This Ontario spot is 'Canada's answer to the Grand Canyon' and it's stunning in the fall

It's like an autumn trip to Arizona.

A person looking over fall foliage. Right: A canyon during the fall.

An Ontario park.

@raanraaan | Instagram, Jacob Boomsma | Dreamstime
Lead Writer, Travel

You don't need to head south to enjoy epic canyon views. This natural wonder in Ontario boasts major Grand Canyon vibes—and it's even more magical during the fall. With towering cliffs and sweeping scenery, you'll feel like you've taken a mini trip to Arizona without leaving the province.

Ouimet Canyon, tucked in Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park near Thunder Bay, is a hidden gem that offers endless autumn charm.

Dubbed "Canada's answer to the Grand Canyon" by Destination Ontario, the destination features a 150-metre-wide gorge with dramatic cliffs plunging 100 metres to the canyon floor. During the fall months, the surrounding trees transform with fiery shades that make it look like something off a postcard.

You can hike the 1-kilometre trail loop, which winds over a scenic bridge and leads to two lookout platforms perched on the canyon's rim.

The elevated boardwalk connecting the platforms offers sweeping views of the canyon's colourful foliage, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful autumn stroll.

The canyon's unique environment allows arctic plants usually found 1,000 kilometres north to thrive, so you can expect some incredible scenery.

The area is ideal for birdwatching, and the boardwalk allows you to wander beneath the forest canopy where you'll see birds flitting through the vibrant leaves.

For more autumn experiences, Eagle Canyon Adventures offers a chance to walk Canada's longest suspension footbridge and soak up the stunning red and gold views.

If you're looking for a unique fall adventure, Ouimet Canyon offers a little taste of the American Southwest without hopping on a plane.

Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park

Price: $12.25 + day use fee

When: May 16, 2025 to October 31, 2025

Address: Greenwich Lake Rd., Pass Lake, ON

Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park 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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