Custom Outdoor Stairs & Walkway
Lake of Bays | Completed September 2019
This Lake of Bays property required a safe and accessible way to travel from the cottage down to the waterfront several hundred feet below. The existing dirt and rock path was steep, uneven, and increasingly difficult to navigate. The homeowners wanted a solution that was practical, gradual, and safe, one that would allow them to continue enjoying their waterfront as they aged, while preserving the natural beauty of their forested landscape.
The Challenge
The terrain presented significant obstacles. The hillside was extremely steep and rocky, with access limited by the surrounding forest. Materials and tools had to be transported a considerable distance from the cottage, and the structure needed to work with, not against, the existing topography.
The Solution
Elements of Muskoka designed and constructed a custom forest walkway that feels like an adventure in itself. A thoughtful combination of cascading steps and longer, gently sloped sections creates a gradual descent that is easy to navigate. Midway down, a built-in bench offers a place to rest and enjoy the surrounding forest.
The design emphasizes both safety and enjoyment. Rather than a simple staircase, the result is a flowing pathway that weaves naturally through the trees.
Design Features
Alternating short stair sections and longer flat walkways for gradual descent
Built-in resting bench
Layout designed to follow the natural contours of the land
Construction that blends seamlessly into the forested surroundings
The Result
The completed walkway provides safe, reliable access to the waterfront while maintaining the integrity of the landscape. What was once a treacherous descent is now a beautiful, functional pathway that enhances the overall property experience.
The structure feels as though it has always been part of the forest, allowing the homeowners to enjoy their waterfront comfortably for years to come.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
Whether you’re planning a small project or a larger build, we’d love to hear about your ideas. Reach out to start a conversation and learn how our honest, hands-on approach can make your project a smooth and positive experience.