THINGS TO DO
The Almaguin Highlands is home to locals, artists, crafters, adventurers and visitors alike. The town of South River is known for being a gateway to Algonquin Park and its incredible four season getaways. Enjoy hiking, biking, watersports, artist studios, horseback riding, golfing, ATVing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and snowmobiling to name a few of the activities that are available all year around in our northern paradise.
Forest Bathing
Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat is inspired by the Japanese practice of forest bathing, mindfully experiencing nature through the senses. This has a wide array of health benefits, including lowering stress hormones, strengthening the immune system, and improving mood and cognition. After a few days of immersing yourself in nature we know you'll feel reinvigorated.
Watersports
Eagle Lake Narrows Country Store rents water crafts in the summer and is a 10 minute drive away. The owners, Fred and Jill, have kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and small outboard motorboats for fishing on Eagle Lake. In the winter they rent snowmobiles and lead snowmobile tours into the back country.
The Screaming Heads
Artist Peter Camani has created an immense, surreal artscape of huge cast-concrete sculptures throughout his 310-acre property locally referred to as The Screaming Heads. Visitors are welcome to wander the trails that wind through meadows, past woods and ponds, to get up close to – or even walk through – his artwork. You’ll find Screaming Heads on Midlothian Road near the town of Burk's Falls. There is a parking lot beside the house and a donation box to support Camani's unique vision.
Studio by the Lake
Artist Marg Cunningham retired to her family cottage on picturesque Eagle Lake and uses the beauty of the Almaguin Highlands as her inspiration. Studio by the Lake is open to visitors and is located at 595 Park Road between Mikisew Provincial Park and the Hockey Opportunity Camp.
Crystal Caves Mineral Collection
Julia and John Breckenridge, have tirelessly accumulated an amazing collection of minerals, crystals, gems and fossils over a 60 year period that is exhibited at the spectacular Crystal Caves. The Crystal Caves Mineral Collection is located on Highway 124 just south of South River. There is a $5 entrance fee.
Artisan Village
Next door to the Crystal Caves is an Artisan Village where artists sell their sculptures, paintings, soap, handicrafts, fibre art and woodworking. The Artisan Village is located on Highway 124 just south of South River.
Glass Making Studio & Workshops
Local glass artist Angela Legere runs glass making workshops where you can make your own glass sun catcher, jewellery, Christmas ornaments, coasters, vases, bowls, serving dishes and platters. Prices for workshops range from $60-400, the studio is on 910 Main St. North in Callander.
Eagle Lake Golf Course
Local Eagle Lake Golf Course is the only Class "A" CPGA Professional course between Huntsville and North Bay. It is a full length 12-hole course with spectacular views. Relax in the clubhouse after your round for a bite to eat and discuss the ups and downs of your game. 2035 Eagle Lake Road | 705-386-0261.
Horseback Riding
The Stewart Coughlin Riding Ranch has been providing guests with horseback riding adventures since 1960. They offer 1/2 hour pony rides for the very young and 1/2 hour, 1 hour & 2 hour trail rides for older riders. Trail rides are all lead by an experienced trail guide, and each ride include basic instruction, walking and trotting throughout scenic groomed trails on the property. 129 Riding Ranch Road | (705) 386-7465.
Hiking & Biking
From lush forests to waterfalls, the Almaguin Highlands has it all. Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat is located on 'Old Nipissing Road' which is part of the Trans Canada Trail. The Discovery Routes link below has hundreds of kilometres of trails for hiking and biking in the area.
