Top 6 Destinations to Experience Canada's Autumn Foliage

Experience an array of colours and dazzling hues in charming Québec in Eastern Canada. As one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in Canada, if not the world, take the time to admire the Maple trees turning fiery reds along the St Lawrence River and head up to the Plains of Abraham and the Citadel for picturesque views over the city ablaze with colour. In Montréal, Mount Royal Park is bursting with the changing colour of the leaves and overlooks downtown Montréal. For great hiking opportunities amongst the colourful leaf displays, head to Parc National de la Jacques Cartier.

 

Positioned on Canada’s East Coast at the north-eastern tip of Nova Scotia, it’s easy to see why Cape Breton Island is regarded as one of the world’s top island destinations. With miles of rugged coastline, spectacular highland scenery and a variety of hiking trails, a visit to Cape Breton Island is a must on any Canada itinerary.

 

Arrive in autumn and drive along the world-famous Cabot Trail, and admire the everchanging colour of the leaves from crimson golds to rustic reds. To take in the brilliant autumn colours up close, hike along the 6.5km Skyline Trail and stop at the viewing decks for incredible vistas over the Cabot Trail and the Gulf of St. Lawrence where you might even spot whales. Time your visit in early October to see the annual Celtic Colours International Festival, one of Canada’s premier musical events.

 

A visit to the famous Niagara Falls is astounding at any time of the year, but autumn is even more special, due to the breathtaking changing colours of the foliage and Maple trees around the spectacular waterfalls. Have your camera handy to photograph the thundering falls against the explosions of rustic reds, oranges and browns. Feel the mist wash over you as you cruise to the foot of Horseshoe Falls. For the best views of the autumn colours, head up to the Skylon Tower, soaring 236 metres above the falls or enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view.

 

From September to October, Vancouver is bursting with fabulous autumnal colours. One of the best places to experience this is in Stanley Park. Covering 400 hectares, walk, jog, skate or cycle along the seawall and forest trails or simply take a seat on a bench and admire the rich colours all around you. For an unforgettable dining experience, enjoy dinner at Prospect Point Café, overlooking the beautiful harbour and gorgeous autumn foliage. Queen Elizabeth Park is just as spectacular during autumn. Climb to the top and enjoy views across the surrounding mountains, forests and downtown Vancouver.

 

The Rocky Mountains really come alive in autumn with the larches putting on a thrilling display of golden yellows and crimson oranges. With fresh crisp air and cooler temperatures, autumn is the ideal time for hiking and wildlife watching. Hike through a forest of orange on the Larch Valley walk near Lake Morraine and time your visit to Lake Louise to see the aqua blue lake orange colour with the reflection of the golden orange hues from the surrounding forests. Drive along the renowned Icefields Parkway for magnificent views of the autumn foliage against the glistening glaciers or ride the Rocky Mountaineer for postcard views of forests ablaze with colour.

 

From late September to early October, the Butchart Gardens is a kaleidoscope of colour, making this one of the prettiest times of the year to visit. Stroll through the Japanese Garden to admire the beautiful Maple trees, Canada’s national tree, showcasing ruby reds and warm, golden oranges set against green ferns. Spend a few hours walking through the gardens and sitting under the beautiful Maple trees, whilst the Sunken Garden will simply take your breath away. Beacon Hill Park, situated in downtown Victoria is also awash with colour in autumn, with its lush gardens, manicured flower beds and meandering footpaths.