The Parker Team's Top Ten Things to Do In Lake of Bays

Lake of Bays is a vibrant community comprised of the smaller villages of Dwight, Dorset, Baysville, Hillside, and Oxtongue Lake. Stunning natural scenery provides the backdrop for the area which boasts numerous recreational activities.

The Parker Team has complied a list of our Top Ten Favourite things to do. Did we miss your favourite? Let us know at jennifer@jenniferparker.ca and we might just add it to our list.

In no particular order our top ten are:

A visit to Dwight Beach. With a magnificent sandy beach and a shoreline that is suitable for all ages, this has to be the nicest beach in Muskoka.
A ride on the SS Bigwin. Jump aboard this historic Lake of Bays steamship and enjoy a tour of the lake. Running out of both Dorset and Dwight, this is a family- friendly activity for all ages.
A trip to the Lake of Bays Marine Museum. A family-friendly follow up to the SS Bigwin cruise, this museum tells the history of the steamships on the lake. Upstairs you can learn about the Muskoka Watershed and Glenn Vickery’s swim around the lake.
The Oxtongue Craft Cabin and Gallery. Lake of Bays is home to many art galleries and artists. While it’s hard to pick just one, we like the Oxtongue Craft Cabin for its cozy feel in the trees, and the number of artists featured within. Each visit you’ll find something new from Jewelry to paintings to sculptures.
Robinson’s General Store. Owned by the same family since 1921, this Dorset landmark was voted Canada’s Best Country Store. Robinson’s offers a diverse variety of products, from groceries, clothing, kitchenware, hardware, books and more. tThis is a spot you can lose yourself in while you browse.
The Dorset Look Out Tower and Trail. The trail begins behind the Dorset Heritage Museum and is a beautiful, though somewhat steep, climb to the top of the lookout. Once there visitors can take in the beauty of Lake of Bays from the top of the Dorset Look Out Tower. Originally built in 1922 it stood 82 feet high. The existing tower was built in 1967 and stands 100 feet high. The 360 degree panoramic views make it worth the short 2.3 km hike.
Dwight and Baysville Farmer’s Markets. Take time to wander the area’s Farmer’s Markets, you’ll never know what you will find. With numerous weekly vendors and sometimes even music the mood is festive and cheery. The Dwight Farmer’s Market runs Tuesday mornings through the summer, while the Baysville Market runs Friday afternoons through the summer.
The Lake of Bays Cycling Route. Starting and ending in Dwight, this 73 km route takes you around the lake and through Dorset, Baysville & Dwight.
The Ragged Falls and Oxtongue River Hiking Trail. Named one of the 10 best falls in Ontario, this short 1 km walk offers spectacular views of the falls.
Henrietta’s Pine Bakery. A trip to Lake of Bays isn’t complete without a trip to Henrietta’s. This delightful bakery offers a fantastic selection of home baked goodies and friendly service. It’s not just a bakery, it’s a tradition for locals, cottages and visitors alike.