Sunny, warm weather is nature’s reminder to get outside and explore its pristine beauty. But how about a stroll along the world’s longest canopy of its kind, located right here in Ontario?
Situated about 2.5 hours north of Toronto, you’ll find the County of Haliburton. Better recognized as the Haliburton Highlands, the county is just over 4,000 square kilometres in size.
The area is known for its location as one of the higher points on the Canadian Shield, being home to more than 500 lakes and, of course, for having the longest canopy boardwalk of its kind in the world.
Run by Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd, the canopy tour is a guided nature hike through the treetops of Haliburton with “breathtaking views.”
The experience lasts roughly four hours. The tour begins with a scenic drive through a private forest in the area. From there, you will paddle a canoe across a lake and take a guided walk along the Pelaw Rapids.
The canopy tour takes place 10 to 20 metres above ground and is over half a kilometre long as you trek through the “spectacular” scenery of the Haliburton Forest. The experience runs from late May to mid-October and costs $98 for adults and $78 for those aged 10 to 17. You can book your treetop adventure online.
And even Destination Ontario calls the experience a “once-in-a-lifetime tour.”
“A platform suspended from the treetops above becomes the gathering place where your guide elaborates on the forest environment surrounding you,” Destination Ontario says on its website.
If you’re looking to extend your hike, your ticket will also grant you complimentary access to the Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Ltd property, home to 400 kilometres of hiking trails.
While you’re in Haliburton, you may also decide to check out one of the several hundred lakes in the area. You could pay a visit to the beach at Elvin Johnson Park and also make a stop at the zipline while you’re there. Or you could try Haliburton Lake Beach for a dip in the water and some sandy volleyball.
With 10 per cent of the county located within Algonquin Provincial Park, you may also decide to make a stop here on your trip to the area. The park offers whitewater canoeing, fishing, boating, biking and so much more. A permit to the park can be purchased online.
So, if you’re thinking about stepping out into nature any time soon, planning a trip to Haliburton might be your next ideal destination.
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