Trail offers a wide range

of options and the Pinetree Loop ranks

highly amongst the premiere ski trails in

southern ontario for the experienced

skier. on a clear day, the lookouts on this

loop provide a view of more than 15 km.

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TRAILSHAPPY

“BACKPACKING TRIPSPROVIDE A NEW

APPRECIATION FOR THE BACKCOUNTRY OF

ALGONQUIN PARK.”

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Another winter activity that many people enjoy in Algonquin

is snowshoeing. Many of our regular interpretive trails as well as

the Minnesing bike trail are available for snowshoeing. Always

remember to keep track of the time as it gets darker much

earlier in the winter.

ATTrACTioNs

Whether you stop by before or after your hiking adventure be

sure to visit the Algonquin visitor Centre, the Algonquin Logging

Museum or the Algonquin Art gallery. inside the visitor Centre

(open daily) are world-class exhibits on the natural and cultural

history of the Park, a bookstore and nature shop, and an

observation deck that has a tremendous view of a wild Algonquin

landscape. Also, if you are looking for a shorter hike you can stroll

along the fully accessible “Fire Tower Trail” that leads to a life size

replica of a fire tower cupola where you can learn about

Algonquin Park’s fire tower history.

The Algonquin Art gallery is open seasonally, from June to

october, and displays an Algonquin-inspired selection of works in

the three wings of its gallery, as well as an outdoor gallery and a

boutique. The Algonquin Logging Museum is a definite stop

for anyone interested in the history of logging and displays a

recreated camboose camp and an old steampowered machine

called an “alligator” along an easy 1.3 km trail.

No matter what trail you choose for your Algonquin

adventure, whether on foot, by bike, skis or snowshoes you will be

surrounded by the beauty that makes this place so special. it could

be the sunrise over a misty lake, a glimpse of moose through the

trees, the chorus of bird songs, or just the accomplishment you feel

as you reach the end of a trail. Come and discover your favourite

Algonquin trail! For more information on our trails, or if you have

any questions about Algonquin Park please visit our website at:

www.algonquinpark.on.ca. u

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As iT HAs doNe For THe PAsTtwenty three years, the Huntsville Festival

will once again present an eclectic mix of

national and international calibre artists

on the stage of Huntsville’s Algonquin

Theatre, as well as indoor and outdoor

venues throughout the community,

during the very busy July and August

summer season. recognized as the area’s

premier multi-genre performing arts

festival, the Huntsville Festival will not

disappoint in their claim that they have

something for every artistic taste.

The Huntsville Jazz Festival, a ‘festival

within a festival’ will return again in 2015,

running from July 30 to August 2.

Headlining opening night will be former

Blood, sweat and Tears frontman david

Clayton Thomas. still known for that

distinctive voice and having written the

majority of Bs&T’s major hits, this will be

a special evening of great memories and

excellent music. The next night the

Toronto All star Big Band returns for

another special evening of big band music.

Featuring 30 young dynamic musicians

and vocalists the group has been a

Festival favourite at each of their previous

concerts. expected, but not confirmed at

press time, well known jazz vocalist Molly

Johnson will return to the Algonquin and

share her ‘Being Billy’ tribute honouring

the music of the late Billy Holiday.

This year the Festival will present a

‘Canadian roots’ theme throughout the

summer celebrating the core musical

influences that helped shape the culture

of our country. Buffy sainte-Marie will

headline a concert that will mix aboriginal

influences with the pop sounds that

allowed her to break into the mainstream

in the early 70’s. Acadian group vishten

will educate and entertain with their

French Acadian mix of folk songs.

Country roots will be explored by

western star Corb Lund and the Celtic

roots from the east coast and

Newfoundland will be showcased by the

return of Alan doyle, who also happens

to be the lead singer for Canadian

supergroup great Big sea. other

performers include Pavlo the ‘greek god

of the guitar’, Leahy in song, the

entertaining Lunch at Allens, featuring

Murray McLauchlin, Marc Jordan, ian

Thomas and Cindy Church, the vocal duo

dala and folk favourites The good

Lovelies.

Nuit Blanche North returns on

saturday, July 11 for its fifth year. in 2014

over 7,000 local residents and visitors of

all ages crowded the Main street and

Town dock to enjoy an eclectic mix of

interactive art installations. running from

8pm until the wee hours of the morning,

and with a 2015 theme of ‘Away We go’,

this year’s event promises to have a

number of surprises that can be enjoyed

by the whole family. entertaining buskers

will be returning and the very popular

evening fire show is sure to thrill visitors

once again.

The always popular en Plein Air, a

daylong outdoor visual arts fundraising

event, and the interactive Arts splash

children’s art and activity day return and

families can enjoy the children’s series, at

the Legion, co-presented with the

Huntsville Public Library. our ‘Play Me’

piano in the theatre courtyard will return

inviting you to tinkle the ivories in this

unique open air setting. each year new

activities are added to enhance the appeal

of the Festival. if you plan to be in the

area over July and August, visit our

website for a current list of events!

For tickets and information, contact

the Box office at 705-789-4975, or visit

www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca. u

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OUTOF THIS WORLD

BY ROB SAUNDERS - HUNTSVILLE FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

HFA

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DON’T MISS NUIT BLANCHE NORTH

RETURNING JULY 11TH!

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For every season and reason, there’s a festival or special

event going on somewhere in Huntsville, Lake of Bays or

Algonquin Provincial Park. From loppets, winter carnivals,

and maple syrup festivals, to fishing derbies to fabulous fall

fairs and studio tours, there is always something to delight,

excite and ignite the imagination of every member of your

family!

ATHLETIC & SPORTING EVENTSHuntsville Girls Hockey Association Tournament – January

Dorset Launch 1000 Canoes – MaySpin the Lakes Cycle Tour – May Dwight Outdoor Archery Tournament – May 2015 Pan Am Torch Relay & Community Celebration – June

Band on the Run: 2015 Half Marathon – JuneThe TriMuskokan – JuneBig East River X – June Ironman 70.3 – JulyDorset Kids Fish Derby – JulyThe Limberlost Challenge – JulyRotary DockFest – July Port Sydney Muskoka Kids Triathlon – JulyIronman Muskoka – AugustLake of Bays Road Race – AugustPaddle for Fairvern – AugustHuntsville Muskoka Otters Junior A Season Opener – September

Muskoka River X – September Running Scared 5km Zombie Run – October Under 18 Women’s National Hockey Championships– November

DOWNTOWN HUNTSVILLEConcerts in the Park

– Wednesday Evenings in July & AugustCanada Day Celebration – JulyHuntsville Festival of the Arts – JulyMidnight Madness – July Summer Sidewalk Adventure – August Antique, Classic & Custom Car Show – September Tiny Tots Hallowe’en Parade – October Huntsville Santa Claus Parade – November

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THIS IS ONLY A SELECTION OF EVENTS IN OUR AREA. PLEASE VISIT WWW.HUNTSVILLEADVENTURES.COMFOR A COMPLETE LIST OF COMMUNITY EVENTS WITH DETAILS.

ARTS & CULTUREBanff Mountain Film Festival – January Huntsville Festival of the Arts Spring Play – April SS Bigwin Father’s Day Beer Tasting Cruise – JuneLong & Winding Dinner & Live It Getaway – JuneNational Aboriginal Day – JuneSummer Solstice Art Tour – JuneCanada Day Celebrations in Baysville, Dorset, Dwight Huntsville & Oxtongue Lake – July

Art Splash – July Dorset Heritage Day – JulyMuskoka Pride Week – JulyHuntsville Festival of the Arts – July Huntsville Jazz Festival – July/AugustEdge of the Woods Outdoor Theatre Festival – July Nuit Blanche North – JulyBaysville Walkabout Festival – July Dorset Art & Garden Tour – Julyen Plein Air Painting and Auction – July Baysville Arts & Crafts Festival - AugustBaysville Antique & Classic Boat & Car Show – August 100 Mile BBQ - AugustArtists of the Limberlost Open Studio Tour Weekend – August

Dorset Arts, Crafts & Antique Show – AugustDwight Firefest – August Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour – September/October Huntsville Fall Fair – September Culture Days – SeptemberGroup of Seven Walk, Oxtongue Lake – SeptemberDorset Thanksgiving Arts, Crafts & Antique Show– October

Muskoka Heritage Place Great Pumpkin Trail – October

Light Up Dwight Night – NovemberShopping Night in Dwight – December

FARMERS MARKETS - OPEN SPRING UNTIL FALL

Huntsville – ThursdaysDwight – TuesdaysBaysville – FridaysHuntsville 100km Farm, Fresh & Homemade Market – Saturdays

Dorset – Coming Soon

WINTER CARNIVALS & PARADESHuntsville Santa Claus Parade – November Baysville Santa Claus Parade – DecemberPort Sydney Winter Carnival – JanuaryBaysville Family Day Winterfest – FebruaryDwight Winter Carnival & Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast – February

Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival – February

WINTER FUNMuskoka Loppet, Arrowhead Park – January Winter Comedy Carnival – FebruaryAlgonquin Park, Winter in the Wild Festival – FebruaryKearney Dog Sled Races – February Family Fun Day – FebruaryOxtongue Lake Fishing Derby – March

GIRLFRIENDS’ GETAWAY WEEKENDNovember 13-15, 2015

“DELIGHT, EXCITE AND IGNITE...THERE’S SOMETHING

FOR EVERYONE!”

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what to do

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ATTRACTIONSLOOK WHAT ELSE YOU CAN SEE AND DO...

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ALGONqUIN THEATRE 1-888-696-4255 u 705-789-4975www.algonquintheatre.ca

THE CULTURE STATION705-789-4771 www.huntsvilleadventures.com

DEERHURST MUSICAL

STAGE SHOW1-800-461-4393 u 705-789-6411www.thedecadesshow.com

DORSET FIRE TOWER LOOKOUT705-766-1032

DORSET HERITAGE MUSEUM705-766-2814www.dorsetheritagemuseum.ca

DYER MEMORIAL NATURE RESERVEWilliamsport Road, Huntsville

ECHO VALLEY NATURE

& BIKE TRAILS705-635-2272 u www.lakeofbays.on.ca

GROUP OF SEVEN OUTDOOR

GALLERY WALKING TOUR705-789-1400www.groupofsevenoutdoorgallery.ca

HIDDEN VALLEY HIGHLANDS

SKI AREA705-789-1773 u www.skihiddenvalley.on.ca

HUNTSVILLE BOWL705-789-0788www.huntsvillebowl.com

HUNTSVILLE FESTIVAL

OF THE ARTS1-800-663-2787 u 705-788-2787www.huntsvillefestival.on.ca

HUNTSVILLE OTTERS

JUNIOR A HOCKEYwww.huntsvillehockey.ca

LADY MUSKOKA BOAT TOURS1-800-263-5239 u 705-646-2628www.ladymuskoka.com

LAKE OF BAYS BREWING

COMPANY TOURS705-767-2313www.lakeofbaysbrewing.ca

MUSKOKA BREWERY TOURS705-646-1266 u www.muskokabrewery.com

MUSKOKA STEAMSHIPS1-866-408-4795 u 705-687-6667,www.realmuskoka.com

MUSKOKA HERITAGE PLACE -MUSEUM, VILLAGE, TRAIN1-888-696-4255, 705-789-7576www.muskokaheritageplace.org

RIVER MILL PARK AND

PLAYGROUNDDowntown Huntsville

ROTARY YOUTH PARK Skateboarding Park located inHuntsville at McCulley – RobertsonComplex www.rotaryyouthpark.com

SIGNAL NORTH GALLERY705-789-4771 www.huntsvilleartsociety.ca

SS BIGWIN & LAKE OF BAYS

MARINE MUSEUM1-844-4-BIGWIN u www.ssbigwin.com

SUGARBUSH HILL MAPLE FARM705-787-9787www.sugarbushhill.com

TREETOP TREKKING1-855-788-9009 u 705-788-9000www.treetoptrekking.com

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GOLFFOR THE LOVE OF

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ANYONE FOR AN AFTERNOON TEE?Whether you are an avid golfer or you

simply enjoy a tour around the links, no

visit to Huntsville and Lake of Bays

should be without a round or two

at any of our amazing courses. The

same imposing rock outcroppings and

expansive lake vistas that have made

Muskoka famous ensure that no two of

our courses are the same.

Looking for a professional level test

of your game? Play a round at one of

our three championship length courses.

Try the Tom McBroom designed

Deerhurst Highlands course, Muskoka’s

first championship length course, and be

challenged by dramatic elevation changes

and rugged granite outcroppings. The

Grandview Golf Club’s Mark O’Meara

course combines spectacular views of

Fairy Lake with narrow, treed fairways.

You can also take a leisurely boat ride to

historic Bigwin Island to play its Doug

Carrick designed course. Spread across

the whole of the island, with stunning

views of Lake of Bays, challenging

fairways are draped over the island’s

undulating terrain finishing in greens

protected by golden sand bunkers.

For a more leisurely game, try one

of Huntsville’s shorter courses. The

Deerhurst Lakeside course is 18 holes

spread throughout the resort’s massive

footprint, featuring a mix of long, curved

holes mixed with demanding par threes.

Huntsville Downs is a local favourite,

having existed since 1925.

If you have a passion for golf, plan to

vacation in Huntsville/Lake of Bays.

You will not be disappointed.

For courses throughout Muskoka,

please visit www.golfmuskoka.com u

what to do

8

“IF YOU HAVE APASSION FOR GOLF...

YOU’VE FOUND IT!”

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GREAT PLACES TO GOLFBIGWIN ISLAND GOLF CLUB1137 Old Hwy. 117, Baysville1-800-840-4036 • 705-635-2582 www.bigwinisland.com

DEERHURST HIGHLANDS & DEERHURST LAKESIDE1235 Deerhurst Dr., Huntsville1-800-461-4393 • 705-789-6411 www.deerhurstresort.com

GRANDVIEW GOLF CLUB: MARK O’MEARA COURSE & GRANDVIEW INN COURSE939 Hwy. 60, Huntsville1-877-472-6388 • 705-789-4417 www.grandview.clublink.ca

HUNTSVILLE DOWNS GOLF182 Golf Course Rd., Huntsville705-789-1000 www.golfhuntsvilledowns.ca

NORTH GRANITE RIDGE GOLF CLUB476 South Mary Lake Rd., Port Sydney705-385-0808www.northgraniteridge.com

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BEACHESPARKS &

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ALGONQUIN PROVINCIAL PARK45 km East of Huntsvillewww.algonquinpark.on.ca

ARROWHEAD PROVINCIAL PARKMuskoka Rd. 3 N., Huntsville

AVERY BEACHHunters Bay off Main St. W., Huntsvillesandy beach and covered picnic area

BAYSVILLE DAMJust off Hwy. 117 in Baysville, picnic area

BRUNEL LOCKS PARKOn the Muskoka River 3 km south of Huntsville on Brunel Rd., picnic area

CAMP KITCHENCamp Kitchen Rd., HuntsvilleSwimming and picnic area

DORSET FIRE TOWER PARKJust off Hwy. 35 in Dorset, family picnic area

DWIGHT BEACHLake of Bays on Dwight Beach Rd.,excellent beach with picnic area

DYER MEMORIAL NATURE RESERVE11 km northeast of Huntsville onWilliamsport Rd., off Muskoka Rd. 3, overlooks Big EastRiver, public picnic area

CANADA SUMMIT CENTREOn Park Dr., just off Brunel Rd.,Huntsville, indoor swimming pool705-789-6421

HUTCHESON BEACHLake Vernon off Muskoka Rd. 2 in Huntsville, beach, swings, washrooms and picnic area

what to do

8

Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Algonquin Park have a wonderful

selection of public beaches. The water is clear, clean and

perfect for cooling off on a sizzling summer day. The long

stretches of sandy beaches are ideal for strolling, throwing a

Frisbee or soaking up the sunshine. Bring a lawn chair,

umbrella and a good book and settle in for some serious

relaxation. Pack a picnic, bring the water toys, load up the

family and head out for an enjoyable day at one of our many

public beaches.

There are a variety of locations to launch your kayak,

canoe, or boat for a fun-filled day on the water. Huntsville has

four lakes which connect via the Muskoka River, where you

can swim, paddle and explore over 70 kilometres of scenery

unique to this area. Lake of Bays is the largest lake in North

Muskoka and is known around the world for its spectacular

beauty.

So go ahead and make a splash in Huntsville, Lake of Bays

& Algonquin Park – it’s good for the soul! u

DIVE INTO SUMMER!

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“DIP YOUR TOES IN AT ANY ONEOF THESE GREAT

PARKS & BEACHES....MAKE A DAY OF IT!”

LION’S LOOKOUTOn Forbes Hill Drive, just off Brunel Rd. Breathtakingpanoramic views of Fairy Lake, Muskoka River andDowntown Huntsville with public picnic area

NORWAY POINT PARKJust off Old Hwy. 117 east of Baysville, swimming andpicnic area

OXTONGUE RAPIDS PARKJust off Hwy. 60 east of Dwight, public picnic area

PORT SYDNEY BEACHMary Lake on Muskoka Rd. 10 in Port Sydney, sandybeach area

RAGGED FALLSHwy. 60 at Oxtongue Lake area just before AlgonquinPark, trails, public picnic area, dock, washrooms

RIVER MILL PARKDowntown Huntsville on the Muskoka River, children’s playground and picnic area

TOWN DOCK PARKDowntown Huntsville on the Muskoka River

RIVERFRONT, CENTENNIAL & GRIST MILL PARKSJust off Hwy. 117 in Baysville, public picnic

TALLY-HO BEACHPeninsula Lake off Hwy. 60 in Hillside

huntsvilleadventures.com • 2015/16VISITORS GUIDE 17

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H U N T S V I L L E ’ S N E W E S Tcultural attraction is The Culture Station,

located on Hunters Bay in the former

CNR Train Station. A collaborative effort

between the Huntsville/Lake of Bays

Chamber of Commerce, the Huntsville

Art Society, the Huntsville Train Station

Society and the Huntsville and Area

Historical Society, The Culture Station

brings new life to a significant piece of our

community’s built heritage.

Built by the Canadian National

Railway in 1924, the building was the first

stop for many travelers to the

Huntsville/Lake of Bays area in the first

half of the 20th century. The Baggage

Room, which is now operated by the

Huntsville Train Station Society, features

pictures and artifacts chronicling the

history of the train station and rail travel

in the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Area.

In Huntsville’s early days, the CNR

train station was a hub of activity as

visitors to the area would first arrive here

before many would depart by steamship

to adjoining lakes. The Culture Station

builds on this tradition by continuing to

be a “hub” of the community.

The Culture Station is also home to

the Signal North Gallery, a community

art gallery run by the Huntsville Art

Society that features work from local

artists ranging from amateur to

professional. The Huntsville Art Society

strives to fill the Signal North Gallery

with a variety of programming and

exhibits that appeal to a wide range of

audiences. From fantasy to nature, the

exhibits and courses span a broad range

of artistic subjects and themes.

Generously provided and supported

by the Town of Huntsville, the Culture

Station also hosts meetings and other

functions for a variety of local not-

for-profit users who have a focus on

culture. The space can accommodate a

wide range of uses, and offers a unique

venue which engages visitors in the local

culture.

For operating hours, please contact

the Huntsville/lake of Bays Chamber of

Commerce 705-789-4771 ext. 21. u

CULTURE

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STATION

18 2015/16VISITORS GUIDE • huntsvilleadventures.com

THE

“THE SPACE CAN ACCOMMODATE A WIDE

RANGE OF USES AND OFFERSA UNIQUE VENUE WHICH

ENGAGES VISITORS IN THELOCAL CULTURE.”

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HOME OF THE SIGNAL NORTH GALLERY

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IN THE WINTER, OUR FEEDERSattract a variety of small birds including

woodpeckers, chickadees, redpolls,

nuthatches and goldfinches. We try to

limit the amount of seed that the

squirrels get, with limited success. But

one year nature provided the perfect

squirrel guard: a barred owl spent

several weeks perched on the feeder or

close to it, staring intently at the ground

below. No squirrels dared to show up,

although interestingly, the chickadees

were not at all deterred by the owl.

Barred owls are common in Muskoka.

As nocturnal predators, they are seen

infrequently but they can often be heard

hooting their distinctive call which sounds

like “Who cooks for you – who cooks for

you-all?” Try it! Sometimes they will call

back. Their acute sense of hearing and

eyesight enables them to hear mice even

under the snow and they hunt by

plunging from a perch (or a bird feeder!).

Snowy owls and great gray owls are

occasional winter visitors here in

Muskoka when their food sources in

northern Canada fail but they don’t

nest here. Great horned owls and

northern saw-whet owls nest here but

are uncommon. Northern saw-whets are

tiny migratory owls, standing about

20 cm or 6 inches tall. They are strictly

nocturnal, with activity beginning at late

dusk. During the day, they depend on

plumage for camouflage when roosting in

foliage, usually close to the ground. They

also use the "sit and wait" tactic to drop

down onto mice, shrews or voles from

low hunting perches.

The 6 species of forest-dwelling

hawks that also inhabit Muskoka are

divided into two broad groups: one

group, called buteos, includes broad-

winged hawks, red-shouldered hawks and

red-tailed hawks. They are characterized

by short stubby tails and long, wide wings

useful for soaring on warm air currents.

The prey utilized by these hawks include

small mammals and the odd snake or

frog, or even large insects. The other

group, called accipiters, include northern

goshawk, Cooper’s hawk, and sharp-

shinned hawk. These hawks have short

rounded wings and long narrow tails

which give them great agility allowing

them to recklessly chase their prey

(usually birds) through the trees.

All our hawk species build nests of

sticks, often high up in trees in sturdy

crotches or on a main limb. These

structures are valuable real estate

because some species use the same nest

year after year. Red-shouldered hawks

are well-known for this; one pair used the

same nest for more than 15 years. Their

nests are large, sturdy structures built of

pencil-sized sticks located in the main

crotch of a hardwood tree. Broad-

winged hawks, often seen sitting on

roadside utility wires staring intently into

the ditch for prey, build new nests every

year. Some abandoned nests get

secondary use by other birds who are

happy to have used real estate!

Fresh sprigs of green conifer twigs

around the rim of a nest in the spring is

an indicator that it is active. You may need

binoculars to see this. Later in the

season, evidence of use may include white

downy feathers around the rim as well as

lots of whitewash on the surrounding

vegetation (the growing chicks relieve

themselves by pointing their backsides

over the edge of the nest).

Female birds of prey are bigger than

AND OTHER

feature8

BY JAN McDONNELL - MUSKOKA CONSERVANCY

OF SQUIRREL GUARDS

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males (an adaptation that allows them to make use of a wider

range of prey sizes). The males do most of the hunting while

the female is incubating the eggs. Once the eggs hatch, both

parents hunt to feed the hungry growing chicks. It takes 6

weeks for the young to grow to the point where they can fly

and they may hang around the nest for a few more weeks as

they perfect their flying skills and learn to hunt themselves.

Encounters with nesting birds of prey can be quite thrilling

as some (like goshawks) are rather aggressive. I recall a forestry

worker who did a “military belly crawl” as he was being

dive-bombed by a pair of goshawks. All birds of prey are very

sensitive to disturbance near their nests. If the nest area is

disturbed during early courtship, they may abandon the site.

Later in the breeding season, the chicks may get chilled or

harmed by predators if the adults are scared away from the

nest. So it wise to view a nest from as far away as possible and

limit the amount of disturbance to just a few minutes.

Since birds of prey are at the top of the food chain, they are

viewed as excellent indicators of the health of natural

ecosystems. They were among the first to indicate that

pesticides were entering the food chain in damaging ways.

Because many raptors depend on mature intact forest, they

also are impacted by declining amounts of forest. There is a

surprising biodiversity of birds of prey here in Muskoka in spite

of our latitude and climate. Hopefully, readers of this article will

be inspired to learn more about them, their conservation and

the important role that they play in our world.

The Muskoka Conservancy (formerly the Muskoka Heritage Foundation)has been committed to nurturing, protecting and conserving our natural andcultural heritage for over 25 years. Visit www.muskokaconservancy.org or call705-645-7393 to learn more about stewardship programs, protected properties,and educational outreach. You can help us conserve Muskoka’s environment:become a member, make a donation, leave a legacy. u

WINGED PREDATORS

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WHILE HUNTSVILLE, LAKE OFBays and Algonquin Park are famous as

summer destinations, winter adventures

abound for outdoor enthusiasts. Many of

your favourite summer activities have

winter counterparts to get you outside

year round.

Do you love hiking? Many of our

beloved trails are open in the winter for

cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

Snowshoes offer the ability to traverse

slopes or areas of deep snow that may

not be accessible on skis. New, light-

weight models are user-friendly for both

kids and adults and make snowshoeing as

easy as putting one foot in front of the

other. Whether on snowshoes or skis,

there’s nothing quite like breaking a trail

through fresh snow and feeling as though

you’re headed somewhere that no

human has ever been. Lack of foliage in

the winter makes it easier to spot wildlife.

Look for moose, deer, smaller mammals

like red fox and pine martens, and

winter-hardy birds like great gray owls,

spruce grouse or gray jays.

If mountain biking is more your thing,

be sure to try a fat bike. The bike’s

extra-wide tires offer amazing floatation

on snow-packed trails and can take you

where you’ve never biked before, such as

our many frozen lakes. Local outfitters

and stores have bikes to rent, so take one

for a spin.

In winter, our many lakes and rivers

offer a fresh perspective on the landscape

and a wealth of opportunities to explore

outdoor activities. Walk or ski along the

shoreline to reveal surprising views, or

take in a game of shinny or a leisurely

skate. For a skating adventure of a

different kind, take a trip to Arrowhead

Provincial Park to experience the unique

1.5 kilometre skating trail as it winds its

way through snow-covered trees. Ice

fishing is an easily-accessible family

activity for anglers and many summer

species can also be caught in the winter.

Frozen waterfalls and ice-covered cliffs

become a new challenge for climbers

who don’t mind sub-zero temperatures.

There are many other activities that

are unique to the winter months as well.

Four-legged friends can join in the winter

fun with skijoring, a Norwegian-inspired

sport where a dog pulls a cross-country

skier using harnesses and a rope. If you

want to sit back, enjoy the scenery and let

someone else do the work, outfitters and

resorts who offer dog sledding or

horse-drawn sleigh rides may be more

your speed. To feel the exhilarating rush

of wind on your cheeks, local ski hills offer

family-friendly slopes for snowboarding

and skiing or just grab a sled, find a hill and

let gravity do its thing.

Muskoka’s world-renowned natural

scenery takes on new beauty when

covered in snow and ice. A winter

getaway in Huntsville/Lake of Bays can be

invigorating or relaxing, action packed or

laid back. With a myriad of activities to

experience, the choice is yours. Whether

you are an outdoor adventure lover or

a family seeking fun outdoor activities,

this is where lasting winter memories

are made! u

WINTER FUN

feature8

IN HUNTSVILLE & LAKE OF BAYS

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“MUSKOKA’S WORLD-RENOWNEDNATURAL SCENERY TAKES ON

A NEW BEAUTYWHEN COVERED IN SNOW AND ICE.”

MUSKOKA BY SNOWMOBILE

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With 1,600 km of trails spread across Muskoka’s naturalbeauty, a snowmobile vacation to Huntsville/Lake of Baysis not to be missed. When our lakes freeze, you willexperience endless vistas of treed shoreline and exposedgranite faces. Inland, mature forests lead to scenic rivercrossings and deep valleys.

Whether you are looking for a day trip or a multi-dayexcursion, our trails will challenge and amaze. With a largeselection of trail-side accommodations, you can eat andsleep straight from your sled.

You can visit Hill & Gully Snowmobile Club atwww.hgrsnowmobileclub.ca or Du Ya Wanna Trail Riders atwww.duyawanna.com to purchase trail permits and get upto date trails conditions. u

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AT THIS YEAr-rOUND PArK INthe heart of Muskoka, hike or bicycle on

trails that wander through maple forests

and past waterfalls, beaver ponds and

homesteaders' farms. Quiet Arrowhead

and Mayflower Lakes, and the

meandering Little and Big East rivers,

are ideal for paddling, fishing and

swimming. return in winter to ski on

groomed trails, tube down a hill,

snowshoe, or skate on an ice skating trail

over one kilometre long!

EDUcATIONPark staff offer guided hikes and children's

programs twice a week. Amphitheatre

programs two or three nights a week

explain the park's natural and cultural

history. In winter, Arrowhead Nordic ski

club offer cross country ski instruction

to kids and adults of all abilities.

FISHINgMayflower Lake is stocked with brook

trout. Arrowhead Lake is good for small

mouth bass.

BOATINgMotorized boats (including electric

motors) are prohibited on Arrowhead

and Mayflower lakes. canoes are ideal

for exploring the shorelines and viewing

the wildlife of these lakes.

SWIMMINgThree short, quiet sandy beaches with

change facilities back into birch groves.

Beaches are shallow and great for kids.

cYcLINgArrowhead has two moderately

challenging mountain bike trails — the

five km Arrowhead Lake Trail and the

three km Lookout Trail. Helmets are

recommended.

WILDLIFE VIEWINgThe park is home to a wide variety of

wildlife typical of the canadian shield.

Deer, moose, fox, racoon, skunk,

chipmunks, beaver, lots of birds and even

a wandering bear.

crOSS-cOUNTrY SKIINgThe park grooms 28 km of track-set,

cross-country ski trails and 11 km 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 and buy other amenities such

as waxes, gloves, clothing and hot

chocolate too.

If you want to challenge yourself,

come out for the Muskoka Loppet.

The event is hosted every January by the

Arrowhead Nordic Ski club.

For more information please visit

www.arrowheadnordic.ca.

SNOWSHOEINgThere 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.

SKATINggo for a skate through the forest on the

new 1.3 km skating trail loop! Enjoy

our “Fire and Ice Nights” when the trail

will be lit up with over 100 tiki torches

at dusk. Two campfire rest stops are

provided and skates are available to rent

for the whole family! Afterwards, unwind

at one of our two heated warm-up

shelters or gather around the open fire

at the tubing hill.

gETTINg HErE7 kilometres north of Huntsville off Hwy.

11. Exit 226, turn right to Arrowhead

Park road. Please note all vehicles

entering the park must obtain and display

a valid park permit. For more information

contact 705-789-5105 or visit online at

www.ontarioparks.com. u

what to do8

ARROWHEADP R O V I N C I A L P A R K

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SS BIGWIN CRUISESCONNECTING THE LAKE OF BAYS

COMMUNITIES BY WATER

IMAgINE PLYINg THE WATErS OF BEAUTIFULLake of Bays on a majestic wooden steamship. There was atime in the early 1900’s when the world’s elite travelled toMuskoka for this summertime experience. For 45 years, theSS Bigwin served as a ferry on Lake of Bays for the famousBigwin Island resort, carrying guests such as clark gable,Louis Armstrong, Winston churchill, greta garbo and manyother celebrities. It is now the last remaining steamship of theoriginal fleet, and due to massive fundraising efforts, it hasbeen meticulously restored for all to enjoy!

2014 marked the first full season of public and privatecruises. The SS Bigwin once again sails across the smoothwaters of beautiful Lake of Bays, this time carrying cottagers,locals and tourists alike. This 32-passenger vessel offersregularly scheduled public cruises from June to October.Before the cruise, passengers can grab a bite to eat at thetake-out restaurant next door, and explore marine heritageat the Lake of Bays Marine Museum where SS Bigwinmerchandise is now available.

Lake of Bays is a crystal clear pristine lake in Muskoka justminutes from Algonquin Park and on the border ofHaliburton Highlands. The lake’s rugged shoreline offersdramatic views unmatched in Muskoka. The SS Bigwin’s homeport is the small hamlet of Dorset which offers manyattractions to visitors, stunning waterfront views, access tohiking, the popular Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, arts, crafts,shopping and much more.

The SS Bigwin is owned by the Lake of Bays MarineMuseum and Navigation Society, a registered charity and notfor profit organization established to promote public interestin the marine and navigational heritage of the Lake of Baysregion. At 66’ in length, 6’ in depth and a registered weightof 25 tons, the SS Bigwin is currently powered by an efficientand environmentally friendly electric motor that is plugged inat the dock to recharge at night; similar to an electric car.

The SS Bigwin is the perfect venue for your celebration!Private cruises can be booked for weddings, anniversaries,birthdays, reunions, corporate functions, and so much more.The 2015 season will include new cruise offerings, specialevents and experiential cruises offered from multiplelocations on Lake of Bays. Stay tuned to our website for moredetails as they become available! u

www.ssbigwin.com | [email protected] | 1-844-4-BIGWIN

“EXPERIENCE FIRE AND ICE NIGHTSWHEN THE TRAIL IS LIT UP WITH OVER

100 TIKI TORCHES!”

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ENJOY A ScENIc LOOP DrIVEaround Lake of Bays, Muskoka’s second

largest lake, to experience natural

wonders, breathtaking views and both

heritage and cultural destinations.

Along the corridors to Algonquin Park

you will find dozens of unique cottage

resorts, quaint lodges and charming

B&Bs which offer accommodations for

all tastes and budgets.

The three hamlets of Baysville,

Dorset and Dwight offer fantastic

shopping, annual events, weekly

Farmers’ Markets, delectable eats and

unique attractions — great for a day

trip, weekend or week-long adventure!

Originally a summer playground

attracting cottagers from near and far,

this area is also a sparkling white

wonderland for winter sports enthusi-

asts and snowmobilers. February is

Winter carnival month in Lake of

Bays when each village hosts a unique

festival.

BAYSVILLEArrive by boat or by car at a charming

waterfront with public docks,

picturesque falls, and a walking trail

wending its way through the village's

quaint shops, where everything from

antiques to ice cream can be had.

Baysville surrounds the inlet to the

famous Muskoka river and provides

artists’ studios, a community centre and

arena, restaurants and a craft brewery.

Throughout the summer the village

hosts many special events including

their annual Walkabout Festival, Arts

and crafts Festival and a Farmers’

Market on Fridays. Baysville is home to

a number of the group of Seven

Outdoor gallery murals which can be

spotted around the village.

Back in the day, the world-famous

Bigwin Inn featured famous entertainers

such as Louis Armstrong and count

Basie and catered to gatsby-era

Hollywood stars and celebrities. The inn

has been refurbished and Bigwin Island

now boasts one of canada’s greatest

golf courses with breathtaking vistas.

Many travelers have passed through

this historic charmer throughout the

decades and always remember

the warm atmosphere and villager’s

hospitality.

For more information about

Baysville visit: www.baysvilleontario.com

DOrSETDowntown Dorset’s single lane,

humped-back bridge spans ‘the

Narrows’ channel between Big and

Little Trading Bays and has the village's

only traffic lights. While downtown, be

sure to visit the inviting shops,

restaurants and Lake of Bays Marine

Museum or catch a cruise across the

smooth waters of beautiful Lake of Bays

on the SS Bigwin. This 32-passenger

historical steamship was rescued from

the bottom of the lake and took many

years of hard work to refurbish. It now

offers regularly-scheduled public cruises

from June to October and is available to

rent for private functions.

Dorset is surrounded by lush mixed

forests that are dotted with dozens of

smaller, pristine lakes. Dorset Lookout

26 2015/16VISITOrS gUIDE • huntsvilleadventures.com

LAKE OF BAYS

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Tower, a retired fire lookout, provides a spectacular bird’s eye

view of the landscape that has inspired generations of

writers, painters and dreamers with its natural beauty. You can

visit the local studios of contemporary artists and artisans.

The Dorset Heritage Museum is a must-see for visitors

who want to learn more about Dorset's fascinating history

that includes a Hudson Bay outpost and log chute. Pick up

a free Heritage Walking Tour booklet for a self-guided,

informative stroll through this charming community. We

invite you to experience it for yourself! For more information

visit: www.dorsetcanada.com.

DWIgHTDwight sits on the north shore of Lake of Bays and boasts

one of Muskoka’s finest and largest sandy beaches. Dwight

Beach features picnic tables, a lovely dock and public boat

launch. Visitors can sunbathe or take to the lake to swim, boat

and fish. In the winter, this same beach hosts snowmobiling

and ice fishing.

Within walking distance of the beach you will find

charming shops, a Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays, eateries and

grocery. Beyond the beach area, visitors will discover many

more restaurants, bakeries, eclectic stores, galleries, an

outdoor rink, and Oxtongue rapids Park that offers picnic

sites and a trail along this dramatic stretch of the Oxtongue

river. Slightly further east, and just outside the west gate of

Algonquin Park, ragged Falls in Oxtongue Lake is one of the

top 10 waterfalls in Ontario. It is accessible by car with

available parking and marked hiking areas to explore.

On the west side of Dwight, Echo Valley Nature & Bike

Trails has over 3.5 km of trails with varying degrees of

difficulty for hikers, bikers and snowshoers. The park is

approximately 24 hectares (60 acres). A viewing guide and

three on-site kiosks enhance the experience.

Nearby Limberlost road offers great hiking and an

unforgettable artistic experience with The Artists of the

Limberlost Summer Studio Tour in August. come back in late

September to enjoy the spectacular fall colours and their

two-weekend Fall Studio tour. Visitors here will not find it

difficult to find a place to stay and with so much wonderful

nature-viewing in the area, they won’t be at a loss for things

to do and new places to discover.

For more information visit: www.lakeofbayscanada.com.

The Lake of Bays scenic loop drive is a tour that you can take overand over and discover something new each time. Public libraries ineach village have free high speed internet for public use if you wantto share your memories right away… and feel free to share yourexperiences and pictures with us – we would love to hear yourfeedback! Enjoy your ride…u

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V IS ITORS TO MUSKOKA,anytime between May to September,

might round a corner in their car to see

hundreds of cyclists streaming towards

them, hunched over their handlebars

peddling as hard as they can. Or,

they might be held up briefly at an

intersection while a large group of

runners cross over in front of them. They

could be enjoying a picnic in a local park

and look out to see hundreds of

swimmers racing down the river

towards them. Who are these people

and what are they doing?

That is when people realize that

they are visiting one of the premier

endurance sport destinations in

Canada. During weekends in the spring

through to the fall, there are numerous

running, cycling, triathlon, and duathlon

races being held in Huntsville and Lake

of Bays, and it is highly likely that you will

experience one of the above scenarios.

And, if you are traveling in the area

midweek you will almost surely see

individual or small groups of cyclists or

runners out training on the roadways

and on the trails.

With a natural playground for

endurance sport training, and having a

complement of over ten different

endurance races in Huntsville and Lake

of Bays, the area can reasonably lay

claim to being the premier location for

endurance sport in Canada, if not the

world. It has hosted national and world

championships, World Cup events and

is host of both the Ironman 70.3 (July

5th) and a full Ironman (August 30th).

Nowhere else in North America can

make a similar claim. Why is the area so

popular for hosting endurance sports,

such as triathlons?

Part of the reason is the physical

geography. Muskoka has hundreds of

lakes and rivers with clean, warm water

for the swimming leg of the triathlon.

Being cottage country there are

hundreds of miles of cottage roads that

are tree lined and have relatively little

automobile traffic on them — ideal for

bike training and racing. And since

Muskoka sits on top of the Canadian

Shield these roads twist and turn, rise

and fall creating a roller coaster-like

bike course that is very challenging,

interesting and sometimes downright

thrilling. These same hills make for

challenging run courses. A Muskoka

triathlon endows major bragging rights

on a triathlete who completes the

course. A Muskoka race T-shirt is worn

with pride.

Craig Alexander of Australia, the

World IRONMAN and 70.3 Champion

says, “This course [the Huntsville

course] should be the World

Championship course”.

MUSKOKA

feature8

IS TRIATHLONBY DON McCORMICK AND RICH TRENHOLM

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“A MUSKOKA TRIATHLON ENDOWS

MAJOR BRAGGING RIGHTSON A TRIATHLETE WHO

COMPLETES THE COURSE.”

This same physical geography – the lakes and rivers,

the forests, the granite outcroppings, the hills and valleys

– combine to produce a very beautiful physical

environment that can take some of the sting out of the

grueling physical effort required to do a triathlon. "The

natural beauty offers a wonderful distraction from my

screaming muscles" says Chris King from Buffalo NY.

Why not plan your visit to Huntsville and Lake of Bays

to experience one of these events, as a spectator or

competitor! Come back to Huntsville Lake of bays for

your next race-cation! u

COUNTRY

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TeMPT YOUR TASTe BUDShere in Huntsville, Lake of Bays &

Algonquin Park! There are many culinary

experiences to choose from in our area.

From chocolate treats, to coffee shops,

cafés, pubs overlooking the water and

fine dining. Roadside cafés, markets and

pubs to savour sophisticated fare, you will

find homegrown, local flavor for every

taste bud in our communities. Wine and

dine on the water’s edge, in magnificent

resorts and inns or in bustling street side

restaurants and patios where there is

plenty to savour.

With over 50 dining establishments in

Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Algonquin

Provincial Park to choose from – you are

certain to find a culinary delight to fit

your budget and curiosity. Traveling with

the kids? Little ones will delight in our

pizzerias, breakfast diners or ice cream

parlours. The last one usually does the

trick after a long car trip! u

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FLAVOURADVENTURES

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Assured of great food, service and ambiance.

A restaurant for people with taste!

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FROM 2012-2017 HUNTSVILLeis celebrating the life and work of Tom

Thomson. It was in 1913 that Thomson

decided to dedicate his life to becoming

a full-time artist. This decision was

spurred by the sale of his painting

Northern Lake. Displayed at the 41st

Annual exhibition of The Ontario

Society of Artists, Northern Lake was

purchased by the Ontario government

for $250.00, which was a significant

amount at the time. That summer, Tom

took a leave of absence from his job and

went on a northern sketching trip. He

tried his hand at being a fire ranger in

the Timmins area, but this left him with

little time for his art. By mid-summer he

was back at Canoe Lake in Algonquin

Park, doing what he liked best: taking

long canoe trips and sketching his way

through the wilderness. Tom stayed in

the Park painting at various sites and

locations through November. He passed

through Huntsville on his return trip,

likely to visit with his friend Dr. McRuer,

or to see the Trainor family, in particular

their daughter Winnifred. The Trainors

cottaged on Canoe Lake and lived at 11

Centre St. in Huntsville, the home of our

mural of Thomsons’ painting The Canoe. Upon returning to Toronto he was

introduced to the artist A.Y. Jackson, at a

friend’s studio. This meeting with Jackson

would create a lasting friendship and

have a powerful effect on Thomsons’

development as an artist. Soon they

were to work in the same studio space,

where A.Y. Jackson shared his

experience in art and art movements.

This prompted Tom to create and

explore different techniques and ideas.

The resulting innovations changed the

landscape of Canada’s art culture and the

nation’s acceptance of modern art. u

From 2012-2017, we invite you to join Huntsville’s celebration of the 100 year anniversary of Tom Thomson’s life in our area. Throughout this five year celebration, different

organizations from throughout the community will be hosting events, workshops, and exhibits.

For further information and updates please visit www.huntsvilleadventures.com and look for the following Tom Thomson seal.

TOMCELEBRATING

“THIS MEETING WITH JACKSONWOULD CREATE A LASTING

FRIENDSHIP AND HAVE A POWERFUL EFFECT

ON THOMSONS’ DEVELOPMENTAS AN ARTIST.”

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HUNTSVILLE, LAKE OF BAYS& Algonquin Park offer a shopping

experience you’ll not soon forget. Dock

your boat at the Town Docks or come by

car and park for free throughout

Huntsville’s downtown core. Take a stroll

down our tree-lined streets to find over

120 unique boutiques, shops and

services. Huntsville is home to the only

indoor mall in Muskoka, featuring more

than 20 shops & services. Huntsville’s

Commerce Park, located at Centre St.

and Hwy 60, is home to a variety of

businesses and grocers. You will be

surprised at the variety of merchandise

available and the hidden treasures to be

found!

If it’s delicious food you crave,

Huntsville, Lake of Bays & Algonquin Park

have an incredible array of restaurants,

pubs and cafés sure to satisfy your hunger

and delight your palate. Huntsville’s

downtown merchants host a number of

unique shopping events all year-round.

You can visit their website at

DowntownHuntsvilleAdventures.com

and plan to attend.

No trip is complete without

experiencing our Group of Seven

Outdoor Gallery. Tom Thomson's images

of the north have always been deeply

representative of Algonquin Park and the

Huntsville area. In celebration of the

Group of Seven and Thomson's

contribution to our heritage, some of the

best-loved paintings of the Group of

Seven have been replicated by mural

artists and displayed on our downtown

shops and services. Come enjoy the over

90 breath-taking murals sprinkled

throughout Huntsville and surrounding

area. Watch, interact with the artists, and

experience art in the making as Canadian

artists gather to create amazing new

murals during our Annual Group of Seven

Mural Festival in July. Express your inner

artist by trying your hand in our annual

‘Add Your Brush Stroke’ Community

Mural. For more information visit the

www.groupofsevenoutdoorgallery.ca for

more details.

Plan a leisurely drive to Baysville, and

tour the local brewery and browse the

quaint businesses located in the area.

Travel further to Dorset and experience

the gorgeous views from the Dorset fire

tower. Be sure to visit Robinson’s

General Store – voted Canada’s Best

Country Store. Dwight features lovely

cafés, a world class canoe builder and

cottage and home decor to keep your

cottage dreams alive. If you are looking

for local and Canadian art, visit the

Oxtongue Craft Cabin for an exquisite

selection of original art and fine crafts.

Huntsville and Lake of Bays hosts a vast

selection of artist studios available for

tours and shopping. Try the Shutterbug

Gallery for fine photography or

experience the Artists of the Limberlost

IN SHOPPING

what to do8

ADVENTURES

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studio tour. If you are visiting to enjoy some outdoor

adventures, be sure to visit one of our many area outfitters such

as Algonquin Outfitters in Huntsville’s downtown or Algonquin

Bound Outfitters in Dwight. Let them provide all the gear you

will need on your next adventure in our rugged and scenic

landscape.

Ladies — get your mother, daughters, aunts, and girlfriends

together for the Annual Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend in

downtown Huntsville on November 13-15, 2015. For one

unique weekend a year, Huntsville pulls out all the stops for you

– special adventures in shopping and discounts, pampering, live

entertainment and culinary delights await all girlfriends in

Huntsville! For a complete directory of our retail chamber

members please visit www.huntsvilleadventures.ca. u

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A WONDERFUL COMBINATION OF SMALLtown charm and big city amenities, Huntsville/Lake of Bays is a

destination that provides limitless opportunities for anyone who

wants to enjoy the classic Muskoka lifestyle all year long. With

state-of-the-art facilities such as The Canada Summit Centre,

host to the 2010 G8 Convention, the Waterloo Summit Centre

for the Environment and the Algonquin Theatre, there is no need

to travel for business or entertainment.

As one of the fastest growing communities in Muskoka, a

generous portion of Huntsville’s overall economy focuses on our

four-season tourism industry. However, we have a burgeoning

technology sector including renewable resource technology and

an animation studio. In order for our community to continue to

grow, new business investment is a local priority.

ASSISTANCE IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE

Whether you want to start your own business, relocate or

expand your existing company, or even start a new career,

assistance is always available. The Huntsville/Lake of Bays

Chamber of Commerce is an excellent resource, and will

provide all the contact information that you will need to make

your goals a reality. Packages are also available for relocators.

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY PRIDE

One of the first things people notice about our community is a

sense of belonging. We pride ourselves as a place where

everyone’s interests are taken seriously, and where residents

work together for a sustainable future.

The area boasts an incredible range of activities and a

network of organizations and clubs that outstrips most

communities of this size. Huntsville and Lake of Bays have

hosted many provincial and national level sporting events such

as the 2010 Ontario Winter Games and the 2013 Canadian

Masters Ski Championships. The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Sport

Council assists and advocates for our vast array of sport

organizations. We are also proud to be the home of Dara

Howell, 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics gold medallist!

Huntsville/Lake of Bays is also justifiably proud of its

educational system. There are six public elementary schools and

a catholic elementary school, Huntsville High School and

3 private schools: Muskoka Montessori School, Rosseau Lake

College and Tawingo College. Post secondary institutions

locally include Waterloo University’s Huntsville research facility

while Georgian College and Nipissing University have campuses

only 30 minutes away.

Equally important, our area is well-served with physicians

and hospitals. Huntsville/Lake of Bays is included in the Simcoe

Muskoka District Health Unit. For more information about

relocating in Huntsville/Lake of Bays, visit our website at

www.huntsvillelakeofbays.on.ca. u

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RELOCATING?THINKING OF

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ALGONQUINPARK

FOR PEOPLE PASSIONATE ABOUT

The Friends of Algonquin Park is a non-profit, registered charity

made up of individuals who are passionate about enhancing

the appreciation of Algonquin Park through the delivery of

educational programs, activities and events.

This dedicated group has been enhancing the experience of

Park visitors to this amazing place for over 30 years. Their

passion supports numerous ongoing projects and events.

It is with the support of many volunteers, donors and

partners like you that we are able to continue providing quality

Algonquin Park educational experiences. These include such

events as Loggers Day, which will take place on Saturday, July 26.

Join us for a highly entertaining and educational day when the

Algonquin Logging Museum comes to life with demonstrations

around the Logging Museum trail.

The musical group, the Wakami Wailers, will be returning to

Algonquin Park for an appearance at Loggers Day on Saturday,

July 26 and an open air concert on Sunday, July 27 at 7:00 p.m.

The award winning Ontario-based group will get your toes

tapping through a fun-filled evening of entertaining stories and

songs from their popular releases – The Last of the White Pine

Loggers, Waltz with the Woods, and River through the Pines.

Meet the Researcher Day will be held on Thursday, July 31.

Come and get an inside look at some of the topics and results

of current research being conducted in Algonquin Park and

meet some of the people doing the work. Includes a charity

barbeque with proceeds supporting research in Algonquin Park.

The Friends of Algonquin Park’s Experience Algonquin

Workshop series is another way to experience the best of

what Algonquin has to offer! For these workshops, expert

instructors are brought in from communities around Algonquin

Park to share their passion and expertise on a variety of

recreational and natural history topics. As a participant, you will

work closely with instructors in a small group setting, taking

home new skills and knowledge, as well as field guides and tools

needed to pursue your interest further.

Custom programs such as the Group Education Program

offers school, youth, and adult groups a wide variety of

educational programs that allow them to discover Algonquin

Park’s amazing natural and cultural history. All programs are

delivered by highly qualified Park Naturalists.

To learn more about these events, or for a complete listing

of all the exciting activities and programs The Friends

of Algonquin Park have to offer, visit our website at

www.algonquinpark.on.ca.

If you would like to share your passion for Algonquin Park

by donating, volunteering or becoming a member, please visit

www.algonquinpark.on.ca or call us at 613-637-2828. u

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stay8

RELAX & UNWINDWHERE TO

40 2015/16VISITORS GUIDE • huntsvilleadventures.com

IF YOU ARE PLANNING A TRIPto Huntsville, Lake of Bays or Algonquin

Park, be it for a vacation, a business trip

or just to appease your adventurelust,

there are a few key points to consider

when deciding where to stay. Here are a

few ideas to help:

First, you must know the purpose of

your trip. You may say it is something as

general as a vacation or a business trip,

but it is good to be more specific with

what you want. You may be traveling on

business, but you may also want to relax

or explore the wonderful area of

Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Algonquin

Park. You may want a vacation, but do

you want to try something adventurous

or do you just want to relax at a spa?

Deciding on these things will help you

plan where to stay, and possibly save you

time and money since you can choose

the right accommodation that can cater

to all your needs.

Draw up a budget table with

possible projections on how much you

would want to spend on your

accommodations. Think of the services

you want to enjoy while away and

account for extra transportation costs if

necessary.

The area of Huntsville, Lake of Bays

& Algonquin Park is dotted with a

variety of accommodations, from

family-operated lodges and resorts, cozy

bed and breakfast homes, cottage

rentals, and full amenity hotels and

resorts. Outdoor enthusiasts relish the

natural beauty of the many area

campgrounds as they drift off to sleep

under a blanket of stars.

Contact the Huntsville/Lake of Bays

Chamber of Commerce or visit our

website www. huntsvilleadventures.com

for a full list of accommodations in

North Muskoka. u

“THE AREA OF

HUNTSVILLE, LAKE OF BAYS

& ALGONQUIN PARKIS DOTTED WITH A VARIETY

OF ACCOMMODATIONS...”

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huntsvilleadventures.com • 2015/16VISITORS GUIDE 43

L AKE OF BAYS • MUSKOKA

Est. 1890

LODGE & R ESORT

PORTCUNNINGTON

Our historic resort has been welcoming guests for 125 years.At Port Cunnington Lodge & Resort we make it easy to relax andunwind with our commitment to old-fashioned warm hospitality.Escape it all with a romantic getaway for two, a cottage country

family vacation or a retreat with colleagues to refocus and energize!

We look forward to seeing you this summer!

1679 PORT CUNNINGTON ROAD • LAKE OF BAYS, R.R. #1, DWIGHT, ON P0A 1H0

RESERVATIONS1-800-894-1105 • 705-635-2505 • portcunnington.com

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Lake

woods

Cott

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HUNTSVILLE AND LAKE of Bays

is a diverse and welcoming place to visit.

The community boasts an outstanding

array of cultural and culinary hotspots

as well as several events that rival those

from much larger destinations.

If you are looking to check in and

relax, a wide range of accommodation

options vary from camping to luxury

resorts with everything in between. Our

close proximity to the world famous

Algonquin Provincial Park gives you the

opportunity to check out the scenery

for a day or to venture out for

several days of backcountry

paddling.

Muskoka Pride Community

is a local, not for profit

organization who works to

increase awareness and create

opportunities for the LGBT

community through event

promotions, community

education and by fostering a safe

environment for all. Since 2012,

Muskoka has hosted several Pride

celebrations, including Pride Week and a

Pride Picnic. Events focus on promoting

inclusivity in the community and are free

and open for everyone to attend.

In 2014, Muskoka area Chambers of

Commerce teamed up to attend World

Pride in Toronto. Through this event we

helped spread the message of Muskoka

being a diverse and welcoming location

and were able to make a lot of new

friends with those who stopped

by to chat at our booth.

We look forward to

continuing to be a diverse and

welcoming community in

Huntsville/Lake of Bays.

For more information please

visit www.muskokapride.com. u

huntsvilleadventures.com • 2015/16VISITORS GUIDE 45

DIVERSE

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IN HUNTSVILLE/LAKE OF BAYS

&WELCOMING

MUSKOKA PRIDE WEEK

JULY 17-26, 2015

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LADIES, GET READY FOR ANincredible weekend – relax at the spa,

indulge in some retail therapy, enjoy

delectable food, exciting entertainment,

and share laughs with your girlfriends!

Mark your calendars and round up your

best gal pals for the annual

Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend, taking

place November 13-15, 2015!

This annual event, now in its ninth

year, continues to get bigger and better

every year! Featuring fashion, beauty,

wellness, and great performances by

artists like Pat Benatar, Amanda Marshall,

Jann Arden and Chantal Kreviazuk, the

weekend continues to offer additional

events and activities each year. Planning is

well underway for 2015 and local

accommodators will be offering fantastic

packages for ladies traveling from out-of-

town — be sure to check the website

www.huntsvillegirlfriendsgetaway.com

for all the exciting details as they happen!

Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend is the

perfect opportunity for women to relax

and reconnect with old friends, share a

glass of wine, and reminisce about the

past. Spend the day exploring our

downtown shops and all the amazing &

unique items each has to offer. This is a

chance to rejuvenate the mind, body, and

soul with good food, great friends, and

unforgettable entertainment!

So ladies, leave your husband and kids

behind for a few days and start

planning your getaway to Huntsville and

Lake of Bays — you deserve a few days

of pampering and Girlfriends’ Getaway

Weekend is just what the doctor

ordered! u

N O V E M B E R 1 3 - 1 5 , 2 0 1 5

C O N C E R T S • F A S H I O N • S P A S • D I N I N G • S H O P P I N G

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Here you and your family will do, taste and try things you’ve never done before.

And it all starts downtown. . . We look forward to greeting you!

2015 Pan Am Torch Relay Wednesday, June 3rd

Band On The Run Saturday, June 13th

LIVE IT! The Long and Winding Dinner Saturday, June 20th

Canada Day Celebration Wednesday, July 1st

Rotary DockFest Saturday, July 4th

70.3 Ironman Sunday, July 5th

Nuit Blanche North Saturday, July 11th

Midnight Madness Friday, July 17th

En Plein Air & Live Auction Thursday, July 30th

Summer Sidewalk Sale Saturday, August 15th

Art on the Edge Saturday, August 15th

Ironman Muskoka (Full) Sunday, August 30th

Shades of Autumn Car Show Saturday, September 12th

Tiny Tots Halloween Parade Saturday, October 31st

Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend November, 13-15th

Santa Claus Parade Friday, November 27th

Black Frid“eh” Friday, November 27th

Delightful Shops & Services • Cafés and Haute CuisineGroup of Seven Outdoor Gallery • Downtown Waterfront

DowntownHuntsvilleAdventures.ca

Plan Your Adventure!

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Page 48: Huntsville/Lake of Bays Visitors Guide 2015/2016

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