Recent concerns and vigorous commentary about the state of Dyer Memorial posted on the social media site “What’s Happening In Huntsville, Ontario,” by a local resident prompted this reporter to visit the site on Friday, May 10, 2024.
Despite the moody weather and stormy cloud cover, Dyer Memorial and its extensive nature reserve were a peaceful, impressive, slightly hidden gem amongst the many interesting places to visit in the Huntsville area.
Dyer Memorial was constructed by Detroit Lawyer Clifton G. Dyer as a memorial to his wife, Betsy Browne Dyer, who died in 1956. Mrs. Dyer loved the outdoors. The Dyers discovered the area in 1936, eventually building a cottage on the Big East River. Their ashes are placed together in the Memorial.
In a rolling pine forest, situated high above the Big East River near Williamsport Road, the park is located about 11 kilometres Northeast of downtown Huntsville via Muskoka Road 3 and Williamsport Road. A rugged, rutted forest road follows the last kilometre up a steep incline to the parking lot. Be prepared to drive carefully. https://huntsvilleadventures.com/listing/dyer-memorial-2/
Approached by an ascending, stately walkway, the massive stone memorial is surrounded by gardens and paths that meander over the rolling hills as water pools below the towering cenotaph.
The Dyer Memorial grounds and nature trails officially open for the season on May 15. The Muskoka Conservancy manages the Dyer Memorial grounds and nature trails, which are maintained from May 15 to October 15 yearly. With its extensive mature pine forest, many of the paths are covered with winter debris, such as fallen pine needles, branches, and, in some instances, fallen trees. As in any natural forested area in Huntsville, paths can be craggy and weathered with unexpected downfalls. Hikers and visitors should prepare with proper footwear.
Scott Young, Executive Director of the Muskoka Conservancy, responded to a request for a comment on the social media apprehensions with this emailed statement:
- Dyer Memorial is open seasonally from May 15 to October 15.
- Muskoka Conservancy has a groundskeeper on contract to maintain the site, and a stone mason on contract to maintain the monument and surrounding stonework.
- For anyone interested in volunteering, or if you have questions or suggestions, please call Muskoka Conservancy at (705) 645-7393.
Dyer Memorial is a remarkable gift to visitors and residents of Huntsville. Its mature pine forest literally seems to be singing in the gusty winds that frequent such high terrain. Trails are not marked and twist and turn throughout the large reserve. Above all, this is a place of deep, quiet, and restful views, fitting in its intended purpose as the final resting place for two people who loved nature and Huntsville and bequeathed this beautiful spot for all to share.
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Craig Nakamoto says
Thanks for setting the record straight. People are too quick to criticize and make false and misleading statements on social media.
George Young says
What continues to be concerning is the condition of the roadway leading to the Dyer Memorial site. It continues to deteriorate and needs to be improved
Nancy Long says
I agree that the road is in terrible condition!