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Guide: Must Visit Ontario Small Towns & Cities During Fall

Published by To Do Canada On September 16, 2025 Leave a response

The fall colours are bright, warm, and abundant across Ontario. No matter the region in which you want to plan a fall Ontario roadtrip, the great scenery is around every corner. Plus, each Ontario town or fall destination has its own unique reasons to visit. These come from the local fall or Halloween events, harvest and farm fun, apple and pumpkin picking, or birding for the migration season.

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Credit: Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre

A fall road trip may take you anywhere in Ontario, but these towns and small cities have enough to fill entire weekends with fall fun.

Huntsville

 
Consider Huntsville the heart of the Muskoka region. And with this location, it is easy to expect a great deal of fall foliage and scenery. Plus, the region has just as much outdoor recreation and opportunities for adventure among the colours. The town is also situated between two fairly large lakes, as well as between the Georgian Bay and Algonquin Provincial Park. And while all of the surrounding areas have much to offer this fall, so too does the town of Huntsville!

  • The fall colours come alive in Huntsville and around the Muskoka region, with a few local trails that offer a great view of the treetops. The Hunters Bay Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, runs 13km in one direction along the shores of the Bay.
  • The Lion’s Lookout area in Huntsville is a simple way to appreciate the colourful leaves of fall in town, and a short walk is involved to get to the lookout.
  • Appreciate the area’s fall colours outside of town with the Arrowhead Provincial Park trails. The park has trails for varying skill levels and a great variety of bird species to watch for as they make their way south.
  • Lake Vernon, on the west side of Huntsville, and Fairy Lake, on the east side, are both accessible for a fall paddle via the Avery Beach Boat Launch (within the Bay). Plus, there is a second launch on Lake Vernon at Hutcheson Beach.
  • Paddle through a bit of history on top of the beautiful fall colours with a trip on the Muskoka River. The River passes through the Brunel Locks, open until Thanksgiving.
  • See the fall colours around Huntsville by bike, foot, boat, or rail with the Muskoka Heritage Place. Their Fall Train Rides run until Thanksgiving weekend.
  • Each September, the Huntsville & District Agricultural Society hosts a local Fall Fair. The Fall Fair in Huntsville boasts a vendor market, demolition derby, and outdoor stage for live music, a midway, and chances to see the farm animals.
  • Stick around Huntsville for the weekend before Halloween. The downtown area will host a Tiny Tots Costume Parade, a Pumpkin Pop-up with carvings from numerous businesses, and encouragement to stay in costume all day!

Dorset

Central Ontario’s town of Dorset is in a special location, especially if fall scenery is what you’re after this season. Dorset is within the Algonquin Highlands (Haliburton Highlands county) and the edge of the Muskoka region. This provides seemingly endless outdoor fun like camping, boating, hiking, and birding. Explore the nature, history, and culture of Dorset this fall with more attractions like museums, tours, or the special fall celebration.

  • Book a fall cruise around Lake of Bays and among the gorgeous fall colours with Dorset’s SS Bigwin and Museum. The cruise tours include a sightseeing option (until early October), and a dining option (until mid-September).

  • Explore the waters around Dorset on a self-guided adventure. The area boasts dozens of public launch areas, and the surrounding forests for exceptional canoeing or kayaking scenery during Fall season. The Lake of Bays could take days’ worth of exploring on the water. For a smaller lake near Dorset, take advantage of public launches at Otter Lake, Raven Lake, or Kawagama Lake. See all the nearby boat access points here.
  • Check with the Algonquin Highlands Trails Office for canoe rentals!
  • The Lake of Bays Scenic Drive may be the perfect guide to anyone looking for a scenic fall road trip. The guide takes drivers from Dorset, to Baysville, and north to Dwight, to encircle the entire Lake of Bays. Continue further north by about 30km for more fall scenery from Algonquin Provincial Park.
  • Those wanting to stay closer to Dorset have local hiking trail options, and a few outside of town.

  • Get the ultimate view of the Algonquin Highlands during fall with the Dorset Scenic Tower Lookout. The Tower is at the end of the Dorset Scenic Tower Road but can also be accessed with a climb up the trail from the Heritage Museum. Tickets are required to enter and climb the tower and are available as of September 3rd.
  • Oxtongue River-Ragged Falls Provincial Park offers great views of the waterfalls with short and simple trails.
  • Join the Algonquin Highlands community in celebrating their annual Fall Colours Fly-in event. The celebration takes place at the Stanhope Municipal Airport with an air show, food vendors, a classic car show, and chances for helicopter rides.

Haliburton

Like Dorset, the village of Haliburton is part of the much larger Highlands County. The village is a perfect fall destination for anyone looking for lots to do in a quiet and peaceful setting. Within town are several places to explore, dine, or shop, all with the Haliburton Highlands and forests creating picturesque scenery for any fall activity.

  • The fall events in Haliburton help to celebrate the fall colours and nature through The Hike Haliburton Festival, or arts and culture with ColourFest and the Fall Studio Tours (weekends in October). And every week until October 7, enjoy the local Haliburton Farmers’ Market!
  • Local trails around Haliburton are a quick and simple way to take in amazing fall and Highland views. Start at the Museum grounds with the Haliburton Sculpture Forest. See the town from the opposite side of Head Lake with the Skyline Park Lookout Trail. For more extensive or challenging hikes, visit the nearby The Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve with over 400km of trails.
 
  • Explore the town of Haliburton and its fall colours from the water of Head Lake with four local boat launches. And under 10km from Haliburton is another public launch onto Outlet Bay, where paddlers can access Spruce Lake or Drag Lake. Contact Algonquin Outfitters for canoe, kayak, or SUP rentals from Haliburton.
  • The Haliburton Highlands Museum is a year-round attraction with indoor and outdoor exhibits to explore. The museum is in Glebe Park, across Head Lake from the village. It is home to the Sculpture Forest and scenic fall picnic locations.
  • A walk or bike ride around Haliburton will reveal public art galleries, the Jet Fighter Memorial, Rthe otary Locomotive, and the local parks.

Owen Sound

While many think of the Georgian Bay when they hear Owen Sound, the town is near a great deal of other natural attractions. Some of these attractions, including the Great Lake, are exceptional to take in on an autumn road trip. Make the most of the trip with the Owen Sound fall events like the Salmon Run, a day in the River District, or a picnic by the water.

  • Take advantage of the fall harvest season with the Owen Sound Farmers’ Market, open year-round.
  • Celebrate the fall feature events in Owen Sound, like the Sweetwater Music Festival (mid-September), or the Halloween Trick-or-Treat Trail in the River District.
  • Fall is salmon season in Owen Sound! From mid-September to mid-October, the salmon are spawning in the waters around town to create a “salmon run.” The town has provided guides on how to hike, paddle, or cycle the free Salmon Tour, as well as the best viewing areas for witnessing the natural event.
 
  • Enjoy the fall scenery and colours around Owen Sound, along with some waterfall and river views. There are several opportunities for a waterfall hike near town, including Inglis Falls, Weavers Creek Falls, Jones Falls, or Indian Falls. Each of these hikes is 2km or shorter round-trip, which allows time to view them all in a day!
  • A walk along the 3km Owen Sound Waterfront will offer excellent displays of fall foliage, historical plaques to read, access to picnic areas, and more trails. Continue this walk into the main streets of Owen Sound to take in the beauty of the older architecture along with the mature trees and fall colours.

 

Kingston

Whether your fall road trip is centred on fall harvests or festivals, Halloween, fall colours, or any outdoor recreation, Kingston has a bit of it all! The city, east of Toronto, is at the opening of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario and overlooks the Thousand Islands. There is limitless fall fun on and off the water this season in Kingston, whether you want to relax, find Halloween fun, shop, dine, or do it all.

  • Fall tours are on now at the Kingston Pen.
  • The beauty of the St. Lawrence’s Thousand Islands during the fall is best appreciated from the water. The 1000 Islands Cruises offer scenic boat rides or a Ghost and Mystery Cruise, both available in September or October.

 

  • There is public access to the river for self-guided paddles or boat rides around the Thousand Islands. Ahoy Rentals offers everything one would need for an adventure on or off the water, including bike or kayak rentals, bike tours, sailing charters, and shuttle service for the Rideau Canal.
  • Fruition Berry Farm bring visitors a packed schedule of fall fun. A few farm features include the corn maze, pumpkin patch and picking, wagon rides, and vendor stalls.
  • Smaller fall events in Kingston include the Art After Dark evening, when visitors are encouraged to browse local galleries with artists on-site.
  • Southern Ontario’s K&P Trail travels through Kingston for 22km with several spots covered in the shade of mature trees. The trail leads through varying types of scenery and some of Kingston’s brightest fall colours.
  • Visit the city’s Lake Ontario Park on the waterfront for a mix of lake and fall colour views and access to several different trails. Take your adventures even further across the water to Wolfe Island which is accessible year-round by ferry!
  • Take a spooky trolley ride or get tickets for Halloween fright at Fort Henry to round out your fall trip to Kingston.

Morrisburg

One of the most intensive ways to explore Morrisburg is through a deep dive into the St. Lawrence River. In 1959, part of the village was lost to seaway flooding, and professional divers come from all around to see the road and canal remnants under the water.

  • Choose between several fall activities at the nearby Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary, including camping, beach picnics, cycling, or hiking- all available at the park until October 26.
  • Morrisburg and the Bird Sanctuary are connected with a beautiful waterfront trail open to hikers and cyclists. This would be a lengthy hike at 16km one-direction, but a pleasant bike ride as your route passes the Upper Canada Village and Chrysler’s Farm. Shorter trails for hikers are available in the Sanctuary, offering options for both forested and waterfront hikes.
  • A scenic picnic spot is easy to find around this part of the St. Lawrence, and right in Morrisburg. Take to the local beach with access to waterfront trails, and the nearby local dining spots.
  • Explore the beautiful fall scenery around the St. Lawrence River with the help of the Chrysler Park Marina. The Marina offers canoe, kayak, SUP, and bike rentals, along with launch space.

 

Bala

 

A visit to Bala during the fall months is a perfect opportunity to see why this rural town in Muskoka is dubbed the Cranberry Capital of Canada. The fall cranberry harvest is in full swing with festivals, tasting opportunities, and farm tours. It is also right on the shores of the scenic Muskoka Lake, where the fall colours take centre stage with the cranberries each September and October.

  • The local Bala’s Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery host their guided tours into mid-October, as well as the annual Bala Cranberry Festival and Cran-Anne contest (Anne of Green Gables look-alike contest).
  • Celebrate the cranberry harvest yet another way near Bala with the Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery. They are open year-round for tours, tastings and special fall harvest activities.
  • The Winery also operates a hiking area with options for easy hikes or more challenging uphill routes. Each of the trails includes historical or interpretive information along the way.

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  • Take in some of the best Muskoka fall scenery that surrounds Bala with a nature hike in the nearby parks. To the east of Bala is Hardy Lake Provincial Park, with loops ranging from 3.2-8.9km.
  • The Torrance Barrens Conservation Area & Dark Sky Preserve south of Bala are the perfect location for an evening or sunset hike before the stars come out. The park offers three route options, with two being 3.5km and the third being 4km in length.
  • Some of the best fall foliage right in town is found at Windsor Park, which has trails and picnic areas that overlook Bala Bay.
  • Cruise the waters of Bala Bay this fall on self-guided boat trips with watersport rentals from Bala Cove Marina.

 

Westport

The Village of Westport is in Ontario’s Rideau region and sits on the east shores of Rideau Lake. And to the east of town, the much smaller Westport Sand Lake continues the waterfront scenery. Given Westport’s location, there is lakefront scenery all around the village, and likely on the drive into town. The area is dotted with adorable accommodation options, places to dine or try a local drink, golf courses, and dozens of local shops.

  • The Foley Mountain Conservation Area is on an elevated ridge overlooking Westport. The area offers great opportunities to look out over the area’s fall colours with several short looping trails and the notably scenic Spy Rock Lookout. Pack a picnic and begin your adventures from the Visitor’s Centre for more information. There are around 10km of trails to cover, all leading to incredible viewpoints.
  • Frontenac Provincial Park’s north end and Kingsford Dam are under a 20-minute drive from Westport. Extensive trails begin from here, with the option to turn back whenever you wish and create a hike of your choice. And those wanting to explore this side of the park from the water can start a 700m portage from the dam to Devil Lake.
  • The beauty of the mid-19th century architecture around Westport is amplified in the fall with the bright foliage and colours. Take a self-guided historical tour around Westport with over 30 stops to see.
  • A cycle tour is another great way to explore Westport in the fall, with the trails connecting to many of the area’s waterfronts. There are also great routes for day trips or multi-day cycling trips around the area.
  • Take time in Westport to celebrate the annual Westporch Festival with a full day of live music starting at 9am on September 20, 2025.
  • Westport’s Rideau District Museum is a great source for local history with year-round hours, and for more ways to celebrate this fall with upcoming paranormal workshops.

 

Gananoque

The town of Gananoque is easily considered a basecamp for adventures in the Thousand Islands National Park. The nearby park offers great fall fun, while several other seasonal activities are available on the city’s main streets. Gananoque sits on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, and the Gananoque River also crosses the city.

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Credit: Humyn/Rami Accoumeh/Destination Ontario

  • City Cruises Gananoque provides one of the most memorable ways to experience the fall foliage of the river. Choose between 1, 3, or 5-hours cruises.
  • Joel Stone Beach and other waterfront beach parks provide excellent fall colour views with the added advantage of waterfront scenery.
  • Some of the best fall hikes near Gananoque are courtesy of the Thousand Islands National Park mainland trails around Mallorytown Landing, Jones Creek, and Landon Bay.
  • Keep your hike in the heart of Gananoque with the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (along the St. Lawrence), or the Riverside Loop (along the Gananoque).
  • ‘Tis the season in Gananoque for a variety of events. The local Farmers’ Market is open until October, while the Gan Arts Fest offers a weekend full of over 40 free activities.
  • Embark on a guided or self-guided fall paddle around Gananoque with the help of 1000 Islands Kayaking. They offer their guided paddle trips and rentals for self-guided adventure until October 13th.

  • Access points to the St. Lawrence from Gananoque include the Lions Boat Launch, Gananoque Municipal Marina Boat Launch, or Gananoque Day Dock & Kayak Launch.
  • For access to the Gananoque River, use the River Street Boat Launch or the River Street Canoe & Kayak Launch.

St. Jacobs

This small community on the north side of Kitchener offers great access to southwestern Ontario’s best fall scenes. Not only that, but St. Jacobs also offers some of the best fall scenes within the Waterloo Region.

  • Find some of the fall scenery along the Avon or Health Valley Trails, both of which follow the south banks of the Conestogo River.
  • Pack a lunch or picnic for the local 3 Bridges Picnic Park with access to short trails and gorgeous riverside scenery.
  • Board Kitchener-Waterloo‘s famous heritage train at St. Jacob’s Farmers Market Station and ride through the Waterloo Region countryside, enjoying fall colours on the historic railway branch between Waterloo and the Town of Elmira.
  • Benjamin Tree Farm offer quintessential fall activities for a southwestern Ontario fall road trip. Choose between activities like pumpkin picking, a kids’ corn maze, wagon or tractor rides, and the jumping pillow.
  • St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is a year-round shopping opportunity in the town’s Market District. Other features here include Market Road Antiques, Mennonite Story Museum tours, the St. Jacobs Outlet Mall, and Stockyards Brewing Co. Tickets are also now on sale from the Market District for the annual Harvest Hoedown on September 20.
  • Celebrate more fall events in St. Jacobs with the Kissing Bridge Art Tour, or the Halloween festival Pumpkinpalooza.

Blue Mountain

As a year-round outdoor playground and destination for adventure, the Blue Mountain provide as much fun for fall as any season. The resort plays host to many events, while the entire area is draped in gorgeous fall colours. Appreciate the fall colours and the scenic Georgian Bay, with multiple trails for hikers and bikers. Be sure to check with the resort for stay-and-play packages as well! Craigleith is the next closest town and is home to waterfront trails and picnic spots.

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Credit: Blue Mountain

  • Fall events at Blue Mountain go well into October and pop up every week. These include Happy Hour Hikes (weekly), the Guitar Trail , the Kids Adventure Games, the Slope Style Fashion Show, Apple Harvest Weekend, and the Spartan Race weekend.
  • A Play All Day Pass at the Blue Mountain gets you a great deal and pass to multiple attractions. These include the top attractions like Canopy Climb Adventure, the Climbing Centre, Timber Ropes Challenge course, Cascade Putting Course, Open Air Gondola, Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, the Triple Zips, and evening Path of Light Show.
  • There are over 25km of hiking trails to wander and explore through the Blue Mountain Park.
  • The Cascade Trail, Green World, and Lower Green Trails all connect to create 5.2km of hiking trails. These trails include gorgeous fall scenery on top of a waterfall, streams, the Enchanted Forest, and the Rainbow Bridge. The climb up the Cascade Trail is the most challenging part of the route.
  • The Woodview Trail is a short and simple loop with the Sunny Side Up Trail offering an additional .5km.
  • More beautiful hikes and family-friendly activities are available near the Resort at the Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. The area offers 15km of trails, mini golf, train rides for small children, picnic areas, and dining at the Trail’s End Grill.

  • Pack a picnic and explore the shoreline town of Craigleith. The Northwinds Beach has picnic amenities and access to the Georgian Trail. Several places for picnics and takeout snacks can be found in the Blue Mountain Village and Craigleith.

Kingsville

Enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of southern Ontario’s beach towns after the summer crowds have departed for the season. Kingsville, on the Lake Erie shores, is often thought of as a summer destination. And for good reason! This beach town has gorgeous lake parks with warm, shallow swimming water. But for the fall, the calmer vibes create a perfect setting for the local fall fun or as a place to stay and dine after exploring Point Pelee National Park.

  • Take in all the fall farm fun around Kingsville ,including the pumpkin patch and corn maze at Allsop Farm Pumpkins & More, or the apple-picking with Meleg’s Lakeview Orchard & Cider Mill (until November).
  • Bring the paddle boats for a scenic fall experience in the Cedar Creek Conservation Area with a small dock.
  • The Kingsville Waterfront Trail has the backdrop of Lake Erie amplified with the foreground of fall foliage.
  • Sit back while enjoying the fall colours and southern Ontario scenery, and embark on an Essex-Windsor wine or brewery tour from Grape Vine.
 

 

Penetanguishene

The far eastern end of Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay is surrounded by lush greenery and forests. And these parts of Ontario are more rural to make for a beautiful, quiet and peaceful fall getaway. The town of Penetanguishene is a perfect destination for anyone looking to celebrate the fall season and holidays, anyone looking for adventures and thrills, or those looking to get back to nature.

  • The local Discovery Harbour Museum is officially closed for the season; however, the Harbour Museum will play host to the Pumpkinferno event from October 2-November 2. During this month, Discovery Harbour will also host Escape Room challenges.
  • Sightsee across the island-dotted Georgian Bay with the local boat tour companies, each of whom offer special fall colour trips; these include the Georgian Spirit Cruises (also have a Haunted Halloween Cruise), Landmark Cruises, and Diverse Rentals.

  • The Tiny Trail begins at the south end of Penetanguishene and connects to the Rotary Park Waterfront trails in town. The Waterfront Trails and the Tiny Rail Trail town both offer great views between the Penetang Harbour and the wooded areas of Simcoe County.
  • The Copeland Creek Trail in town leads toward the other side of the harbour for views of the town and fall colours over the water.

Paris

Paris is part of Brant County in southwestern Ontario and is a short drive from the city of Brantford. Step away from any of the nearby cities to enjoy a fall road trip through Paris, Ontario, and get the best of many quintessential autumn experiences. The town sits at the junction of the Nith and Grand Rivers. These two smaller rivers make paddling a premier way to enjoy Paris in the spring, summer, or fall.

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Grand Experiences Outdoor Adventure Co

  • There are many excellent opportunities for simple and challenging fall hikes around Paris. The Penman’s Pass Trail and Nith River Trail keep your adventures right in town. And on the north side of Paris is the start of this side of the Paris-Cambridge Rail Trail. This adventure follows the Grand River’s banks the entire way.
  • Enjoy the local history, fall foliage, and culture with the Paris Museum & Historical Society’s Saturday September walking tours.
  • Embark on more adventurous tours of the area with Grand Experiences Outdoor Adventure Co. who offer fall colour tours for bikes, hikes, and paddles.
  • Experience the beauty of the area from the water on a self-guided trip with rentals from the Grand River Rafting Company. They operate from Brantford until mid-October.
  • Celebrate the holidays of fall with the Paris Fairgrounds. This season, the Fairgrounds and Agricultural Society host a Night Market, Oktoberfest, Wicked Witches Halloween Market, Woolstock Fleece Festival, Buttertart & Mac + Cheese Festival, and the Christmas in Paris Multi-Vendor Show.

 

Elora

Located on the banks of Grand & Irvine Rivers, Elora together with Fergus provides some of the most picturesque fall scenery in Ontario.

  • Victoria Park provides excellent views of Elora Gorge, all awash in fall colours.
  • And on the other side of Fergus are 3km more of trails in the Belwood Lake Conservation Area. The Elora Gorge and Belwood Lake Conservation Areas are connected by the 47km Cataract Trailway, perfect for seeing the area by bike.
  • One Axe Pursuits offers incredible outdoor adventure opportunities in the centre of Elora. Choose between urban or cliff rappelling, mountain climbing, or their Zipline Extreme and take in Elora’s fall scenery along with some thrills.
  • The Elora Tours group provide local walking and step-on tours by request. Their options for discovering the beauty of the area’s historical buildings, and some of the historical stories, including a Fergus Ghost Walk!
  • The Wellington Museum & Archives is technically part of the Fergus township but is located about halfway between Elora and Fergus. The museum grounds alone are worth a visit during the fall, while the interior houses an array of artistic and historical exhibits.
  • The Museum is a great place for fall events, too, as they host their annual Pumpkin Walk on November 1st, as well as Cemetery Tours and Murder Mystery Nights through October.
  • Don’t miss the chance for an Elora Fergus Studio Tour this fall! An opening gala kicks off the event on September 18th while the tours continue the following two weekends.

 

Kenora

 

The untouched wilderness of northwestern Ontario has much to offer a fall road trip with, of course, the fall foliage at the centre of it all. The city of Kenora is at the heart of this part of Ontario and is on the northern shores of the expansive Lake of the Woods. The larger region of Kenora stretches further north to the Black Sturgeon Lakes.

  • There are dozens of trails between the town of Kenora and the large Kenora region for beautiful fall hikes. Wass’say’Gaa’Boo (Tunnel Island Trail) is on the west side of the city and offers close to 10km of path and an incredible amount of wildlife and birds. The Rat Portage Urban Trail is the best way to see the city of Kenora, the harbourfront, and downtown.
  • Enjoy even more fall birding and wildlife viewing (on top of the fall foliage of mature trees), through the Mink Bay Trail in Keewatin.
  • Lake of the Woods Museum & Douglas Family Art Centre are open year-round with historical exhibits, artistic galleries and workshops, and other small events.
 
  • The Lake of the Woods is named as such, thanks to the heavily wooded islands that dot the huge lake. During the fall, this northwestern part of Ontario is ablaze with warm colours that can best be appreciated with a paddle near the Kenora shores.
  • Extend your stay with a visit to Rushing River Provincial Park for exquisite fall hikes along raids.
  • Shop local in Kenora this fall with the Matiowski Farmers’ Market open every Wednesday morning until October 1

 

Dundas

This part of Ontario is called the Dundas Valley, as it sits at the western edge of Lake Ontario and the bottom of the Niagara Escarpment. Dundas was its own town at one point and is now officially part of Hamilton. The area is cut with several streams and creeks, which are lined with lush greenery to create beautiful natural areas all around Dundas. This more rural part of Hamilton takes your Ontario fall road trip away from the busy Lake Ontario shores and into areas of bright fall foliage, peaceful or raging waterfalls, and more fall fun.

  • The Hanes Corn Maze and Tiny Shop bakery are to the northwest of Dundas and offer family-friendly fall fun with Farmland, a Mini Corn Maze, and a Sunflower Maze.
  • Dundas Valley Conservation Area offers a large trail system of over 40km through the Carolinian Forest. Make your way to the area’s four different waterfalls for picturesque fall hikes or bike rides. Each of the trails begins from the Dundas Valley Trail Centre.
  • Get great views of more waterfalls in the area with a hike through the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area and to the Webster Falls. During the autumn months, Webster Falls is surrounded by an array of greens, golds, and reds.
  • The natural parts around the Dundas Valley are incredible in the fall, while the centre of town also has many great urban fall activities. Join the Dundas Museum & Archives Ghost Walks or Fall Studio Tours.
  • Downtown Dundas also offers a wide range of local shopping and dining options.

Gravenhurst

Lake Muskoka offers endless reasons to visit almost any time of the year. The cottage country for summer vacations, the quiet of spring, or the winter celebrations. And in the fall, certain parts of the region add even more reasons to make a road trip out of it. Gravenhurst is situated at the southernmost end of Lake Muskoka and is surrounded by several additional bodies of water. It is a stop on a fall road trip with all the amenities of a city, and the natural spaces fit for a peaceful getaway.

  • Fall colour sightseeing cruises on Muskoka Lake are available this September and October with Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre. Take time as well to explore the exhibits and galleries of the Discovery Centre.

  • There are many ways to enjoy the fall scenery around Gravenhurst with self-guided exploration. The Peninsula Trail also offers great easy walks along the waterfront, plus many tables and shelters for fall picnics.
  • In addition to fall scenery, the Brydon’s Bay Trail also offers great opportunities for birding, wildlife viewing, and nature photography.
  • Take the fall colour hike outside of Gravenhurst to the Devil’s Gap Trail, 8.4km total.
  • A fall paddle is another great way to appreciate the Muskoka Scenery. Take on some of the area’s smaller lakes like Gull, Turtle, or Morrison for a peaceful day on the water.
  • Explore some local history in Gravenhurst this fall at the Bethune Memorial House National Historic Site. The beautiful grounds will be made even prettier by the fall colours while the museum is open until the end of October.

Bancroft

Begin a fall road trip through central Ontario with Bancroft and do so for several reasons! First, the smaller town has a great deal of local dining options, nearby accommodations, and several Provincial Parks within a two-hour drive. Second, the fall colours surround Bancroft during September and October across the York River Valley. The area has much to offer a fall trip for an outdoor enthusiast, someone looking to kick back, or for a getaway somewhere in the middle.

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Credit: Bancroft Eagles Nest Park

  • The best fall views of the York River Valley are within easy access from Bancroft at the Eagles Nest Park. The park features five main trails, including four loops and one direct line from the parking lot to the Hawk Watch Platform. Each trail is under a kilometre in length to allow plenty of time for completing each loop, finding all the lookouts, and taking in the wonderful scenery.
  • For some waterfall and fall colour views outside of the town, visit Egan Chutes Provincial Park with one quick hike and one longer hike.
  • Another park near Bancroft is Silent Lake Provincial Park , which offers fall colour hikes for all experience levels. The 1.5 km Lakehead Loop Trail provides a peaceful, short walk through cedar, hemlock, and maple. Bonnie’s Pond Trail (3 km) passes a beaver pond and offers scenic lookouts. The challenging 15 km Lakeshore Trail rewards experienced hikers with rugged terrain, hardwood forests, and stunning views.
  • More great fall colour hikes around Bancroft include the High Falls Trail at 5km total, or the Hastings Heritage Trail, which follows the York River through town.
  • Visit the Bancroft North Hastings Heritage Museum to learn through nine different year-round exhibits.
  • Do not miss doing rock and gem shopping for the upcoming Christmas season.

Bracebridge

Consider Bracebridge your next stop on an Ontario fall road trip if adventure is on the itinerary. The town is in the south of the Muskoka region and near the shores of Muskoka Lake. On top of these features, Bracebridge also sits on the banks of the Muskoka River, where it breaks off into several smaller creeks and streams. The natural beauty around Bracebridge is only enhanced by the preservation of the late 1800s architecture.

  • At the heart of town is Bracebridge Bay Park, where several types of fall adventures can begin, like a paddle down the river or a walk/bike ride through town. The park also offers the best views of Bracebridge Falls.
  • There are more local waterfalls to see! Access the Wilson Falls from the trail of the same name on the Muskoka River’s North Branch. Then the High Falls area is actually made up of five waterfalls to see and can be accessed from the High Falls Road.
  • Travel to the shores of Lake Muskoka for a fall picnic at either Kirby’s Beach Park or Bowyer’s Beach Park.
  • With the harvest season in full swing, it is the perfect time of year to hit up Bracebridge’s local shops like the Muskoka Natural Food Market, Hiram St Market, Fresh Kutz Market & Grill, or McMaster’s Muskoka Fine Foods. Additionally, the Bracebridge Farmers’ Market will be open until the Thanksgiving weekend.
  • Take in the area’s fall foliage from the water! Local rental shops like Muskoka Powersports & Recreation offer their boats (SUPs, fishing boats, sea-doos) until October 31st.

 

Sault Ste. Marie

The north side of Lake Huron connects to Lake Superior via the St. Mary’s River with the city of Sault Ste. Marie is central to these shorelines. This location helps make the small northern city a hub of outdoor adventure of all kinds, and for every season. The fall fun in Sault Ste. Marie can help you celebrate many events or holidays and can include a number of ways to take in the vivid foliage. Explore forests, cliffs, waterfalls, the water, and finish it all with the incredible amount of local dining near the river.

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Credit: Rami Accoumeh/Destination Ontario

  • Celebrate and party this fall with the upcoming events in Sault Ste. Marie. First up is the Fall Rendezvous & Harvest Fest at the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site. Algoma Fall Festival is a two-week-long event in October that celebrates art in all its forms.
  • Take in the ultimate relaxation on the water this fall with Restore Yoga & Wellness. They offer SUP Yoga classes, Paint and Paddle nights, tours of the St. Mary’s River, and special SUP nights like the Haunted SUP & SIP, or Full Moon SUP.
  • Add a quick but rewarding and scenic fall drive to the itinerary. The Roberston Cliffs and trails are about 40km north of Sault St. Marie, with what some consider the best fall colours and views in the province. The cliffs are part of King Mountain and the Algoma Highlands, offering easy and moderate trips, as well as more challenging day hikes.
  • The Gros Cap Conservation Area, located at the edge of the city and overlooking Lake Superior, offers excellent fall scenery.
  • Agawa Canyon Train Tours depart right in the city with an incredible and relaxing way to enjoy the fall scenery. Tours operate until Thanksgiving weekend.
  • Tour the area by water with the Miss Marie. Their sightseeing Sault Lock Tours are available until October 14.
  • Take a self-guided walk or bike ride through the city to enjoy the views of places like the Hiawatha Highlands and Crystal Creek Waterfall, as well as those around the Sault Ste. Marie Canal Historic Site, or Bellevue Park and Topsail Island.

Temagami

The municipality of Temagami located an hour north of North Bay, offers some of this large province’s most incredible outdoor opportunities. The town of Temagami sits on one end of the vast lake of the same name, while several other lakes dot the region. The abundance of lakes, and those that interconnect help to make Temagami the third most popular canoeing destination in the entire world! And with that comes hiking, birding and wildlife viewing, cycling, or motorized boating. These lakeshores are also lined with handfuls of old-growth pine forest and the fall foliage of mature trees.

  • The old growth, or White Bear Forest, east of the town of Temagami, offers a variety of hiking trails around the smaller lakes. And in addition to the beautiful fall foliage, these trails also offer exceptional wildlife viewing, especially for birds or smaller critters.
  • Get a sweeping view of Temagami and the White Bear Forest from the Fire Tower Observation Deck. From the top, take in every fall colour or hue imaginable.
  • Finlayson Point Provincial Park is a hub for activities on Temagami Lake, like canoeing and kayaking, or camping. The park is open until September 21.
  • Contact the local Temagami Outfitting Company for rentals, guided trips, and route consultations.
  • Find the Marten River Provincial Park on the far south end of the municipality. The park offers activities such as paddling, fishing, and hiking.

Orangeville

Get the best of small-town charm, fall colours, outdoor recreation, art, culture, and history with a road trip to Orangeville. The town, located northwest of Toronto, is a great place to explore and may require a weekend stay to take in the public art and historical sites or architecture. All of this is enhanced by Orangeville’s mature trees and bright fall foliage.

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  • Orangeville Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday until October 18, with an array of goodies to browse within downtown. The final Saturday of the 18th is dedicated to celebrating Halloween with the Boo! On Broadway event.
  • Discover the beautiful fall scenery around Orangeville while learning about the local history. The city offers guides for public art tours and historic tours.
  • More fall beauty and hiking awaits at the Hockley Valley Provincial Nature Reserve and the Island Lake Conservation Area.
  • The Island Lake Conservation Area sits between the town and the Orangeville Reservoir. On top of the fall hiking, this area also offers paddling and birding.
  • North of Orangeville is the Mono Cliffs Provincial Park with scenic fall hiking and cycling trails.
  • The South Simcoe Railway departs from Tottenham, a short drive east of Orangeville. Their scenic excursion tours run until October 20th.

Caledon

The large rural municipality of Caledon takes up the area between Brampton and Orangeville to the Northwest of Toronto. The area is made up of a vast array of natural scenery with waterfalls, badlands, streams, the Niagara Escarpment, and the bright colours of the forests. And beyond the fall scenery, the Caledon Community offers a ton of ways to celebrate fall through markets, fairs, festivals, and Halloween celebrations.

For more ideas:

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