During Your Stay

If the water cooler is making a consistent beeping noise, it is signifying that the jug is in need of replacement (the water level is getting too low). Replacing the jug is simple:

1. Open the front panel and unscrew the ring from the top of the bottle to loosen the water intake mechanism.

2. Pull the water intake mechanism off the empty bottle and remove the bottle from the water cooler.

3. Insert the new water bottle into the cooler and, when situated, remove the cap on the bottle. 

4. Replace the water intake mechanism onto the top of the new bottle (push it down to ensure a snug fit), then re-tighten the mechanism by screwing the ring back on. 

5. Close the panel on the front and it will start drawing water. 

On first arrival, ignite the pilot light by pressing the red CIRCLE and the LARGE FLAME buttons simultaneously until a short beep confirms the start sequence has begun. Release the buttons (continuing beeping confirms the ignition is in process). Once the pilot light ignition is confirmed, the main burner will come on.  

To regulate the temperature inside the cabin there are two heat units (one in the main living space above the sliding door and one in the bedroom). These units are controlled independently from one another and you simply need to change the temperate to the desired level. The unit will heat or cool depending on the current state of the cabin. At night, we like to turn the living room unit down and adjust the bedroom unit to meet our sleeping preferences.

In the Gravenhurst area, there are NO outdoor fires permitted during the day (8:00am-6:00pm) from April through October. This means that summer fires are only permitted after 6:00pm and only when the current fire status allows. Fires are only permitted when the' ‘Fire Danger Level’ is either LOW (green), or MODERATE (yellow). When the Fire Danger Level is HIGH (orange) or EXTREME (red), fires of any guide are not allowed. Please refer to the updates on the Gravenhurst website for the most updated info.

A bucket of water should always be full and ready next to the fire and fires/coals should be doused completely before retiring for the night. Please keep fires low (taller fires threaten the low-hanging tree canopy).

Fire wood can be found for sale at 2356 Southwood Road ($10 per bag, cash only, self-serve). Gas stations will also sell firewood. Wherever possible, locally sourced wood is preferred to avoid the spread of diseases from other parts of the province.

From May through to October, two paddle boards and a canoe are available for guest use. When using these items, please take care when launching either to avoid scraping either piece of equipment on the rocks or shoreline. The Canoe should be carried to the dock and launched from there, wherever possible with two people. When returning these pieces of equipment to the rack, ensure they are tied down and be extra careful with paddles and ensure these are also secured in the event of high winds.

Hemlock Lake House uses Starlink to connect the cottage to the internet. While fairly reliable, Starlink can be affected by debris, snow cover or other obstructions. When the satellite is obstructed it cannot connect to a satellite and interruptions occur. Please be patient with weather as it may impact signal strength, quality and availability from time to time. The Wifi Porter (wooden WIFI symbol in the cottage) will help you tap and connect to the signal If this does not work, look for the section in the cottage compendium with the wifi network and password.

The beauty of Muskoka comes with the cost of bugs during the warmer months. Seasonal variations in climate along with wet, cool and/or damp conditions can exacerbate insect issues. We recommend bringing bug spray, dressing in lighter colours (bugs are attracted to dark colours) and using outdoor lighting thoughtfully (try to limit lights near entrances as light attracts bugs). When arriving and departing, load your belongings quickly and limit how long the door is open, even a door left open for a few seconds can introduce a host of pesky mosquitos into the cottage. Keeping the fans running helps to alleviate bugs inside.

We do not recommend trailblazing behind or beside the cottage in the dense woods. Rattlesnakes inhabit the woods around Muskoka (and Muldrew) and pets, children and adults can be bit if they are not aware of a rattlesnake’s presence. Keep your pet close when outside and monitor their wanderings. Always educate kids on what to listen and look for. Our deck is designed with retractable gates to keep pets and small children safe. Rattlesnakes are endangered, so the likelihood is very low to see one, that said, being prepared is best.

If you encounter a snake leave it alone and walk away. If you are bitten, seek medical attention right away in either Bracebridge or Parry Sound.