While we may think that Summer is everyone’s favourite season after a long cold winter, it doesn’t seem to be the case. A quick Google search of polls will show you that Fall ranks highest every time.
Living in Canada and especially Ontario, it’s easy to see why. With its thick deciduous forests with an abundance of fiery red Maples as a backdrop to crystal clear lakes or endless lush farmland, Ontario vistas can easily take your breath away with their beauty. The warm days and cool nights call out to those who love exploring and being on the road. These are our top picks for epic fall road trips around Ontario.
1. Algonquin Provincial Park: Consider a pilgrimage to Ontario’s first provincial park.
The soul of Algonquin is in its massive interior of maple hills, ridges cut into rock cliffs, and thousands of lakes – 7,635 square kilometres of forests, bogs, lakes, and rivers. Envelope yourself in brilliant Fall colours in Ontario’s oldest provincial park. A kaleidoscope of hues, shades and tones will intensify as overnight temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten. And with a great selection of breathtaking campgrounds along the park’s southern edge, it’s the perfect place to plan a quick getaway.
2. The Niagara Parkway: Twists and turns with spectacular new vistas around every corner.
This spectacular road that winds the Niagara Peninsula is the perfect trip if you’re looking for beautiful scenery with a side of adventure. It begins at Fort Erie and winds past the famous falls and whirlpools of the Niagara River. The route twists and turns, with one stunning view after another. There are plenty of places of interest to stop and explore throughout this dazzling road trip, ending in Niagara-On-The-Lake, home to many of Canada’s top vineyards!
3. The Bruce Trail: Rejuvenate your soul.
Dust off your hiking boots and lose yourself in nature’s richness along the Bruce Trail, known for its awe-inspiring vistas. Meandering through Southern and Central Ontario, this hiking trail is an excellent way to admire the changing leaves. For fall photographs that will impress your followers, drive to Tobermory, where you can find the oldest trees and the largest concentration of native orchids in Eastern North America. On the way, head out to Lion’s Head to take in the incredible views from its limestone cliffs.
4. Thousand Islands National Park: 80 kilometres of panoramic views from a single spot.
Stretching from Lake Ontario north along the St. Lawrence River to Lake Champlain, the region is a stunning mixture of woodlands, islands and water and is known for some of the best boating and fishing in the world. For the best opportunity to get a spectacular panoramic view, head to the 1000 Islands Tower. With three observation decks and an elevator that runs continuously, you can see over 80 kilometres of the region. 1000 Islands Tower is an Instagram-worthy spot!
5. Prince Edward County: Wine, food, and dunes.
Prince Edward County is a phenomenal place to go if you want to see some spectacular Fall colours. The county is home to two renowned parks: Sandbanks Provincial Park and Presqu’ile Provincial Park, both offering beautiful trails through clusters of brilliant colours and stunning lake views. Sandbanks is the more popular option because of their unique rolling dunes. Prince Edward County is also home to some more of Ontario’s finest Wineries. During the cool autumn months, you can drop in, taste wines and feast on fresh cheeses and cured meats from the region.
If you’re planning a road trip this fall, consider joining the Explorer RV Club. You’ll save on campground accommodations, emergency roadside service, and more.