Haliburton: A Hidden Gem in Ontario

Nestled in the heart of Ontario, Haliburton is a small community that offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. From hiking and fishing to skiing and snowmobiling, there is something for everyone in this picturesque town. In this article, we will explore the attractions, natural wonders, parks, lakes, trails, roadside attractions, and festivals that make Haliburton a must-visit destination.

Attractions

Haliburton Sculpture Forest: This outdoor gallery features over 30 sculptures by Canadian and international artists.
Haliburton Highlands Museum: Learn about the history of the area through exhibits and artifacts.
Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre: This gallery showcases the work of local artists and hosts workshops and events.
Haliburton Highlands Brewing: Take a tour of this craft brewery and sample their award-winning beers.

Natural Wonders

Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve: This 100,000-acre forest is home to over 400 lakes and offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Algonquin Provincial Park: Just a short drive from Haliburton, this park is known for its stunning fall foliage and wildlife sightings.
Minden Wild Water Preserve: This whitewater course is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Parks

Head Lake Park: This park features a beach, playground, and picnic areas.
Glebe Park: Located in the heart of Haliburton, this park offers a walking trail and scenic views of the town.
Haliburton Sculpture Forest Park: This park is home to the Haliburton Sculpture Forest and offers hiking trails and picnic areas.

Lakes

Haliburton Lake: This large lake is popular for fishing and boating.
Kashagawigamog Lake: This lake is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches.
Drag Lake: This lake is a popular spot for swimming and water sports.

Trails

Haliburton County Rail Trail: This 35-kilometer trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling.
Highlands Nordic: This cross-country ski and snowshoe trail system offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Haliburton Forest Canopy Tours: This zipline and treetop trekking course offers a unique way to explore the forest.

Roadside Attractions

Haliburton Highlands Sign: This iconic sign welcomes visitors to the town.
Haliburton Highlands Water Tower: This tower offers panoramic views of the area.
Haliburton Highlands Moose: This statue of a moose is a popular spot for photos.

Festivals

Haliburton County Fair: This annual fair features agricultural exhibits, live music, and carnival rides.
Haliburton Art and Craft Festival: This festival showcases the work of local artists and artisans.
Haliburton Forest Festival: This festival celebrates the natural beauty of the area with live music, guided hikes, and outdoor activities.

History

Haliburton was established in 1864 and was named after Thomas Chandler Haliburton, a politician and author. The community was incorporated as a village in 1874 and as a town in 1974. Haliburton was originally a logging town, but tourism has become the main industry in recent years.

Conclusion

Haliburton may be a small town, but it offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. From hiking and fishing to skiing and snowmobiling, there is something for everyone in this picturesque community. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Haliburton is the perfect destination.

Sources

Haliburton Highlands Tourism Association
Ontario Parks
Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve
Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre
Haliburton Highlands Brewing
Haliburton County Fair