Our Story
"You should do maple syrup…"
That simple suggestion, often repeated by a friend while hiking our trails or helping us clear a fallen tree, quietly planted a seed.
When the world slowed down in 2020 and we found ourselves spending more time in our woodlot, that idea returned again and again.
With encouragement from our friend, who brought decades of syrup making experience, we gathered a loaned evaporator pan and firebox, watched more than a few late-night YouTube tutorials, and decided to give it a try.
In March 2021, we tapped our first 40 trees using traditional buckets. For nearly a month, we snowshoed into the bush almost daily, hauling sap out by hand to boil. It felt magical to take part in such an iconic Canadian tradition.
Of course, spring in Muskoka has its realities. Snow turns to slush, and muddy trails are less charming when you're carrying two heavy pails of sap. But even on the messiest days, the sweet steam rising from our "sugar shack" (a converted trailer wrapped in plastic sheeting to keep us warm-ish) made every step worthwhile.
That first season, we produced just 18 litres of syrup. And we were hooked.
From those humble beginnings, and plenty of learning along the way, High Falls Woodlot has grown steadily. Today we manage over 240 taps connected by pipeline, allowing us to gather sap more efficiently and sustainably. Our trailer has been replaced by a converted garage that now houses a continuous flow evaporator and a fully enclosed filtering and bottling kitchen.
Heat. Power. Running water. We've come a long way.
As a small craft producer, we are proud members of the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers' Association, and value being part of a community that shares knowledge and celebrates one another's success. We follow all provincial regulations and quality standards required for commercial production, and we take great pride in the clarity, flavour, and consistency of every batch.
In 2025, we were especially honoured to receive ribbons (two 2nd place and one 3rd place) at both local and provincial maple syrup competitions. A meaningful milestone in our journey.
But beyond the equipment and recognition, what matters most is this: every bottle of syrup is made with care, hard work, and deep gratitude for the land that sustains us.
It is our hope that when you bring High Falls Woodlot maple syrup to your table, you taste not only the sweetness of spring, but also the story behind it.
Pam & Paul