THINGS TO DO

Things to Do

Relax & Explore

Relax

Relaxing on deck
Feel free to relax and unwind with a good book, a paddle on the lake or a stroll along the shore. Hay Lake Lodge & Cottages is a place for you to get away from the stress and busyness of life and reconnect with yourself, each other and with nature.

Quiet has always been our strength. Wake in the morning to the sounds of the loons, the wind, or your own thoughts. Whether you think of it as a retreat, a time out or a holiday for your inner self, Hay Lake will give you the peace and quiet you need.

Explore

If you prefer a little more activity, there are plenty of options for exploring the area.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Hay Lake is an ideal lake for paddling and we provide canoes and kayaks free for your use. With miles of natural shoreline, there is plenty to explore and many areas where you will have the lake to yourself to see wildlife and waterfowl.

If you would like a guided trip in the Park, Algonquin Outfitters offer half-day and full-day tours.

Golf

There are two golf courses in nearby Bancroft, less than 45 minutes from Hay Lake. Bancroft Golf Course offers 9 holes and River's Edge has 18 holes. The popular course, The Homestead at Wolf Ridge, is an hour to the east, and worth the drive.

Horseback Riding/ATV Tours

Our friends Penny and Matt at Highland Wilderness Tours provide horse riding tours through the old logging trails. A great way to explore the area. They also provide ATV tours for a little extra fun.

Day Trips

Wilno and the Madawaska Valley make a great day trip. Check out pottery and paintings by local artisans, take in the expansive view from the hill at St. Mary's and be sure to try the authentic pierogies at the Wilno Tavern!

Take a raft trip down the Madawaska River with your family at Madawaska Kanu Centre in Barry's Bay.

Go biking through the park. Mountain bikes can be rented at Lake of Two Rivers Store in Algonquin Park or at Algonquin Outfitters. Enjoy a leisurely ride along the Old Railway Bike Trail, or get a workout on the Minnesing Mountain Bike Trail. If you bring your own bike, there are old logging roads and trails you can explore from the Lodge.

Geocaching

Geocaching can lead you to special spots around Algonquin Park, North Hastings and the Madawaska Valley. In fact, there is one very close to us here and definitely room on Hay Lake to set up another! Haven't tried Geocaching yet? Borrow our kit or sign up for our intro session.

Madawaska Kanu Centre offers a great day of geocaching and rafting.

Star Gazing

Getting away from the city means getting away from the harsh glare of city lights that prevent you from seeing the true beauty of the night sky. At Hay Lake you'll experience this beauty as you relax under a dark sky filled with thousands of stars. A great place for your telescope or binoculars.

Swimming

Hay Lake is clean and refreshing and our sandy swimming area has a gently sloping bottom perfect for a relaxing swim.
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