Muskoka’s Sweet Spot
Eight reasons September might just be the best month to live, linger and explore in Muskoka
"September is when Muskoka seems to exhale. The days are still warm, the patios are still open and everything moves at a pace that feels a little more like Muskoka."
Can you believe it's already mid-September? The official end of summer is only days away.
But before autumn's colours sweep across the landscape, there's still plenty of time to enjoy everything September has to offer those who live in, cottage in or visit Muskoka.
For many full-time residents, September is our favourite month of the year. The height-of-summer crowds have eased, weekday traffic has settled and the pace feels a little more in tune with our preferred "Muskoka time."
The days can still feel like summer, the evenings invite a sweater and a campfire, and those first hints of fall colour remind us that another spectacular season is just around the corner.
So, in no particular order, here are eight reasons September might just be Muskoka's sweet spot.
1. The People
Whether it's those who call this gorgeous part of the world home or those making a point to visit for a little while longer, people seem a little more relaxed in September.
One of my favourite things is meeting visitors who genuinely want to know more about our communities and have the time to stop, chat and listen. There's something about September that makes those conversations feel a little easier.
2. The Weather
Sure, the evenings are a little cooler most days — perfect for campfires — but September can still surprise us with beautiful bursts of summer heat.
It's a great time to take a day off and hit the beach, go for a paddle, get out on the water or simply spend as much time outside as possible. And when the temperature dips? Grab a sweater and enjoy it anyway.
3. The Kids Are Back in School
As much as we love our kids, there's something to be said for the return to routine.
Yes, we mentioned the quieter pace already, but this deserves its own spot on the list. For anyone working from home, productivity becomes considerably easier when you're not hearing "Mom!" or "Dad!" every five minutes.
Parents, you know.
4. The Fall Colours
A few ambitious trees may start showing off in late August, but by mid-to-late September and into October, nature's palette really begins to take over as summer gives way to autumn.
The brilliant reds, oranges and yellows transform familiar roads, lakes and lookouts into something spectacular all over again. We see it every year, and somehow it never gets old.
5. The Shopping
September is a lovely time to rediscover Muskoka's shops, boutiques and local businesses, especially mid-week.
With the kids back in school, many people back at work and visitors out enjoying the scenery, there's a little more room to browse. Better yet, you might actually have time to stop and catch up with someone you haven't seen in a while without feeling rushed.
6. Eating, Drinking & Being Merry
For much of September, it's still patio season. And once the peak summer rush subsides, getting a table for lunch, dinner or a drink with friends can feel considerably more relaxed.
There's something pretty wonderful about soaking up one of those last warm afternoons on a patio overlooking the water. And when the temperature does send us indoors, the atmosphere feels just as inviting.
7. Hiking, Walking & Biking
The trails are spectacular this time of year, particularly once those autumn colours begin to emerge. And on a cooler September day, getting outside for a little extra activity feels just about perfect.
Arrowhead Provincial Park, Algonquin Provincial Park and Limberlost Forest and Wildlife Reserve are all beautiful options, but you don't need to venture far to find a trail, back road or lakeside route worth exploring.
8. Golfing
Monday through Thursday, Muskoka's golf courses tend to be a little less busy in September, making it easier to find a tee time and enjoy a more leisurely round.
With fantastic courses throughout the region, September is a great opportunity to sneak in a few more swings before the clubs are packed away for another season.
And really, that may be the magic of September in Muskoka.
Summer hasn't quite left us. Fall is beginning to make its entrance. The water is still calling, patios are still open, trails are changing colour and there's just a little more room to enjoy it all.
Those are some of my favourite things about September in Muskoka.
What are yours?