20 Amazing Things to do in Haliburton Ontario and the Highlands
Haliburton holds a special place in my heart! I’ve visited nearly every year since I was a baby. Spending summers at my grandparent’s cottage turned home then visiting them as an adult when they moved into town. It’s one of the best small towns in Ontario and a hidden gem! While you may not have the history I do with the area, I promise you that you’ll fall in love with it too! So, come explore the Haliburton Highlands and discover the best things to do in Haliburton Ontario!
Top 16 Things to do in Haliburton
Throughout Ontario, we have some of the best areas for cottage country in Canada! If you’re looking for an awesome alternative to popular destinations like Muskoka and the Kawartha Lakes then travel to the Haliburton Highlands! You’ll find a ton of fun things to do in Haliburton, especially for outdoor enthusiasts! However, there’s something for everyone’s interests including museums, galleries, and charming small towns nearby!
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Sculpture Forest
It’s one of my favourite places in Haliburton and one of Ontario’s hidden gems! The Haliburton Sculpture Forest is located just outside the village of Haliburton in Glebe Park. The park is home to a network of trails that are ideal for summer and fall hikes or cross-country skiing in the winter. It’s also home to the Haliburton Sculpture Forest, an open-air art museum!
Along the winding trails are over 40 unique sculptures. These incredible works of art were created by both Canadian and international artists. The best part? Each piece has a name and a story! You can pick up a brochure at the entrance gate to Glebe Park. With the brochure, you’ll find a self-guided tour of the sculptures and learn about each piece and the artist behind it.
Local Tip: Many flock to Algonquin Park to see the fall colours. Instead, avoid the crowds and add the Haliburton Sculpture Forest to your list of things to do in the fall!
Address: 297 College Drive in Haliburton
Fee: Free or donation
Wander Downtown
You’ll find plenty to do and things to see in downtown Haliburton. Set in the scenic shores of Head Lake, Haliburton’s main street is Highland Street. Its main street crosses Highway 118 which is known as Maple Avenue through downtown.
The Village of Haliburton as the downtown is called was founded in 1864. Downtown you’ll find over 100 businesses selling everything from outdoor gear to antiques. There’s also a range of restaurants and cafes. If you’re looking to go shopping in Haliburton a few great shops to check out include Algonquin Outfitters, Up River Trading Company, and Mixtape Vintage. One of my favourites is Castle Antiques! This antique shop meets quirky café is the perfect spot for a coffee and pick up a cool find.
Haliburton is known for its thriving art community! Along with various arts festivals that are held in the park downtown you’ll also find a few great art galleries. One of which, Rails End Gallery, is even located in the old rail station.
Downtown is also where you’ll find a few of Haliburton’s festivals! Like Frost Festival that’s held the Saturday of the Family Day long weekend in February. As well as Colourfest that runs the first Saturday of October.
Skyline Park
Perched high above the village sits Skyline Park. Just off of Highway 118, east of town you’ll find Skyline Park road. This winding road leads to Skyline Park. This lovely little park is home to picnic benches, a small paved parking lot, and one of the best views in Ontario!
If you’re looking for things to do in Haliburton in the fall be sure to visit Skyline Park. The views over the town and the surrounding area are absolutely breathtaking during the fall. I’d say it’s one of the best places to take in the fall colours in Ontario!
Address: End of Skyline Park Road
Price: Free
Abbey Gardens
Another incredible place to visit in the Haliburton Highlands is Abbey Gardens! John Patterson was inspired by places he visited like Butchart Gardens in B.C. and the Eden Project in the UK. Both of these places are world-renowned gardens that were once open-air mines. So, after he retired he sought to find a plot of land in the Haliburton Highlands where he hoped to create his own Ontario version. Abbey Gardens is just that!
He transformed an old gravel pit into an incredible destination that promotes sustainability, outdoor exploration, and is community-minded. Abbey Gardens is over 380 acres of awesomeness to explore year-round! It’s home to hiking trails, gardens, The Food Hub, and rare Ojibwe horses! They also run workshops and various events throughout the year. Plus, on site you’ll also find Haliburton Highlands Brewing, Into the Blue Bakery, and Haliburton County Coffee Roasters.
Travel Tip: Pack a cooler so you can pick up a bunch of great local goodies from the shop!
Address: 1012 Garden Gate Drive in Algonquin Highlands
Get Out on the Water
One of the top things to do in Haliburton in the summer is to get out on the water! Actually, even in the winter, it’s a popular place to be for ice fishing and snowmobilers. There are over 600 lakes in the area, many of which are beyond beautiful, which lends to a wealth of Halliburton outdoor activities!
With so many great lakes to explore, you’ll find many that are ideal for swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating. A couple of lovely beaches in the area to check out the summer for a dip are Rotary Head Lake Beach, Slipper Beach, and Bissett Beach. The cleanest lake in Haliburton is Lipsy Lake which is located just south of Kennisis Lake. Fun fact: the largest lake in the county is Kawagama Lake!
Another great spot to enjoy the water is Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve. It’s home to 100 lakes and many are ideal for swimming or paddling in the summer and ice fishing in the winter.
Haliburton Highlands Museum
The Highlands are home to a wealth of history and plenty of great museums. If you’re looking for things to do in Haliburton when it rains, or any time for that matter, head to the Haliburton Highlands Museum. Found in 1967, the museum was set in the old Reid House that dates to 1882. After it grew too big for the old home it found a new location in Glebe Park.
A new museum was built within the park and houses a diverse range of pieces and exhibits connected to the Aboriginal peoples who called this land home as well as the first settlers and the lumbermen. Across two floors you’ll find some of the almost 20,000 artifacts that the museum houses.
The Reid House was also moved to Glebe Park and now showcases what a period home would look like in the late 19th century. You’ll also find a log barn, a small building housing a forge, and an 1870’s farmstead located on the property. For more information about the museum, hours of operation, and events you can visit their website here.
Address: 66 Museum Road, Haliburton
Price: Admission by Donation
Rails End Gallery
I’m no art aficionado but I do adore checking out local art galleries when I travel. While I’m not sure there are any Group of Seven locations in Haliburton, I can see similarities in art from the area. And whether you are looking for more things to do in town or love art then be sure to pop into the Rails End Gallery.
The Rails End Gallery is located in Head Lake Park in Haliburton’s old rail station. It’s both an art gallery and shop that showcases the works of over 50 local artists. Even if you aren’t interested in the art it’s worth a visit just to see the 1878 station with many of its original features.
During the summer you’ll find artists doing demonstrations out front on their patio. They also run family arts programs too! Plus, the gallery hosts a variety of annual events like the Haliburton Art and Craft Festival during the fourth weekend in July and the Haliburton DrumFest on Labour Day weekend.
Another lovely gallery in downtown Haliburton is the Ethel Curry Gallery. Here you’ll find art and handmade goods by both local and Canadian artists. The gallery showcases a wide array of pieces like paintings, pottery, textiles, and more.
Address: 23 York St, Haliburton
Price: Free
Head Lake Park
Smack dab in the middle of town, Head Lake Park is a must addition to your Haliburton Highlands itinerary. Head Lake Park is a scenic spot to enjoy all year round. Throughout the year you’ll even find various events taking place here. It’s home to the Farmer’s Market, Art in the Park that runs the third weekend in July, and Music in the Park, which is every Tuesday evening in July and August.
There are plenty of things to do in the park. The park is home to paved pathways to stroll, tennis courts, a playground, a beach volleyball court, and an outdoor skating rink in the winter. You’ll also find the visitors centre, Rails End Gallery, a water bottle refill station, washrooms, and free parking.
Local Tip: Don’t forget to visit the southern end of Head Lake! Here’s you’ll find the iconic Haliburton Village sign, a cute little stone bridge, as well as a jet and historic locomotive!
Address: 13 York Street, Haliburton
Price: Free
Circuit of 5 Viewpoints
One of the best hiking trails in Haliburton is Circuit of 5 Viewpoints. This roughly 5 km loop trail is close to other Haliburton Highlands attractions like Hawk Lake Log Chute and Buttermilk Falls.
Circuit of 5 Viewpoints is one of the best Ontario fall hikes! Because, as you guessed, it offers multiple lookouts over expanses of forests. Plus, you can even see lakes and rivers in the distance!
The trail quickly ascends to take you up along one of the many ridges in the Highlands. You’re essentially hiking along the spine of the Canadian Shield. Along the trail you’ll hike under a canopy of various trees that include maple, cherry, and white pine. Be sure to mind your footing as you traverse rock and roots.
At each of the five unique viewpoints you’ll get a new glimpse of the area. One thing to note is that the first one is nearly hidden. It’s shortly after the trail evens out and offers a bench to take in the scenic view. But of all the views, I like the fourth one the best!
There’s a large parking lot at the trailhead, where you’ll also find a portable washroom.
Travel Tip: If you want to make a day of hiking, the trail also connects to Crests of Kennisis Trail that leads to the Historic Log Chute.
Address: 2029 Little Hawk Lake Rd, Algonquin Highlands, ON K0M 1J2
Price: Free
Haliburton County Rail Trail
As mentioned there is a ton of outdoor things to do in Haliburton and the area! If you’re looking for hiking trails you’ll find plenty of great ones. While many go to Algonquin Provincial Park, you don’t have to! Avoid the crowds and go hiking in the Haliburton Highlands.
My favourite hiking trail in Haliburton is the County Rail Trail. The trail runs 35 kilometres from Haliburton to Kinmount. You don’t have to hike it all in one go, though it can easily be done by bike in one day. Consider breaking it up into sections and you can even start right downtown along Head Lake as the trail runs right into town. If you’re in search of trails with beautiful scenery along the way, this is one! You’ll find winding rivers, heritage bridges, and even waterfalls! You can find a map of the trail and access points here.
If you’re looking for a different kind of trail, one that say gets you out on the water, then try the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails. These run along the historic Frost Centre and Poker Lakes canoe routes. So, grab your paddles or head to the Algonquin Highlands Trails Office where you can rent gear and test out the trails on the water! You can find more information on the water trails, access, and more here.
Hawk Lake Log Chute
A must-visit attraction in Haliburton, that’s also a hidden gem in Ontario, is Hawk Lake Log Chute! Back in the late 1800s, you could find thousands of wooden chutes across Ontario. Sadly, there’s all gone. Except for Hawk Lake Log Chute!
On the site where the current Hawk Lake Log Chute is there’s been a log chute since 1861! These log chutes were instrumental in transporting logs in the old days. Thankfully, this one has been restored and is now also home to an interpretive pavilion and park.
The Log Chute Trail is a short 500 metre trail that leads to the Kennisis River. At the end you’ll find the historic log chute as well as pieces of the original. So, pack a lunch or grab take out from town and enjoy a visit back in time.
Address: 1584 Big Hawk Lake Road, Algonquin Highlands
Price: Free
Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve
One of the top things to do in Haliburton is to visit the Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve. Covering 100,000 acres, the reserve is home to 100 lakes, 400 kilometres of trails, and a host of adventures to be had. The wildlife reserve is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts all year long!
The area has seen many changes since the days when it was home to an enormous sawmill. After the Schleifenbaum family purchased the property in the 1940s things started to evolve. The Schleifenbaum family was instrumental in building the foundations for the sustainably managed forest it is today. Fun fact: the Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve was the first sustainable forest in Canada.
The Haliburton Forest is filled with things to do! There are countless hiking and biking trails which many convert to snowshoeing and snowmobile trails in the winter. You’ll also find a range of accommodation; campsites, cabins, and more. They also run a variety of tours and have a logging museum as well as a large restaurant on site. Another fun activity on the reserve is the Canopy Tour! This tour is similar to treetop trekking tours throughout the province except it has the longest canopy boardwalk of its kind in the world!
The most popular attraction in the Haliburton Forest is the Wolf Centre!
For more information on things to do in the Forest as well as book tours and accommodation, you can visit their website here.
Address: 1095 Redkenn Road, Dysart et al
Price: Dependent on activity
Wolf Centre
A must Haliburton attraction is the Wolf Centre at the Haliburton Forest! This 5,000 square foot facility is home to a museum, theatre, gift shop, and an incredible wolf pack! There are two observation areas, both indoors, where you can view the wolf pack. And the best part is that the one-way glass provides little disturbance to the wolves. You can see them but they can’t see you.
There is something to note. You are not guaranteed to see the wolves. They have seven acres to call home and roam at their will. The wolves are not managed like typical zoo animals where they are brought indoors every night. They live and breathe outdoors and act much like a typical wolf pack. But another thing to know is that they are not wild in the true fashion. While they have a large area, just over seven acres, to roam, it is fenced.
There has been a wolf pack at the Haliburton Forest’s Wolf Centre since 1993. The eldest of the current pack, Luna is the alpha female and boy does she have a story. Be sure to ask the guides about her when you visit! The museum itself is small but showcases the history of wolves in cultures around the world. You’ll also learn about the evolution of wolf conservation as well as the other animals that share its forests.
For more information about the Wolf Centre, book tickets, and find out about special events like Evening Howls, check out their website here.
Address: 1305 Redkenn Rd, Dysart et al
Price: $13.28 per adult
Sir Sam’s Resort
One of the top places to go in Haliburton is also one of the best places to stay in the area! Sir Sam’s was the summer estate of Sir Sam Hughes, the WWI Canadian Minister of the Militia. Located on the scenic shores of Eagle Lake, Sir Sam’s is now an incredible destination for outdoor recreation in Ontario. It’s also home to the second-oldest family-owned ski hill in Ontario! The Bishop family has owned Sir Sam’s Ski and Ride for over 55 years!
Covering over 100 acres, the resort is home to an adult’s only inn, spa, restaurant, and a wealth of outdoor things to do. During the summer you can enjoy swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, and more. There are both indoor and outdoor swimming pools on-site as well as an incredible WaterSpa! You can also hike on-site, it’s only $5 per hiker if you’re not staying at the resort. If you’re interested in hiking be sure to check out their Sir Sam’s Historical Interpretive Hiking Trail. The trail is just over 4 kilometres in length and offers panoramic views over both Moose and Eagle Lakes.
If you’re looking for great Ontario winter getaways, the Sir Sam resort is one of the best places! The ski hill has 14 runs that cover 40 acres of awesome Canadian Shield. They also run a range of lessons, including kid’s camps and multi-week adult programs. It’s also on the Algonquin Park snowmobile tour route!
Address: 1491 Sir Sams’s Rd, Haliburton
Price: Dependent on activities
Haliburton Highlands Brewing
For those looking for fun things to do in Haliburton or a great brew then pop into Haliburton Highlands Brewing! The brewery is located on the grounds of Abbey Gardens and was founded in 2014. This award-winning micro-brewery produces handcrafted ales, like their celebrated Honey Brown Ale.
Much like Abbey Gardens, the Haliburton Highlands Brewery is dedicated to sustainable practices as well as using local ingredients. For instance, their Honey Brown Ale is made with locally sourced honey, and their Spruce Kveik is flavoured using spruce tips that are foraged locally! If you’re craving a light snack with your flight of beer you can indulge in a range of goodies! Their food options include Ontario’s finest cheeses, meats, and spreads as well as salad bowls and even Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream!
Fun times are bountiful at the brewery! They host a variety of fun events like bingo and trivia nights. However, if you’re looking for some good tunes then this is the place to be in Haliburton! Through July, August, and September, every Friday night and Sunday afternoon they have live music.
Looking for more breweries in the area? If you’re looking for things to do in Minden then pop into their brewery, Boshkung Social!
Address: 1067 Garden Gate Drive, Haliburton
Barnum Creek Nature Reserve
A wonderful place to add to your list of Haliburton things to do is Barnum Creek Nature Reserve! The reserve is located less than a ten-minute drive south of downtown. Covering over 500 acres, the Barnum Creek Reserve is home to a host of habitats. The area is home to a mature maple forest, grassland, marsh, and Barnum Creek.
The reserve is a great place to hike in the Haliburton Highlands. There are three main trails at Barnum Creek Nature Reserve. Heritage Hike is 5 kilometres and is relatively flat. The trail winds its way through fields, forests, and past wetlands. Plus, it is the one trail at the reserve that can be used by bicycles. The Waterfall Way trail is just under a kilometre. For a short but more challenging hike try the Ridge Trail. While only a kilometre long, the trail climbs to the top of the ridge with a steep incline.
If you’re planning to hike in Barnum Creek Nature Reserve I highly recommend booking a guided hike with Yours Outdoors! They offer a ton of great outdoor adventures throughout the region, including guided hikes. Your knowledgeable guide will share all about the history and ecology of the area. You’ll notice and learn things you wouldn’t without a guide. It honestly makes for a better hiking experience!
Local Tips: The parking lot is not plowed in the winter. Plus, the area throughout the year can be very wet, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
Address: 118 Gould Crossing Road, Dysart et al
Price: Free to visit on your own but there is a charge for the guided hike
More Haliburton Things to do
You can spend days, weeks even, and still find so many incredible things to do in Haliburton! However, if you don’t get to everything on your first trip, don’t fret, plan another adventure to the Haliburton Highlands. If you’re’ looking for more Haliburton attractions add a few of the following to your itinerary.
Farmers Market – Every great small town has an equally great farmers’ market! The Haliburton Farmers Market is held every Tuesday during the hours of noon to 4:00 pm in Head Lake Park. You can stroll the lovely outdoor market from the middle of May through the beginning of October. The market is filled with stalls selling a range of goodies from local bakers, cheese makers, crafters, farmers, and more.
Winterdance Dogsled Tour – One of the most popular things to do in Haliburton in winter is taking a dog sled tour with Winterdance. Tours run on their over 2000 acres of incredible wilderness. They have 150 purebred Siberian Huskies to help guide you on a variety of tours. You can choose from a two-hour, half day, full day, moonlight, or multi-day dog sledding trip.
Golf – A popular activity in Haliburton in the summer months is golf! There are scores of golf courses in the Haliburton area. So, whether you’re already an avid golfer or looking for something new, consider adding a round of golf to your Haliburton things to do list! Some courses even offer clubs you can rent for the round! Here are a few of the top courses; Haliburton Highlands Golf Club, Pinestone Resort Golf Course, and Blairhampton Golf Club.
Stanhope Heritage Museum – If you’re looking to learn more about the Haliburton Highlands then head to the Stanhope Heritage Museum. The museum showcases the history of local pioneers and is home to artifacts, gardens, and over 140 years of records. Be sure to take a wander through their gardens that pay homage to pioneer life here during the late 1800s and early 1900s. There’s an herb garden, vegetable garden, and perennial garden. It’s also located on the grounds of the historic Hawk Lake Log Chute.
Where to Eat in Haliburton
Haliburton and the area is filled with great places to eat! If you’re looking for places to eat in Haliburton Village you’ll find an assortment, including traditional pub fare and Chinese food. For traditional pub fare and delicious meals head to McKeck’s Tap & Grill and Maple Avenue Tap & Grill. One of the best places for any meal is Kosy Corner. They’ve been serving home-cooked meals for over 80 years! If you’re craving tacos then try Poquito Loco, their patio has awesome views of Head Lake!
To satisfy your sweet tooth head to Cool Licks Ice Cream and The Little Tart! Considered to be home to the best butter tarts around, you’ll want to make sure you add The Little Tart to your Haliburton road trip! Or pop into Castle Café for one of their tasty treats!
There are a ton of other great restaurants in the Haliburton Highlands! One is Twin Fires at Sir Sam’s. This fine-dining restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus as well as an extensive wine cellar. Another popular spot is the Rhubarb Restaurant! Set on the shores of Mirror Lake, the Rhubarb Restaurant feature a menu of local seasonal food and Ontario wines. Plus, it’s home to an on-site microbrewery, Boshkung Brewing Co.
Where to Stay in Haliburton
Depending on where you want to base yourself, there is an assortment of places to stay in Haliburton and throughout the area. You’ll find everything from luxury resorts to charming inns.
Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa – As mentioned, Sir Sam’s is one of the top attractions in Haliburton. Plus, Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa is one of the top accommodations too! This adults-only luxury resort offers a wealth of things to do on-site as well as stunning rooms. There’s a range of accommodation options to choose from including cozy rooms with views over Eagle Lake and private cottages. Rooms are spacious and modern with all the best amenities like balconies, spa tubs, and a wood-burning fireplace.
Pinestone Resort – Whether you’re looking to add golfing to your visit or not, Pinestone Resort is a solid option. The resort is a ten-minute drive into downtown Haliburton. The resort is set on 160 acres and features a championship-level golf course, a restaurant, and a spa. You can choose from rooms or chalets. Rooms are cozy and have pillow-top mattresses, as well as either a balcony or patio. The chalets have living rooms with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and some even have views of the lake.
Bonnie View Inn – A popular inn, since 1924, is the Bonnie View Inn. This family-run inn has 28 rooms, lakeside dining, and a 300 foot stretch of beach on the shores of Lake Kashagawigamog. The inn is a ten-minute drive to downtown Haliburton is great for couples and families alike. There are both hotel rooms as well as chalets available.
Lakeview Motel – Another lovely place to stay in Haliburton is the Lakeview Motel. The motel is only a five-minute drive from downtown and is also connected to the Haliburton Nordic Trail System. There’s also an outdoor pool. Rooms range from king to deluxe family suites and are spacious.
Frequently Asked Questions about Haliburton
If you’re planning a road trip you may have a few questions about visiting Haliburton. Below you’ll find some frequently asked questions about visiting including when to visit, what it’s known for, and where it is.
What is it Known For? – Haliburton is a top outdoor adventure destination in Ontario. The Haliburton Highlands are known for the over 500 lakes in the area as well as being home to one of the highest points on the Canadian Shield. Another interesting fact is that Haliburton Highlands is home to Canada’s largest hiking festival, Hike Haliburton, which takes place every September!
Where is Haliburton? – Haliburton is located roughly 2.5 hours north of Toronto and 3.5 hours west of Ottawa. Algonquin Provincial Park runs along the county border to the north and Kawartha Lakes to the south. You can take Highway 118 east of Highway 11 as runs right through the middle of downtown Haliburton.
When is the Best Time to Visit? – Every season is a good time to visit Haliburton. There’s something to do throughout the year, it all depends on your interests. The most popular time of year to visit Haliburton is during the summer. However, I think the best time to plan a trip is in the fall when the leaves are at the peak colour change.
What to do in Haliburton? – There is a ton of things to do in Haliburton. A few of the top attractions include the Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve, the Wolf Centre, Sir Sam’s, Hawk Lake Log Chute, Head Lake Park, Rails End Gallery, Sculpture Forest, the Village of Haliburton, and Abbey Gardens.
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