There are so many amazing places to see the fall colours near Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. While you can witness vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow in Toronto itself, there are many places within an hour or two drive of the city. I also have a list of the best places in Ontario to see the fall foliage.
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It’s really difficult to narrow down this list to only 25 spots, but here are the 25 best places to see fall colors near Toronto. You’ll find these provincial parks, conservation areas, and greenspaces in the Greater Toronto Area, Hamilton and Halton regions, and even a few in Niagara region as it’s not too far away.
Fall Colours In and Around Toronto
Here’s a quick summary of the places where you’ll find awesome fall colours in Toronto, the GTA and beyond. Some of these offer a lookout point with epic views. Others are the most popular places for fall foliage. You can go on some pretty amazing hikes at the majority of these locations.
- Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
- Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
- Belfountain Conservation Area
- Bronte Creek Provincial Park
- Cheltenham Badlands
- Crawford Lake Conservation Area
- Dundas Peak
- Dundas Valley Conservation Area
- Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
- Greenwood Conservation Area
- Hendrie Valley Sanctuary Trails
- Kelso Conservation Area
- Kerncliff Park (Bruce Trail)
- Island Lake Conservation Area
- Limehouse Conservation Area
- Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
- Mount Nemo Conservation Area
- Mountsberg Conservation Area
- Niagara Glen
- Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
- Rouge National Urban Park
- Sherman Falls (Bruce Trail)
- Sixteen Mile Creek Trail
- Smokey Hollow Waterfall (Bruce Trail)
- Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Fall Colour Report: When is the Peak Viewing Time?
Depending on where in the province you’re visiting, the peak fall colors in Ontario can range anywhere from late September and early October to late October. From the end of September, you can usually start seeing the leaves change colour in southern Ontario.
Of course, you want to know precisely the best times to witness the most vibrant leaves on the trees. What is the best time of year to see the leaf color changes? For the best recommendations on where to go for brilliant fall colours in Ontario, Ontario Parks has their fall colour report. It’s an interactive map that’s continually updated throughout the fall season.
While this map applies only to the provincial parks in Ontario, you can roughly use it as a basis to plan all of your trips to see the gorgeous autumn leaves. I find that the best fall colours in southern Ontario happen around the second week of October right through to the end of October. In some cases, you might be able to catch glimpses in early November, though most of the leaves will have fallen to the ground by this point.
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Ball’s Falls Conservation Area
Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is a beautiful place to go for a fall hike in the Niagara Region. Did you know that there’s not one, but two waterfalls? How about that the region is a ghost town, formerly known as Glen Elgin, established by the Ball family for which the conservation area and waterfalls are named?
There are beautiful natural scenes, hiking trails, and a history lesson all in one memorable place. See vibrant hues of red and orange clinging to the cliffs around the waterfalls themselves. Go hiking on the conservation trails, as well as the Bruce Trail, to experience one of the best fall hikes near Toronto.
Beamer Memorial Conservation Area
Beamer Memorial Conservation Area in Grimsby offers breathtaking views overlooking the Niagara Peninsula, the Niagara Escarpment, and Lake Ontario. While it’s an outstanding place to go hiking in the spring for the annual hawk migration, the fall colours add an extra level of brilliance in September and October.
From the trails above the escarpment, you can enjoy scenery that extends out towards the lake. Continue your hike and make your way down the escarpment. Follow the edge of the river, and you’ll eventually reach a beautiful waterfall.
Belfountain Conservation Area
Belfountain Conservation Area is back open to the public after being closed due to restoration work. It’s one of the best places to see the fall colours near Toronto. While there are only a handful of short trails here, there’s a picturesque waterfall beneath a small suspension bridge.
Admire the “belle” fountain, a historic features of the park. Go hiking across boardwalks and down staircases where you’ll catch glimpses of orange, yellow, and red leaves peaking through.
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Close to Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton (and within Oakville and Burlington), Bronte Creek Provincial Park offers many forest trails with brilliant fall foliage. Furthermore, Bronte Creek also hosts an annual Harvest Festival at the end of September with pumpkin picking and carving, farm house tours, wagon rides, and yummy treats.
The Spruce Lane Farmhouse at Bronte Creek Provincial Park is thought to be haunted. It’s an old farmhouse from 1899 with unexplained happenings and reported ghostly sightings.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Cheltenham Badlands
The Cheltenham Badlands are one of the most unique natural features in Ontario. While this was once a little known gem of the region, it’s now one of the most instantly recognizable landscapes in the province. This exposed red Queenston shale terrain is like no other in the region. Visiting in the fall adds an extra layer of awesome: the red, orange, and yellow leaves make an amazing backdrop!
This fascinating site in the middle of the country in Caledon, about an hour away from Toronto and Mississauga (and north of Brampton). I truly feel that these badlands in Ontario are well worth the drive to witness a sight that you won’t see anywhere else. It’s only open from the spring to the fall, and you currently need to book your ticket ahead of time online.
Crawford Lake Conservation Area
Crawford Lake Conservation Area is another Halton region park with vibrant fall colours. The fall foliage wraps around a rare meromictic lake. Take a stroll on the elevated boardwalk around the lake to enjoy the waterfront views and the pretty autumn leaves.
Not only are there almost twenty kilometres of hiking trails, but you can also explore all year long through hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There’s a reconstructed 15th century Indigenous village modeled on the remnants of one that once existed at this very site.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Dundas Peak
The Dundas Peak is one of my favorite places to visit for the hiking, the waterfalls, and its lookout. First, it’s one of the prettiest places in Hamilton and dare I say, all of Ontario. Even though the Dundas Peak has been fenced off, you can still witness some of the most brilliant fall colours in Ontario here.
Located at the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, it’s possible to visit the Dundas Peak and Tews Falls all in one go. You can also add a separate reservation to see nearby Websters Falls. A lot of the imagery on the home page of this blog was taken at the Dundas Peak. I’m originally from the town of Dundas, and I grew up visiting this beautiful place back to when I was a kid. So, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
Dundas Valley Conservation Area
The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is one of my all time favourite places to go hiking. I am from the town of Dundas (now part of the city of Hamilton), and I used to live really close to these Dundas Valley trails. I might be a little biased, but it is one of the best places to view the fall colours near Toronto (and southern Ontario).
The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is a 1200 hectare conservation area featuring dense Carolinian forests, interesting rock formations, and a variety of plants and wildlife. As part of the Niagara Escarpment, it’s a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
The Dundas Valley Trail Centre features a replica of a Victorian train station, complete with a train car on some old railroad tracks. The ruins of the Hermitage are one of the most interesting man-made structures at the Dundas Valley Conservation Area. You can wander around the crumbling buildings and structures that used to be a grand estate on 120 acres of property (another haunted location, by the way!).
Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
From vast meadows to stunning escarpment views, the Forks of the Credit Provincial Park trails have really got it all. The hiking trails at Forks of the Credit Provincial Park aren’t boring old flat paths. There are many hills up and down the escarpment, so it might be a little challenge for those who aren’t used to hiking a lot of hills. It’s also a brilliant place to see the fall colours in all of their glory.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Greenwood Conservation Area
Greenwood Conservation Area is one of the top parks in Ajax and Durham region. There is a south and north side to the park, and there are likely too many trails to tackle in one day (meaning that you’ll need to hike here on multiple occasions).
The Trans Canada Trail goes through Greenwood Conservation Area, allowing you to continue your hike beyond the park. There are beautiful, dense forests filled with tall trees, making for the perfect autumn hike.
Hendrie Valley Sanctuary Trails
Did you know that the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington also boasts 27 km of hiking trails? The Hendrie Valley Sanctuary Trails are among the collection, and it’s one of the best places to see the fall colours near Toronto.
Go for a hike on the Bridle Trail Loop, across a lengthy wooden boardwalk that allows for safe hiking over Grindstone Creek without damaging any of the surrounding wetlands. The trees around the marsh appear in bright shades of red, yellow and orange. This park is pretty in all seasons, especially the fall.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Kelso Conservation Area
In the winter, Kelso Conservation Area operates as the ski hill, Glen Eden. But, when we aren’t in the midst of the snowy season, it’s a wonderful place to go hiking near Toronto. The fall colours are outstanding, as there are many magical forests and viewpoints along the way. It’s also a fantastic place to go mountain biking.
Kerncliff Park (Bruce Trail)
Kerncliff Park is one of the top places to go hiking in Burlington, Ontario. Without knowing much about the park, you can expect that it will already be amazing as its part of the Bruce Trail system. As there are so many different trails you can take, you can return here numerous times for new experiences. Don’t visit Kerncliff Park without taking a quick jaunt around the wetlands boardwalk before heading into the forest.
The fall colours are absolutely brilliant. The trees are so tall, towering overhead. The leaves are vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, and green. Gradually hike up to the top of the park where you can see views of Hamilton and Lake Ontario off in the distance.
Island Lake Conservation Area
Island Lake Conservation Area in Orangeville is a really special place to go hiking in Ontario. There are numerous meanders through tall trees in the middle of the forest. There are also expansive boardwalks and bridges crossing the lake offering beautiful scenery. Combine wildlife and birds with some of the best fall colours near Toronto, and you’ll quickly see why Island Lake Conservation Area is so spectacular.
The main trail that wraps around the perimeter of the park is the Vicki Barron Lakeside Trail. It’s about 8km in length, which might seem far to some, but it’s a relatively flat path the entire way. Feel free to walk or cycle this trail and enjoy the everchanging scenery as you explore the park.
Limehouse Conservation Area
Why is Limehouse Conservation Area a notable place to go hiking in southern Ontario? There are unique rock formations and escarpment landscapes that you can explore. In fact, it’s one of my favourite hikes near Toronto in the fall and any other time of year.
You can spot a pretty arched bridge across the river on your way to discovering a piece of local history: lime kilns, mill ruins, and an old powder house. There are several scenic hiking trails through the forest, making for a brilliant day spent in nature.
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park
Mono Cliffs Provincial Park has an impressive display of those red, orange, and yellow trees that you’re seeking. You’ll have the best views of these classic fall landscapes from the observation deck on the Cliff-Top Side Trail. While you’re there, you don’t want to miss the iconic boardwalk that meanders between the cliffs themselves.
When you’re visiting Mono Cliffs Provincial Park, one of the best spots to see the fall colours in Ontario, don’t miss the South Outlier Trail. It’s an overlooked gem where you’ll catch glimpses of red and orange trees along the trail. There’s another gorgeous lookout spanning across the treetops here, too. You’ll witness red maple trees, vibrant autumn oranges, and dazzling yellow leaves.
Mount Nemo Conservation Area
Mount Nemo Conservation Area is a protected natural space where you can enjoy some fresh air relatively close to the city. On the outskirts of Burlington, Ontario, it’s a wonderful place to go for a hike for an hour or two on your own or bringing the whole family. This is one of the best collections of Burlington hiking trails that I know you’ll love.
Although there are a few slightly steeper sections here and there, it’s an easy hike. There are big rewards for very little effort. The trails have a few inclines and declines here and there, but many sections are relatively flat.
Mountsberg Conservation Area
Mountsberg Conservation Area is a fun experience for the whole family. Aside from the fall foliage and hiking trails, there are also many amazing events that take place at Mountsberg. In the fall, enjoy the family-friendly Evening Halloween Spooktacular event, which includes a visit to the haunted barn and embarking on a spooky, lighted walk at night through the forest.
Fall Colours in Niagara: Niagara Glen
Niagara Glen in Niagara Falls is one of the best spots for fall colours in Ontario. The Niagara Glen trail descends deep into the Niagara Gorge where walking paths meander through 4km of Carolinian forest. You’ll be treated to impressive ancient rock formations of the Niagara Escarpment, lush ferns and plants, and jaw-dropping views of the Niagara River’s turquoise waters.
The Niagara Glen nature trails are very easy to navigate and they are very well marked. You’ll start at the top of the gorge with spectacular views overlooking the Niagara River. Use our Niagara Glen hiking guide to research the trails ahead of time. It’s my favourite hike in all of Niagara region, and its beauty is elevated even more in the autumn.
Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area
Rattlesnake Point in Halton Region is one of the prettiest places to hike in Ontario, especially in the fall. The views from Buffalo Crag Lookout Point are breathtakingly beautiful, and there are several hiking trails to witness the vibrant fall foliage. You’ll need to reserve your park visit in advance, and keep in mind that Rattlesnake Point is extra popular in September and October.
Fall Colours in Toronto: Rouge National Urban Park
Rouge National Urban Park is Canada’s first national urban park, a unique wilderness setting, and one of the best places to go hiking in Toronto. It combines amazing biodiversity and natural landscapes with history and culture of the area. You’ll find Toronto’s only campground, vast marshes, a sandy beach on Lake Ontario, Carolinian forest, and some of Canada’s oldest Indigenous sites.
When hiking at Rouge National Urban Park, you’ll be truly spoiled for choice. There are numerous trails of various distances and difficulties. I suggest venturing out on the Vista Trail (there’s a great viewing platform), the Mast Trail, and the Orchard Trail. All three can be completed in one big loop. If you’re looking for places to see the fall colours in Toronto, head straight to Rouge Park.
Looking for more fall colours in Toronto and downtown Toronto? Head to High Park, Glen Stewart Ravine, Moore Park Ravine, the Evergreen Brick Works and the Don Valley, the Toronto Islands, Crothers Woods, and the Leslie Spit. Most places listed on our top Toronto hiking trails guide also have amazing fall colors.
Sherman Falls (Bruce Trail in Hamilton)
Sherman Falls, otherwise known as Angel Falls and Fairy Falls, is a 17 metre high curtain waterfall that flows from the Ancaster Creek. To reach Sherman Falls, park your car at a parking lot on Artaban Road (part of the Dundas Valley Conservation Area). Speaking of the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, it’s another great place for a fall hike (as featured in this article), and you can make your way there by foot after seeing Sherman Falls.
There are so many amazing waterfalls in Hamilton, and many of them look positively stunning surrounded by orange and red leaves. Make sure you visit after a rainfall, if it’s possible, because some of the waterfalls might be dried up after a hot summer.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Sixteen Mile Creek Trail
The Sixteen Mile Creek Trail is right in the middle of Oakville, though you feel far removed from the residential areas and the hustle and bustle in town. I love that you can get into nature right in town. There are some small inclines and declines, though the path is pretty easy to hike and great for all skill levels.
The main loop trail is a little over 6km. The lookout point overlooking Sixteen Mile Creek has bright and vibrant fall foliage, and it’s one of the best places to see the fall colours near Toronto.
Smokey Hollow Waterfall (Bruce Trail)
The trails around the Smokey Hollow Waterfall make for a fantastic fall hike near Toronto. It’s one of the most amazing places to hike in Hamilton, too. There’s a beautiful waterfall, a scenic hike along the Grindstone Creek, and it’s part of one of the most epic trails in Ontario, the Bruce Trail.
The fall foliage surrounds the waterfall itself and the pretty little creek. Going hiking in nature while listening to the gentle trickles of the brook makes this one of the most perfect autumn hikes near Toronto.
Fall Colours Near Toronto: Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Terra Cotta Conservation Area is a beautiful place to see the fall colours near Toronto. Located in Halton Hills, it isn’t too far from Toronto. You’ll be able to explore the Niagara Escarpment on eight different trails within this pretty conservation area. These paths meander past streams and ponds, and venture through mature maple tree forests.
Rows of red, orange and yellow trees line the lake that’s the focal point of the park. Go hiking on the trail, “Terra Cotta Lane” to view the fall foliage reflecting in the water.
What to Bring on a Hike
A proper pair of hiking shoes is an absolute must. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and lots of water, too. My water bottle of choice is the GRAYL Purifier because you can drink ANY water from any source, no matter what. Water from lakes, streams, rivers, public restrooms, you name it. It’s the world’s fastest portable purifier.
Don’t forget to pack some bug spray because there can be biting bugs depending on the time of year. Even if there aren’t any signs, it’s safe to assume that ticks are all over Ontario hiking trails. Protect yourself against ticks by reading our guide to avoiding ticks on the trails.
For amazing deals on hiking products like backpacks, boots, clothing, and gear, check out the Decathlon Canada shop!
More Places to Hike in Toronto
Toronto has a surprising amount of hiking trails and preserved natural spaces. You just need to know where to look! Here are some suggestions for where to go hiking in Toronto:
- Moore Park Ravine Trail
- Evergreen Brick Works Trails
- Warden Woods and the Gus Harris Trail
- Glen Stewart Ravine
- Scarborough Bluffs Trails
- Best Hikes Near Toronto
- The Best Snowshoeing Trails in Toronto
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The beauty of the color orange shades of autumn is really amazing! 🤩 There are more to add to your lists like Killarney Provincial Park, trails in Uxbridge, Ontario, and the Bon Echo (and I know there’s more)! Thanks for this post! Cheers!