By Natalie Thursday, October 2, 2025

Autumn transforms Ottawa into a canvas of fiery reds, glowing oranges, and golden yellows. From downtown parks and riverside pathways to rolling farmland and forested trails, the region bursts with beauty during this magical season. The city’s annual Fall Rhapsody celebration highlights the best of it all. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in one of the urban greenspaces, cycling along scenic waterways, picking apples in the countryside, or venturing into the breathtaking hills of Gatineau Park, Ottawa truly offers some of the most unforgettable fall colour experiences in Ontario’s capital region.

Remic Rapids to Bate Island: One of Ottawa’s Best Fall Walking Trails

For a colourful and accessible autumn outing, head to the Ottawa River pathway from Remic Rapids Park to Bate Island. This easy 5.1 km trail is one of the best fall hikes in Ottawa, offering a spectacular mix of vibrant foliage, tranquil river reflections, and the unique balanced rock sculptures created by artist John Felice Ceprano. Cross the Champlain Bridge to reach Bate Island, a quiet spot perfect for a picnic surrounded by fall colours and waterfront views. Whether you’re looking for a short family outing, a peaceful dog walk, or a photo-worthy leaf-peeping experience, this trail delivers. Conveniences like free parking, washrooms, and nearby food and drink options (including the NCC Bistro and Tavern on the Island) make it an easy choice for a day out.

Gatineau Park Fall Colours & Scenic Lookouts

Just across the river from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park is the best place near Ottawa to see fall colour with more than 360 square kilometers of forests, lakes, and trails, it’s a haven for hikers and photographers alike. Popular lookouts like Champlain, Pink Lake, and Étienne Brûlé offer sweeping panoramic views of the Ottawa Valley drenched in autumn hues. Discover quieter corners of Gatineau Park at hidden gems like the Philippe Lake Sector and Meech Creek Valley. For a touch of history, wander the Mackenzie King Estate, the former residence and gardens of Canada’s 10th and longest-serving Prime Minister.

Rideau Canal Fall Colours by Foot, Bike, or Paddle

The iconic Rideau Canal is a scenic stroll any time of year, but in the fall, the tree-lined pathways burst into color. Rent a bike, walk, or paddle along the canal to see the fiery maples reflecting off the water. It’s one of Ottawa’s most relaxing fall activities and a classic way to see the colours in the city.

Major’s Hill Park: Fall Colours in the Heart of Ottawa

Nestled between Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market, Major’s Hill Park is a centrally located spot that offers both fall colors and postcard-perfect views of Ottawa landmarks. It’s an easy add-on for anyone exploring downtown Ottawa in autumn.

Arboretum at the Central Experimental Farm: Ottawa’s Tree-Lover’s Paradise

If you’re a tree lover, the Arboretum, located just a few kilometres from downtown Ottawa, is a must. Home to hundreds of tree species, it becomes a living rainbow of fall foliage. The trails here are peaceful and less crowded with scenic views of Dow’s Lake and the Rideau Canal. Perfect for a quiet afternoon surrounded by autumn splendor.

Rockcliffe Park & Lookout: Scenic Fall Drives and Views

For sweeping views of the Ottawa River framed by fall colours, head to Rockcliffe Park. While there isn’t a singular “Lookout” point, the park offers multiple stunning vantage points and prestigious surrounding neighborhood is also one of Ottawa’s most scenic fall drives, lined with large, mature trees that create a canopy of rich reds, oranges, and yellows.

Parliament Hill & Confederation Boulevard in Autumn

Don’t overlook Ottawa’s most famous landmark! Parliament Hill itself is lined with trees that glow in shades of gold and red. A stroll down Confederation Boulevard, which circles Parliament, gives you urban fall views with a historic twist.

Ottawa’s Greenbelt Trails: Farms, Forests & Fall Colours

Ottawa’s Greenbelt is a natural playground in autumn, with farms, forests, sand dunes, wetlands, and over 150 kilometres of trails to explore. Pack a cozy fall picnic, take the family for a colourful hike, or cycle through scenic pathways surrounded by vibrant foliage. The area is also home to pick-your-own farms and local markets—perfect for harvesting apples, pumpkins, and fresh produce while supporting local growers. From the unique landscapes of Mer Bleue Bog to the woodlands of Stony Swamp, the Greenbelt, just minutes from the city, is one of the best places to hike near Ottawa in fall.

Tips for Enjoying Ottawa’s Fall Colours

🍁 Plan your timing – Peak colours usually appear from late September to mid-October, though exact dates can vary depending on weather.

🌅 Catch the best light – Head out early in the morning or later in the day to see the foliage glowing under sunrise or sunset skies—perfect for photos and a quieter experience.

🚶 Beat the crowds – Popular spots like Pink Lake and the Mer Bleue Bog can get very busy, especially on weekends. For a more relaxed visit, explore on weekdays, ride the free Gatineau Park Shuttle, or seek out hidden gems such as quieter trails and lesser-known lookouts.

✨ Make it memorable – By choosing the right time and place, you’ll enjoy the same breathtaking colours without the stress of crowds, making your fall outing truly magical.

Plan Your Ottawa Fall Adventure

Whether you’re hiking through Gatineau Park, strolling along the Rideau Canal, or taking in city views from Rockcliffe Park, you’ll quickly see why Ottawa is one of the best places in Ontario to see fall colours

👉 Ready to plan your trip? Check out our guide to things to do in Ottawa for more fall adventures, festivals, and local experiences.

Enjoy!

Natalie