This massive Ontario lookout tower is surrounded by a breathtaking sea of autumn colours

You can soar above the vibrant treetops.

Lead Writer, Travel

This Ontario destination is an incredible spot to soak up the fall colours. You can climb your way to a breathtaking lookout over a red and gold forest.

The Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, located in the Algonquin Highlands just outside the village of Dorset, offers a gorgeous view of the fall foliage.

Standing at 100 metres tall, the structure takes you soaring over rolling hills of red and orange woodlands and a sparkling lake.

You can soak up the scenery from the ground-level lookouts, or climb your way to the observation deck for some treetop views. The observation deck sits 465 feet above the Lake of Bays, offering jaw-dropping panoramic vistas of the colourful fall landscape and glassy waters below.

The Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower can draw over 600 vehicles in a single day during peak autumn season, so you'll need to purchase timed entrance tickets if you're planning to visit between September 21 to October 14, 2024.

The tickets are available online and cost $15.95 per car or $5.33 walk-up fee per person.

The lookout tower site facilities include picnic areas, restrooms, a tourist information kiosk, a gift shop and a hiking trail.

The 2.3 kilometre Dorset Lookout Tower Trail starts behind the Dorset Heritage Museum and takes you through a stunning mixed forest of fall colours from the bottom of the lookout hill to the top and back down again.

With towering views of the foliage, a gorgeous trail and endless autumn splendour, the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower is an idyllic spot to immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.

Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower

Price: $15.95 per car or $5.33 walk-up fee per person during fall colours

When: September 21 to October 14, 2024 for fall colour viewing

Address: 1191 Dorset Scenic Tower Rd., Dwight, ON

Algonquin Highlands Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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