11 Best Places to See Fall Colours in Ontario

Updated August 2025

Fall Colours in Ontario: Where to Go for Peak Autumn Foliage

Looking for a destination to enjoy Ontario fall foliage? Look no further! The fall colours in Ontario are so spectacular that they’ve been inspiring artists for generations. In fact, autumn is almost synonymous with Canada. The crisp, cool Canadian weather, with bright red, yellow, and orange leaves falling to the ground and the smell of pumpkin spice in the air, makes Ontario one of the best places to experience fall. Whether you’re planning cozy cottage getaways or autumn road trips in Ontario, there’s no shortage of scenic views and seasonal charm. There’s just something about putting on your warmest plaid jacket, sipping a pumpkin spice latte, and soaking in the sights of a true Canadian fall. Wondering about the best time to see fall colours in Ontario? Check out these 11 stunning spots to catch peak foliage and make the most of the season!

When are Peak Fall Colours in Ontario?

The best time to see fall colours in Ontario varies by region, depending on weather conditions, elevation, and latitude. In general, the vibrant display of Ontario fall foliage begins in the north and works its way south. Northern regions like Algonquin and Lake Superior start showing colour as early as mid-September, while southern areas like Niagara and Prince Edward County typically peak in mid-to-late October.

To plan your autumn road trips in Ontario around peak colours, it’s helpful to refer to the official Fall Colour Report Ontario, which is updated regularly during the season by Ontario Parks.

Here’s a general guide to when and where you can expect peak fall foliage across Ontario:

Best Places to See Fall Colours in Ontario

1. Dundas Peak in Hamilton

Just a short drive from Toronto, Dundas Peak in the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area is one of the best and most accessible places to experience fall colours in Ontario. The popular Dundas Trail leads to the breathtaking Dundas Peak lookout, where you can gaze out over the vibrant canopy of autumn leaves and the conservation area’s sweeping valley views.

Along the trail, you’ll also encounter two of Hamilton’s most famous waterfalls:

• Webster Falls, located right at the parking lot, is one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the region, perfect for fall photography with colourful foliage surrounding it.
• Tews Falls, the tallest waterfall in Hamilton at 41 metres, offers a dramatic cascade framed by the season’s changing leaves.

The Dundas Trail follows the escarpment to Dundas Peak’s cliffs, offering panoramic views but requiring caution near the edges due to lack of guardrails and natural erosion. Parking at the conservation area costs $11.50. As of 2025, reservations are no longer required to visit the park. Parking is however on a first come first serve basis. The trail is also dog friendly!

How to Get There

From Highway 403, take Exit 74 (Hwy 6 North) toward Guelph. Continue to Highway 5, turn left toward Paris, then left onto Ofield Rd S, right on Harvest Rd, and left onto Short Rd to reach the Spencer Gorge parking area.

Where to Stay Nearby

Staybridge Suites Downtown Hamilton – A budget-friendly hotel option for an extended stay.
Sheraton Hamilton Hotel – Located downtown with convenient access to the trailhead.

Costs & Reservations

• Parking Fee: $11.50

Things to Know

• Arrive early on weekends—parking fills quickly during peak fall colours.
• The trail is dog-friendly but dogs must be leashed.
• Stay safe by keeping a respectful distance from the cliff edges.
• The trail system includes multiple offshoots to explore additional waterfalls and viewpoints, so plan for a half-day or afternoon visit.
• Dundas Peak is an ideal quick fall day trip from Toronto for hiking and nature photography.

2. Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

Kawartha Highlands is the largest provincial park south of Algonquin and one of the best places to see fall colours in Ontario. Just two hours from Toronto, this expansive wilderness area offers incredible autumn scenery, especially during peak fall foliage season in late September to mid-October. Whether you’re chasing crimson maple reflections on calm waters or planning a peaceful weekend escape, Kawartha Highlands delivers.

Why It’s Great in the Fall 🍁

This park offers a quintessential Ontario fall experience. Think misty mornings, quiet lakes, and brilliant colours that make you feel like you’re paddling through a Group of Seven painting. With 9 different access points, it’s easy to get in and start exploring, whether for a day or a multi-day backcountry camping adventure. Canoeing in Kawartha Highlands during peak colour season is one of the most iconic autumn activities in Ontario.

Prefer comfort over camping? You can still enjoy autumn road trips in Ontario without pitching a tent. Book a stay at Viamede Resort on Stoney Lake or the charming Elmhirst Resort in nearby Keene. Imagine waking up with a coffee in hand, watching the sunrise glow over orange and red leaves reflected in the still lake waters.

Best Time to See Fall Colours in Kawartha Highlands

Peak fall colours in this region usually hit between late September and early October.

How to Get There

• From Toronto, take Hwy 401 E toward Ottawa
• Exit 436 for Hwy 35/115 toward Peterborough
• Follow Hwy 115 N to Hwy 7, then continue on Hwy 28 N toward Apsley
• Turn left onto Anstruther Lake Road to access the park

Where to Stay

• Elmhirst Resort – A cozy, family-friendly resort in Keene
• Village Inn of Lakefield – A central, charming spot for exploring the region

Costs

• 💸 Day vehicle permit: $12–$21
• ⛺ Backcountry camping: $12.43 per person
• 🚣 Rentals available from local outfitters

Local Tip

Feeling overwhelmed by the size of the park? Don’t stress—I took a guided canoe tour on my first visit, and it was the perfect intro to this massive yet peaceful area. Gear rentals and guided options are available locally if you’re new to paddling.

3. Algonquin Park

If you’re searching for the best place to see fall colours in Ontario, Algonquin Provincial Park likely tops every list, and for good reason. Established in 1893, this is Canada’s oldest provincial park, and at over 7,600 square kilometers, it’s also one of the largest. With its endless lakes, dense forests, and vast wilderness, it offers one of the most spectacular fall foliage displays in the province.

Algonquin’s vibrant fall colours usually peak in late September to early October, thanks to its higher elevation and cooler northern air. Think golden tamaracks, brilliant sugar maples, and fiery red oaks mirrored perfectly on glassy lakes. There’s truly nothing more “Canada” than paddling a quiet lake surrounded by the blazing reds and oranges of the Canadian Shield.

There are over 2,400 lakes and 1,200 km of streams in Algonquin, much of which is only accessible by canoe or hiking — which means you’ll need to earn those views. The park is also home to a fantastic network of trails ranging from easy, family-friendly lookouts to challenging backcountry routes. Whether you’re in for a day hike, a scenic drive, or a full-blown canoe camping trip, Algonquin delivers.

How to Get There

Take Highway 60 east from Highway 11 at Huntsville for direct access into the park via the West Gate. Highway 60 continues right through the southern corridor of Algonquin, with multiple trailheads and access points along the way.

Where to Stay

• 3 Pines Lodge, Muskoka – charming and close to the West Gate
• Killarney Lodge – cozy lakeside cabins inside the park
• Mew Lake Campground – drive-in camping, including some yurts available in fall

Park Costs

• Day Use Vehicle Permit: $12–$21 depending on season
• Backcountry Camping: $12.43 per person/night

Tips for Visiting Algonquin in Fall 🍂

• Arrive early — this is a popular fall destination, and parking lots (especially at lookout trails like Track and Tower or Lookout Trail) fill up quickly.
• Plan your route — the park is massive, so be realistic about distances, especially for canoe routes.
• Outfitters are available — need a canoe or gear? Local outfitters like Algonquin Outfitters make it easy.
• Weather can change fast — pack layers, and don’t forget a warm beverage for those crisp mornings.

If you are looking for a fancy way to enjoy the fall colours in Ontario, try staying at a luxurious destination spa like here at Ste. Annes. Read about my experience/review here! 

4. Norfolk County

Norfolk County is located in South Western Ontario and is becoming a hotspot for outdoor adventures and agro-tourism. With Long Point designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1986, the region is home to the largest area of wetlands and woodlands in Southern Ontario, a naturalist’s paradise. It is easy to see why this area of Ontario is superb for fall colour viewing. 

 There are some pretty unique places to stay on Lake Erie to enjoy the fall colours of Ontario. With many forested areas and a great location, Long Point Eco Adventures is an eco-resort full of luxurious glamping tents and wooden pods. The property is home to one of the best lookouts on the biosphere reserve and staying here means visitors are likely to spend more time outdoors…it is camping…sort of. With its spectacular view of the biosphere, and outdoor comforts, Long Point Eco in Norfolk County might just be one of the best places to see fall colours.

With agricultural tourism at its forefront; a visit to Norfolk County will have you frolicking through farms, playing with pumpkins, and enjoying the spirit of fall. At the end of the day you can stop by one of the many Norfolk wineries and enjoy a glass of wine with a fall view. Located just 2 hours south of Toronto, Norfolk County is a definite win when considering finding the best places to view fall colours in Ontario. 

How to get there: Take Hwy 6 exit from Hwy 403 in Hamilton then right on Hwy 3 E, then left on Hwy 24 turn left on Hwy 59 S to Long Point

Where to Stay: Grab a night at a cozy Norfolk B&B right in Port Dover, check this one out
Cute Cottage’s to rent in Port Dover: Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie
Glamping in Port Dover: Homegrown Hideaway

Costs: No hidden costs 

Things to know: Norfolk County has some amazing places and hidden gems you can check out while in the area and I have written about a few of them here. Norfolk is also a foodies paradise. Everywhere you look there will be some form of a unique restaurant, winery or brewery just waiting for you. While you are out enjoying the fall colours and a day on the beach, take a little time out of your day to have a bite to eat.

5. Muskoka

Just two hours north of Toronto, Muskoka is Ontario’s premier cottage country destination, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for fall colours in Ontario. Spanning over 6,400 square kilometres and home to more than 1,600 lakes, including Lake Rosseau, Lake Joseph, and Lake Muskoka, his region delivers sweeping views of boreal forests, Canadian Shield rock formations, and vibrant autumn foliage. Its so large it even has its own fall foliage website!

Best Places to See Fall Colours in Muskoka

Muskoka covers a large area, so there are many stunning viewpoints, trails, and drives to explore during peak fall colours (late September to early October):

• Hwy 169 near Bala
  One of the most scenic drives in Ontario during fall. Expect rolling hills, dense forests, and dramatic colours—especially at golden hour.
• Hardy Lake Provincial Park
  A peaceful, lesser-known park with trails weaving through maple forest and along calm lake shores. Reflections of the colourful trees on the water make this a photographer’s dream.
• Arrowhead Provincial Park
  Home to the iconic Big Bend Lookout and scenic trails like Stubbs Falls. It’s a great spot for an easy fall hike surrounded by fiery foliage.
• Huckleberry Rock Lookout
  Offers panoramic views from ancient granite outcrops overlooking Lake Muskoka. A classic sunrise or sunset viewpoint.
• Lion’s Lookout (Huntsville)
  Easily accessible with one of the best views in Muskoka, especially when the hills burst into colour.
• Georgian Bay Islands National Park
  Featuring windswept pines and maple trees glowing with autumn hues—this park is ideal for art lovers and nature seekers alike.

How to Get There

• Drive north from Toronto on Highway 400, then take Muskoka Rd 38 to Bala.
• Expect peak colours from late September to early October 

Where to Stay in Muskoka

• Deerhurst Resort (Huntsville): A full-service resort close to many fall trails and lakes.
• JW Marriott Rosseau: A luxury stay on Lake Rosseau—ideal for cozy nights and lakeside leaf peeping.

Budget Tip

Muskoka is known for its upscale accommodations and is a popular retreat for celebrities and weekenders from the city. Expect higher prices in peak season, but you can still find more budget-friendly cottages or campgrounds if booked early.

🍂 Things to Know

• Muskoka is large and spread out, so a bit of pre-planning will go a long way.
• You can explore by car, hike, or even book a boat cruise on one of the major lakes for a different perspective.
• Dining and entertainment are plentiful in towns like Huntsville, Gravenhurst, and Bracebridge, making it a great multi-day fall getaway.

6. Ojibway Park Windsor

The Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve, the Ojibway Nature Center and the Ojibway Tom Joy Woods are all part of a massive complex located within the city limits of Windsor, Ontario. With a variety of options to see the fall colours in Ontario, it is no wonder that the Ojibway Park should be on your list of things to do in Windsor, Ontario. 

With education at its forefront, the Ojibway Parks in Windsor have a nature centre full of guides and experts who will teach visitors about the 247 species found within the park. When considering where to see fall colours in Canada, a visit to the Ojibway Park in Windsor provides the option and opportunity to explore Ontario’s fall colours with the convenience of being in the city. The colours, visible through the roughly 15km’s of park and manicured prairie trails combined with an educational experience makes Ojibway Park one of the best family friendly places to see fall colours in Ontario’s South West.

How to get there: The parks are located in Windsor and are accessible by car with free parking. From downtown, the park is just 8km away and an 11 minute drive.Public buses will also take you near the park

Where to Stay: Right downtown with perfect views of Detroit, check out the waterfront Holiday Inn here
Stonecroft Inn for a touch of luxury

Costs: Free Admission, Free Parking

Things to know: The Park is open daily from 10:00am-5:00pm. If you are heading to Windsor to view fall colours, you can check out this blog post I wrote that includes some great places to stay, some of my favourite restaurants and the best wineries and some other cool things to do in the area.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy the fall season and some early Christmas events, check out this post on all the fun Christmas activities in Windsor and what I liked best.

7. Agawa Canyon

A visit to Agawa Canyon is possibly one of the best places in Canada to see fall foliage, let alone in Ontario. This train ride through the rugged north of Ontario leads visitors through areas which once inspired many of the works of art from the famous Canadian Group of Seven.  Take a seat in one of the comfortable coach trains and simply enjoy the mix of red, green, yellow and orange leaves complimented by the harsh rocks and many lakes of the Canadian Shield.

With fall colours so prominent in the Agawa Canyon, not only is there a fall colours chart to follow, but there are tours which are focused specifically on showing off the best of Canada and Ontario’s fall foliage. With a GPS tracked commentary following your trip, you are welcome to learn about the area or simply to just sit back and enjoy the scenery. 

At mile 102, the train hugs Agawa Canyon’s wall as it descends 500 feet over 10 miles to the bottom of the canyon.  Once in the canyon, which was created 1.2 million years ago, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy hiking trails in Agawa Canyon Park. Not to mention waterfalls, a lunch space, and a few park benches from which to enjoy the view. If there is one place in Ontario to view fall colours, the Agawa Canyon is it. 

How to get there: The tourist train to Agawa Canyon leaves from Sault St. Marie and is a return journey. The trip happens multiple times throughout the week. If you want to backcountry camp in the park or canoe through it, you can board the no-frills train that leaves 3 times a week year round. If you are inclined to drive, you can follow the North Shore of Lake Superior to Wawa and enjoy the park from there.

Where to Stay: The Delta Hotel is located right on the waterfront and has amazing outdoor spaces, check it out here
Glenview Cottages: Tiny Cabins you can rent with amenities

Costs: Train tour is $145 CAD – $160 CAD

Things to know: If you are interested in taking the tourism train, there is a package specific to Canada’s fall colours! The train also offers 2 and 3 night packages which include activities in Algoma County, stays in Sault St. Marie, and a trip to the canyon! Do your research!

Visiting Ontario during the spring season? Awesome! Here are 16 prime destinations in Ontario during the spring season!

8. Rattlesnake Point, Milton

Conveniently located close to Toronto in Milton, Ontario, a trip to Rattlesnake Point offers visitors the opportunity to experience some of Ontario’s amazing fall colours without much hassle. Open year round for day hikes, an adventure to Buffalo Crag Lookout at Rattlesnake Point provides sweeping views of the escarpment and includes a mix of fall coloured leaves and thousand year old cedars.

There are a variety of hiking options available in the park all leading to epic views and lookouts. With varying difficulty levels, a visit to Rattlesnake Point has something for everyone, even our four legged friends. Camp spaces with amenities are also available to rent within the park for those who wish to extend their stay overnight. 

Once in the area, hikers looking to capitalize on fall colours can combine Rattlesnake Point with Crawford Lake Park by hiking the Nassagaweya Canyon Trail towards Crawford Lake as an out and back. This out and back day hike takes visitors along Meromectic Lake, past an Iroquoian village and includes an afternoon of epic views. With multiple opportunities to see the fall colours in Ontario, a visit to Rattlesnake Point in conveniently located Milton, Ontario can provide some seriously vivid sweeping views of fall colours on the escarpment. 

How to get there: Take exit 9 from Hwy 407 to Appleby Line/ RR20, go north for approximately 10km and it is on your left

Where to Stay: Home2 Suites by Hilton is a great escape located close to the park.

Cost: $10.50 to enter the park

Things to know: From April to October, the park hours run from 9:00am to 9:00pm, in October, the hours are subject to change. Many of these hikes are fairly easy, making this a family friendly trip. There are also quite a few turkey vultures in the area who float in the thermals which are visible from the lookouts.

On your way to your hike in Milton, stop at one of these 5 best coffee shops in Toronto to energize your trip! 

9. Thousand Islands Tower

Located near Kingston, Ontario, the Thousand Islands are an archipelago of 1,864 islands which straddle the boarder between Canada and the United States on the St. Lawrence River. The islands in this area vary in size from 40 miles long, to single dwelling properties, to uninhabited bits of land and create a unique landscape from which to enjoy the fall season in Canada. The many islands, surrounded by the historical waters of the St. Lawrence River, are all covered with Canada’s colourful boreal forests and when mixed with quaint homes make the Thousand Islands a great spot to see fall colours in Ontario.

For one of the most breathtaking views of fall colours in Ontario, visitors have the opportunity to make their way to the top of the Thousand Islands Tower to catch a birds eye view of the wonderful fall foliage in Canada. With an elevator that runs continuously, visitors have the opportunity to stop by 3 observation decks 130 meters high, which provide photogenic and panoramic views of the Thousand Islands, the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area. With a guide available all season long to answer questions at the first level, it is no doubt that the Thousand Islands Tower is one of the best and easiest ways to catch a panoramic view of Ontario’s fall foliage. 

How to get there: Take Exit 661 off Highway 401 onto Highway 137 south. Proceed through toll both, after 500m you will find it on the left side.

Where to Stay: The Woodview Inn is a unique Victorian styled B&B and follows the vibe of the Thousand Islands, check it out here
Historic Carriage Factory turned into a chic spa, you want to stay here: Gananoque Inn
Affordable Comfort Inn at the Harbour
Stonewater Manor Ganonoque

Cost: $18.00 per person

Things to know: The tower is open daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm until October 20th, after that it is opened by request. The elevator goes up every 10 minutes. Reservations are not necessary but you can make them online up to an hour before you and this is recommended until October 15th when online reservations close. It is also possible to join a boat cruise in the area which will take visitors on a tour throughout many of the Thousand Islands as well as past some beautiful homes intermingled with the red, yellow and green leaves of the forest…you might even cruise by a castle. There are some pretty great places to stay and eat while in the area, plus you are close to one of the coolest cities in Ontario…Kingston.

Living for the fall season but unsure how to dress for it? Take a look at my autumn capsule collection with a hint of Disney inspo here. 

10. Tobermory Lookout

Part of the geological formation called the ‘Niagara Escarpment’, Tobermory is one of the most popular destinations on the Bruce Peninsula. The Bruce Peninsula is the area which lies between Georgian Bay and the main basin of Lake Huron and is famous for its hiking trails, connections to Manitoulin Island, and crystal clear blue waters. Tobermory, along with its already dashing reputation of topographical wonder, is by default home to one of the best views of Ontario’s foliage during the fall season in Canada. 

The town of Tobermory is considered the hub for the Bruce Peninsula National Park and includes an active visitor centre for the area. The visitor centre provides guests with information for exploring the area and includes exhibits, a theatre, and most importantly when considering fall colours in Ontario…a lookout tower.

As part of the visitors centre, a 65 foot tall look out tower provides guests with a fabulous view of the Bruce Peninsula and Georgian Bay. From the top of the tower during the fall season in Canada, the colourful leaves of the forested Bruce Peninsula are visible for miles and miles, as far as the eye can see. After climbing 113 steps up, guests are welcomed with an incredible view of the area as well as with informational guides of things to look for. With a birds eye-view always topping the list of ways to see fall colours, the Tobermory Lookout Tower should make the list of any fall colours in Ontario guide as it provides just that.

How to get there: The park is accessible from the south along Highway 6 if you are driving, and through the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry if you are coming via Manitoulin Island in the North.

Where to Stay: The Big Tub Harbour Resort provides that cottage vibe that everyone visiting Tobermory should be looking for, check it out
The Escarpment Heights Motel is a classic in Tobermory
Adventure the Bruce Inn is recently renovated and very cute

Cost: Free entrance to the tower. Camping and parking costs apply as part of Parks Canada depending on type of camp e.t.c. Daily Parking is $15.75

Things to know: The visitor centre is open from 9:00am to 5:00pm until October 31. The observation tower is right next to the hiking trail which leads to Tobermory’s famous ‘Grotto’. After viewing the fall colours from above, head on through the forest below and make your way to the Grotto to enjoy a beach and rock formation which highlights the clear blue waters of Georgian Bay. As the Grotto is very popular, you need to reserve your visit in advanced which you can do here. The area also includes a variety of places to camp and stay, restaurants to eat at, multiple hiking trails through Bruce Peninsula National Park as well as access to the Fatham Five National Marine Park. This trip could be good for a multi-day adventure.

Ontario is a great destination year round. If you are doing some exploring during the summer before the fall colours come out, check out my list of the best Ontario Summer weekend getaways!

11. Ball’s Falls Conservation Area

Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is located in the Twenty Valley of the Niagara region and offers spectacular scenery, especially during the fall season in Canada, as well as the opportunity to get up close and personal with Ontario’s flora. The Conservation Centre itself was designed and built to have a minimal impact on natural resources. The centre features both permanent and temporary galleries as well as interactive exhibits which focus attention on nature, conservation and culture. A visit to Ball’s Falls intermixes a learning experience with the adventure of hiking in the Niagara escarpment and makes for a great place to spend the day in Ontario.

When searching to find the best places to see fall colours in Ontario, the view of the Twenty Mile Creek plummeting over the upper and lower Ball’s Falls should be on your radar. The water of the creek tumbles over the high rocky cliffs and can be viewed from both above and below. From above, the view displays the crashing water against the backdrop of hundreds of tree tops sporting red, yellow, orange and green leaves. From below one can feel the power and the spray of the rushing waters while looking beyond to the beautiful fall foliage. 

Along with the possibilities of seeing the fall colours from various vantage points and angles, visitors have the option of jumping on one of the many hiking trails along the banks of Twenty Mile Creek, or to access the Bruce Trail right from the conservation area. Having a selection of trails, views, and opportunities to appreciate the outdoors, Ball’s Falls is without a doubt an ideal location to view Ontario’s fall colours.  

How to get there: From QEW Niagara take Exit 57 Victoria Avenue/County Rd 24 S then left on Sixth Avenue

Where to Stay: The White Oaks Resort is well located and the perfect place to pamper yourself after a day on the trails, check it out here

Costs: $14.50 per person or $29.75 Max/car

Things to know: The park is open from 8:00am-8:00pm daily, year round. The Conservation Center is open from 9:00am to 4:00pm year round except for weekends, and January through March. If you are heading to the Ball’s Falls to see the fall colours, every year for the past 50 years, Ball’s Falls hosts a Thanksgiving festival of food, music and artisans making it an ideal time to visit. The conservation centre is located right in the middle of the Niagara wine region and so wineries line the road driving into Ball’s Falls. After a long day of hiking, try stopping in at one of the many wineries and restaurants to top off your day!

Looking for a relaxing hotel to enjoy fall colours from?! Check out my stay/review of the Elm Hurst Inn in Ontario here. 

Ready to head out on a Fall Adventure? These are the BEST places to take a fall getaway in Ontario

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