The Top Things To Do To Enjoy the Best of the Season

Did you know that Kawagama Lake is the largest lake in Haliburton County? And you’ll find it right in the heart of Haliburton Highlands. However, exploring the county’s lakes, large and small, isn’t the only thing to do when spring rolls around.  

If you plan to take a trip to this rustic Canadian destination, you’ll find plenty of activities and things to do during the warm spring months. From outdoor hikes along sparkling lakes to shopping for unique handmade items in vibrant downtown markets, there are many things to do in Haliburton Highlands this time of year.

In this guide, we’ll share tips for planning an unforgettable spring day trip or getaway in the Haliburton Highlands, including exciting adventures and more low-key moments with nature. Get ready to explore.

Things To Do in Haliburton Highlands

Looking for a destination with activities that cater to both nature lovers and adventure seekers? Haliburton Highlands is the perfect spot to visit this spring! This quaint region of small towns and hamlets, located in Ontario, Canada, offers a wide range of activities that are perfect for families, solo travelers, and couples.

So, whether you’re searching for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, there is no shortage of options. Check out the following things to do in Haliburton when visiting this spring (or pretty much any other time of year).

Click Here For More Things To Do in Haliburton Highlands

Plan a Hiking Trip

Planning a hiking trip in the County of Haliburton, Ontario, is a perfect activity to enjoy the springtime. The area has several beautiful trails, including the County Rail Trail, a 35km stretch of hiking trails connecting Haliburton to Kinmount.

For a more challenging hike, head over to the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails in the beautiful Algonquin Highlands region. The trails offer breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty, including crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests. It also runs through the iconic Frost Centre.

Click Here for a list of Highlands Hiking Trails

Go on a Waterfall Adventure

Looking for a way to restore balance during the spring season? Waterfall chasing is easy in Haliburton Highlands, with plenty of fresh cascades available to explore. You can plan a rejuvenating waterfall adventure around some of the area’s hiking trails, including around Head Lake and near the Waterfall Way trail at Barnum Creek.

However, My Haliburton Highlands also recommends visiting waterfalls that include Buttermilk Falls, Furnace Falls, High Falls, Ragged Falls, Ritchie Falls and others nearby. The Gull River is particularly great for canoeing and kayaking, but you can find lots of waterfalls along many popular routes for the area’s best hiking trips.

My Haliburton Highlands has created a Google map to help you find the waterfalls in Ontario in their region.

Click Here for a List of Waterfalls in the Highlands

Wander Through the Sculpture Forest

Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity for Mother’s Day or Father’s Day? Pack up the family and go on a road trip to explore the Sculpture Forest. It’s a large outdoor “park meets art exhibit” featuring over 40 unique sculptures. They make for a great backdrop for family photos or as a place to enjoy a picnic to celebrate Mom and Dad.

Traverse through the forest trails and take in the breathtaking views of the sculptures, which are made from a variety of materials like wood, metal, and stone. Be sure to grab a free brochure at the entrance to Glebe Park.

You can visit the Haliburton Sculpture Forest on your own, it is a self guided gravel trail through the woods. Or you can sign up for a small fee to have a guide tour from Yours Outdoor travel experience leaders.

Click Here For Local Landmarks

Visit the Haliburton Wolf Centre

If you’re going to plan an outdoor adventure to the Haliburton Forest, be sure not to miss the chance to visit the Haliburton Wolf Centre; it’s one of the most popular attractions in the area.

The Haliburton Wolf Centre offers a unique opportunity to observe and learn about wolf behavior. Centered around a 5,000 sq ft facility, the center houses a museum, theatre, and gift shop. From two observation areas, you can glimpse the pack in its natural environment through one-way glass.

It’s a true wildlife experience!

Click Here to learn more about the Wolf Centre

Explore the Highlands With Geocaching

At a loss for what to do during the Victoria Day long weekend in May? Plan a vacation around the ability to indulge in some local Haliburton Highlands geocaching. Geocaching in Haliburton Highlands is a thrilling way to explore the local area and get outside with the whole family.

Deep in the Haliburton Highlands in the Municipality of Highlands East and at the South Gate of Algonquin Park a string of seven hamlets make up the Geocaching Capital of Canada: Irondale, Gooderham, Tory Hill, Wilberforce, Harcourt, Highland Grove and Cardiff.

Use your GPS device to locate hidden containers, or “caches”, that contain a logbook and sometimes even small prizes. With hundreds of caches hidden in the Haliburton Highlands, you can find them anywhere — from forests to urban parks. Caches are rated on difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.

Hint: There’s a reason why Gooderham, Ontario, is called the Geocaching Capital of Canada.

Yours Outdoors, a travel and experience company has a geocaching experience perfect for learning more about Haliburton Highlands cottage country. 

Click Here for Highlands Geocaching Guide

Where to Dine – Food and Drink in Haliburton Highlands

As you explore the Haliburton Highlands this spring, don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine at some of the area’s best restaurants. Haliburton Highlands boasts many cozy cafes and family-friendly eateries, making it a foodie destination you won’t want to miss. Here are some top picks for where to eat in the Haliburton Highlands.

Hook Line & Sinker

Hook Line & Sinker is the new eatery in downtown Haliburton. It has an amazing cottage meets modern city vibe with canoe chandeliers and bright gold accents. It’s the perfect place for a family meal or to meet up with friends. You’ll love the fun atmosphere with a great view of the water, from both inside and the patio. 

Molly’s Bistro Bakery

Fuel up for the day in Minden at Molly’s Bistro. Molly’s Bistro Bakery’s tasty dishes with clever names are created in house using local ingredients.  Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast to start the day, a quick pit stop for lunch, or a last minute dinner solution, Molly’s Bistro Bakery offers delicious homemade food for all your dining needs. There are lots of great prepared meals to make cooking a quick dinner at the cottage really easy.

Rhubarb Restaurant

Enjoy upscale casual dining at Rhubarb in Haliburton County. Delight in Chef Christoph Carl’s creations made from the freshest local ingredients. Sip on Ontario wines and savor house-made beer from Boshkung Brewing Co. The best part? You can experience a unique culinary journey and marvel at beautiful Mirror Lake while you’re eating.

Kosy Corner

Interested in lake views but want something slightly more scaled-back? Try Kosy Corner. For over eight decades, they’ve been serving up delicious home-cooked meals on their charming patio overlooking beautiful Head Lake. Enjoy exquisite dishes, like bacon sandwiches and corned beef, to hearty burgers.

Haliburton Highlands Brewing

Ready to really relax? No spring vacation is complete without a visit to the award-winning Haliburton Highlands Brewing. Enjoy handcrafted ales inspired by the beauty and nature of the Highlands. Experience a unique brewery environment and sample their premium, quality ales that are as natural and fresh as the region they come from.

Click Here for a List of Eateries

Where to Shop in Haliburton & Minden

Haliburton Highlands is home to a variety of unique shopping experiences, perfect for finding souvenirs or gifts to take home. You can check out Up River Trading in Minden or Haliburton for unique art and gifts for family members. Or browse through Wind in the Willow’s offerings for jewelry and accessories.

For unique experiences, we suggest visiting the Log Cabin Trading Company, where you can find everything you need for decorating an inside space or outside space at the cottage. You’ll also find all kinds of “Lake” wear to commemorate your visit to the lakes of Haliburton Highlands. 

Click Here for Places to Shop

Places to Stay in Haliburton Highlands

Haliburton Highlands, Ontario, has some of the best places to stay. Ogopogo Resort, Heather Lodge and Bonnie View Inn are popular options with great amenities. If you would like a private cottage rental for a couples getaway, we recommend staying at the charming properties owned by H2H Cottage Co.

The Bitter Lake property is flanked on either side by Bitter Lake and Burdock Lake, with stunning views of Bitter Lake, ideal for a long Victoria Day weekend family getaway or a romantic stay for two. 

Click Here for More Haliburton Highlands Accommodations

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You can use the following Haliburton Highlands Links to help plan your next adventure.

Website:
https://myhaliburtonhighlands.com/

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/myhaliburtonhighlands/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Haliburton.Highlands/

Explore More of Ontario

With so many things to do in Haliburton, fun outdoor and local activities are always at your fingertips. To stay up to date on local events, activities, and experiences, be sure you check out our regional offerings, packages, and articles for the Haliburton Highlands (and all the way over to the Ottawa Valley).