2010
Everythings Just Ducky
A typical scene along the shorelines of Muskoka’s lakes and water ways. I believe this is a female Mallard duck with her chicks.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo
2010
Grace and Speed
This is Grace and Speed located at the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre in Gravenhurst. It contains a great museum that features the history of Muskoka’s boat building, grand hotels and the steamship era. The boat slips contain many different antique wooden boats that were built in Muskoka. It is well worth a visit especially if you are planning on going out on one of the Steamships.
Please click on the image for a boathouse sized photo
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2010
Hello Miss St. Félicien
This is a shot of Miss St. Félicien as seen at last weeks annual Antique and Classic Boat Show at the wharf in Gravenhurst, Ontario. Miss St. Félicien is looking for a new owner to restore her back to her glory days.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo.
2010
Mellow Yellow
Continuing with the “Eye Candy on the Lakes” motif. Over the past few years I have noticed ample cottages and boathouses going with yellow as the main color. Its very cheery and sure beats the doldrums of brown. Up on the north west side of Lake Rosseau in Muskoka as you head into one of the bays you will find this beautiful cottage and boathouse.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
The Calm Before the G8 Storm
Around the town of Huntsville Ontario here are many smaller lakes that are very clean and peaceful. However the peace is about to be shattered as the G8 Summit steamrolls its way into Muskoka. The main meeting place for the G8 is at the Deerhurst Resort which is located directly on one of these small lakes. Peninsula Lake is also connected to Fairy, Mary and Vernon lakes. Look for Harper and Obama with their fishing poles.
Please click on the photo for a larger size – thanks
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2010
Preparing for the May Two-Four Weekend
Port Sandfield in Muskoka is a cool place to hangout and watch the boats cruise through from Lake Joseph to Lake Rosseau and vice-versa. Its been a little chilly on the water lately however it looks like we are in for some warmer weather this coming weekend. You will start to see more activity on the water now as everyone prepares to get ready for the big May “Two-Four” weekend.
For our American and International friends May 24th is a celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday commonly known as Victoria Day, a Canadian statutory holiday – Yup a long weekend and the official kick-off of summer for us.
Please click for a larger sized photo
2010
What door will it be Monty?
For those of us that are located on the big 3 lakes in Muskoka we sometimes take for granted the beautiful and eclectic boathouses that populate our shorelines. It really is one of the defining characteristics of Muskoka. This is a 6-slip boathouse located on Lake Rosseau. Most boathouses are 2 or 3 slips in size. I have never seen whats hiding behind those doors but could imagine there are a few beauties moored within.
Many of you have contacted me requesting more “Eye Candy on the Lakes” so I plan to continue featuring as many as I can.
Please click on the above photo for a large 1280 pixel size
2010
Kerplunk!
The water is still a little on the chilly side for my liking however there are a few brave souls nut-bars out there that are game.
Off the dock and into a frigid Lake Joesph in Muskoka. Brrrrr!
Please click on the image for a large splash shot 
2010
Off the Cleveland House Dock
In about another month this dock will be filled with people lying in the sun, swimming, boats pulling up etc. This is at the world famous Clevelands House family resort located on about 3000 feet of prime Lake Rosseau frontage in Muskoka. Its a great place to explore, drop by for drinks, have dinner or people watch.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2010
Return of the Muskoka Sunsets
The warm weather has opened up the lakes weeks earlier then previous years. Boats are starting to appear. It’s still a little chilly on the water however it is a great time to cruise around and check the new boathouses that have sprung up over the winter.
Hey Captain! Port Side – mind the flotsam.
Lake Rosseau near Port Sandfield pictured below.
please click on the image for a large photo
2010
Its not over yet
The snow is still falling but does it really matter when we are winning gold medals?
The amazing Muskoka Blogger extraordinaire, Jenn Jilks is keeping score of the Muskoka area snow fall accumulation
February 2010 = 48cm
January 2010 = 42cm
December 2009 = 60cm (mostly in 2 days and varied)
——————————————————————–
Total so far:Â 150cm or 59 inches which is about 5 feet
Please click on the image for a larger higher res shot
2009
Highway #169 Revisited
This is a typical scene that you would see while driving around the Muskoka area.
Campbell’s Landing just off Hwy #169
Please click on the photo for a larger size
2009
Off the Bridge
It was early morning and the sun was just starting to creep up when I walked onto the Joesph River Bridge looking due west.
It was cool and crisp with a nice fog coming off the water. The lake has given up her warmth.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo
2009
Climbing up on Huckleberry Rock
On a rather drab day this summer I hiked up to Huckleberry Rock near Milford Bay in Muskoka. I’m not particularly happy with this shot as the light was wrong and I never brought the proper gear with me as I wanted to save some weight. However, the timing was good as the Segwun Steamship was cruising through the bay on Lake Muskoka. The other object in the background that looks like a boat is actually a rocky island. You can see it better if you click for a larger size.
If you are Canadian – have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
2009
Bridge Over Troubled Water on Lake Joe
I caught this cool boathouse hiding amongst the trees while traveling north on Lake Joseph. The wind was picking up, the clouds were getting dark and the water was starting to get choppy so it was a sure sign a storm was rolling in. It’s not fun being caught out on the water in storms especially if there is lightning.
As you travel north on Lake Joe the cottages and boathouses are not as numerous as other parts of the lake however there are many gems tucked into bays on islands and the remote shorelines. I see something new every time I pass through here which is fairly frequent.
Please click on the image for a boathouse size photo
In: on the water
2009
Boathouse on Wasan Island
This boathouse is on Wasan Island not Tobin Island as I originally posted. It is very near the large Tobin Island on Lake Rosseau however. Sometimes I think we take these boathouses for granted as we have been cruising by them for years. They really are a defining characteristic of Muskoka. People keep asking for more boathouses so a few more will follow unless some other distraction gets in the way.
Update Sept 12: I have now learned that this Island is owned by a group from Germany. Here is their website: http://www.wasan-island.de
For a boathouse sized photo please click on the Pic
2009
The Lighthouse near Rosseau
It was a rather drab looking day cruising up to the north end of Lake Rosseau but nevertheless its always great to be on the water. This lighthouse is located on the shoals just south of Rosseau near the distinctive Rosseau Lake College. The lighthouse is still operational and managed by the Canadian Coast Guard. I noticed a few Cormorants have taken refuge here.
Please click on the image for a large 1280 pixel size
In: on the water
2009
Muskoka Architecture – Driving Through an Art Gallery in Your Boat
While traveling up to Royal Muskoka Island on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka you cannot miss this modern design boathouse tucked into a little bay. I tried to research the history of this structure however came up empty handed so if anyone has anything I would appreciate it. The cottage on this beautifully manicured property is consistent with the boathouse design.
The modern or perhaps international design is certainly not fitting to everyone’s taste however we are very fortunate to see a wide variety of architecture on the Muskoka lakes. Its like driving through an art gallery in your boat. How boring it would be if every cottage or boathouse was the same cookie cutter design.
For an interesting read on Muskoka architecture I recommend you browse through the well researched articles by my blogger friend Thelma Jarvis. Architecture, Building & Design
Please click on the image for a large photo
2009
The Girls of a Muskoka Summer
ahhhh …remember those hot endless summers without a worry in the world?
And jumping off the rocks or the boat into a cool fresh lake. It does something to you. It gets ingrained deep into your psyche and you never ever forget it.
In: on the water
2009
The Ditchburns of Muskoka
In 1869, four Ditchburn descendants, brothers William, Henry, John and Arthur, emigrated to Canada from England. They settled in the village of Rosseau, Ontario. When the resort industry in Muskoka began to flourish. The Ditchburn brothers turned to what they new best, their family tradition of boat building.
After about 20 years of building small craft in Rosseau, the Ditchburns, moved their operations to the Muskoka Wharf area of Gravenhurst in 1890. Gravenhurst had much more traffic as the trains arrived and the steamers departed for various parts of the lakes. The Ditchburn is considered one of the most cherished crafts and a household name in Muskoka.
This is the identification plate off of the 31 ft launch On Behalf Of Sam, a 1930′s Ditchburn docked in Gravenhurst Bay.
Ditchburn History
Please click on the image for a large sized photo.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2009
Sunbeam Island on Lake Joseph Revisted
Last year I photographed Sunbeam Island or so I thought.
It actually turned out to be Sullivan Island not Sunbeam. My coordinates were slightly off kilter and the real estate agent that had it listed sent me a little reminder. So I navigated my way up Lake Joe and made sure I got it right this time. Sunbeam is on the market and can be had for a mere $1.645M reduced from $1.99M. I don’t see any fire sales on Muskoka real estate these days.
Click here or on the photo for an Island sized Pic
In: on the water
2009
Mother Nature and Human Nature Brings Tragedy in Muskoka
Its been a very tragic time in Muskoka this past week. There have been at least five drownings and an airplane crash that claimed the lives of two people. Its unfortunate as people were out enjoying the majestic beauty of the area when disaster strikes.
The recent rains have caused the rivers and streams to move at a very fast rate. Although the falls look soothing, beautiful and inviting its very deceiving on how powerful and dangerous mother nature can be. Most of the drownings were a result of swimming near very dangerous waterfalls.
The photo below was taken last week in Bracebridge.
It gives you an idea of the dangerous volumes of water flowing through the region.
Please be careful!
2009
Classic Cars in Muskoka, Ontario
The classic car and boat show in Rosseau, Ontario on August 01, 2009.
These shows always bring in hoards of people that wander around and admire the beauties. I wonder whats in the little black bag?
Please click on the photo for a large size
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2009
The Dolly Durkin JR
This is the bow ornament of the Dolly Durkin Jr. named after the original 1922 Ditchburn built for Sir John Eaton. This beauty was built by the Picasso of boat building Mr. Peter Breen who invested 7000 hours into this masterpiece.
More about the Dolly Durkin Jr. and Peter Breen in The Muskokan
Please click on the image for a Ditchburn sized photo
2009
Three Girls and a Dock
Oh, sunny, sunny, sunny days
Ain’t nothin’ better in the world, you know
Than lyin’ in the sun with your radio
The Port Carling town dock works for a little chat fest while the wake boarding boys sneak in for little peek.
Ahhh those sunny sunny days …
Please click on the image for a dock sized photo
2009
The Amphibious Car
I caught these AmphiCars cruising around the docks in Gravenhurst at the annual antique boat show this past weekend. These bad boys were manufactured in Berlin, Germany from 1962 to 1967. Only about 4500 were ever built with most of the production going to the USA. I would like to know how they would handle the wake of a 31ft Ditchburn
Click on the image for a Biggie Pic
2009
The Gravenhurst Antique and Classic Boat Show
I noticed this mammoth monster sized boat in Port Carling last year. Someone told me it used to be Conrad Black’s boat but I’m not sure about that. Connie did like things a tad grandiose so its always possible.
Just a reminder that this Saturday July 11, 2009 is the 29th annual Antique and Cassic Boat Show down in Gravenhurst. All the classic boats will be there along with a flea market, steam boat rides and more …
Its definitely worth checking out. More info here and here
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2009
Take Me to Your Captain
It was a blustery 4th of July when I had a chance to board the R.M.S. Segwun steamship out of Gravenhurst, Ontario. The Segwun is North Americas oldest operating steamship and one of the crown jewels of Muskoka. The R.M.S. designation stands for “Royal Mail Ship” and you can still mail a letter or postcard from her today. I had the opportunity to spend some time in the pilothouse with the Captain discussing his many adventures on the Muskoka Lakes.
Put it on your bucket list if you are visiting Muskoka or plan to in the future
Steamship schedule and info
Please click on the image for a Steamship sized photo
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2009
Billionaires Row in Muskoka
Traveling up to the north end of Lake Joseph there is an area that people refer to as “Billionaires Row“. Perhaps they are trying to “one up” Lake Muskoka’s Millionaires Row near Beaumaris. Well I have never seen any billionaires around (what do they look like?) however there are certainly some breathtaking abode’s that may reflect a billionaires eclectic tastes.
To get down to the waters edge on this log home it appears you may need to take a tram or perhaps a far reaching swan dive. Lets hope there is a well stocked fridge at the bottom.
Please click for biggie fries size
Please click the image for a large size photo
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2009
Right Off the Dock in Parry Sound, Ontario
Parry Sound Ontario is the home of Bobby Orr, one of the greatest hockey players ever.
It was a very ominous day looking off the town wharf and out into the mammoth sized waters of Georgian Bay.
Please click for a large sized image
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2009
Cruisin the north end of Lake Joseph Muskoka
I noticed this cool boat cruising by an island on the north end of Lake Joseph. It is shaped like a little tugboat however I don’t think that’s what it was. Looks more suited for the big wake of Georgian Bay
Click for biggie size
Please click on the image for a Tugboat Annie size photo
2009
The Floating Jewels of Muskoka
This launch is named “res ipsa loquitur” or “the thing speaks for itself.”
I am not certain if this beauty is a Greavette, Minett-Shields or some other Muskoka woody. It looks to be about 30 feet long and has the obligatory mother in-laws seat at the stern. This is the first time I have ever seen this majestic launch, perhaps it was being restored these past few years.
I was not able to get a good shot as I was at the helm of my own boat navigating through the channel at Port Sandfield when I saw her. I’m sure we will meet again. (Please click for supersize pic)
Please click on the image for a large photo
2009
Bracebridge Falls in Muskoka
The Bracebridge Falls is located right downtown in Bracebridge, Ontario. Bracebridge was the first municipality in Canada to embrace hydro electric power back in 1894. This is the last drop of the north branch of the Muskoka River before it meets up with the south branch.
It was a miserable rainy and cold day when I passed through last weekend. Quite a few people were still exploring, fishing and taking photos. (Canadians are tough!) The Muskoka area has an abundance of waterfalls throughout and I plan to get out and capture a few more.
Please click on the image for a large sized photo.
Please click for a large sized photo
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2009
The May Two-Four Weekend in Muskoka
The Victoria Day long weekend in Canada is usually the kickoff to our summer. This weekend is also known as the May Two-Four weekend (for those of you outside of Canada our beer is sold in 24 packs) but the holiday does not necessarily fall on the 24th of May.
This is the weekend that most people open their cottages, plant gardens or go camping. The highways are busy with people hauling their boats and heading to their favorite destination.
Well it certainly wasn’t the warmest Victoria Day long weekend on record. Although the parking lot was full the Muskoka chairs at Clevelands House were empty when I scooted by. (Please click pic for biggie size)
Click on the image for a adriondack chair sized photo
2009
First run of the season
I picked up my boat from my good friends at Gordon Bay Marine last weekend and immediately cruised down Lake Joseph to Port Sandfield and back up to Lake Rosseau. It was a little on the chilly side and I seemed to be the only nut out on the white capping lake. It sure cleared the winter cobwebs out and reminded me how much I missed the open water. The water temperature was showing a glacial 53F or about 12C.
I can hardly wait not to jump in!
Click on the image for a Lake Joe sized photo
2009
Let the Cottage Season Begin
There are signs of life in Muskoka as we approach the May 24 (Victoria Day) weekend which is actually on May 18th this year. Many birds, frogs and night crawling creatures as well as a few of the Homo Sapien varietal are scurrying about. I have not seen any signs of the dreaded black flies as of yet but have heard they are out there.
I was a little slow on the draw trying to snap a shot of the two ducks that took off in this photo however they left some nice rings in the water. Please click for a larger size
Click the image for a larger size
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2009
Waiting for the Big Thaw in Muskoka Canada
I usually like to have my boat in early however it appears like this guy will beat everyone to it this year. They must have hightailed it out of Muskoka back in the fall.
Taken near Bala, Ontario on Lake Muskoka near The Kee
Please click for a larger sized image
2009
Ice Out Milford Bay, Muskoka Lake
The sun was sinking fast and I wanted to try and get one more photo in before dark. I was driving across highway #118 towards Bracebridge and remembered Milford Bay. As I cruised down the side road I noticed this little creek draining into Lake Muskoka.
It won’t be long now until the ice has disappeared and us Canadians can don the obligatory, shorts, T’s and Sneaks.
Click Photo for a Glacier Sized Image
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2009
Put up your Dukes in Muskoka Canada
Things looked a little quiet and bleak when I passed by Dukes in Port Carling recently. Dukes is a historic place in Muskoka with a long history of classic boat building. I had a chance to tour the facility last year and witnessed the restoration of some old Ditchburns and Minett-Shields classic woodies. They occasionally have an open house for the public and if you get the chance I highly recommend you take the opportunity to step back in time.
Click on the image for a large launch sized photo
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2009
ffffrozen creature in Muskoka
Looks like we were fortunate to dodge all the hoop-la in Muskoka over the holidays. I understand there was a combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, flooding, extreme high winds followed by hydro outages for thousands. By the time I got back up to check on things it felt like frozen arctic tundra at a mere minus 22c. Here is a shot of a creature discovered on the Gravenhurst waterfront.
click on image for biggie size
In: in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
The Church on the Hill in Gregory
On the Lake Rosseau side of the fence there is an old Anglican Church – The Christ Church of Gregory.
Well its time to take a small Blog break. I have not had many chances to get up north this winter but will return for New Years. I’m headed to the Caribbean in search of sandy white beaches and mixed concoctions. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and all the other correct Seasonal Greetings. See you in 2009 – Cheers!
Click Image for Santa Claus Belly Size
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Henshaw Lake in Muskoka
I took over 100 new photos last weekend and my CF card crapped out on me. Thanks to the data recovery software I got them back.  Henshaw Lake on #118 towards Port Carling . Some of the smaller lakes are freezing over. You don’t dare walk on them yet though.
Click Image for Wooly Mammoth Size
2008
Looking Back at Bala Falls
While taking a drive through the town of Bala in Muskoka its hard not to miss the Save the Bala Falls signs. Many locals and cottagers are very upset at the possible destruction of the natural beauty of these falls with a proposed hydroelectric plant being built. This photo was taken “looking back” at the road over the dam and railway bridge near Purks Place and the old stone church.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
On Frozen Pond
Last night the temperature went down to about -2C. When I awoke I noticed the pond out front was frozen and contained some unique patterns in the ice. I knew it was time to get the boats out for November is upon us.
click on image for biggie size
2008
The Sun Sets Over Clevelands House in Muskoka
The sun sets over Clevelands House to end another summer/fall season in Muskoka. I took this photo from a new trail that opened up along the shoreline from the Wallace Marina over to the New Red Leaves Resort. Of course Red Leaves now owns Clevelands and the entire shoreline around to the resort. It has to be close to 2 miles of shoreline on Lake Rosseau in Muskoka – do the math.
Click for bigger size
In: boathouses of muskoka, historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, uncategorized
2008
Lock #45 Port Severn, Ontario
When you take highway # 400 north to cottage country you pass over the Severn River that empties into Georgian Bay. This is the township of Port Severn or Severn as its known today. Severn is part of the Trent Severn waterway that is 387 km’s long and consists of 44 locks, 39 swing bridges and 160 dams. This photo was taken near lock #45 the smallest of them all.
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Muskoka Island Reflections in the Fall
I snapped this Muskoka island in the early morning light. The water was perfectly still and reflected the trees, boathouse and white puffy clouds above. There are numerous islands throughout the Muskoka Lakes and each and every one is unique in its own way. You have to be careful navigating your boat near them as there is often shallow water surrounding them.
Muskoka Island (Click on Image to Enlarge)
2008
Joseph River Muskoka Boathouse at Sundown
The fall colors have not quite peaked as of yet but should be vibrant this weekend coming which is Canada’s Thanksgiving. There is a little island that sits out in the Joe River that you can see from the road just south of Minett, Ontario. The sun had just set when I snapped this.
In: boathouses of muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
2008
Purks Place in Bala another Muskoka landmark slated for teardown
Their motto is Boats and Bait since 1908. Purks Place is a Muskoka landmark located on Burgess Island at the Bala Falls in Bala, Ontario. It appears Purk’s will be no more. In the near future a hydro electric power plant is slated to be built in its place. Some of the locals have been in opposition to this and have setup a website savethebalafalls.com
Interesting article by local Bala author and musician Jack Hutton. Â Who Cares About Purks’s Place?
In: historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water, tripin around towns
2008
Interesting Boathouses on the Muskoka Lakes
One of the most striking things you notice when visiting Muskoka are the many types of beautiful boathouses. They vary from rustic to charming to grandiose architectural styles. Many of these boathouses feature beautiful sitting rooms, bathrooms, exercise rooms and grand bedrooms. Sometimes driving past you can get a peak at the prized Muskoka antique boats like the Ditchburns, Minette-Shields, Dippys and Greavettes etc.
This photo is of a boathouse on a Lake Rosseau island. It appears someone really loves his sailboat.
In: boathouses of muskoka, historic muskoka, in and around muskoka ontario, on the water
