Welcome to Gravenhurst, the Gateway to Muskoka and the Gateway to business growth and prosperity

Gravenhurst is known as the first community of Muskoka both literally and figuratively. Not only is it the first community you discover as you enter Muskoka, it is also the first community to be incorporated in Muskoka.

Initially a lumber town starting in the 1850's Gravenhurst at one point was given the name "Saw Dust City” which was a reference to the 25 plus saw mills that lined the shores of Muskoka Bay. During the 1880's Gravenhurst saw its second claim to fame as the northern terminus of the Toronto, Simcoe and Muskoka Junction Railway and the jumping off point for thousands of vacationers escaping the City of Toronto for life on the waters of Lake Muskoka and other lakes in the Muskoka region.

But that was then, this is now. While Tourism and summer vacationers (cottagers) are still a major part of our economy, forestry no longer has any impact on our economic life. Like many communities we have to look beyond what made us to what will sustain us. Take a look at Gravenhurst; we can be your Gateway to a prosperous business future.

The following pages will provide you with the information that you need as you consider Gravenhurst as your business location.