Ontario’s Secret Woodland Staircase Will Lead You Through A Colourful Paradise This Fall

Stairway to fall heaven!
Ontario’s Secret Woodland Staircase Will Lead You Through A Colourful Paradise This Fall
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Lead Writer, Travel

There's no better way to enjoy the fall than by exploring all the beautiful colours. The province transforms into a paradise of orange and red, and you can bask in all the vibrant glory. This hidden trail is the perfect place to wander this season. Ontario's Thornton Bales Conservation Area has a dreamy woodland staircase that leads through gorgeous fall leaves.

If climbing a secret staircase beneath a canopy of golden leaves sounds like an ideal day to you, then start lacing up those hiking shoes. Ontario is brimming with fall walks, and this place needs to be on your to-do list.

Located in the Township of King, Thornton Bales Conservation Area is just an hour outside of Toronto, making it a totally reasonable day trip.

Known for its rolling hills and rugged splendour, the area is part of the Oak Ridges Moraine, with an elevation dropping over 50 metres from one side to the other.

The conservation is fittingly nicknamed "99 Steps" after its stretching forest staircase which leads to a ravine.

You can climb your way through colourful trees and drink up the fall views.

The hike can be a bit of a challenge and is recommended for those in good physical condition. Water bottles and supportive footwear are a good idea when exploring the trails.


From perfectly orange pumpkin patches to corn mazes you won't want to escape from, there are so many ways to enjoy sweater weather.

You can also explore some of these areas for more gorgeous hikes.

Start doing your morning stretches and prepare for this beautiful staircase walk.


Thornton Bales Conservation Area

Price: Free

Address: Mulock Sideroad, Newmarket, ON

Why You Need To Go: Wander along a stretching staircase that takes you through a colourful forest.

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  • Madeline Forsyth

    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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