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Gravenhurst Ontario

The Gateway to Muskoka Ontario

The town of Gravenhurst Ontario is only 10,000 inhabitants strong but has been the gateway to the beautiful world renowned Muskoka region of Ontario for over 100 years. This idyllic Muskoka community is situated only 163 kilometers or about 100 miles north of Toronto and originally developed because of the lumber industry. Soon to follow were all the necessary infrastructure and support industries like the railroad and steamships.

History of Gravenhurst

It was back in 1861 that Gravenhurst actually became a town when it established its first post office. Back then, the McCabe family was the first settlers in the area and although tourism was only in its infancy, it was clear that the beauty of the lakes and forests made this place special.

Today the legacy of Gravenhurt’s industrial roots are still visible with old homesteads, refurbished historic lodges, old remnant mills, railroad lines now converted to multi-use hiking trails and historic steamships used for tourist cruises. It’s here in Gravenhurst that the visitor begins to see and feel the unique spirit of this special place often thought of only as a summer cottage destination when in fact it is a busy place year round for all kinds of outdoor activities and festivals.

Getting To Gravenhurst

Getting here is easy. From Toronto, take Hwy 400 north past Barrie and then exit to Hwy 11. Take Hwy 11 to Hwy 169 and follow the signs. As you head north from Barrie, past Lake Couchiching the famous clear blue lakes dotting the Canadian Shield and the hallmark of Muskoka cottage country begin to appear. And just a little further down the highway, Gravenhurst appears, near the southern tip of Lake Muskoka.

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