Arts, Culture and Heritage

History abounds in Algonquin Highlands and several pieces of it are preserved as artifacts at the Township's two museums. Completely volunteer-run, the Stanhope Heritage Museum and Dorset Heritage Museum each offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area through exhibits, events and programming. The Township is steeped in a rugged past of logging, and the Hawk Lake Log Chute and Gilmour Tramway in particular tell a unique part of that story. 

Spectacular stone buildings such as St. Peter's and St. Stephen's churches harken back to another era, as do the remnants of stone walls you can see peeking from the forest along some roadways if you pay close attention. 

The landscape is a natural work of art that continues to inspire painters, sculptors and writers, and has been painted by the likes of A.J. Casson of the Group of Seven. A number of privately owned artists' studios, nestled among the Township's many lakes, are waiting to welcome you.