Nature's Studio: Muskoka

Estimated distance: 250 km/155 mi.

Algonquin Park is the jewel in the crown of Ontario's provincial park system, and an ideal destination for fall colour touring. Try the 1.9 km (1.2 mi.) Lookout Trail that rewards hikers with a magnificent view of several hundred square kilometres. Or rent a canoe and experience the brilliant reflection of the changing leaves in one of the many lakes accessible from Highway 60.

Combine a love for stunning fall scenery with the arts. At km 20, on a small hill next to Found Lake, sits a giant, hollow sculpture made of stone. Created in 1953, this work of art was the original Park Museum. For two years this building remained vacant, but in 2005 new life was breathed into it as the Algonquin Art Centre. The Muskoka Autumn Studio Tour is held each September and is Ontario's longest running fall artisan tour. An opportunity to meet the artists, see their work and visit their studios, it's also a great chance to pick up a few prized pieces to add to your personal collection. Or check out the classes at Muskoka Place Gallery in Port Carling and create your own masterpiece.

From the top of the Dorset Scenic Tower, a former forest fire lookout, you have an amazing 499 square-kilometre (310 square-mile) viewing radius. For a slice of life in Muskoka, visit nearby Robinson's General Store, owned by the same family since 1921.

Since wealthy American industrialists arrived by steamship on Muskoka's doorstep a century ago boat cruises through the Muskoka Lakes continue to be a favourite way to admire the area's natural beauty. The Royal Mail Ship Segwun steamship, formerly a paddle wheeler, is one of the most famous sights in Muskoka as she plies the lakes. In fact, she's the oldest continually operating steamship in North America. You can board for lunch or dinner or simply sign on for an hour to quietly pass scenery that inspired the Group of Seven painters. Be sure to allow time to explore the Gravenhurst Wharf including the Grace and Speed Museum and its great selection of restaurants. Try the tearoom for a lovely break. Continue your heritage tour by visiting the national historic site and home of Dr. Norman Bethune.

And if your idea of a fall drive includes sampling local flavours check out the many culinary artisans across the region. Bala is home to the only two producing commercial cranberry farms in Ontario. Take time to savour Muskoka at the annual Bala Cranberry Festival in October: watch cranberry harvesting, enjoy wagon tours, winery tours, and the farmers' market. Or visit the local museum to explore memories of LM Montgomery, famed author of Anne of Green Gables.

Muskoka offers golfers a variety of great fall tee off options including The Rock, Deerhurst and Delta Grandview and a wide variety of additional courses.

Muskoka Tourism's downloadable Six Days & Seven Nights audio tour is a perfect complement to the region's fall drives.

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