The Haliburton Highlands Water Trails are a network of canoe-and-portage routes through Crown land lakes north of town, run by a small non-profit. Permits are required and most outfitters in town can arrange them along with canoe rental. Compared with Algonquin the routes are quieter, the portages are shorter, and you can be on the water within an hour of leaving the village.
Most circuits take two to four days. The Big Hawk Lake to Nunikani Lake loop is a popular weekend trip; the longer Frost Centre routes give a real wilderness feel. The water is dark and clean, fish are still abundant, and you will see loons and probably moose. Black flies peak in late May and early June; July and August are easier.