Fall Colors: 10 Canadian Destinations Worth the Trip

In British Columbia, the larch is the only conifer to turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. This stunning scene—where golden hues contrast with green mountains and snow-capped peaks depending on altitude—lasts only a few weeks.

For a day trip from Vancouver, E.C. Manning Provincial Park offers a variety of hiking trails to admire this fleeting spectacle, usually visible from mid-September.

Dreaming of those postcard-perfect turquoise lakes? A little less crowded than Banff, Jasper National Park offers in autumn a landscape where sparkling waters meet golden canopies. Just minutes from Jasper townsite, Pyramid Lake and Patricia Lake are among the quietest spots. Perfect for a peaceful stroll along the shore or a cycling trip on the surrounding trails!

Fall colors aren’t just about mountain views! The wide-open prairie landscapes, with their immense skies and vast plains still roamed by bison, offer a very different but equally fascinating picture. Grasslands National Park is the perfect place to soak in these vast spaces. The 70-Mile Butte Trail rises 100 meters above the plains, offering a striking view of the Frenchman Valley. Note: this 2-km loop is demanding—pack plenty of water and slip a hiking snack into your hydration vest.

In Canada, even sand ridges put on their finest colors in autumn! At Spruce Woods Provincial Park, about two hours from Winnipeg, you’ll discover a surprising landscape where dune vegetation blazes with fiery hues. The park has plenty of hiking trails, but you can also explore on horseback. A ride along the Assiniboine River? An unforgettable experience!

Leave the mainland behind with a short getaway to Thousand Islands National Park, just a few hours from Montreal. This popular vacation spot reveals in autumn a mosaic of fiery forests and islands. By September, park and waterway traffic is lighter, making it easier to explore by kayak or boat. Paddle among the many islands and islets to fully take in this vibrant archipelago.

New Brunswick’s wide variety of tree species results in a spectacular explosion of color. On the Acadian Coast, Miscou Island offers visitors a scene unlike anywhere else. From late September to mid-October, in just a few days, its peat bogs transform, covering the island in a vivid red carpet. Love cycling? The Acadian Peninsula cycling route lets you ride to the historic lighthouse by the sea for a fiery red escape.

“PEI,” as locals simply call it, is one of the country’s most charming destinations. The 435-km Confederation Trail, a former railway line, runs across the island. With gentle slopes and well-marked paths, it’s suitable for cyclists of all levels. In autumn, the trail leads you through golden fields and quaint villages. Why not take a break on the island’s famous red-sand beaches—especially peaceful this time of year—for a seaside pause?

On Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail, you’ll find over 300 km of well-marked paths along the Atlantic. Picturesque fishing villages, lighthouses, natural geysers, and autumn scenery await. Whether you prefer a peaceful seaside walk or a climb up dramatic rocky slopes, you’ll find your perfect route. The trail is well maintained, but sturdy shoes and warm clothes are recommended to face the ocean winds.

No matter where you are in Canada, autumn is an invitation to get moving and breathe in the crisp air. To make the most of your outdoor outings—especially in this season of rapidly changing conditions—don’t forget your essentials: hydration gear, trekking poles, crampons, and weather-appropriate clothing. Being prepared is the best way to fully enjoy every fall adventure.