Art in the Park
Looking for a great year-round destination that is not weather dependent and shines in every season? You need to discover the Haliburton Sculpture Forest!
Found in Glebe Park, just outside the Village of Haliburton and adjacent to the Haliburton School of Art + Design, the Sculpture Forest is a unique combination of outdoor art gallery and casual hiking trail.
Experience the Haliburton Sculpture Forest!
Tucked into the forested trails along Head Lake are 40 sculptures, 3 art huts, and 6 one-of-a-kind benches created by Canadian and international artists.
Originally installed in 2001, the collection grows every year. Every piece tells a story; a story of it’s creation, it’s artistic vision, it’s location, and it’s materials.
You choose how to experience the Sculpture Forest. Admission is by donation, and you can choose your experience from self-guided or guided tours. Maps are available at sign kiosks, and QR codes allow you to view information on your phone. The guided experience tours happen regularly during the summer months, and you can book a special tour at any time of the year.
Year-round destination…
The Sculpture Forest is an ideal year-round destination. Every season offers a different experience, whether it is the dappled light of spring and summer, the colour of fall, or the crisp, bright light of winter. Rain, snow, frost, falling leaves and wind all highlight the sculptures in a unique way, inviting you to return and rediscover familiar pieces in a different light.
Open 24 hours/day and 365 days/year, the Sculpture Forest is also an ideal family destination. Many of the sculptures invite young and young-at-heart into physical exploration.
Smooth stone, forged metal, and bent wood all delight the senses in different ways. Some create inviting enclosed spaces, others highlight the expanse of tall trees and blue sky. Some are colourful and flamboyant, others are quiet and nearly hidden. The 1.5 Km path is wide and easily followed, with lots of stone stairways and side trails for “secret” explorations.
Summer
Spring
Fall
Winter
Making a day of it…
The Haliburton Sculpture Forest is a beautiful outdoor space featuring a collection of sculptures nestled in the forested landscape. To make the most of your day at the Haliburton Sculpture Forest, here are some suggestions:
- Dress Appropriately:
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring outdoor trails.
- Consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent, depending on the season.
- Bring Essentials:
- Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the beauty of the sculptures and the natural surroundings.
- Explore the Trails:
- Take your time to wander through the forest trails. The sculptures are strategically placed along the paths, creating a unique and immersive experience.
- Follow the trail map to ensure you don’t miss any sculptures.
- Engage with the Art:
- Take some time to reflect on each piece and consider its meaning.
- Picnic in the Forest:
- Pack a picnic lunch and find a scenic spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature, or visit some of local restaurants that are for sure to quench your hunger.
- Photography and Sketching:
- Capture the beauty of the sculptures and the surrounding landscape through photography or bring a sketchbook if you enjoy drawing.
- Nearby Attractions:
- If time allows, explore some other near by attractions like the Haliburton Highlands Museum.
Visit for the art, visit for the outdoor experience, visit for the first time or a weekly visit. Visit for the joy of discovery, or the reward of contemplation. Visit soon.
Be sure to check out the many other Outdoors Art Installations located in the Haliburton Highlands.