This Picturesque Bayside Town In Canada Is A Haven For Hiking And Outdoor Adventure

If you're looking for a truly stunning bayside destination perfect for an outdoor adventure escape, you'll want to head to Ontario, to the small but mighty town of Parry Sound on the edge of Lake Huron. For those seeking a mix of small-town charm and big adventures, it's the perfect getaway spot. With plenty of fun activities, a small-town community feel, and stunning hiking trails to explore, Parry Sound should be a top destination on your Canadian outdoor adventure bucket list. It's also not far from one of Canada's best coastlines and swim, camp, and hike on an island national park.

The town of Parry Sound sits just less than three hours north of Toronto, one of the 12 most beautiful places to visit in Canada, with Toronto Pearson International Airport located just over two hours away. It is easily accessible by car via Highway 400, making it a popular weekend escape for city dwellers and non-Canadians exploring Ontario. Due to Parry Sound's location, many visitors choose to drive in with a rental car, but the town is also accessible by bus or coach.

A gateway to Georgian Bay's wilderness, Parry Sound is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One must-visit spot just outside of town is Killbear Provincial Park. It's about 30 minutes away, and is a stunning destination that is well-loved by hikers thanks to its scenic winding trails, dense forests, breathtaking views of the bay, beaches, cliff jumping, and great activities. This park opens seasonally between May and November, though this is subject to change each year, so be sure to check dates before planning your trip. Killbear boasts sandy beaches that make it the perfect summer hiking spot. It's worth noting that a vehicle permit must be obtained to enter by car. If hiking isn't quite your thing but you're still looking for some thrilling outdoor adventure, there are plenty of rock climbing opportunities just north of Georgian Bay that provide an unforgettable experience.

For those looking to head out onto the water, there are local outfitters in Parry Sound that rent out equipment for kayaking and canoeing across the bay's hundreds of islands and rugged coastline. Another popular water-based activity in this town is fishing. Spring and summertime both see an influx of enthusiastic anglers, eager to catch a range of bass, pike, trout, and many more fish that live in the bay.

Prefer to enjoy seeing the sights of the great outdoors without exerting too much energy? Or simply looking for the perfect way to wind down and relax after a few days out in nature? One thing you should add to your bucket list is the Island Queen Cruise. Travelers can enjoy a sightseeing tour of the famous 30,000 islands, the world's largest freshwater archipelago. Tickets for these cruises typically start at around 60 Canadian dollars ($45 U.S.) for adults.

A visit to Parry Sound isn't complete without the perfect spot to stay, and thankfully, there's a great range of accommodations available here for every budget. From lakeside campsites that are some of the best campsites in early spring in North America, to boutique bed and breakfasts, and even modern hotels, there's something for everyone here. If you'd prefer to stay in a hotel rather than camp, it's best to stay at one in town, so you can enjoy easy access to a great range of restaurants and shops. Best Western Plus Parry Sound is a great choice, with rooms starting at around 170 Canadian dollars ($120 U.S.) per night, plus there's plenty of amenities right on the doorstep, including Tim Hortons, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks.

The best time to visit Parry Sound is between late spring and early fall, when the weather falls between 48 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit, making it warm enough to enjoy all the best outdoor activities, such as hiking, paddling, and cooling off in the water on hot days. July and August are peak seasons, and see the best swimming conditions, before the weather cools down in September. If you're interested in winter sports, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling, it may be worth planning your trip in winter for a truly unique getaway.