October 03, 2011 |by Candice Walsh | 0 Comments

Cabot Trail

Although the onslaught of autumn signifies the end of summer, the fall season can actually be an incredible time to visit Canada. The hordes of tourists have dissipated, the weather is cooler but more comfortable, and the changing colours of leaves afford some of the most beautiful scenes in the world.  Everything changes from green to red, gold and yellow.

Here are some places famous for their autumn shows.

1.    Cape Breton and the Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia – Nova Scotia is so enthusiastic about their fall foliage, they even have an Autumn Leaf Watch map to help you find the best spot to unpack a picnic and enjoy the view. But if you’re visiting the province between September and late October, the best place to discover is the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton.

In the highlands you’ll find maples that turn red and orange, gold birch trees, yellow salt marshes and chestnut trees, and they’re all putting on their best outfits before shedding their leaves for the winter. Find a campground, and set up your tent.

In the Annapolis Valley, spend some time on the Evangeline Trail, as well as the Glooscap and Sunrise Trails. The valleys come alive, and the hills turn to fall colours with their fishing villages huddled together as if expecting the cold snap of winter.

2.    The Canadian Rockies – You might not typically think the Rockies are a “hot” fall destination for golden landscapes, but the sub-alpine larch and trembling aspen make the mountainside come alive in a much different way than the busy tourist season of summer. Head to Johnston’s Canyon and the Tunnel Mountain, or hike to Lake Agnes from Lake Louise. From Calgary, go to the Kananaskis Country...an area you might recognize for being featured in the film Brokeback Mountain. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of migrating golden eagles flying overhead.

3.    Ontario, all of it! – Being the largest province in Canada, Ontario has no shortage of perfect places for fall foliage. And with a heavily deciduous forested northern area, it’s no wonder Ontario becomes a favourite fall destination for travelers.

In Algoma Country, take the Canyon Tour through Agawa Canyon—a train ride which optimizes the “peak colour” time between the last few weeks of September and early October.  You’ll even get a historical introduction to the landscape.

In Lanark Country (otherwise known as the Maple Syrup Centre of Ontario), the density of maple groves guarantees one of the best fall scenes you’ll find in the entire country. You can hike here, or opt for a driving or boat tour. Smiths Falls is another location worth checking out.