Background

Haliburton Highlands: Ontario's Natural Escape

Discover the Haliburton Highlands: A natural wonderland with pristine lakes, endless forests, and a vibrant arts scene in Central Ontario.

The Haliburton Highlands, located in Central Ontario, offer a stunning landscape of over 600 pristine lakes, vast forests, and the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. This outdoor paradise provides year-round activities, from paddling and hiking to snowmobiling and dogsledding, along with a rich arts scene and charming small communities.

A brief summary to Haliburton Highlands Tourism

Local tips

  • Visit Abbey Gardens in Haliburton Village to experience local flavors and the Haliburton Highlands Brewing.
  • Explore the Haliburton Sculpture Forest, a unique outdoor collection of sculptures by Canadian and international artists.
  • Check the #MyHaliburtonHighlands Tourism website for daily activities, events, and local dining options.
  • Take advantage of the many hiking trails, such as the Haliburton Rail Trail and Glebe Park Trails, for scenic views and wildlife spotting.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    The Haliburton Highlands are best explored by car, offering the most flexibility to discover the region's many attractions. From Toronto, the Highlands are approximately a 3-hour drive. From Ottawa, the drive is about 3.5 hours. Parking is generally available in towns and at major attractions, such as the AJ LaRue Community Centre in Haliburton. Parking is usually free on the streets. Dedicated parking is also available at attractions like the Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve. Be aware that some roads, especially those leading to trailheads, may not be regularly maintained. Typical costs: * Parking: Free on-street parking is generally available in most towns. * Tolls: There are no tolls on the main routes within the Haliburton Highlands.

  • Public Transport

    While the Haliburton Highlands are best explored by car, limited public transportation options are available. TOK Coachlines operates a bus service connecting Haliburton with major cities like Toronto and Oshawa on select days. Bancroft Community Transit runs a weekly bus between Wilberforce, Cardiff, and Bancroft. Typical costs: * TOK Coachlines: Fares vary depending on the destination; check their website for schedules and pricing. * Bancroft Community Transit: Contact them directly for fare information.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in the Haliburton Highlands, with Hyland Taxi servicing all of Haliburton County. Taxis can be useful for short trips within towns or to reach specific destinations not easily accessible by public transport. Typical costs: * Taxi: Fares vary depending on the distance and company. Contact Hyland Taxi at 705-457-1777 for fare estimates.

Unlock the Best of Haliburton Highlands Tourism

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Haliburton Highlands Tourism

The Haliburton Highlands, also known as Haliburton County, present a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Situated in Central Ontario, this region boasts over 600 pristine lakes, thousands of hectares of untouched forests, and the dramatic terrain of the Canadian Shield. The area, a comfortable drive from major urban centers like Toronto and Ottawa, has preserved its wild and natural charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed and beautiful vacation. Originally named Ogidaaki by the Mississauga Nation, meaning "upwards earth," the Haliburton Highlands have a rich Indigenous history dating back 12,000 years. European settlement began in the mid-19th century, with the Canadian Land and Immigration Company playing a key role in developing the area. Initially focused on agriculture, the settlers soon turned to forestry and logging, which became the economic backbone of the region. Today, tourism drives the Haliburton Highlands, attracting visitors with its abundant outdoor activities and vibrant arts scene. In the warmer months, enjoy swimming, canoeing, and fishing in the clear lakes, or explore the extensive network of hiking trails. As winter arrives, the Highlands transform into a snowy playground for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Explore the charming communities of Haliburton, Minden, Dorset, and Kinmount, each offering unique experiences and local hospitality. Discover art galleries, studios, and the renowned Haliburton Sculpture Forest, showcasing outdoor art in a natural setting. Visit local breweries, savor delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the region's rich heritage at local museums and heritage sites. The Haliburton Highlands offer a diverse range of attractions, including the Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve, where you can walk among the treetops on the world's longest canopy boardwalk or encounter wolves at the Wolf Centre. Climb the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower for panoramic views, or explore the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails by canoe or kayak. Whether you seek outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful escape, the Haliburton Highlands promise an unforgettable experience.

Popular Experiences near Haliburton Highlands Tourism

Popular Hotels near Haliburton Highlands Tourism

Select Currency