Ontario's Best Fall Colour Destinations

Here are 9 of the best Ontario destinations to experience Fall colour. 

Have we missed any? Let us know in the comments.

1. Blue Mountain Village

Enjoy changing foliage as you whisk up Blue Mountain in Ontario’s only open air gondola and return to the Village Plaza to take in some live music. Pack your hiking shoes and be sure to take a trip along the Apple Pie Trail to discover culinary and artisan treasures along the way including local wine and cider tastings. After a day of taking in the stunning Fall colours be sure to take part in the most delicious Fall experience, Fallicious. One of the seasons most popular features is back! It’s Fallicious at Blue Mountain Village and that means beautiful autumn days filled with adventure and cool crisp evenings perfect for sitting by the fire or enjoying an evening of dining and entertainment.


2. Haliburton Highlands

The Haliburton Highlands include a unique topography of rolling hills, rock cuts, crystal clear waterways and exceptional woodlands.  You will not want to miss all of excitement between amazing outdoor adventures, arts & culture experiences and spectacular delights for foodies. For a unique Fall experience check out the Hike Haliburton Festival September 21-24, 2017. Canada’s largest hiking festival, the Hike Haliburton Festival welcomes over 2,000 people participate in 90 guided hikes throughout the beautiful Haliburton Highlands. Hikers of all ages and abilities come from all over Ontario – and beyond – to take in the wonder of our the Haliburton Highlands. The Festival goes beyond just ‘traditional hiking‘; heavily integrating the arts, culture, heritage and foodie experiences to truly showcase the area.


3. Mattawa Voyageur Country

Mattawa Voyageur Country is recognized as one of Canada’s leading sustainable outdoor recreation regions. It is the “gateway community” of choice for people looking to visit an area with exceptional natural beauty, rich culture and heritage attributes, high-quality trail-based experiences and outdoor adventures, a clean environment and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. Get the best out of Autumn with an outdoor adventure or follow the paths of the voyageurs.

4. Muskoka

Fall in Love with the best Fall getaways in Ontario.  Famed for our spectacular Fall foliage, spending Fall in Muskoka is an experience that goes unmatched. Fall colours usually last for a month, splitting the time between September and October. 

Come up for an extended stay or find a Fall weekend getaway package that suits you. Take a scenic hike through the colourful Muskoka forests and venture up to one of our lookouts for a spectacular view. Or try one of our recommended driving tours and see how the colours of the trees change before your eyes. Get out on horseback or hit the golf course to see the beautiful colours up close and personal. See for yourself why Muskoka is a favourite fall getaway in Ontario.

See more ways to experience Fall colours in Muskoka

5. Ontario's Highlands

Throw away the itinerary and let curiosity guide you in Ontario’s Highlands. Explore the diverse geology of the region and foster your sense of adventure by challenging the natural environment or climbing high above the trees. Follow your authentic sense of discovery through museums and natural heritage sites or feel your imagination come to life during quirky festivals and theatre shows. See smiles light your loved ones faces as you take in the breathtaking scenery or satisfy your search for indulgence at unique spas and lakeside retreats. Ontario’s Highlands is just 2.5 hours east of Toronto and a half hour west of Ottawa, but a world removed from it all. Step out of the city and into our world to reconnect, experience something new, and to wander.


6. Ontario's Lake Country

Ontario’s Lake Country is located just one hour north of the GTA, a perfect location to enjoy the peacefulness away from the busy city life and take in the breathtaking fall colours. Escape and book one of many distinctive fall getaways. Enjoy this beautiful and picturesque region on your choice of driving tours, cycling routes, scenic tours by boat or hiking the stunning trails along our waterways and scenic landscapes. There is something for everyone to Fall in love with Ontario's Lake Country.  

While enjoying the scenic Autumn landscape be sure to experience Ontario's Lake Country Fall Flavours, with local flavours through delicious 2-3 course set meals created by participating Flavours of Ontario’s Lake Country Chefs!  Enjoy a 2-3 course set lunch and/or dinner menu at participating restaurants around Ontario’s Lake Country.

7. Ottawa Valley

Cradled between the Ottawa River and Algonquin Park, the Ottawa Valley is famous for its stunning outdoors and cultural and heritage riches. Known as Ontario’s Adventure Playground and Whitewater Capital of Canada, the area is surrounded by woodlands, over 900 pristine lakes and four major river systems making it the perfect destination to view the beauty of Ontario's Fall foliage. One of only two regions in the world with the unique combination of climate and topography that results in brilliant fall foliage, the Valley is a magnificent place to enjoy throughout the autumn months. Glorious colours and crisp, cool weather make it an excellent season for exploring the countryside. Go on a Fall Rural Ramble and experience Studio Tours, Taste of the Valley, underground dining, fossil hunts, self-guided hikes and giant pumpkin weigh-offs. Many Ottawa Valley accommodations have special Rural Ramble packages, making it the perfect time to plan a weekend getaway.


8. Town of Midland

Nestled on the shores of Georgian Bay, Midland makes for the perfect day trip or weekend getaway to experience the beauty of Autumn. Whether by foot, bike, boat or car there are ample opportunities to get to and around Midland. Enjoy the Fall colours from scenic Little Lake Park, just minutes from downtown Midland or explore some of the trails and attractions that surround Midland.

9. Township of Algonquin Highlands

Known for spectacular Fall foliage, the Algonquin Highlands is one of Ontario's must visit places for Autumn. Home to many of the best water trails and hiking trails in Ontario there are endless opportunities to experience the best of Fall in Ontario. Be sure to visit the Dorset lookout tower for the best view of Fall colors in the highlands! With a breathtaking 360 degree view, the observation deck of this historic tower stands 142 metres (465 feet) above Lake of Bays.

Find out when and where the peak of Fall colour is with our Fall Progression Report.  Plan an Autumn Getaway in Central and Northern Ontario in one Ontario's finest resorts and travel destinations.  Find the best Fall Fairs, Studio Tours and Fall Events and Activities North of Toronto.

Ontario - Fall colours in Ontario's Bayfield--North of Toronto

Wiarton Willy on the Bruce Peninsula

Georgian Bay-Lake Huron Fall Colours

Ontario's best fall colours are in most cases north of Toronto in heavily forested areas, and mostly hard wood forests.  The story in CANOE Travel - Ontario - Fall colours in Ontario's Bayfield suggests the Bruce Peninsula on the Lake Huron side.

We also suggest  checking out the Georgian Bay side for a complete look at the spectacular views. See our suggested Georgian Bay Road Trips which also includes Wiarton, and the famous statue of "Wiarton Willy". Get more information on the latest fall colour reports and more suggested fall colour road trips.

Ontario Fall Fairs-Fall Colours

Ontario Resorts and resort destinations north of Toronto are providing lots of fall fun and romance.  Fall fairs and exhibitions offer great day trips.   Discover autumn Ontario hiking getaways in cottage country north of Toronto with a weekend mini-vacation or pick your last minute getaways  for a quick road trip north at a resort, inn, cottage, b&b, chalet or  or hotel.   Ontario has many overnight family fun getaway packages and romantic getaway packages  for couples during the fall color season.   Plan your studio tours and  September getaways for  preferred accommodation.  Autumn colours fall road trips are being planned along with the Thanksgiving long holiday weekend. 

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Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

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Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel Tourism Associations

Ontario's Highlands
(http://ontarioshighlands.ca/)
Come to know Ontario’s Highlands! You don't need to travel far from home to experience some of eastern Ontario's most thrilling outdoor activities, breathtaking landscapes and quaint country hamlets. Ontario's Highlands is a region abundant with all these attractions, and is a mere half-hour drive from downtown Ottawa—or 2.5 hours worth of singing to your favourite driving songs along our scenic highways on your way from Toronto. Ask yourself what you're looking for: High-energy adventure? Solace from the city? Time with family & friends? An unforgettable experience you'll never forget? Whatever it is, you'll find it here

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Romantic Getaway of the Week

The Cranberry Resort - Collingwood,  Ontario

The Cranberry Resort - Toast an anniversary, spoil that special someone or celebrate just being together with a romance package that's sure to turn up the heat! Package includes: Two nights hotel accommodation. $100 Dining voucher per couple. Two Le Scandinave passes (http://www.scandinaveblue.com/). Wine and chocolate covered strawberries delievered to your room. Breakfast each morning. Cranberry Activity Dollars (Value of over $330)

See more Ontario Romantic Resort getaways

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Family Getaway of the Week

Hay Lake Lodge & Cottages - Whitney , Ontario

Hay Lake Lodge & Cottages - Your own private log cabin. A deck looking out over the lake. Quiet. Welcome to Hay Lake Lodge and Cottages. Unwind and relax in a truly peaceful setting. Let us bring you breakfast each morning, so you can sit on your porch sipping coffee, enjoying the natural surroundings. Our fully-equipped kitchens allow you to prepare dinner on your schedule, not ours. Come for a getaway, come for a get-together with friends or family. Paddle a canoe or kayak across our lake into Algonquin Park. Bike the old logging roads, or relax with a book. Just 3 1/2 hours from Toronto, on Algonquin Park’s Quiet Side.

See more Ontario Family Resort Getaways

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Fishing Getaways of the Week

West Nipissing Resort - Lavigne, Ontario

West Nipissing Resort - Get away on a 3 day, 2 night fishing trip and your nights are free. Yes Free!!! In the months of May, June, September and October, 2011 rent any fishing boat for 3 days and get a 2 night cottage rental free. Have your own Boat? No problem. We have a sale for you too. Rent any size cottage for 3 nights and receive the 4th night free. Yes Free!!!  Offer good for Weekdays and Weekends. Specials can not be used concurrently or during Holidays or Holiday Weekends. Taxes, gasoline are extra.

See more Ontario Fishing Getaways

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Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Westwind Inn On The Lake - Buckhorn, Ontario

Westwind Inn On The Lake - Peaceful, intimate & serene. Discover our spectacular wilderness setting. Cozy log cabin style rooms with fireplace and private balcony, rustic luxury suites, jet tubs for two, great foods, fine wines and genuine service. Enjoy many fun complimentary activities for every season...skis, skates, snowshoes, canoes, kayaks, row boats, pedal boats, trails, bikes, pool and beach. Outdoor hot tub, sauna, games room. So Much to explore, great area golf, snowmobile trails, galleries, trading
posts, artisans, small towns, quaint villages and so much more! Spa services
available by prior reservation

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Spa Getaway of the Week

Nottawasaga Inn Resort - Alliston, Ontario

Nottawasaga Inn Resort - Escape the everyday stresses and experience the ultimate relaxation for the body, mind, and soul with our TGIF Getaway Package.  Choose from aromatherapy massage, therapeutic massage, hot stone massage, and Thai Body Work. Our TGIF package is perfect for those looking for a weekend of relaxation and includes accommodation, country buffet breakfast each morning, gourmet 4-course dinner* one evening, one hour RMT massage one day, complimentary cocktail and appetizer in the Starlite Lounge and gratuities.

See more Ontario Spa Getaways

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Attraction of the Week

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Midland, Ontario

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Wye Marsh offers the opportunity to discover the secrets of a wetland with the assistance of our dynamic naturalist staff. Look for life in thewater during a guided canoe adventure or dip net from accessible boardwalks. You can enjoy the grace of the magnificent Trumpeter Swans, North America's largest waterfowl. Feed chickadees from your hand, spot wetland and woodland birds along easy- access trails and tour the interactive display hall (all handicapped accessible). There
is always something fun and interactive to do in every season; maple syrup
harvest in spring, family programs all summer and many special events
such as Wye Marsh Rhythms Festival in September. In winter the Marsh offers
cross-country skiing on more than 22 km of beautiful groomed and track-set
trails. Join us for a snow shoeing trek on 10KM of picturesque hiking trails.

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Attraction of the Week

Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve - Haliburton, Ontario

Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve - Why not experience the fall colours from above the tree tops.  The Walk in the Clouds, a four hour tour runs until the end of October allowing participants to view the fall colours.  Tours run twice a day for your convenience, accompanied by a complimentary pass to the Wolf Centre. Canopy Tours are $95 per adult and $75 per youth 10-17 plus HST.  Pre-Registration is required.

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Ottawa Valley Hints of Coming Fall Colours

Hints of Ontario Fall Colors can be seen in various locations in the Ottawa Valley, and the north east side of  Algonquin Park at the Barron Canyon....mostly yellows with a few reds starting to show.  Photo:    The Historic Stone Fence located near Foymont Ontario in Renfrew County taken over the 2010 Labour Day Weekend.  

Check out more possible locations for a fall colour road trip, north, north east and north west in Ontario.

Fall Colour Road Trip Getaway Ideas for 2010

More than a dozen overnight "Fall Colour" Routes & suggested "Fall Color" fall foliage road trips within 1-7 hours from the junction of Highway 400 & Highway 11 in Barrie, Ontario. Highway 400 splits to the The Highway 11 Way (due north), and The Highway 400 Way (north west).

Additional fall colour road trips can be arrange by our own geographical internal map as you see interesting names and  locations where your can venture into your own unknown territory. Leaf colour changes occur earlier the further north in Ontario one travels.

Fall Fairs are an Ontario Tradition....try to combine a visit to an Ontario Fall Fair with your road trip north.

Studio Tours provide another reason to explore during the fall colour season and provide insight into Ontario's emerging arts and culture in rural areas of Ontario.

Thanksgiving weekend is a peak travel October weekend in Ontario  October getaway packages should be reserved early.

Ontario Fall Colours Starting to Show

A hint of fall in the sky in Algonquin Park where this photo was taken on September 1, the unofficial start to autumn in Ontario. Algonquin Park is known for spectacular fall colors and this season may prove one of the best ever. This has been one of the few summers without an extensive dry period and all of the leaves are lush with foliage. Dense green foliage will mean dense and intense fall foliage throughout the hardwood forests of Ontario. Lets keep this updated with your colour changes and fall colour messages throughout the autumn season. Pick your fall travel getaway now by visiting Ontario Fall Getaways north of Toronto.

Lots of Fall Colours--at lower levels.

Although the Ontario Fall Colour report has stopped, don't let this deter you from travelling north of Toronto to enjoy hikes and fall colour walks. There are many forested areas that have brilliant views of yellows, with a few reds as well as amazing contrasts of the golden Poplar trees against the darker greens of Spruce , Cedars and Pines. The attached photos highlight the areas in and around Midland north of Toronto, taken on Friday October 26. A perfect fall colour drive into the Midland area would be the Old Fort Road Tour starting at Highway 400 and Highway 93.

See additional Ontario fall colour drives and road trips

Combine your Ontario Fall Colours With a Fall Event This Weekend

Check the Ontario Fall Colour Progression Report before heading out to your favorite fall fair, event or festival.

Georgian College Auto ShowDate: September 28-30,2007Web Site: www.georgianc.on.ca/autoshow

Bobcaygeon Fair (Bobcaygeon Agricultural Society) Date: September 27 - 29, 2007705-793-2466 705-793-3445 fairBobcaygeon, Ontario

Markham Fall FairDate: September 27-28, 2007Web Site: www.markhamfair.ca/index

Metcalfe FairDate:September 27 - 30, 2007Web site: www.metcalfefair.com

Ripley Fair (Ripley Agricultural Society)Date: September 28 - 29, 2007Phone: 519-395-5732 Email: ripleyfair@hurontel.on.caRipley, Ontario