The best par-3 holes in Muskoka

by Peter Mumford May 26, 2026May 26, 2026

Par-3 holes are often the most memorable holes on a golf course.

Not only are they situated on some of the most dramatic terrain, they also present a do-or-die dilemma. It’s one shot for glory, and many times the alternative comes with a big number.

In Muskoka, we’re used to seeing lots of trouble: rock, trees, wetlands, did I mention rock? The spectacular courses carved out of the rugged Canadian Shield have danger lurking at every turn. Often the course designers will use some of the most inhospitable spots to plant a par-3 hole with little room for a bailout and no recovery from a mis-hit shot.

Whether you have to hit across a pond, a marsh, a canyon or creek, whether it’s uphill or downhill, you can generally expect that the tee shot is only the first obstacle to overcome. Muskoka greens are notorious for slopes, contours and run-off areas, meaning that sticking the shot is something else again. And then there’s putting.

Following are 10 of the best par-3 holes in Muskoka (public and resort courses). They’re beautiful yet challenging, and walking off with a par on any of them will let you breathe a sigh of relief and put a smile on your face. (Note: yardages shown are from the back tees.)

Deerhurst Resort, Hole #8, 231 yards