The Magnetawan area is a beautiful and serene region in the heart of Ontario, Canada. Located just a few hours north of Toronto, this region is a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The area boasts of natural beauty, history, and a wide range of recreational activities for all ages. Here's a closer look at the Magnetawan area, its history, attractions, and lake information.
The Magnetawan area is rich in history, dating back to the early 19th century when it was a popular trading route for the Ojibwa and Algonquin First Nations. The area was also an important logging area in the mid-19th century, with the Magnetawan River being a major route for transporting logs to sawmills. The logging industry declined in the early 20th century, and the area became a popular destination for hunting and fishing.
Magnetawan Attractions
The Magnetawan area has something for everyone, whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway. Here are some of the top attractions in the area:
- Algonquin Provincial Park: Located just a short drive from the Magnetawan area, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the most popular provincial parks in Ontario. The park covers over 7,600 square kilometers of pristine wilderness and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, canoeing, and wildlife viewing.
- Magnetawan Farmers Market: Held every Saturday during the summer months, the Magnetawan Farmers Market is a great place to stock up on fresh local produce, baked goods, and crafts. The market also features live music, children's activities, and a wide range of vendors selling everything from homemade soap to maple syrup.
- Screaming Heads: The amazing work of local artist Peter Camani, the Screaming Heads is a work of art like no other. As you walk through the paths of his farm you find incredible concrete sculptures towering above you in many forms. Home to the famous Ontario Harvest Festival, this one of a kind place will not disappoint.
- Magnetawan Central Park: Located in downtown Magnetawan, the sandy beach features lots of picnic tables, a great playground, fitness area and a bandstand. The Lions Club also sponsors swimming lessons at the beach every summer for cottagers and locals alike.
Ahmic Lake - The Magnetawan areas largest lake, Ahmic has been a cottage destination for generations. Part of the Magnetawan River system, it's head-waters are located deep in Algonquin Park. Water levels are controlled by an MNR dam at the Knoepfli rapids by the west end of the lake. Waterfront real estate on Ahmic tends to be the highest in Magnetawan.
Lake Cecebe - Located just east of town, Cecebe connects to Ahmic via the Magnetawan locks in town. These hand operated locks are used throughout the summer for all manner of boat traffic. Cottage development on Cecebe is reaching capacity with very few vacant waterfront lots available. Often older cottages are purchased and renovated or the footprints are used for new construction.
Horn Lake - I grew up on Horn Lake so I'm admittedly biased but it remains one of Magnetawans most sought after lakes. Much of Horn Lakes north side is crown land and that, along with its cool spring waters, make it coveted. Much of the lake has been frozen to development for many years so new waterfront properties are rare.
Whalley Lake - Located just west of town, Whalley Lake is a smaller waterway known for its small and largemouth bass fishing. Most of the cottages are year round but are located on private roads. One of the perks of Whalley Lake is its close proximity to the popular Magnetawan Bait & Tackle.
Neighick Lake - Also called Beaver Lake, Neighick often shows on older maps as just a large bay off Ahmic. There has been many beautiful cottages built there in the last few years, particularly on Claytons Bay. There are narrows at both ends leading to Ahmic and Crawford lakes.
Crawford Lake - On of the smaller lakes at 105 hectares, Crawford Lake has a mean depth of just 2.9 meters. 10% of the shoreline is crown land. Only about 2-5 cottages change hands on the lake in any given year.
Magnetawan Locks
Ahmic Lake
Magnetawan Real Estate
The real estate market in Magnetawan is diverse, with properties ranging from basic bungalows to to sprawling waterfront estates. Homes are typically priced between $500,000 and $800,000 with larger acreages substantially increasing prices. Building lots are beginning to be hard to find in town but generally run between $40,000 and $70,0000. Larger tracts such as 100 acre lots range between $120,000 and over $300,000 depending on location and the quality of the forest.
Farms for sale are rare with only 1 or 2 changing hands on any given year. The Chapman Valley is usually the most sought after area of Magnetawan for farms with good soil and drainage.
Cottages vary greatly in price depending on what lake they're located on. Ahmic and Neighick garner the highest prices followed Cecebe and Horn Lakes. With the trend of people purchasing cottages with the thought to retiring on the water, properties on year round roads are at a premium.
Overall, Magnetawan real estate offers a range of options for buyers looking to invest in the area. Whether you are looking for a waterfront vacation home or a year-round residence, there are properties available to suit your needs and budget. With its stunning natural beauty and proximity to popular tourist destinations, Magnetawan is a prime location for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the peacefulness of rural Ontario.