Muskoka Golf Guide
The cottage country of Muskoka and the surrounding area is a golfer’s paradise. With over 25 resorts in the region, there is a remarkable diversity of golf courses within a small radius. They range from classic parkland courses, rugged links-style challenges, resort-style layouts, acclaimed championship courses, basic bare-bones budget friendly courses, and hidden gems tucked away in secluded corners. Many are designed to showcase and harmonize with the region’s breathtaking scenery of rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal clear lakes. Whether you’re after a challenging course to test your skills, or a relaxing, serene one to unwind among nature’s splendor, Muskoka has it all. Many also have exceptional amenities, dining, and hospitality options, including practice ranges, pro shops, lessons and camps, events and tournaments, clubhouses, locker rooms and more. As the region is a popular tourist destination, the service is usually excellent, making for an enjoyable experience both on and off the course.
When you’re not golfing, there are plenty of other activities and experiences to enjoy. Muskoka and the surrounding regions have an abundance of charming towns with warm hospitality and world-class amenities, such as world class restaurants, luxurious spas, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
So whether you’re looking for a weekend golf trip, an extended golfing vacation, or a destination for a memorable tournament, Muskoka will exceed your expectations. In this comprehensive golf guide, we invite you to discover the hidden gems and world-class courses that make Muskoka a haven for golf enthusiasts.
North Muskoka – Lake Rosseau
Public Courses
Windermere Golf & Country Club – Windermere
WIndermere is a public course, except during July and August when it becomes members only. It offers rentals for golf carts, equipment, and lessons. Besides golf, there are dining options, and a tennis court. It is one of the oldest golf clubs in Canada, founded in 1919. It was designed by Stanley Thompson, one of the greatest golf course designers in Canadian history, whose philosophy is that “The most successful course is one that will test the skill of the most advanced golfer without discouraging the duffer while adding to the enjoyment of both.” Originally a 9 hole course, it was continually upgraded between 1972 to 1993 under General Manager Jim McLeod, a professional from Scotland. The improvements included the installation of many ponds with drainage lines from the fairways to the ponds, and the planting of hundreds of trees. It has been consistently improved since then, resulting in a beautiful 18 hole, par 72 championship golf course. It is 6300 yards on 124 acres on the shores of Lake Rosseau.
The Rock Golf Course – Minett
The Rock is a public course, designed by legendary golfer Nick Faldo and opened in 2004. To play here, tee times must be booked more than 30 days in advance.It is built on rugged Canadian Shield terrain, hence the name. The 6,649 yard, par 71 course has some bold features like huge rock outcrops, significant elevation changes, challenging ponds and thick, tree-lined fairways, coupled with a beautiful view of the lake. Known as one of the most difficult courses in Ontario, the natural hazards that reward accuracy reflect Faldo’s nickname as “the shot maker.” SInce then the course has been renovated, making the routing more playable and more resort golf friendly than the original design.
Amenities: Practice facilities, Clubhouse, Dining options, Pro shop
Drive Times: Pearson International Airport 2 hrs, Barrie 80 mins, Sudbury 2 hrs 30 mins.
Maple Hills Golf Course – Minett
Opened in 1975, this par 32, 1729 yard, 9 hole resort is managed by the same company that manages The Rock. It is ideal for beginners and juniors, and as a practice and warm-up round for more serious golfers that then head to a more challenging course nearby. Green fees are $24, and the course has an in-house professional, and rental clubs and carts on offer.
North Muskoka (and South Parry Sound)- Lake Joseph
Private Courses
Rocky Crest Golf Resort by Port Cockburn on the Northern part of the lake (technically in the Parry Sound Region)
Perched along the rocky outcrops of the Canadian Shield by the beautiful Lake Joseph, the layout of this course utilizes the natural terrain of the granite crags, towering trees and heaving topography of the Muskoka region. It was designed by Thomas McBroom, a four-time winner of Golf Digest’s Best New Canadian Course award, who won the award for this course when it opened in 1997. Most recently, it has placed thirty-sixth in 2022 on the top 100 courses ranking by SCOREGolf Magazine, and the third best course of the modern era in Canada by Golfweek. As a private course, it is only accessible to Clublinks members or guests of the resort or the Sherwood Inn, who also have access to the Lake Joseph Club in Port Sandfield and Grandview in Huntsville as well. The amenities include a gorgeous log structure clubhouse with a patio, a pro shop, several restaurants, and other activities suitable for families.
Oviinbyrd Golf Club – in Foot’s Bay by Mactier
Oviinbyrd is an ultra-private golf club renowned for its exclusivity, with less than 200 members and a password protected website. Designed by Thomas McBroom and opened in 2005, it has regularly scored within the top 30 on Scoregolf, with a fourteen as recently as 2022. Situated within the natural wetlands and rocky outcrops, it is not as difficult as McBroom’s other courses in the area.
The Lake Joseph Golf Club in Port Sandfield
A Thomas McBroom course that opened in 1997, it uses the granite outcroppings of the Canadian Shield, thick forests, and views of Lake Joseph to guide the flow of play. On 421 acres is the main 6,885 yard, par 72 18 hole course, as well as a 9 hole Academy course for beginners and families. A highlight is the 158 yard, par three 8th hole that tees off 80 feet above the green situated within a wooded granite cliff, flanked by bunkers in front and to the right of the pin. The club also offers various amenities, such as equipment rentals, lessons, accommodations, and an event space. It is only accessible to Clublinks members or guests of the resort, who also have access to the Rocky Crest Golf Resort by Port Cockburn and Grandview in Huntsville as well.
North Muskoka
Public Courses
Almaguin Highlands Golf & Country Club (Katrine Golf) – Katrine
This family friendly, 9 hole, par 35 course is an amazing value, as green fees for this picturesque and well maintained course are very affordable when compared to the quality. The course traverses the rolling landscapes of Muskoka, integrating the region’s natural topography of lush forests, scenic vistas, and sparkling lakes. The upper holes are located on dry, sandy soil, while the lower holes run around the Magnetawan River. Chances to view wildlife are abundant, with deer, beavers, otters, and more, inhabiting the area. Extremely affordable lessons are available for individuals and groups from the owner, Theo. Carts are available for rent, and there is a practice green available to use. There is a fully stocked pro shop, licensed lounge and restaurant, as well as a trailer park and accommodation for rent.
Huntsville Downs Golf Club – Huntsville
This 6486 yard, par 72 course was designed by Stanley Thompson and John F. Robinson, and spans 200 acres of rugged Canadian Shield and beautiful Muskokan landscape. There are practice facilities, including a driving range and par 3 practice hole, a pro shop, as well as an events space and a restaurant called BBQ at the turn.
Diamond in the Ruff – Utterson
This 9 hole, par 34 golf course measures 2754 yards amidst a beautiful wilderness setting. The layout features scenic views, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards, providing an exciting challenge for golfers of all levels. Lessons are available, and the course offers hosting of group events as well. The resort also offers lodging in the form of cottages and chalets by the lakeside beach for nightly rentals, water activities including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and fishing, hiking trails, and a restaurant as well.
North Granite Ridge Golf Club – Utterson
This par 70, 6163 yard championship course on 320 acres was designed by Jason Miller and opened in 1999. It offers privacy, tranquility and incredible long-range vistas of the unique Muskoka topography, with lots of opportunity to spot wildlife, especially deer. There is a driving range, putting green, carts for rent, and lessons are available. The clubhouse features a patio overlooking the 18th green, with a licensed restaurant open from noon to 8pm from Wednesday through Sunday, and there is also an event space for weddings.
Private Courses
Grandview Golf Club – Huntsville
This Clublink course was co-designed by PGA Tour veteran Mark O’Meara, winner of the 1998 Masters and British Open, and renowned course architect Brit Stenson. It is a par 72, 7065 yard course It opened in 2001, and is aptly named as it is a scenic and challenging golf course with large elevation changes amongst the deciduous forest and stunning views of Fairy Lake. There are practice facilities, carts for rent, lessons, and tournaments. The gorgeous clubhouse, with blended stone and wood, can accommodate up to 250 people for weddings, banquets, and events, while the patio overlooks the first hole.
Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course – Huntsville
Designed by Thomas McBroom and Robert Cupp and opened in 1896, this historic, award-winning course is one of Canada’s oldest, and recognized as one of the best in the country as well. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Muskoka landscape, it features rolling fairways, elevated tee boxes, and granite rock outcroppings. There are tournaments, lessons, practice facilities, a pro shop, and an indoor simulator for year round fun on the links. The clubhouse has dining options, there are on-site accommodations, a spa, and a space that can host weddings and gatherings as well. Furthermore, There is another 9 hole course, Deerhurst Lakeside, that is part of the same resort.
Deerhurst Lakeside Golf Course – Huntsville
The Lakeside course is the Highlands‘ smaller sibling. Originally designed by CE Robinson in 1966, it was updated by Thomas McBroom in 1988. A par 64 course, it is much shorter than the Highlands at 4356 yards from the championship tees. As for amenities, it is part of the Deerhurst resort with the Highlands course.
Central Muskoka – Port Carling (In between Lake Muskoka and Lake Rosseau)
Private Courses
Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club – Port Carling
Designed by Stanley Thompson, this ultra private par 70, 6031 yard course, has a rich history since its 1922 opening. The serene atmosphere is accentuated by the lack of any residential development nearby, so golfers here get to enjoy a glimpse of the natural Ontario beauty. The lakeside resort offers many other amenities, like sailing, swimming, boat access and docks, tennis, pickleball, youth programs, dining options, and more. The Club is a custodian of the natural Muskoka environment and values the protection of its environment.The course is open from early May to mid October, and there is a strict dress code and no phones policy. As a multi-generational family club, there is over a thirty year waitlist for membership.
Port Carling Golf Club – Port Carling
This private club, designed by Thomas Broom to incorporate the natural rocky 146 acre landscape of the exposed Canadian Shield, opened in 1991 to critical acclaim. Since then, the 6,430 yard par 70 course has been upgraded and remodeled, with the rebuilding of holes, refurbishing of the bunker with Temiska sand, and new bentgrass sod on the greens. Some highlights include the 355 yard fifth hole, a par four with a tee shot across an intimidating gully, a 75-foot plunge off the 8th tee, and an approach on the 13th with the lake as a backdrop.
South Muskoka – Lake Muskoka
Private Courses
Beaumaris Yacht Club – Beaumaris
Located on Modern Island off Milford Bay on the northeastern side of Lake Muskoka, this par 66, 18 hole private club was originally established in 1911 as a 5 hole course. It quickly expanded, and by 1916 had the full 18 holes, as well as a clubhouse. Besides golf, the yacht club offers its members a variety of activities including tennis, sailing, and social gatherings. And, of course, yachting. Lessons are available for golf and tennis.
Public Courses
The Fairways at Kirrie Glen – between Bracebridge and Port Carling
Designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 9-hole, par 36, 2,830 yard course has flower-lined paths, expansive fairways, elevation changes, and challenging greens. It gets its name from the owner James Barrie’s hometown Kirriemuir in Scotland, as the rocky hills and burbling streams reminisce of a Scottish glen, which means valley. The greens are famous for their severe slope, but besides that, it isn’t an overly challenging course. Wednesday mornings are Ladies’ League, and Thursday mornings are Men’s League. The restaurant is open on Friday through Sunday for lunch.
Milford Manor Golf Course (no website)- Milford Bay
Milford Manor, located in Milford Bay on the Northeast shore of Lake Muskoka, is a quirky family run golf course. It has been an attraction and local staple for decades, and used to host goofy tournaments that included challenges like teeing off with your arms around your partner. For just $15 paid on the honour system, as there is no clubhouse nor on-site staff, guests can enjoy this fun par-33, nine hole course of only 1,400 yards.
South Muskoka – Bracebridge
Public Courses
Muskoka Highlands Golf Link – Bracebridge
A family owned and operated club since 1993, The Highlands is a picturesque and challenging course set amidst the natural beauty of Bracebridge. The layout includes elevated tee boxes, undulating fairways, and well-guarded greens. As one of the few dog friendly golf resorts, they encourage guests to bring their pets. Furthermore, for the past 17 years, they have fostered puppies through the Lions Foundation Dog Guide program that get adopted by guests. There are a few tournaments hosted throughout the year, and winter golf is offered as well. Other activities offered include foot golf, played with a soccer ball, and lawn bowling, and they have a wedding venue for small services as well.
South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club – Bracebridge
A beautiful 18-hole golf course nestled in the heart of Bracebridge, this course was designed by Canadian Golf Hall of Fame member Clinton E. (Robbie) Robinson. The first 9 holes opened in 1974, and the second 9 followed five years later. Measuring 6,340 yards, the majestic trees and granite rock out-croppings frame the gently rolling fairways and well-maintained greens. There are practice facilities, leagues, equipment and cart rentals, tournaments, and, of course, a curling rink. The clubhouse offers dining options and an event space for gatherings and celebrations.
Bracebridge Golf Club – Bracebridge
A classic 9 hole parkland-style course with tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and picturesque water hazards. Bracebridge Golf Club offers a fair but demanding challenge for players of all skill levels. The price is affordable, and drop-ins are allowed, although golf carts must be reserved ahead of time. There is a driving range, as well as a licensed patio overlooking the first tee.
South Muskoka – Gravenhurst
Public Courses
Gravenhurst KOA – Gravenhurst
This 9 hole, par 27 woodland course opened in 1971 and consists only of par 3s. With very modest green fees, and as part of an 885 acre campground that also offers fishing, canoe and rowboat rentals, mountain bike trails and rentals, a pool, and programming for kids, this is a family and budget friendly golf course.
Private Courses
Taboo Muskoka – Gravenhurst
Taboo is a private course not currently accepting new members. However, guests staying at the hotel have access to this exceptional golfing experience in a captivating setting with diverse layouts, challenging holes, and picturesque views of the lake. There are dining options, a spa, yoga classes, guided outdoor excursions, water sports, and more offered at this award winning resort.
Muskoka Bay Resort – Gravenhurst
This upscale resort opened in 2007 with an 18-hole course designed by Doug Carrick and Ian Andrew. With challenging play and amazing views of the surrounding landscapes, the course has a “cottage-to-tee” experience, where players can go direct from their accommodations in luxurious golf carts that have integrated state-of-the-art GPS systems with detailed course information, and interactive hole layouts that enhance the overall golfing experience. . The signature par 3, 7th hole is known as “The Cliff” tees off from elevation to a green below, with a panoramic views that capture the essence of Muskoka’s allure.The accommodations range from suites to spacious villas, and the amenities offered include a spa, fitness center, infinity pool, and gourmet dining options. Furthermore, a stay at Muskoka Bay Resort grants the guest access to outdoor activities at the sister property Deerhurst Resort 40 mins away.
East Muskoka – Lake of Bays
Private Courses
Bigwin Island Golf Club – Baysville
This golf course, designed by Doug Carrick and opened in 2002, is located on a small island in Lake of Bays. Accessible only by water, it is known for its exceptional beauty and playability, with panoramic views and meticulously maintained landscaping. Although a relatively new course, it has a rich history, having started in 1922 as a 9 hole course, with the other 9 designed by Stanley Thompson and added in 1930. It was subsequently abandoned, and sat vacant until 1986, when the revival process began. Spanning 520 acres, this par 72, 7166 yard course consistently ranks in the top 20 Canadian courses, and hosts championship tournaments. There is a clubhouse, pro shop, golf cart rentals, lessons for hire, as well as accommodation, dining options, and a venue for banquets and events. As a private club, it is only available to members and guests of the resort accommodation.
