10 beautiful fall destinations every Ontarian should visit at least once, according to locals
Fall is in the air, and soon, the province will transform with vibrant shades of red and gold. It's never too early to start planning some autumn getaways, and, according to locals, these destinations should be on your bucket list.
We asked readers on Facebook to share fall destinations that everyone should visit at least once, and these 10 beautiful spots were among the places recommended.
From cozy small towns to breathtaking hikes, these autumn gems will immerse you in the magic of the season.
Here are 10 fall destinations readers say you should visit at least once in your life.
Agawa Canyon
Why You Need To Go: One of Ontario's most renowned fall destinations is Agawa Canyon. Located in Northeastern Ontario, the shallow canyon explodes with vibrant colours, making it look like a scene from a postcard.
The canyon is only accessible by foot or train. The Agawa Canyon Tour Train, which departs from Sault Ste. Marie, is a fantastic way to view the colours, and takes you past endless forests, lakes, rivers, and more.
The train journey takes a total of 10 hours, and peak season is from September 15 to October 14.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
When: Mid-September to mid-October for peak colours
Address: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0
Why You Need To Go: Algonquin Provincial Park is a quintessential fall experience in Ontario. According to Friends of Algonquin Park, "thousands of visitors from around the world are attracted by the outstanding fall colour viewing opportunities."
Walking trails along Highway 60 with lookouts are most popular during the fall months, so you'll need to make a reservation in advance to ensure your entrance.
Eagle's Nest Lookout
Price: Parking fee
Address: Greater Madawaska, ON
Why You Need To Go: According to locals, Eagle's Nest Lookout is a fall destination every Ontarian should experience at least once in their lives.
The beautiful natural wonder offers a panoramic view of the Madawaska wilderness, which is especially beautiful when bathed in autumn hues. A massive rock ledge juts out from the top, towering over the tapestry of colours below.
The entire trail is 8 kilometres and takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to complete.
Calabogie Peaks Resort Website
Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower
Price: $2.19 per person (walk-up)
Address: 1191 Dorset Scenic Tower Rd., Dwight, ON
Why You Need To Go: If viewing some spectacular fall colours is on your bucket list this year, Dorset Sceneic Lookout Tower is a must-visit.
The massive tower extends 142 metres above Lake of Bays and boasts breathtaking views from the tree-top lookout as well as ground-level lookouts.
According to Algonquin Highlands, the surrounding region is "a great place to experience the spectacular show as leaves change colours and visitors come from all over the world to see it."
1000 Islands
Why you need to go: The 1000 Islands is a gorgeous destination known for its crystal waters and endless islands, and fall brings a new kind of magic to the scene.
According to 1000 Islands Tourism, this spot is a magical and features a "mirrored, double-foliage effect in September and October" when the vibrant trees are reflected in the glassy waters of the St. Lawrence.
There are many autumn experiences to enjoy in the area, from cruising past red and gold islands to visiting charming cities and villages like Kingston and Gananoque.
You can also head to the 1000 Islands Tower observation deck for sweeping views of the stunning colours.
Muskoka
Why you need to go: Muskoka is an iconic fall destination in Ontario. According to the tourism website, "Muskoka offers a spectacular fall getaway with vibrant fall foliage, scenic hikes, and charming small-town experiences that will leave you recharged and mesmerized."
From wandering along trails through vibrant foliage to visiting cozy small towns bathed in autumn's warm glow, there are endless adventures waiting to be experienced.
You can also head to Bala, the Cranberry Capital of Ontario, where you can wade through a sea of red berries surrounded by fall colours.
Sault Ste. Marie
Why you need to go: Sault Ste. Marie is a not-so-hidden autumn gem, where landscapes come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours. The destination is a gorgeous spot to experience the magic of the season and has several activities that will immerse you in the stunning foliage.
You can hike your way up Robertson Cliffs, where you'll find a jaw-dropping lookout over rolling hills of fiery orange. You can also head to Fort Creek, located along the John Roswell Hub Trail, which features beautiful bridges leading through leaves of red and gold.
Tourism Sault Ste. Marie Website
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why you need to go: If a cozy small town with pumpkin-filled streets, canopies of golden leaves and ghosts lurking around every bend sounds like your idea of the perfect fall getaway, you'll want to plan a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The historic gem is known as "Canada's most haunted town," making it the perfect spot for Halloween enthusiasts. You can take a tour around the leaf-covered streets, discovering haunted sites and spine-tingling stories.
The town also has some non-spooky charm, with its warm cafes and harvest splendour. The surrounding region offers wineries, fall colour hikes and farms where you can pick-your-own apples and pumpkins.
Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake Website
Mono Cliffs
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 795086 3rd line EHS, Shelburne, ON
Why You Need To Go: Mono Cliffs is a popular spot for a scenic hike, but it's especially beautiful during the fall. The park transforms into an autumn wonderland, and locals say it's worth having on your bucket list.
You can wander along stairs that lead through an explosion of colours, hike along vibrant clifftops, and even travel straight through the middle of a leaf-covered canyon.
The area can get busy during peak colours, so be sure to plan ahead.
Dundas Peak
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 590 Harvest Rd., Dundas, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located in Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, Dundas Peak is a fall colour hotspot with breathtaking views. The hike takes you past majestic Tew Falls — a 41-metre ribbon waterfall that's the tallest in the region.
Once you reach Dundas Peak, you'll be treated to a stunning lookout over a red and gold valley that stretches into the horizon.
Reservations are required during peak colours as the area can get busy.
Hamilton Conservation Authority 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.
