Floodplain Mapping

This spring thaw, commonly known as the freshet, is a result of snow and ice moving and melting into our lake and river systems, which can last for weeks as the snowpack melts.

This page contains resources, information, and links to flood plain maps and water levels to help residents be prepared for flood events in Muskoka.

Floodplain Mapping

As a result of flooding in Muskoka in the last decade and through the Integrated Watershed Management Projects, the District undertook Floodplain Mapping Projects (FPMP) to better identify areas at risk of seasonal flooding.

Why Floodplain Mapping?

The goal of floodplain mapping is to have more information to assist with emergency management plans and help inform development.

The FPMP identifies areas that are most at risk of flooding. Floodplain mapping is critical to support informed decisions and investments to reduce the impacts of flooding in our communities. Development in these areas can result in damage to buildings and possessions if flooding occurs; in in extreme cases loss of life could occur.

View or download the Muskoka Floodplain Mapping Project Pamphlet

Floodplain Mapping PDFs & Reports

Map Viewing Instructions:

To view or download a PDF file of Muskoka Floodplain Maps click on the Map Set link associated to a lake or river below.
The map will open in a new web browser.
Some map files are large (size noted beside the map name) and may take a few moments to download.
Most of the map sets will open with a key map on page 1 of the PDF document and may contain several other sub maps showing greater detail of a specific area and will be identified by the key map with a number.
You can locate the sub map by scrolling through the document and looking for the sub map number on the right-hand side of the map that corresponds to the number identified on the key map.

Master Key Map & Floodplain Mapping Reports

Lake Maps:

Bala Bay (5.0MB) - Map Set H
Fairy Lake (5.5MB) - Map Set C
Georgian Bay (21.88MB) - Map Set CC
Gloucester Pool (23.8MB) - Map Set II
Go Home Lake (25.45MB) - Map Set KK
Healey Lake (3.51MB) - Map Set PP
Kahshe Lake (39.63MB) - Map Set HH
Kawagama Lake (49.5MB) - Map Set SS
Lake of Bays (86.34MB) - Map Set BB
Lake Joseph (34.7MB) - Map Set E
Lake Muskoka (192.1MB) - Map Set G
Lake Rosseau (57.6MB) - Map Set F
Lake Vernon (13.1MB) - Map Set A
Leech Lake (1.17MB) - Map Set LL
Mary Lake (5.1MB) - Map Set D
McKay Lake (1.83MB) - Map Set QQ
Peninsula Lake (5.9MB) - Map Set B
Pine Lake (1.74MB) - Map Set MM
Port Severn (5.7MB) - Map Set I
Prospect Lake (1.66MB) - Map Set NN
Six Mile Lake (44.0MB) - Map Set JJ
Skeleton Lake (14.1MB) - Map Set GG
Spence Lake (2.7MB) - Map Set J
Stewart Lake (2.57MB) - Map Set EE
Three Mile Lake (9.68MB) - Map Set FF
Trading Bay (1.2MB) - Map Set TT
Twelve Mile Bay (10.79MB) - Map Set DD
Wood Lake (4.72MB) - Map Set OO

River Maps:

Bala Reach of the Muskoka River (11.1MB) - Map Set R
Bent River (5.54MB) - Map Set Z
Big East River (15.6MB) - Map Set K
Black River (24.82MB) - Map Set AA
Fraserburg (15.4MB) - Map Set V
Hollow River (1.5MB) - Map Set RR
Huntsville Narrows (5.5MB) - Map Set L
Indian River at Port Carling (4.0MB) - Map Set Q
Moon River (33.7MB) - Map Set X
Muskoka River at Bracebridge (8.3MB) - Map Set P
Musquash River (36.3MB) - Map Set Y
North Branch of the Muskoka River at Springdale (3.8MB) - Map Set O
North Branch - US Bracebridge (9.46MB) - Map Set S
North Branch - US Mary Lake (6.06MB) - Map Set T
North Branch - Port Sydney (14.14MB) - Map Set U
South Branch of the Muskoka River at Baysville (2.5MB) - Map Set M
South Branch of the Muskoka River at Purbrook (11.3MB) - Map Set N
South Branch - DS Matthias (8.66MB) - Map Set W

Muskoka GeoHub Web Mapping Portal

NEW APRIL 2025: Muskoka GeoHub's updated Floodline and LiDAR Mapping 2.0 app gives you powerful new ways to see how flooding may impact your property. It’s especially helpful for seasonal property owners who want to stay informed, even when they’re not in Muskoka.

Here’s what’s new:

✅ Explore flood-prone areas in 2D and 3D
✅ See live lake levels, now updated hourly
✅ Use the new Live Lake Level Line to see where water may reach on your property – now available along with detailed hydrographs for these 7 lakes across Muskoka with live monitoring: (Bala Bay, Fairy Lake, Go Home Lake, Lake Muskoka, Lake of Bays, Lake Rosseau and Mary Lake)
✅ Filter data by structure, municipality, or lake to see affected areas and estimated values

Check it out now: GeoHub's updated Floodline and LiDAR Mapping 2.0 app or watch our video tutorial.

Learn more about Muskoka GeoHub.

FAQ's - Flooding and Floodplain Mapping

What is a Floodplain

A floodplain is a low-lying area next to lakes and rivers that is not ordinarily covered by water.

What is Floodplain Mapping?

Floodplain mapping identifies areas where a potential flood event may take place and shows the extent of lands that could be underwater during a flood. These identified areas are referred to as floodplains.

What is a Freshet?

While spring brings the promise of warmer weather and longer days, it also brings a variety of conditions, including heavy rain, severe weather and rapid snow melt that can increase the risk of flooding in flood-prone areas.
This spring thaw, commonly known as the freshet, is a result of snow and ice moving and melting into our lake and river systems, which can last for weeks as the snowpack melts

Who issues flood forecasts and warnings?

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) issues Flood Forecasts and Warnings in Muskoka.

What do I do if there is a Flood Warning Issued?

Flood warnings will come with instructions. The MNR, DMM and area municipal websites and social-media channels will also provide more information.

Who manages water levels in Muskoka?

Water levels are managed by the MNR through the Muskoka River Water Management Plan.

Who owns and operates the dams in Muskoka?

Dams in Muskoka are owned and operated by the MNR or by local power generation companies.

Are dams in the Muskoka River Watershed (MRW) meant to be flood control structures?

No. The dams in the MRW are intended to provide for recreational water use, transportation, and protection of aquatic habitat and fish spawning areas. For more information about dams contact the MNR.

What are the next steps in the FPMP?

The District will analyze the results of the data received through the FPMP and determine the next steps. The District will use the information to assess several options that include but are not limited to; potential localized mitigation strategies, planning implications, emergency plans and evacuation routes, quantify risk to infrastructure, and to look for funds to expand the project or embark on flood mitigation projects.

Be Flood Ready - Plan, Prepare, Practice!

Check out the District's Emergency Preparedness webpage for more resources on how you can be prepared for potential flooding in your area.

The information presented on this page is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered as legal advice. For legal advice please contact a legal professional.