The 8 best places to see the leaves change within 3 hours of Toronto (PHOTOS)
There are plenty of incredible places to watch the leaves change right here in our own backyard.
The real gold, however, can be found within a few hours of downtown. And is there ever a poor excuse for an autumn road trip?
See also
- 52 Toronto events you need to check out this fall
- 6 amazing Toronto day trips that are perfect for fall
- The 8 best places to see the leaves change in Toronto (PHOTOS)
So if you’re in the mood for some awesome auburn and you have access to wheels to get you out of the city, here are 8 of the best places to see the leaves change colour within three hours of Toronto…
Algonquin Park
The Mecca of places to watch the leaves evolve from their summer greens, Alqonquin Park is renowned around the world for its fantastic fall foliage. Colours have already begun turning orange, so make your way north (you’ll have to go a little over the speed limit to make it in under three hours) to explore the park’s 7,600 square kilometres of space ASAP.
Blue Mountain
Take a trip to Collingwood to bask in everything the Blue Mountain Village has to offer and make your way up the mountain itself for some breathtaking views of the Georgian Bay area. Looking for the best seat in the house? Barrel down Ontario’s longest twin zip line from the Niagara Escarpment’s highest point to the Village below.
Prince Edward County
We’re including this one on the list for its endless opportunities to enjoy the best of Ontario while watching the leaves change. Pair your auburn autumn with wine tours, farm to table dining, one-of-a-kind shopping and an overnight at one of several exceptional accommodations. Oh, and definitely check out the lavender fields while you’re there.
Awenda Park
Located at the tip of Tiny Township on a peninsula reaching into Georgian Bay about 90 minutes north of Toronto, Awenda Park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and superb biking trails. Stroll along its rocky beaches to take in the baby blues on one side and bold yellows, reds, and oranges on the other.
Muskoka
A fall trip to Muskoka is always a good idea, made even better if you can get yourself on a boat and observe the fall foliage from a lake. Spectacular hues line the horizon in every direction, which you certainly won’t get tired of if you decide to make it a few-day stay.
Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
Another gem along the Bruce Trail on the Niagara Escarpment, Forks of the Credit Provincial Park boasts many trails and natural wonders at which to post up and get your leaf looking on. Unfortunately, the park’s beloved viewing platform is currently closed for repair, but don’t let that deter you from a quick trip to Caledon to soak in the colours.
Dundas Peak
Home to arguably the best lookout point in the province, Dundas Peak just outside Hamilton offers a little bit of everything: two waterfalls, an incredible hike, lakefront real estate, and, of course, #views for days.
One of the five Wine Routes
The great thing about travelling a Wine Route is taking a break from looking at leaves to stop and drink a bunch of wine (our sympathies are with the DD). You have five Wine Routes to choose from – Lake Eerie North Shore & Pelee Island, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Escarpment & Twenty Valley, Prince Edward County, and Emerging Regions – all complete with fantastic foliage and luscious leaves.
Pro tip: Find out when to find the best colours where by checking out Ontario Parks’ fall colour forecast.