As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, Ontario transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant hues of reds, oranges, and yellows. As an outdoorsy person, this is the perfect time to explore Ontario’s stunning landscapes and to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall. Whether hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a scenic drive through a spectacular autumn display, here are some of the best places to see fall colours in Ontario.
Before you start your Ontario road trip, be sure to check out the Ontario Parks fall colour report for the updated foliage map. Mid-October is when peak fall colours set in, making it the ideal time for fall photography, outdoor activities, and enjoying a warm pumpkin spice beverage.
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1. Algonquin Park Fall Colours
As an Ontarian, the first place that comes to mind for fall colour viewing is Algonquin Provincial Park. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the full spectrum of fall foliage. With over 7,600 square kilometres of wilderness, this Ontario park offers countless hiking trails and lookout points to admire the colourful autumn leaves.
Highway 60 offers easy access to 15 walking trails, of which 6 have lookouts. A quick stop at the Algonquin Visiting Centre presents the best place to see fall colours in Ontario. It offers an incredible treetop view of the surrounding landscape and a way to experience the season-changing colours. The Algonquin fall scenery is stunning with sugar maples and tamarack trees displaying their brilliant yellow leaves and golden leaves.
Not a Fan of Mosquitos?
If you love adventure, Algonquin in the fall still offers so many things to do for families, couples or even the solo explorer! The colours are at their peak in early October, making it the best time for a visit.
Another reason I love Algonquin during the fall is the bug activity is almost nil (depending on the weather), which makes the fall hikes that much more pleasant. If you want to embrace the Algonquin colours a little longer – try camping! For the most part, depending on the campsite, it’s open until late October.
Fishing, however, ends at the end of September. But, don’t fret, you can still canoe the shores for an up-close experience and witness firsthand the changing Algonquin fall leaves.
Do note that you are required to purchase a day-use permit if you stop anywhere in Algonquin Park. Check here for Algonquin Park’s up-to-date fall report.
If you prefer not to camp and are looking for a place to spend the night – Whitney would be your closet bet to the main gates of Algonquin Park.
Explore our experience with spelunking in our Warsaw Caves Conservation Area review.
2. Fall Colours in Niagara Parkway
Algonquin Park is quite the trek, especially for those in the GTA. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive with no traffic! Thankfully, another spot to take in the fall leaves in Ontario is the Niagara Parkway. The parkway offers plenty of fall colour lookouts with stunning views of the Niagara River framed by colourful trees.
On the outskirts of Niagara-on-the-Lakes downtown is Fort George. If you’re looking for things to do with your friends – start here at the Niagara River Recreation Trail. This 53 km trail is perfect for fall hikes, biking, walking, and scootering and offers plenty of picnic tables along the way for rest and taking in the beautiful scenery. You will also find a winery or farm stand open along the way!
For a panoramic view of the fall colours on the river and surrounding landscape, stop at Queenston Heights. This park is perfect for families looking for a place to play, rest and take in the fall colours in Niagara! Experience the colour changing trees with a hike down the scenic trails, or spend the day playing at the playground. Don’t forget to enjoy a picnic overlooking Niagara or savour a meal at the on-site sit-down restaurant. Little heads up, there is a fee to park.
Best Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake
After a long day of taking in the fresh air along with the fall colours, chances are it might just be time for a nap. My absolute favourite hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake is 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa. The staff is super friendly, our room was clean and overlooking Queen Street. For dinner, stop at the Treadwell Cuisine, just below the hotel. The food is to die for, a bit pricey, but worth every penny! After a great night’s rest, hit the Starbuck’s just outside the hotel on your left for a venti Pumpkin Spice Latte 😉
For lunch, again a bit pricey, but delicious are the Hungarian Chimney Cakes from Budapest Bakeshop – whether it’s the sandwich or a coated chimney – they’re all so good! Yes, we frequent this place quite often. To be fair, finding great tasting food on the strip can be difficult – we chase after flavour, and most places are bland, but to each his own.
Looking for a suspension bridge near me? Check out our list of the 12 Most Beautiful Suspension Bridges in Ontario.
3. Blue Mountains Fall Colours
Blue Mountains is equally stunning in the fall. Hike the trails or take the gondola to the top for breathtaking views of the fall colours that blanket the hills and valleys below. Time your visit for the weekend of October 10th. Not only will you experience fall foliage in Ontario, but you can also attend the Apple Harvest Fest celebrations, a free event!
For a family-friendly adventure, a short drive to Collingwood’s 420-foot-long suspension bridge will leave you breathless. The views of Georgian Bay and its surroundings are awe-inspiring. Prepare to take in views of the fall canopy 82 feet above the forest floor. Now that’s worth the Ontario travel!
The Collingwood suspension bridge is part of Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. There is a fee to enter the park. However, the park does offer more than just incredible views. The entrance fee also includes access to explore the caves, hike a 15 km trail, a children’s playground, lookouts, etc.
4. Fall Foliage on The Bruce Trail
Stretching over 1,300 kilometres, Ontario’s Bruce Trail offers some of the best hiking opportunities to experience the vibrant colours of fall in Ontario. Sections of the trail, particularly around the Niagara Escarpment, provide spectacular views of stunning red and yellow changing leaves.
5. Autumn Leaves in Prince Edward County
This charming region is not only known for its 40+ wineries but also for its stunning fall colours. Explore the countryside, hike one of their 13 trails, visit local farms, and enjoy the picturesque views of the vineyards and trees in their autumn glory. As with Niagara, rent a bike from one of a few local shops to tour the island.
Time the best time to see the autumn foliage with Prince Edward County’s annual fall festival – Pumpkinfest on October 18th. See map below for location and accommodations.
Check out the Egan Chute photos, find out where to park and what to do at the Egan Chutes Provincial Park.
Ontario Fall Colours Conclusion
Tourists from all over the world flock to Ontario for the fall colour season as it’s magnificent and breathtaking, and there’s no better way to experience them than by getting outdoors. Whether you prefer hiking, driving, or simply soaking in the views, the province offers many options for every nature lover. From the Muskoka fall colours in central Ontario to the Huntsville fall colours near Algonquin, and from southern Ontario to northern Ontario, the entire province comes alive with autumn colours.
So grab your hiking boots, bike or pack a picnic, and set out to explore the vibrant landscapes that Ontario has to offer this fall! Fall in Ontario is magical, with warm fall weather creating the perfect conditions for outdoor activities and fall day trips. The intense colour palette of red leaves, orange leaves, and yellow leaves creates the perfect backdrop for fall photography.
Even if affordability is an issue, do yourself a favour, climb to the highest peak in your area and take in the warmth of the autumn sun, the scent of the crisp falling leaves and the vibrance of the colourful foliage. These sights alone will guarantee a smile!
👉 Comment below where your favourite place to see fall colours is?
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