Few things are as beautiful as the natural transformation that happens every Fall. If you’re lucky enough to live in Southern Ontario be sure to check out these spots – 2.5 hours or less from Toronto – for some truly impressive fall colors.
Mount Nemo
The Niagara Escarpment is truly magnificent, and one of the best spots along the 725km natural wonder is Mount Nemo. Visit around the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend and you’ll be treated to a stunning view full of rich reds and bright oranges. Try to make it there right as the sun is setting for the view of a lifetime (just don’t stay until after dark as the danger of falling into a crevice is real!)
Kelso Conservation Area / Rattlesnake Point
People have a tendency to flock to the lookouts at Rattlesnake Point and they forget that just down the street there’s another magnificent view worth checking out at Kelso. Bring your bike or pull on your hiking shoes and trek up (or down depending which parking lot you go to) to the rocky lookout (affectionately referred to by some as mini moab).
Collingwood
The town of Collingwood is well known to winter sport lovers across Ontario, but if you really want to see it at its best visit in October. The entire area, including the surrounding Beaver Valley comes to life with color. Stay at Blue Mountain or any number of charming Air Bnb’s in the area.
Rouge Park
Canada’s first urban park, situated about 20 minutes east of Toronto is a real treat for nature lovers stuck in the concrete jungle. The hiking trails at Rouge Park always attract city dwellers on the weekends, but in October expect to see even more cars lined up along the roads and filling the parking lots. Park staff do their best to control the crowds, but during peak fall foliage days be sure to get there early.
Dundas Peak
A heavily trafficked trail consisting of waterfalls and views galore, Dundas Peak is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit. Bring your patience with you and be prepared to encounter lots of selfie-takers as you reach the cliff’s edge. We recommend getting there early to beat the Insta-crowds.
It’s sad that we have to say this, but whatever you do, don’t risk your safety in order to get the perfect photo at any of these spots. Several incidents have been reported of people slipping off of the cliffs and needing to be rescued – and sometimes serious injury has occurred. Not to end the post on a low note, but safety first!
Feature photo by Ricardo Gomez Angel. Mount Nemo photo courtesy of Conservation Halton, Collingwood photo courtesy of Scenic Caves.
