Dwight Between River Routes and Steamboat History

Dwight brings together paddling on the water, trails along the Oxtongue River and traces of steamboat history. You can plan your trip around whether you would rather go out by canoe or kayak, explore the area on foot or learn more about the town’s history. These different interests can also help guide your choice of where to stay: consider which experiences you want to shape your trip before looking for a vacation rental in Dwight.

On the Water from Dwight Beach

At Dwight Beach, you can launch a canoe or kayak and paddle along the Lower Oxtongue River to its mouth on the east shore of Dwight Bay. There is also a public boat launch at Dwight Beach. This makes the beach a practical starting point for anyone who wants to include a trip on the water in their time in Dwight. The skating trail at Dwight Beach offers a different way to experience the area: it is a winter activity, while paddling is an option for guests who would rather be out on the river. Which of these activities suits your trip depends on what you want to focus on.

On Foot by the Rapids and Along a Quiet Road

At Oxtongue Rapids, a hiking trail follows the rapids. There are also picnic areas and a riverside municipal parkette. So the river offers more than paddling opportunities: it also provides a place to pause and stroll by the water. Another hiking option runs from Dwight Beach along a quiet road to Stewart Memorial Church; the route is four kilometres long. If you would rather plan your days around a named walking route than time on the water, this detail gives you a clear point of reference. The route ends at the church, making it different from a visit to the rapids.

Dwight Dock and Local Heritage

Dwight Dock was built in the early 1880s as a landing place for steamships on the lake. Over the years, the S.S. Joe, S.S. Mary Louise, S.S. Iroquois and S.S. Mohawk Belle were among the vessels that called at Dwight as a port of call. Their names bring the dock’s former role as a stop for ships to life and give a stay by the water a historical perspective. Another heritage property in the town is Alderside. It is designated under the heritage conservation by-laws of the Township of Lake of Bays. This means you can include architectural and maritime history among your interests in Dwight, alongside outdoor experiences.

Dwight as a Stop on a Scenic Loop

The Lake of Bays Scenic Drive is an 80-kilometre loop with stops in the hamlets of Baysville, Dwight and Dorset. If you do not want to focus your trip on just one place, you can consider Dwight as one of the listed stops along this loop. The route connects several hamlets in both its name and course, offering a different way to experience the area than a stay focused on individual activities such as paddling or hiking. When choosing a vacation rental, it may help to consider whether you mainly want to explore Dwight itself or include the other named places in your trip as well.

A February Event

The Dwight Winter Carnival takes place on Family Day weekend in February. If you are planning a trip for that time, you can include the carnival in your plans for the town. At other times of year, the trails, the history of the dock and the activities at Dwight Beach offer different ways to get to know Dwight.

Discover More Places

For more destinations in the area, explore Bracebridge, Lake of Bays, Baysville, Dorset, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Bala and Minett.

For the broader travel overview: Muskoka District Municipality.