It’s that time of year again, fall is in the air! Ready to go admire the golden encores and larches? I know I sure am! Leaf peeping is one of my favourite activities and I look forward to it every year. I did my best to include a variety of locations all over Ontario, and included some lesser known places. Maybe you’ll find somewhere you haven’t been before on this list!
Mer Bleue Bog Trail – Ottawa
This is first on the list merely because I am so excited that Ontario has larches to visit! This is a 1.4km loop trail that takes you along a boardwalk with incredible views of the northern boreal landscape. The larches turn yellow around mid to end October, I highly recommend visiting here if you get the chance! You might even see a beaver here.
The Crack – Killarney Provincial Park
This is a very popular trail here in Ontario, but have you ever thought about doing it in the Fall? The views sure are rewarding no matter the time of year, but I found viewing the changing colours extra special from the top.
Cheltenham Badlands – Cheltenham
Another location that is beautiful year round, but the colours of Fall bring out the badlands which is why this one is a must-see on my list. You can either reserve your trip here by paying, or you can hike in for free along the Bruce Trail like I did. Be sure to not actually step on the badlands themself, stay behind the fence to preserve this unique area.
Buck Lake – Limberlost Forest
Limberlost Forest is such an Ontario gem. You can’t go wrong with whichever trail you choose to do here! I particularly loved catching a Fall sunrise at the lookout and then did the 4.3km Buck Lake Loop Trail. The colours were just bursting with vibrance here!
Rock Dunder – Morton
This is likely the most popular location on this list, but that is because this is such a beautiful hike with a massive lookout. I truly think it is worth the hype, and I loved visiting here. If you need convincing, just look at my photos – they speak for themselves. Please note that there is paid entry and roadside parking.
Bottle Lake – Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
The only backcountry location on this list, accessible by canoe/kayak/paddle board. I absolutely love this lake, and it is a great spot for any fellow backcountry beginners who want to dabble in portaging. That makes this a great spot to view the Fall foliage from the lake, or at your waterfront campsite! Who doesn’t want that?
Centennial Ridges – Algonquin Provincial Park
This is one of my favourite Ontario trails overall, but going at the end of September allows for views of the golden encore and if you’re lucky, you might see a cloud inversion. AKA pure magic. Algonquin will always have a special place in my heart.
Eagles Nest Lookout – Greater Madawaska
I visited here late into October but was still treated to some vibrant colours which was pretty magical as this is a gorgeous lookout and there is so much parking now which I love to see!
Smokey Hollow Waterfall – Hamilton
A waterfall in Fall? Hear me out – I adore this hike and try to get to it every October. It is a pretty muddy trail so wear sturdy footwear that you don’t mind getting dirty, but when the sun is shining through the trees as you walk along the river you will see why I love it there so much. Don’t just stop at the waterfall, hike as far as you can to soak up all the views!
Niagara Glen – Niagara Falls
There are many trails at the Niagara Glen Nature Centre to choose from, and honestly all of them are so gorgeous. If I had to pick a favourite, I’d choose one that takes you by the water. I grew up in Niagara, so I have hiked these trails numerous times and visit frequently when I go back to the region. It is possible to hike all the trails in one day here, too. Or you could just park at the top and enjoy the roadside lookout!
Brown Hill Tract – Keswick
If you’re looking for an accessible trail that is quite beautiful, I recommend visiting the Brown Hill Tract in Keswick. There are a few trail options here, but when you park if you take the trail farthest to the right of the parking lot and sign, it’s a beautiful hike. I used to live in Keswick and would take my stroller here to walk with my children on beautiful Fall days.
Other Options…
- Dorset Lookout Tower – Dorset
- Tower Hill Heritage Garden – Parry Sound
- Huckleberry Rock – Milford Bay
- Beamers Memorial – Grimsby
- Kelso Conservation – Milton
- Dundas Peak – Dundas
- Skinners Bluff – Grey County
- Rattlesnake Point – Milton
- Devils Glen Provincial Park – Simcoe County
- Spy Rock Lookout – Westport
- Sager Conservation Area – Quinte West
I hope this list helps you in finding the perfect spot to have a Fall adventure this year!
Until next time,
Happy Trails!
Katie
Make a one-time donation
Make a monthly donation
Make a yearly donation
Choose an amount
Or enter a custom amount
Your contribution is appreciated and goes toward my adventures and blog fees. Thanks for helping make these posts possible!
Your contribution is appreciated.
Your contribution is appreciated.
Donate 🙂Donate 🙂Donate 🙂
yourmatiekatie 