This small town near Toronto is the 'waterfall capital of Muskoka' and it's full of charm

It's full of historic charm.

A town with a waterfall. Right: A person standing beside a waterfall.

A town near Toronto. Right: A trail with a waterfall.

Lead Writer, Travel

Get ready to chase some waterfalls! If you're dreaming of small town charm, old-world streets and stunning cascades, you'll want to plan a trip to this picture-perfect village near Toronto.

Located in the heart of Muskoka, the town is brimming with scenic views, cute local shops, restaurants and outdoor adventures.

It's about a two hour drive from Toronto, making it a convenient spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.

The area is home to several stunning waterfalls all within a five-minute drive from the downtown.

It's a magical place to explore during the summer months, when you can hike your way to these natural wonders while enjoying the warm weather.

Bracebridge is known as "the waterfall capital of Muskoka," according to Discover Muskoka, and is home to "three of the area's most beautiful cascades." You can even go on a Chasing Waterfalls Tour which takes you to these beautiful landmarks.

The tour includes High Falls, where you can sit on the rocks and stare up at the flowing water. Additionally, you'll explore Potts Falls, a charming smaller cascade complete with a bridge, and Wilson's Falls, nestled along the scenic Muskoka River.

Bracebridge Falls is one of the "most famous waterfalls" in the Muskoka region and is located right downtown. You can wander along the walking trails surrounding the cascade and take in the views.

The town itself is home to drool-worthy bakeries where you can pick up a coffee and treat as well as restaurants and pubs serving up a range of cuisine.

There are several art galleries and local shops where you can find unique items.

Lace up your shoes and chase some waterfalls around this charming small town.

Bracebridge

Address: Bracebridge, ON

Visit the Bridge website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

This article has been updated since it was originally published on April 30, 2024.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

8 beautiful vacation spots in Ontario that aren't Niagara Falls

There are so many beautiful places to visit in the province!

CRA offers automatic tax filing and it could help 'put more money in your pocket'

You could be eligible for the service without even knowing it.

A meteor in Vancouver last night caused a giant fireball & sonic boom (VIDEO)

The sonic boom was strong enough to register on seismographs. ☄️

Mark Carney says Canada's support for US strikes on Iran came 'with regret'

He also said the strikes appeared "inconsistent with international law."

I grew up in Vancouver — here's what other Canadians will never understand about us

If you get these, you're officially Vancouver-verified. ✅

Daughter of a Canadian woman killed in the Dominican bus crash still has no info on her dad

She first learned of the crash from her uncle, who was also on the bus.

A dessert product sold at Costco has been recalled and you can get a full refund

Some ingredients could cause "potentially life-threatening" reactions.