Canoe and Kayak Rentals in Almaguin and Muskoka

If you bring your own watercraft to the inn, we'll be glad to point you to the many public boat access points in the region.

But if, like many visitors to the Almaguin Highlands and Muskoka, you don't have your own but you'd like to spend a day canoeing or kayaking the lakes and rivers of the area, you have many options for rentals.

Algonquin Basecamp Outfitters & Supply
Located at the Almaguin Highlands Info Centre, Algonquin Basecamp offers canoe, kayak, and peddleboat rentals by the day or weekend. You can load the canoe on your car (roof pads and straps available) for a short drive to any number of local lakes, or make arrangements with Algonquin Basecamp to pick up your canoe lakeside in Kearney and paddle the extensive lake and river system there. If you're feeling really adventurous, you can drive to one of the Algonquin Park access points for a back country day-trip.

Canoe Algonquin

Also in Kearney, just 20 minutes due east of Fern Glen Inn. Canoe and kayak rentals by the day. The store is across the road from the lake, so no need to put the canoe or kayak up on the car--simply portage across the road and start paddling the many kilometres of waterways.

Arrowhead Provincial Park
Located off of Hwy 11 just north of Huntsville. This is a small park, but offers many ways to enjoy its lakes, river, waterfall and trails. Canoe, kayak and bike rentals for a short as 2-hours or as long as a day.

Algonquin Outfitters - Huntsville
Located on Main Street in downtown Huntsville, the store backs onto the river for easy, car-free access to extensive paddling. A nice option is to paddle from the store dock up the river to Lake Vernon and back. Canoe and kayak rentals by the day.

Algonquin Outfitters - Oxtongue Lake
Located on Hwy 60 just west of Algonquin Park. A favourite paddle for our guests is the self-guided canoe trip to Ragged Falls. A nice 3-hour round trip, it's the perfect way to sample paddling without making a whole day of it. Paddle directly from the dock to the base of Ragged Falls, pull up on the shore and walk up to the top of the falls to admire the view.

Algonquin Outfitters - Opeongo
Both unguided and guided day trips are also available from Algonquin Outfitters' Opeongo store within Algonquin Park, including a guided paddle to Hailstorm Creek Nature Reserve.

The Portage Store - Algonquin Park
Located on Canoe Lake in Algonquin Park, the Portage Store offers guided full-day and half-day canoe trips as well as unguided canoe and kayak rentals.

Paddle or Saddle

Summer is winding down with crisp, fresh mornings heralding the coming autumn. The days are warm and sunny but no longer heavy with high-summer heat. This is the perfect weather to be gliding over a lake in a canoe or kayak, or riding through the woods atop a horse.

Paddling and horseback riding are popular activities with many of our guests. A few folks bring their own canoe—or even their own horse!—but most often people rent a canoe or kayak from a local outfitter or book a guided horseback ride at a local farm.

While Jim and I haven't paddled all the routes in the area, many of our guests have reported back on their excursions and we will happily pass the recommendations on to you. I've put together a list of canoe and kayak rentals in the Almaguin Highlands and Muskoka here.

For information on guided horseback riding in the Almaguin Highlands, click here.

If you have any questions or would like help making plans, just give us a call at Fern Glen Inn or send us an email.

North of Muskoka Studio Tour

It's no surprise that the rugged, colourful landscape of the Almaguin Highlands is the chosen home of many artists and artisans. The good news for visitors is you don't have to travel far from the inn to view and admire their work.

The North of Muskoka Tour features three studio/galleries from Emsdale to Burk's Falls, and we'll provide a map and routing for interested guests.

Jim and I recently paid a visit to one of the stops on the tour, the Karen Robinson Gallery, just a few country blocks from here. Karen is the exclusive dealer for renowned artist Mendelson Joe, and her gallery showcases a selection of his original paintings, reproductions, books and CDs. Also on display are Karen's own pen and ink drawings, as well as a variety of pieces from other artists.

Before visiting the gallery, I was already familiar with some of M. Joe's work —but on a small scale. I've perused his striking portraits in his Working Women book collection and appreciated a gift of postcard reproductions of his landscapes; and Jim and I thoroughly enjoyed a segment on the artist during an episode of the Rick Mercer Report. But nothing compares to the full size paintings and reproductions.

I particularly love M. Joe's landscapes and folk scenes. When I look at his Almaguin skies and tree-scapes, I feel the same tight little tug in my chest that I feel gazing out over the real thing. Joe expresses in colour, lighting and shape just what I feel about the place I decided to call home.

Karen Robinson Gallery

Star Lake Road, Emsdale

705-636-7950

Hours:

July & August open Tuesday to Saturday 11am to 5pm

May, June, September, October open Saturday & Sunday 11am to 5pm

November to April by appointment

: : : : : :

Also on the tour, and located just a few minutes away on Fern Glen Rd, is Shifting Earth Gallery/Studio, home and workspace of international artist Sally Ferguson.

Sally works in mixed media in a style referred to as 'formed abstract'. Visit her gallery and studio in the beautifully restored barn on her 10 acre country property. Read about our visit to the gallery.

Shifting Earth Gallery/Studio

Fern Glen Road, Emsdale

705-636-9219

Hours:

Open by chance or by appointment.

: : : : : :

Just a little further afield, outside the town of Burk's Falls, is the R.W. Haviland Studio/Gallery, where Canadian artist R.W. (Bobbi) Haviland creates and showcases art on large canvasses.

R.W. Haviland Studio/Gallery

Ferguson Road, Burk's Falls

705-382-1185

Hours:

Summer, Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm; or phone for appointment.

Bountiful Blueberries

This is, by far, the very best year for wild blueberries we've seen since moving here. The bushes that grow in the scrubby, open sections along the Seguin Trail are bushier, taller, lusher than they've ever been, and laden with beautiful powder-blue berries. I guess the mixed-bag of weather we've had so far this summer—about an even mix of sun and rain, hot and cool—is perfect for them.

I biked down the trail yesterday and filled a little tub of them in no time and barely made a dent in the patches. There are still plenty of little white berries on their way to ripening, so the picking isn't over yet.

Guests at Fern Glen Inn will get to sample some of the bounty in their breakfasts, or I'll direct them to the patches on the trail and they can pick their own little treasures to take home.

Wild blueberries are smaller than the ones you'll find fresh in the store, and a bit more tart and complex in flavour. Blueberries are great on their own, but they're also quite versatile, complementing a broad range of other flavours. Pair them beautifully (but not all at once!) with any of these partners: lemon, cinnamon, nuts (pecan, almond, hazelnut), white chocolate, maple, cream, fresh cheese, or vanilla.

Blueberries are at home at the breakfast table. Add them to your favourite muffin, pancake, waffle, or scone recipe. Stir them into sweetened yogurt or sprinkle over cereal. My favourite breakfast as a kid was equal parts Bran Flakes cereal and blueberries (strange kid, I know).

For a special breakfast, though, try them in these fluffy, tender pancakes. The blueberries shine on the bright lemon-ricotta backdrop!

Lemon Ricotta Pancakes with Blueberries

6 tablespoons unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3 eggs, separated
3/4 cup ricotta cheese
2 tablespoons sugar
zest from 1 lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup fresh blueberries
butter or oil for the griddle

Preheat griddle or non-stick frying pan to medium-high. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, ricotta cheese, sugar, and lemon zest. Gently stir in flour mixture until just combined.

In a clean bowl with a clean whisk or electric beater, whip the egg whites and salt until soft peaks form and just hold their shape (better to under-whip than over-whip). Fold the whipped egg whites into the ricotta-flour mixture just until no streaks remain. Gently fold in blueberries.

Butter or oil the griddle. Scoop about 1/4 cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until golden on each side, flipping once. Top with more berries or a spoonful of warm blueberry jam. Enjoy!

Serves 2 to 3 people. Recipe can be doubled.

August Happenings

Some of the events happening in Huntsville, Kearney, Burk's Falls, Emsdale and the area. Check back for additions and updates as the month unfolds.

Kearney Regatta

Our neighbouring town of Kearney is known for its annual long-weekend regatta and festivities. Street dance, beer garden, parade, water sports, slow pitch baseball, children's activities, Northern Lights Steel Band Orchestra, topped off with a grand fireworks display at dusk on Sunday night.
August 1 - 3

Backcountry Gear Exchange Grand Opening Sale
This new outfitter right in our little town of Emsdale is celebrating the long weekend with a grand opening sale. They buy/sell/trade/consign pre-enjoyed outdoor gear, equipment and clothing. They also rent canoes, kayaks and camping gear.
August 2 - 4

Jazz in Tall Tree's Garden
Enjoy tea or juice along with a delicious selection of pastries, cheese and fruit - while listening to smooth jazz sounds. Bring a lawn chair and sit among the beautiful gardens on the Spencer's Tall Trees property on Main Street in Huntsville. Tickets are $15. To order tickets visit www.algonquintheatre.ca.

August 3 from 2pm - 4pm

Huntsville Place Summer Sidewalk Sale

Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale at the Huntsville Place Mall. Tons of summer goods on sale as merchants get ready to stock for fall and winter.
August 6 - 9

Concerts in the Park - Muskoka Concert Band

Toonie for some Tunes at the Huntsville Town Dock Park. Bring your lawn chairs to enjoy a variety of musical performances outdoors. Those in the audience are asked to contribute a "toonie" for the tunes. All monies go to the performer.

July 16 - August 20 at 7pm

Huntsville Dragonboat Festival

The Annual Bell Huntsville Dragonboat Festival will be at Avery Beach in Huntsville. Opening ceremony, a flotilla parade and entertainment will be on the evening of August 8, followed by a full day of Dragon Boat Races on August 9. Parking at Rock Ridge Recreation Park, with a shuttle service to Avery Beach.
August 8 & 9

Perseids Meteor Shower
Shooting stars by the hundreds! The Perseids meteor shower starts in mid-July and lasts until late-August, but the peak occurs this year on August 12. Count the stars and make your wishes under our dark sky. Guests at Fern Glen Inn can stay up late to stargaze on August 11 or 12, then sleep in for a late breakfast.
August 12 peak

Downtown Huntsville Summer Sidewalk Adventure

The Downtown Huntsville BIA presents the Summer Sidewalk Adventure. Inflatables for kids, entertainment by the Northern Steel Band Orchestra, and the shops will be bursting out with sales. Along Main Street all the way to the Swing Bridge.
August 16

Artists of the Limberlost Open Studio Weekend

Artists of the Limberlost is a collective of artists and craftspeople with studios along the Limberlost Road, off Hwy 60, east of Huntsville. At this, their second annual Open Studio Weekend, the public is invited to see artwork and fine craft; and to experience the working environments and to learn about the creative processes involved in each medium. The free tour features 8 studios and also the work of 14 guest artists from Muskoka and beyond. The work is for sale, so you'll have the opportunity to take home a 'piece of the Limberlost' for yourself.
August 16 & 17 from 10am - 6pm

Hawksley Workman live at Burk's Falls
Local boy turned Juno award-winning musician Hawksley Workman is performing live for three shows at the Burk's Falls Town Theatre. This is a small, intimate venue and sure to be a great show for fans of his music. Tickets are $25. Ask me about picking some up for you from the town office.
August 21, 22 & 23

Emsdale Fall Fair

This is a great day of fun for the whole family. There will be farm animals, chainsaw carving, drag saw display, old farm equipment, parade, baby show, live music, horse pulls, kids pet show and more. Gates open at 8am. The cost of admission is $3, children 12 & under are free.

August 23

Ongoing Events:

Tuesday Night Bike Ride
Tuesdays
Bring your wheels and meet in the parking lot behind the Algonquin Outfitters store att 86 Main St. E, Huntsville. Be prepared for a night of trail riding around Huntsville. New to the area? What better way to find places to ride and people who enjoy riding! For more information call Andy or Bob in the Bike Shop, at 705-789-0262

Kayak Wednesdays
Wednesdays
$15 per person. Algonquin Outfitters on Main St. will provide all the gear for an evening outing on the Muskoka River. Meet at the store before 6pm to register; guided paddle starts before 7pm and goes for about two hours, possibly all the way to Lake Vernon and back. For more information call Randy at 705-789-0262 ext. 36.

Huntsville Farmers Market
Thursdays, 9am - 2pm, Canadian Tire parking lot
Fridays, 9am - 2pm, beside Robinson's Independent
Huntsville

Muskoka Cruise-in Nights
Wednesday evenings
Saturday evenings
Antique cars, classics, hot rods and special interest automobiles on display. Door prizes and draws with proceeds going to local charities.
At the Canadian Tire parking lot in Huntsville.

Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery
Stroll through Huntsville's downtown district and enjoy over 20 outdoor mural replicas honouring the works of the Group of Seven. Free maps to the mural locations are available at the Huntsville Chamber of Commerce and here at the inn.

Quote for a summer day:
Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time.
-John Lubbock

Swimming in Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands

The swimming season here in Ontario's Cottage Country is short, but oh so sweet. There is nothing like the feel of cool, clear lake water enveloping you on a hot summer afternoon, with a view of green hills rising up from the shore around you to meet a big blue sky above. Nothing else says 'vacation' quite so eloquently.

July and August are peak swimming months, but depending on the weather, it can start as early as mid-June and go on into September. Jim has even been known to jump in for a dip in October!

Guests who are new to the area always ask "is there anywhere to swim?" and are pleasantly surprised by the number and variety of options. Within a short drive, we have sandy beaches, smooth rocky dropoffs, deep steady rivers, and rushing rapids. We provide guests of the inn with directions and a map, and we're always happy to recommend our favourite spots. Here are just a few:

Long Lake
A quiet lake just 6 1/2 km from the inn, Jim and I swim here often. Similar to an Algonquin interior campsite, with shady trees and natural rock steps and ledges. There is no beach or slowly sloping entry here; instead the land drops off abruptly into the lake. Either you're in or your out. This is good for getting me in the water quickly (instead of slowly inching my way in) and we love the short drive through the woods to get there. Floating dock for jumping and diving.

Birch Beach
Sunny, wide, sandy beach at the south end of Doe Lake, between Sprucedale and Emsdale. Shallow, gradual entry, then swim out as far as you like. Sunny lawns and shady birch trees make this a great beach for lounging even if you don't feel like swimming. This is a large lake with motor boats; floating dock.

Clear Lake
Small sandy beach with warm shallow water. The beach is tucked in between cottages and motor boats and jet skis are on the lake, making you feel just like you're at a cottage. Grassy slope for sunbathing.

Brook's Falls
A lovely waterfall to visit at any time of year, Brook's Falls on the Magnetawan River is also a great swimming spot in the heat of summer. Splash in the rapids just below the falls, sit and soak in natural whirlpools, or swim in the deeper water downstream. More about Brook's Falls here.

Katrine Beach
Large sandy, shallow beach on a big lake. Popular with families. Playground, bbq stands, not much shade.

Magnetawan River Rapids
Unofficial and unmaintained as a swimming spot, but regularly enjoyed by local residents. Sit in on smooth bare rock in the rapids above a waterfall, or splash around in the river below the falls.

Arrowhead Lake and Stubbs Falls
With two lakes and the Big East River running through it, Arrowhead Provincial Park is a great place to spend a summer day. Swim at the beach or sun bath on the flat rocks by the falls. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available at the park.

Ilfracomb Beach
Sandy beach in a pretty little hamlet. Jim and I just discovered the spot in the spring and haven't tried the water there yet. It looks like a sandy, shallow entrance into a beautiful clear lake.

Hutcheson Beach
Large, popular sandy beach on Lake Vernon on the west side of Huntsville. Playground, change rooms.

As always when water is involved, use caution and common sense. Enjoy the many water features of Muskoka and the Almaguin Highlands, but do so at your own risk.

Strawberries Aplenty

Local strawberries, like summer itself, were a little late this year, but now they're ripe for the picking. Our neighbours spent a morning at one of the local pick-your-own strawberry farms last week and brought us back 2 baskets brimming with sweet, ripe berries.

Since then, these little gems have made their way into fruit courses, compotes and desserts; and topped waffles, french toast and even homemade ice cream. Many, many berries went straight from colander to mouth!

Of course, I can't let our brief local strawberry season pass without indulging in the classic dessert to showcase these berries at their best. What would summer be without Strawberry Shortcake?

Summer is also a time to be lazy, so I keep things simple and cut out a few steps (like making one big shortcake instead of individual ones). The result is a quick and easy show-stopper.

Strawberry Shortcake

For the shortcake:
1 tbsp lemon juice
3/4 cup milk
2 cups all purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking soda
2/3 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp sugar

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a 9" cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Mix together the lemon juice and milk. Reserve 1 tbsp of the mixture to use as a glaze. Set aside the remainder to sour until ready to use.

In a large bowl sift together flour, baking powder, 3 tbsp sugar, salt and baking soda. Use a pastry cutter to cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in enough of the soured milk until dough clings together. (You can do these steps in a food processor if you like, just don't over-process the dough.)

Dump the mixture onto a floured surface and knead together 5 or 6 times. Pat out dough into an 8-inch round and use a bench scraper and broad spatula to transfer to cookie sheet. Brush with the reserved 1 tbsp lemon-milk and sprinkle the top with 1 tsp sugar.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on cookie sheet then cut horizontally in half.

While cake is cooling, prepare the filling:
4 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 to 2 tbsp sugar, depending on the sweetness of the berries
1/2 cup mascarpone or cream cheese (optional)
2 tbsp sugar
1 cup whipping cream

Toss the strawberries with 1 to 2 tbsp sugar and set aside. In a cold bowl with chilled beaters, beat the mascarpone or cream cheese (if using) and 2 tbsp sugar until smooth. Beat in the whipping cream and beat until soft-stiff peaks form.

Assemble the shortcake:
Slide shortcake onto a serving platter. Carefully remove top layer (use the bench scraper and broad spatula) and set aside. Top bottom layer with half of berries and half of cream mixture. Top with top layer of shortcake. Pile remaining cream mixture and berries on top. Slice and serve immediately. Makes 6-8 servings.