Fall Wandering in Ontario's Highlands
When the days get shorter and the leaves change colours to spectacular displays of brilliant golds, blazing oranges and vibrant reds is when we all head to the hills (literally!) to view autumn's display in all its glory. Finding the best spots to see the colours is a challenge that most of us are happy to accept, as we squeeze in the last hikes, bike rides and meanders before the cooler weather hits.
In Ontario's Highlands, fall invites you to come and explore some of our wild spaces and savour every last drop of fall's brilliance. Each year, visitors travel here just to see the fall colours, drawn to our wide open spaces, epic views, and pristine wilderness.
When Do Fall Colours Start in Ontario?
In Ontario's Highlands, the best time to view fall colours will vary depending on where you will be travelling. Generally the leaves begin to change colours mid-September and continue to transition all the way until the middle of October. You can track the changing of the colours using this handy fall colour viewing map created the Ontario Parks.
If you time your visit to Ontario's Highlands right you can experience the colours at their peak.
What to Do in Fall in Ontario?
Seeing the fall colours in all their blazing glory is the most popular autumn activity and the good news is you can do this with just about any outdoor experience in Ontario's Highlands! Make the most of autumn with one of these experiences:
- Cycling trails or tree-lined roads
- Hiking (usually to an amazing lookout)
- Paddling beneath a canopy of brilliant trees
- Visiting farmers' markets or farm stands to celebrate the harvest
- Experiencing food and drink trails
- Stargazing at a dark sky preserve
When hiking to an epic lookout remember to hydrate - cooler weather does not mean you are not still losing moisture from your exertion.
Remember to leave no trace during your travels - pack out your garbage and bring reusable containers if possible.
Ontario's Highlands in Fall
Some of the most popular lookouts are at Dorset Lookout Tower (Haliburton), Skyline Park (Haliburton), and Eagle's Nest Lookout (Calabogie).
To avoid the crowds, head to Crests of Kennissis (Haliburton), Blueberry Mountain (Lanark County), and Palmerston-Canonto Conservation Area (North Frontenac)
See autumn's brilliance from a different perspective at the Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve Canopy Tour.
Sir Sam's Ski & Ride and Calabogie Peaks Resort offer lifts to the top of the hill to take in the view from up high. Sir Sam's has a new lookout called Eagle View Tower that offers unparalleled views of the countryside from the top of the ski hill. Check each location for schedules.
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