By Natalie Thursday, October 16, 2025

Key Takeaway: Ontario comes alive in a blaze of red, orange, and gold each fall, offering endless ways to enjoy the stunning fall colours of the season. Iconic spots like Algonquin Park, Muskoka, and the Niagara Parkway showcase spectacular views, while lookouts such as Dundas Peak and Rattlesnake Point deliver postcard-perfect panoramas. From scenic drives and forest hikes to hot air balloon rides and cozy fall getaways, Ontario’s autumn landscapes invite you to slow down, explore, and soak in the beauty of the season.

Where to See Autumn Leaves in Ontario?

Ontario in the fall is pure magic with its crisp air and fiery fall colours that transform the province into a playground for outdoor adventures. There are countless places to see the Autuman leaves in Ontario at their best, from scenic hiking trail options in Ontario Parks to sweeping lookout points like Eagle’s Nest Lookout over the York River Valley. 

Every turn in Ontario offers a new burst of the red and gold, whether you’re chasing epic fall colours in Algonquin Park, strolling past waterfalls at Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, or exploring Bruce Peninsula National Park. So let us help you cozy up in your sweater and breathe in the season, as we explore the best places to see fall colours in Ontario.

Blue Mountains (Central ON)

Did you know the longest suspension bridge in Ontario can be found in the Blue Mountains?  What better way to experience fall than suspending yourself 82-feet above the valley floor to have a clear view of Georgian Bay in all its glory.  The 420-foot bridge is operated by Scenic Caves Nature Adventure.  The suspension bridge is included in park admission and takes about 45 minutes there and back.

Where Are The Best Lookout Points For Niagara Parkway Fall Colours?

The Niagara Parkway runs on the Canadian side of the Niagara River from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and is filled with gorgeous turning leaves and fall colours. Stroll through the Niagara Parks to see beautiful fall colours or take a fall colour drive on the Parkway, and after stopping to view the Falls, head toward Niagara-on-the-Lake to enjoy some of its incredible restaurants. Don’t forget to book a designated driver or car service so you can sample their world famous wines too. 

What Are The Unique Ways to See Muskoka Fall Colours?

Approximately 3/4 of the trees in Muskoka change colour and 50% lose their leaves, so if you are looking for a place to find breathtaking fall colours, head to Muskoka! See the colours from the water on a scenic boat cruise, in a car on a driving tour or check out one of the hiking trails that cross the region, along the Canadian Shield rock. 

With antique stores, quaint boutiques, charming towns, wineries, farms and the Muskoka Lakes and Lucy Maud Montgomery Museums, there is plenty to do. Make a weekend of it and stay at one of the gorgeous resorts, inns and hotels that dot the area, many right on the waters of the big three Muskoka lakes (Rosseau, Joe and Muskoka).

Where Can You See Ottawa Fall Colours?

Ottawa transforms into a breathtaking mosaic of reds, oranges, and golds each fall and there are so many ways to experience it! From scenic bike paths and riverside trails to stunning lookouts and cruises along the Rideau Canal, the city is full of picture-perfect spots to soak in the season.

👉 For the ultimate list of the best places to see fall colours in Ottawa, check out our dedicated blog here — it’s packed with local favourites, hidden gems, and the best times to visit!

Where Can I Go to See 1000 Islands Fall Colours?

The 1000 Islands region is gorgeous year round, but autumn is a time when it really shines as each island becomes a dot of fall colours on the blue water. Here is a place where autumn sights are best viewed from the water. Take a boat cruise from Kingston, Rockport or Gananoque and marvel at the brilliant colours, or, if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, the 1000 Islands Skydeck Tower lets you view a wonderful panorama from 400 feet above the St. Lawrence River.

Top Fall Hikes to See the Fall Colours

If you prefer to explore the peak fall colours on foot, Ontario’s hiking trails offer incredible views of the changing leaves up close. From forested ravines and rocky ridges to peaceful lakeside paths, fall is the perfect season to hit the trails and soak in the crisp air and fiery foliage. As the maple, oak, and birch canopies shift from green to vivid gold and crimson, every step feels like walking through a living painting.

Some of the most breathtaking autumn hikes are just a short drive from Toronto. Want to plan your next colourful adventure?  Discover some of the Best Fall Hikes Close to Toronto to See Stunning Autumn Foliage. Each trail offers a unique perspective on Ontario’s fall beauty, whether you’re chasing panoramic lookouts or quiet forest escapes, they are within easy reach for a perfect day trip.

Unique Experiences to See Ontario Fall Colours

Hot Air Balloon Rides

What better way to see the fall foliage than from the sky in hot air balloon! In cities like Ottawa and all across Ontario, hot air balloon rides give you a bird’s-eye view of the dazzling fall colours stretching across Ontario’s forests and valleys. Floating above the treetops, you’ll experience a serene and panoramic view of Ontario’s natural beauty, offering a perspective that’s impossible to capture from the ground and even more magical at sunset or sunrise!

Fall Colours by Water

Ontario’s lakes and rivers provide a stunning reflection of the season’s colours. One way to experience this is by canoeing or kayaking along waterways such as Algonquin Park’s Lake Opeongo or Bon Echo Provincial Park’s Mazinaw Lake. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, opt for a scenic boat cruise like the Muskoka Steamships or City Cruises Gananoque that glide through the heart of cottage country and the Thousand Islands, providing unmatched views of the autumn splendour.

Zip Lining Through the Canopy

For a thrill-packed way to enjoy the fall colours, try zip lining! At locations like Treetop Trekking, you can soar above the treetops for a stunning aerial view of the red, orange, and yellow leaves below. This adrenaline-pumping activity offers a combination of adventure and natural beauty, making it a fall experience you won’t soon forget.

Chairlift Rides with a View

Take in the fall colours from the comfort of a chairlift! Resorts like Blue Mountain, or Calabogie Peaks, and Horseshoe Valley Resort offer scenic chairlift rides that give you panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes as they transform into a mosaic of autumn colours. You can also catch a scenic fall chair lift at Kelso Conservation Area. The experience is both relaxing and visually stunning, offering a unique vantage point to appreciate Ontario’s fall beauty.

Exploring Vineyards in the Fall

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Ontario’s wine regions and explore the beautiful vineyards. Take a leisurely drive through the rolling hills of Prince Edward County or the vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake, where the fall colours blend beautifully with the golden hues of the grapevines. Many wineries offer special harvest season events, tastings, and tours, providing a scenic backdrop to enjoy fine wines and local produce.

Fall Colour Helicopter Tours

For an extraordinary way to experience Ontario’s fall foliage, consider taking a helicopter tour. Companies like 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours and Niagara Helicopters offer fall colour tours that take you high above the lakes and falls giving you an unparalleled perspective of the autumn landscape. This is a bucket-list experience that offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of Ontario’s fall colours.

Ride on a Mountain Coaster

Blue Mountains Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster is Ontario’s only mountain coaster that glides along a 1km track flying through the stunning autumn scenery at 42 kilometres per hour! This equipment free experience is an exhilarating adventure that combines the excitement of a roller coaster with the stunning scenery of Blue Mountain’s autumn landscape. Fun for all ages. Travel tip: Purchase the Play All Day Pass and enjoy unlimited rides all day!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to See Fall Colours in Ontario

What is the best provincial park in Ontario for fall?

Killarney Provincial Park shines in autumn with its white quartzite ridges, sapphire lakes, and fiery maple forests. The contrast of colours is stunning, especially along the La Cloche Silhouette Trail. Fall also brings fewer crowds, crisp hiking conditions, and clear starry nights, making Killarney a spectacular choice for those seeking a memorable autumn adventure.

What are the best scenic train rides to see fall colours in Ontario?

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train in Sault Ste. Marie is the most famous way to see Ontario’s fall colours. The rail journey winds through rugged wilderness, rivers, and cliffs before arriving at Agawa Canyon Park. In October, the landscape bursts with autumn brilliance, offering one of Canada’s most iconic and scenic foliage-viewing experiences.

Want more ways to experience Ontario’s autumn beauty on the rails? Check out our full roundup of Scenic Fall Train Rides for even more breathtaking routes across the province.

When is the best time to see fall colours in Ontario?

The best time to see fall colours in Ontario is from mid-September to mid-October, depending on the region. Northern areas like Algonquin Park and Muskoka peak earlier, while southern destinations such as Niagara and Prince Edward County reach their vibrant hues later in the month. Check the regional fall colour reports before you go to catch the reds, oranges, and golds at their brightest.

What are the best fall colour drives in Ontario?

Ontario offers stunning scenic drives during fall, with top routes including the Niagara Parkway, Muskoka’s Highway 169, Algonquin Park’s Highway 60 Corridor, and the Thousand Islands Parkway. These routes wind through forests, lakes, and charming small towns bursting with autumn colour. Plan stops at lookouts, farms, and trails along the way to experience the full beauty of Ontario’s fall landscapes.

There is no shortage of beautiful fall foliage in Ontario.  These are just some of the highlights.  For more fall fun ideas check out our Events Page for a full list of events in each region.

Natalie