Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Located approximately 200 kilometers north of Toronto in Ontario, Canada, Lake Rosseau is one of the crown jewels of the Muskoka region—an iconic destination synonymous with refined Canadian lake life. This glacier-carved lake spans both the Township of Muskoka Lakes to the south and Seguin Township to the north, anchoring a landscape defined by forested shorelines, historic resorts, and a legacy of luxury that stretches back to the Gilded Age.
Lake Rosseau serves as a hub for four quintessential Muskoka towns: Port Carling, Minett, Windermere, and Rosseau. Each offers its own lakeside charm. Port Carling is the “hub of the lakes,” where the navigation lock system connects Lake Rosseau to Lake Muskoka, while the Joseph River Boat Launch offers access to neighboring Lake Joseph. Rosseau village, home to the beloved Rosseau General Store and a celebrated summer farmers’ market, channels small-town warmth with elevated style.
Boating culture thrives here. Public launches at Port Carling, Skeleton Bay, and Rosseau Village provide direct lake access, while full-service marinas cater to everything from antique Ditchburn launches to sleek Chris-Crafts and modern wake-surf boats. Anglers are drawn to Lake Rosseau’s deep, cold waters, which support a thriving population of Lake Trout and Smallmouth Bass.
In summer, the lake becomes a natural playground: sailing regattas, paddleboarding at sunrise, and waterfront yoga on private docks are daily rituals. Classic wooden boats and luxury pontoons trace the shoreline past pine-draped islands and heritage cottages. In winter, the lake’s transformation is equally dramatic. Snowmobile trails crisscross frozen bays, while nearby trails invite Nordic skiing and snowshoeing.
Among the region’s legendary stays, Windermere House stands as a Muskoka icon. This 19th-century lakeside resort blends old-world hospitality with modern amenities, including a golf course, spa, and dockside dining overlooking the water.
Whether you’re drawn by the call of a loon at dawn or the clink of cocktail glasses on a boathouse deck, Lake Rosseau delivers a signature Canadian lake experience—timeless, elegant, and vividly alive across all four seasons.
- Surface area (km)
- 63.9
- Max depth (m)
- 89
- Elevation (m)
- 227
- Shoreline length (km)
- 151
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Freshwater Fishing
- Cross-country Skiing
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Rosseau has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
No, it is not safe to swim in Lake Rosseau at Rosseau Waterfront Beach. The beach was closed in August 2024 due to high bacteria levels, and swimming lessons were cancelled until further notice.
-
Lake Rosseau is a desirable and popular destination because of its crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and rugged granite cliffs. It is surrounded by lush forests, upscale cottages, and charming towns like Port Carling, Minett, and Rosseau, offering various activities and amenities. Its proximity to Toronto, about a two-hour drive, also makes it easily accessible.
-
In Lake Rosseau, Ontario, which is part of Fisheries Management Zone 15, the fishing seasons and catch limits for trout and salmon are as follows: Brook trout and lake trout seasons run from January 1 to September 30, with daily catch limits of 5 and possession limits of 2 for brook trout, and 2 and 1 respectively for lake trout. Brown trout can be fished all year with the same limits as brook trout.
-
Rosseau Waterfront Park is best for families. It has a generous sandy beach, docks for easy water access, and amenities like restrooms and picnic tables. This park is a community hub with activities suitable for all family members.
-
The towns near Lake Rosseau include Port Carling, Minett, Windermere, Port Sandfield, and the Village of Rosseau. These towns offer amenities such as restaurants, shops, and activities. The Village of Rosseau also has a marina, public beach, and historic buildings like the Rosseau General Store.
