The winding, tree-lined roads in Haliburton Highlands are an invitation to take a meandering road trip, to wander from community to community, through dense forests and past deep, cold lakes.

This summer, take a meandering road trip through Haliburton Highlands to find the hidden gems, the out of the way spots you will fall in love with, and get up close and personal with nature at its finest.

2 Nights, 3 Days in Haliburton Highlands
2 Nights, 3 Days | Total Distance: 91km

Start Here: Minden

The community of Minden is so cute you will want to take your time exploring here. Check out why Minden was featured on Still Standing, and what the appeal is for visitors. Minden will be the launchpad for your Haliburton Highlands adventure, so don’t rush this stop!

  • Upriver Trading Co. is stocked with fun stuff you won’t find anywhere else. Purchase an inflatable adult toy for a float on the Gull River.
  • What small-town wander would be complete without an ice cream treat to accompany it? Kawartha Dairy has loads of flavours to choose from, and they make great milkshakes, too!
  • The Pepper Mill Steak & Pasta House is an excellent find if you love a really good steak. This place is almost always packed, which should tell you all you need to know about it.
  • Your perfect brew awaits at Boshkung Brewing Co. Order a flight of beer and find it at the brewery or lakeside patio.
  • The Minden River Walk offers a nice, relaxing meander alongside the Gull River as it flows through Minden.
  • Take a SUP class with Wolf Flow SUP on the Gull River in Minden. You can join one of their pre-scheduled classes or schedule a private session.
Minden
Haliburton County
From Toronto: 190km • 2 hr 33 min From Ottawa: 310km • 3 hr 45 min

Paddlers will love the Minden Wild Water Preserve.  With 100 acres, the park includes campsites with picnic tables and firepits.  When you're not canoeing or kayaking, take advantage of the 3-kilometres trail system on foot or on your bike.

Time Spent Here: We kid you not that you will need to spend the whole day here!

End Your Day: Bonnie View Inn

Head north from Minden along Kashagawigamog Lake and you’ll come to one of the most beautiful accommodations in Haliburton Highlands – Bonnie View Inn.

    • Wander down to the beach and settle in with a cozy blanket in front of the bonfire. Marshmallows optional.
    • Enjoy a nightcap at the on-site restaurant before the patio closes at 8 p.m. and watch the sun set over Kashagawigamog Lake.

     

    Start Here: Bonnie View Inn

    Tucked on the showers of Kashagawigamog Lake, Bonnie View is a resort straight out of Dirty Dancing, with 28 rooms, an on-site restaurant, beautiful beach and more.

    • Try some new watersports by booking Ski-Mazing Watersports to come right out to the inn. They offer water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, parasailing and flyboard and Jetovator hydroflights.
    • Bounce on the water trampoline, paddle a canoe, kayak, or SUP, or just relax on the beach as a much needed rest from your tour of Minden.
    • Have lunch on the patio at the restaurant to fuel yourself for the day ahead.

    Next Stop: Haliburton

    Only a short drive from the inn is the sweet little town of Haliburton. If you think Minden was amazing, you will be pleased with Haliburton’s small town charm.

    • Get a bird’s eye view of the whole region from the lokout at Skyline Park.
    • Visit the Haliburton Sculpture Forest to see art in unusual places and stretch your legs at the same time.
    • The Haliburton Rail Trail is accessible right in Haliburton and can take you as far south as Lindsay. This would make a good diversion for a bike ride if you want to extend your trip for another day.
    • Rail’s end Gallery and Arts Centre is worth a stop – they have frequent exhibitions for local and regional artists and artisans on display.
    • Across the street is the Ethel Curry Gallery, another good spot to find your next favourite artist.
    • If you’re in need of a meal stop, Poquito Loco is known for its Mexican fare – we recommend the tacos.
    • McKeck’s Tap & Grill is another good restaurant that offers generous portions and quality recipes.
    • Book an experience with Yours Outdoors, like one of their glass blowing workshops to learn the art of blowing glass. 
    Haliburton
    Haliburton County
    From Toronto: 215km • 2 hr 55 min From Ottawa: 285km • 3 hr 15 min

    In addition to its' stunning scenery, Haliburton is home to a thriving arts community.  With plenty of galleries dotting the countryside, a must-visit is the renowned Haliburton Sculpture Forest, a unique outdoor collection of sculptures by Canadian and international artists.

    Time Spent Here: Plan for a couple of hours to see a few of the sights and have a bite to eat before heading on to your next destination before dark.

    End Your Day: Algonquin Eco-Lodge

    Relax in the wood-fired sauna or eco-conscious hot tub and while away the evening hours. Rest up because you will need your energy for day three!

      • Relax in the outdoor hot tub that’s powered 100 per cent with green electricity from the on-site micro-hydro turbine.
      • Sit by the lake and watch the sun set over the lush forests of Algonquin Park.

      Start Here: Algonquin Eco-Lodge

      This award-winning eco-conscious lodge is not your run of the mill accommodation. Perched on the southern edge of Algonquin Park, expect beautiful views, unique accommodations and unparalleled nature experiences here.

        Time Spent Here: Since this is your last stop for your trip you can spend as long as you like here!

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