Location
Location
Lake Vernon | Getting Acquainted
Lake Vernon
Morning coffee on the dock, sunny afternoons swimming and boating, evening paddles and bonfires, friends and family gathering all contribute to warm memories of waterfront cottages across Muskoka. Some have been handed down from within families, others more recently established with new experiences ahead. Lake Vernon has played a part in creating these memories for many since the early 1800’s as tourism began to make its way north to the Huntsville and surrounding area.
Situated on the western edge of the town of Huntsville, Lake Vernon is the largest and one of most popular lakes in the region. Encompassing approximately 43 km of shoreline, 3 main islands and a maximum water depth of 38 metres, Lake Vernon is a prime lake for boating, water sports, fishing and paddling. Access to both Fairy Lake and Peninsula Lake, as well as Mary Lake by way of a historic lock system, provide a scenic and extensive 40 km waterway to explore.
River Mill Park with public docking facilities make for a leisurely boat ride to the heart of the town of Huntsville home to shopping, good restaurants, a variety of community events and live performances at the Algonquin Theatre.
Arrowhead Provincial Park, Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve, and Hidden Valley Ski Resort are all located a short distance away offering four season activities such as hiking, paddling, biking, snowshoeing, skating and skiing. Algonquin Park lies within an easy hour’s drive from the far end of Lake Vernon.
There are two public beaches on the shores of Lake Vernon. Hutcheson Beach on the north shore offers 100 metres of sandy shoreline and a family friendly playground and picnic area. The Lake Vernon fishing derby is held here during the month of February for those eager to partake in some winter fun. Avery Beach is located on Hunters Bay with access to the Trans Canada Trail and boardwalk, a volleyball court, picnic areas and swimming. The park is also host to several events such as Parkrun and the very popular Muskoka’s Incredible Race.
The Lake Vernon Association (LVA) was established in the early 1970’s with a focus on lake health and shoreline development and protection. Over time numbers have grown as more cottagers and homeowners have been drawn to this area of Muskoka. The association is active on many fronts including organizing lake community events such as BBQs, Golf tournaments and paddling events.
With so much to do and see in the Huntsville area, Lake Vernon offers a wonderful opportunity for cottagers and homeowners alike to enjoy all the benefits of year round lakeside living with the benefits of small town life, close by.
During the years that I spent living in and just outside of Huntsville I had many occasions to spend time enjoying Lake Vernon and all it has to offer. Time spent visiting with friends who had waterfront cottages or homes, exploring by kayak and boating gave me opportunity to get acquainted with Lake Vernon and experience its appeal.
