Bonnie Warren - General Manager
Mar 15, 2026
Looking for the ultimate lakeside getaway in Haliburton? Start your day at Bonnie View Inn, your cozy home base on Kashagawigamog Lake, and let the adventure begin. From charming small towns and scenic trails to art, markets, and outdoor thrills, the Haliburton Highlands offer endless experiences for families, couples, and friends. Here’s how to spend a memorable day—or even a full weekend—exploring the best of the region.
Morning: Explore Kinmount’s Riverside Charm
Just a short 25-minute drive from Bonnie View Inn, Kinmount is a quaint village full of hidden treasures. Begin with a stroll or bike ride along the Victoria Rail Trail, a 55-kilometre scenic route following the old rail line, with riverside views, wildlife spotting opportunities, and historic railway remnants that capture the area’s past.
Swing by the Kinmount Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, May to Thanksgiving) to sample fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and handmade crafts from regional artisans. Don’t miss Highland Cinemas, a unique small-town theater where modern screenings blend with historic film equipment, vintage posters, and memorabilia, creating a nostalgic cinematic experience. Kinmount offers the perfect mix of history, charm, and leisurely exploration before your next adventure.
Midday: Discover Minden’s Nature and Small-Town Vibes
Next, head to Minden, where natural beauty and community spirit abound. Take a walk along the Minden River Walk, a 1.1-mile paved loop along the Gull River, featuring scenic bridges, riverside seating, and outdoor art installations. For a more active experience, rent a tube, kayak, or paddleboard and float gently down the river while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
After your adventure on the water, stop for a treat—grab a classic ice cream cone at River Cone or sip a locally brewed craft beer at Boshkung Social. Explore Main Street Minden for boutique shops, artisan crafts, and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Highlands. This charming village offers a perfect blend of outdoor activity, local flavor, and small-town charm.
Afternoon: Adventure and Culture in the Highlands
The Haliburton Highlands are brimming with activities for every interest. Nature enthusiasts can explore Haliburton Forest, offering hiking trails, canopy tours, and wildlife viewing, including moose, deer, and birds in their natural habitat. For water lovers, the region has pristine lakes perfect for kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, with breathtaking scenic views along every shoreline.
Art and culture seekers will appreciate stops at the Haliburton School of the Arts galleries and the Haliburton Highlands Museum, where rotating exhibits showcase local history, indigenous culture, and contemporary art. Visit local artisan studios for pottery, painting, and woodworking, or attend a seasonal craft fair to bring home one-of-a-kind treasures.
Evening: Return to Lakeside Relaxation
After a full day of exploration, return to Bonnie View Inn to unwind. Watch the sunset over Kashagawigamog Lake, enjoy a fireside dinner, or take a peaceful evening stroll along the shoreline. The inn provides the perfect combination of comfort, charm, and lakeside serenity, letting you reflect on the day’s adventures and prepare for another day of discovery.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a midweek retreat, or an extended stay, the Haliburton Highlands offer a rich tapestry of experiences, with Bonnie View Inn as your perfect home base for exploration, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.