If you missed peak fall foliage in Muskoka or Algonquin Park, there are still some gorgeous autumn colours to catch across Ontario, and a few parks are just starting to transform.
Looking at the latest Ontario Parks Fall Colour Report, Algonquin Provincial Park had reached 100 per cent colour change as of Oct. 13, with about half its leaves already fallen. Nearby Arrowhead Provincial Park in Huntsville was also at 100 per cent colour change, with 60 per cent leaf fall as of Oct. 14.
But elsewhere in the province, the autumn show is far from over! Here are six Ontario parks where you can still catch some beautiful fall foliage this October.
Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
As of Oct. 14, Forks of the Credit Provincial Park reported 80 per cent colour change and just 10 per cent leaf fall, so most of its autumn foliage is hanging on! For some of the best views, explore the Trans Canada Trail and take in the surrounding forest dressed in shades of yellow and orange. The park is nestled in Caledon, about a one-hour drive from Toronto (so, a great spot for an autumn day trip).
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park is a perfect spot for foliage if you’re into dramatic scenery (think towering limestone cliffs and forested trails). The Cliff-Top Side Trail is one of the best places to enjoy the changing colours, with views of the surrounding landscape. As of Oct. 14, the park reported 80 per cent colour change and 20 per cent leaf fall. Mono Park is just under a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto, just north of Orangeville, so it’d make another great day trip.
Awenda Provincial Park
The autumn colours are already well underway at Awenda Provincial Park, so maybe consider a fall getaway near Georgian Bay? As of Oct. 14, the park had reached 90 per cent colour change, with only 20 per cent of its leaves fallen. Follow the Wendat Trail around Kettle’s Lake, and you’ll discover a natural amphitheatre of autumn colour. And then head to the park’s main road: it’s known for its golden-yellow foliage, which can stick around into November. About a 2-hour drive from Toronto.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Sandbanks Provincial Park in Prince Edward County is mostly associated with pretty summer beach days, but the park also offers beautiful autumn scenery.
As of Oct. 15, Sandbanks reported 80 per cent colour change and 30 per cent leaf fall, with yellow and orange dominating the landscape. Explore the Lakeview Trail or Woodlands Trail for a perfect day of fall-colour viewing (it’s also a good excuse to plan an autumn road trip through Prince Edward County). About a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto.
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Bronte Creek Provincial Park is nestled in Oakville, and as of Oct. 14, it reported 60 per cent colour change and 30 per cent leaf fall, with yellow as the dominant colour! The park has a few picturesque spots for leaf peeping, like the Lookout/Ravine Trail, Half Moon Valley Trail and Field and Forest Trail. For a little old-fashioned country charm, head toward the historic farm area around Spruce Lane. About a 45-minute drive from Toronto.
Pinery Provincial Park
Pinery Provincial Park sits near Grand Bend on Lake Huron, just under 3 hours from Toronto, so maybe keep it on your radar for a fall weekend road trip. Unlike some of Ontario’s northern parks, Pinery’s oak trees tend to hold on to their green leaves longer before turning rusty shades of red and orange!
As of Oct. 13, the park reported just 30 per cent colour change and 10 per cent leaf fall, so most of its autumn transformation is still ahead. Check out the Sassafras Trail and the park’s forested trails and lakeside scenery for the most beautiful foliage (just make sure to check the Ontario Parks Fall Colour Report before heading out).
And if you prefer to stay local, here are 15 places to see fall colours without leaving Toronto.