Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower

Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower Enjoy spectacular views from the tower and ground level lookouts. Picnic sites, hiking trail, gift shop, cold drinks & treats. Per vehicle entrance fee.
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Visit the summit of Tower Hill in Dorset to learn about the historical Fire Tower that was in operation here from 1922 until 1961. The tower was made obsolete when aircraft began watching for fires (now done by satellite). In 1967 a surplus radar tower from the Department of National Defense was erected in its place for visitors to enjoy the view. More than 8,000 people climbed the tower on its of

ficial opening weekend. Upon climbing the 119 steps to the top (if you can make it), you can see more than 800 sq. km (310 miles) on a clear day. The observation deck is 30m (100 ft) above the ground and a stunning 142m (465 ft) above Lake of Bays. The tree top lookout is half way up offering a 360° panoramic view. The park also offers ground level lookouts over the village of Dorset and surrounding area. The Tower Kiosk offers refreshments, snacks, gifts, apparel and area information. Picnic tables and toilet facilities are available at the summit. In 1999 the site was turned over by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (formerly Department of Lands and Forests) to the Township of Algonquin Highlands and has been operated as a tourism site since. The Tower is a "Use at Own Risk" facility. We strongly recommend not climbing the tower during inclement weather or high winds. High risk activities such as rock climbing and repelling are not permitted on the Tower or Tower Hill. Entrance fee is a per vehicle parking charge.

We are thrilled about the brand new accessible walkway at the Tower's gift shop! Come for a visit and check it out!
09/01/2026

We are thrilled about the brand new accessible walkway at the Tower's gift shop! Come for a visit and check it out!

FALL COLOURS RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 1Advance tickets for viewing of fall colours at the Dorset Scenic Lookout ...
08/31/2026

FALL COLOURS RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 1

Advance tickets for viewing of fall colours at the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower are available for purchase on the AH Trails website as of 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1. You can access the site here: https://ahtrails.ca/

Please note that advance tickets will be required to visit the Tower between Sept. 19 and Oct. 25.

You can find our hours and fees here: https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/explore-play/parks-and-outdoor-spaces/dorset-scenic-lookout-tower/

TOWN HALL MEETINGS: Community members are invited to learn about options for a potential restructuring of the governance...
08/17/2026

TOWN HALL MEETINGS: Community members are invited to learn about options for a potential restructuring of the governance framework for the County of Haliburton and its four lower-tier municipalities and provide feedback during a series of town hall meetings from August 25 to 31.

The town hall meetings will take place as follows:

• Tuesday, Aug. 25: Haliburton Legion, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 26: Minden Hills Community Centre, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Thursday, Aug. 27: Lloyd Watson Centre in Wilberforce, 6 to 8 p.m.
• Monday, Aug. 31: Stanhope Firefighters’ Community Hall, 6 to 8 p.m.

You can find more information here: https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/news-and-notices/posts/town-hall-meetings-on-affordability-and-governance-structure-study/

FALL COLOURS RESERVATIONS AT DORSET TOWERFirst, it's still very much summertime! So, let's establish that. Second, pleas...
08/11/2026

FALL COLOURS RESERVATIONS AT DORSET TOWER

First, it's still very much summertime! So, let's establish that.

Second, please note reservations for fall colours viewing at the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower are only required between September 19 and October 25.

Reservations will be available starting at 9 a.m. on September 1 on the AH Trails website: https://ahtrails.ca/

Please note that no reservations are required to visit the Tower outside of that timeframe. You can find Tower hours and fees here: https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/explore-play/parks-and-outdoor-spaces/dorset-scenic-lookout-tower/

AFFORDABILITY AND GOVERNANCE STUDY: PUBLIC SURVEY AND OPEN HOUSESThe County of Haliburton has launched a community-wide ...
06/08/2026

AFFORDABILITY AND GOVERNANCE STUDY: PUBLIC SURVEY AND OPEN HOUSES

The County of Haliburton has launched a community-wide Affordability and Governance Structure Study that will look at ways to simplify government processes and provide better value for taxpayers. The Study Team has developed a community engagement plan with opportunities for as many people as possible to share ideas.

No decision would be made right away. The Study is about getting more information to help inform what we do next. Ultimately, any decisions around the future of Haliburton County will be made by the 2026-2030 councils.

Residents are invited to participate by taking a survey, which can be found below. There will also be a series of public open houses in late June, with one at the Dorset Recreation Centre on Thursday, June 25 from 2 to 4 p.m.

You can click on the link below for more information.

ARTS & CRAFTS: Come and check out the annual Arts & Crafts Show at the Dorset Parkette on Sunday, June 28! Then take a v...
06/04/2026

ARTS & CRAFTS: Come and check out the annual Arts & Crafts Show at the Dorset Parkette on Sunday, June 28! Then take a very short drive up Highway 35 and visit us at the Tower!

You can find more events on the Township's Community Calendar: https://calendar.algonquinhighlands.ca/

We're used to lots of guests at the Tower . . . but not quite like this! Last week members of Algonquin Highlands Fire S...
05/26/2026

We're used to lots of guests at the Tower . . . but not quite like this!

Last week members of Algonquin Highlands Fire Services stopped by to do some high-angle rope rescue training! If you've ever been to the top of the Tower, you'll know this certainly isn't for the faint of heart.

OPENING DAY: It's almost time, friends! The Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower will open for the 2026 season this Friday, May 1...
05/11/2026

OPENING DAY: It's almost time, friends! The Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower will open for the 2026 season this Friday, May 15! Come and experience one of the most breath-taking vistas in Ontario cottage country! If you've never ascended the Tower before, make 2026 the year you do!

Season passes are available, and are less than $30 per household for the year!

You can find more info on the Tower, including hours and admission fees, right here: https://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/explore-play/parks-and-outdoor-spaces/dorset-scenic-lookout-tower/

Address

1191 Dorset Scenic Tower Rd. (located Off Highway 35, Just North Of The Village Of Dorset)
Dorset, ON
P0A1E0

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 6pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Wednesday 10am - 6pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 10am - 6pm

Telephone

7057661032

Website

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