Autumn Splendor: The ultimate fall guide through the colours of South Eastern Ontario

Experience the magic of a crisp fall day, wrapped in the warmth of your favorite hoodie. Meander through South Eastern Ontario — walk, bike, or drive, and languish in the serenity of being surrounded by the vibrant colours of autumn, and the aroma of pumpkin spice lattes. Pause to pick a basket of crispy apples, savouring the taste of the season with each bite.

As the day fades into evening, gather around a crackling campfire, sipping warm cider and toasting gooey s’mores, the perfect end to a fun autumn adventure, uploading those fabulous photos to Insta and reminiscing about what a magical experience you just had.

It sure sounds like fall is in the air and here is a guide to pick a perfect road trip and see some of those pleasant sights of the season that will only be on display for a few short weeks – but captured in photos forever.

Let’s start with the leaf-peeping map. 

TAKE A DRIVE, A STROLL, OR A BOAT CRUISE 

•  Prince Edward County (PEC): Just a short drive from Belleville, PEC is known for its charming towns like Picton and Bloomfield, and its picturesque countryside. The area’s wineries, orchards, and scenic lookouts, especially Lake on the Mountain and Sandbanks Provincial Park, are perfect for enjoying fall foliage.

•  MacCaulay Mountain Conservation Area is a fantastic fall destination, showcasing stunning views of the changing leaves and expansive landscapes. The trails offer a scenic hike through vibrant autumn foliage, with panoramic vistas from the summit that provide a breathtaking backdrop for photos. The area’s diverse natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to fully appreciate the beauty of fall.

• The Napanee boardwalk is a fantastic stroll along the Napanee River where you can view the surrounding fall foliage. The boardwalk provides a peaceful stroll through a picturesque landscape, with colourful autumn leaves reflecting in the river's calm waters. It’s a perfect spot for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the crisp fall air. 

• Kingston: This vibrant city is an ideal destination for a fall drive or a dinner cruise as it offers a blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and waterfront views. As you drive through the area, you’ll be surrounded by the enchanting hues of autumn leaves, particularly along scenic routes like the Thousand Islands Parkway. Kingston’s proximity to the Thousand Islands makes it a perfect starting point for exploring this region, where you can see both the foliage and the serene waters of the St. Lawrence River.

•  Wolfe Island: Take the ferry from Kingston to Wolfe Island and explore the island's rural roads, offering peaceful views of vibrant fall colours. The Big Sandy Bay area provides a lovely backdrop for a walk along the beach surrounded by trees in full autumn splendor.

•  Howe Island: Accessed by ferry from the mainland, Howe Island is another serene spot to enjoy the changing leaves. The island's quiet roads are perfect for a leisurely drive or bike ride, offering glimpses of the St. Lawrence River framed by brilliant foliage. 

•  Gananoque: Known as the Gateway to the 1000 Islands, Gananoque is an ideal starting point for a fall boat cruise. The boat rides offer a unique vantage point to see the showy leaves on the islands and the shoreline. 

• Hop on a Rockport Cruise of the 1000 Islands until Thanksgiving weekend and see the historic castles, like the famous Boldt Castle. Gaze at the brilliant shoreline showcasing some vast homes and breathtaking beauty. 

• You can also embark on a cruise from Brockville and take a boat cruise through the 1000 Islands during peak fall foliage is a must-do. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees contrast beautifully with the deep blue waters, making for breathtaking views and photography opportunities.

•  Hill Island: Check out the 1000 Island Tower for a breathtaking birdseye view of the islands and the St. Lawrence River. Stunning scenery can be seen for miles atop the tower. 

•  1000 Islands Helicopter Tours are another way to see the scenic views from hundreds of feet in the air. 

•  For some spectacular hikes in the region, stop at Mallorytown Landing and visit Landon’s Bay Lookout or walk the trails at Jones Creek.

• For the intrepid hiker, if Rock Dunder is on your bucket list, then you must try the Charleston Lake Blue Mountain Trail. This difficult 10-kilometre trail will be well worth the climb as once you reach the summit, on a clear day, you can see as far as the Adirondack Mountains in New York State. This is the highest point in Leeds County, so don’t miss the adventure. 

•  Brockville: Known as the City of the 1000 Islands, Brockville offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River. The 1000 Islands Parkway, a scenic drive between Brockville and Gananoque, is lined with vibrant autumn flair. Don't miss the Brockville Railway Tunnel and the many parks along the waterfront.

•  Prescott: A small town with historic charm, Prescott is home to Fort Wellington, offering both historical insight and great views of the river. The riverside walk in Prescott is perfect for leaf peeping.

•  Iroquois: Check out the Doran Bay Model Ship Museum, which is set along the St. Lawrence River and offers a unique experience. The nearby parks and waterfront areas are perfect for admiring the fall foliage.

• Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg: This living history museum offers a step back in time with its 19th-century buildings and period-dressed interpreters. The area around Morrisburg is stunning in the fall, with Upper Canada Village itself nestled in a picturesque setting.

EXPLORE THE LOCKS ALONG THE RIDEAU CANAL

There are so many quaint villages and interesting landmarks along the Rideau Canal route. Any stop will satisfy travellers of all sorts, especially in the fall when the reds, yellows and golds are bursting in the country.  

•  Kemptville: A growing town south of the canal, North Grenville offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. The Rideau River and surrounding parks make it a great spot for a relaxing fall day trip. Explore Ferguson Forest Centre, which offers trails and picnic areas amidst fall splendour, or visit Kemptville Creek for a quiet walk along the water. For a side trip, Follow 44 for a drive with purpose — 27 kilometres from Kemptville to Spencerville — and see all sorts of fun and quirky spots along the way.

• Burritts Rapids. This historic village is located on an island in the Rideau River in North Grenville and offers a quiet, picturesque setting for a fall day trip. The area around the village is rich in autumn colours, with riverside trails and heritage buildings adding to the charm. Walk the Tip to Tip Trail, which loops around the island and provides great views of the canal and the surrounding foliage.

•  Merrickville Known as the "Jewel of the Rideau," Merrickville is a charming village with historic buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. The surrounding countryside is stunning in the fall, with the canal locks providing a serene backdrop for a stroll. Visit the Merrickville Lockstation, explore the local shops, and have a riverside picnic while taking in the fall plumage.

•  Portland. Located on Big Rideau Lake, Portland is a picturesque village that offers scenic views of the lake surrounded by colourful trees. It's a perfect spot for a quiet fall getaway. Visit the Portland Harbour, take a boat out on the lake, or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore.

•  Newboro. A small village along the Rideau Canal, Newboro is a peaceful retreat known for its lakes and outdoor activities. The surrounding forests and waterways make it an ideal spot for leaf-peeping. Take a boat tour or kayak on Newboro Lake, or simply love a scenic drive along the canal, with plenty of vibrant fall colours along the way.

•  Westport. Centered between Upper Rideau Lake and Foley Mountain, Westport is a lovely spot for a fall day trip. The village offers great shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, with the surrounding forests ablaze with autumn pizzazz. Hike to the Spy Rock lookout at Foley Mountain Conservation Area for panoramic views of the town and the fall landscape below.

• Wolf Lake Drive - Westport (1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterway) to Godfrey (Frontenac County) is another scenic tour that will have you clicking your shutter the entire trip. Don’t miss the fabulous fall splendour on this drive from Westport to Kingston. 

• Chaffey's Lock. The hamlet of Chaffey’s Lock is situated along the Rideau Canal and is surrounded by dense forests that turn vibrant in the fall. It's a quiet spot with a historic lock station and scenic trails. Explore the Chaffey’s Lockstation, visit the Lockmaster’s House Museum, and walk along the Opinicon Trail, which offers beautiful views of the changing leaves.

• Jones Falls/Morton: Jones Falls is known for its impressive set of locks and the historic Blacksmith’s Shop. The area is particularly scenic in the fall, with the canal cutting through forests and rocky landscapes. Visit the lock station, hike the trails around Jones Falls, and take in the views from the dam and the stone arch bridge.

• Rock Dunder: A popular hiking spot near Morton, Rock Dunder offers panoramic views of the Rideau Lakes and the surrounding forests. In the fall, the view from the summit is breathtaking, with the entire landscape painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Hike the Rock Dunder Trail to the summit for some of the best fall views in the region. The trail is moderately challenging but well worth the effort.

• Lower Brewers Lockstation. Located near Kingston, Lower Brewers is a quieter lock station along the Rideau Canal with scenic surroundings. The area is especially pretty in the fall, with the canal winding through the wooded area. Visit the lock station, walk along the canal, and picnic by the water while surrounded by fall foliage. These locations provide a variety of experiences, from peaceful island explorations to stunning views from the water, all showcasing the natural beauty of fall along this stretch of the St. Lawrence River.

• Kingston Mills is a perfect fall destination with its vibrant autumn foliage and serene waterfront views along the canal. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the 19th-century locks, explore peaceful hiking trails, and experience the tranquil atmosphere that makes this spot ideal for a relaxing day trip. The blend of natural and historical charm of any of the locks along the canal offers a unique and picturesque setting for a memorable fall outing.

MEANDERING FURTHER EAST

Take the scenic route along the St. Lawrence River. Here are some highlights for a quiet view of the river where you can bask in a peaceful stroll or a picnic with some interesting photo ops along the way.

•  Crysler Park Marina: Located near Upper Canada Village, this marina offers a peaceful setting with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. The fall scenes along the riverbank make it a perfect spot for a stroll or a picnic.

•  Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary: Located a short drive east of Morrisburg, this sanctuary offers over 9 km of walking trails through diverse habitats, including forests and wetlands. The changing leaves make it a great spot for both bird-watching and leaf-peeping in the fall.

•  The Long Sault Parkway: East of Morrisburg, this scenic parkway connects a series of islands along the St. Lawrence River, offering breathtaking views of the fall foliage. The islands are connected by a series of bridges, making for a picturesque drive with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the vibrant show.

• Parks of St. Lawrence: This collection of parks along the river offers various spots to take in the crispy season, including beautiful waterfront trails, picnic areas, and camping spots. The natural beauty of the region is especially striking in the fall.

•  Lancaster: Further east, this small town near the Quebec border offers charming rural landscapes and scenic drives along the river, with plenty of opportunities to see the fall leaves in a peaceful setting.

•  Lamoureux Park: Located in the heart of Cornwall along the St. Lawrence River, Lamoureux Park is a popular spot for enjoying the fall colours. The park features walking trails, a waterfront boardwalk, and stunning views of the river, all framed by vibrant autumn leaves.

•  Cornwall Canal: The historic Cornwall Canal, running parallel to the St. Lawrence River, offers a scenic route for walking or cycling. The tree-lined paths along the canal showcase the beauty of the fall foliage.

• Gray's Creek Conservation Area: Just east of Cornwall, this conservation area features 43 hectares of woodlands, wetlands, and trails. The forested areas are especially stunning in the fall, with a mix of hardwood trees providing a rich tapestry of autumn shades.

•  St. Lawrence Power Development Visitor Centre: This site offers views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding area, which becomes even more picturesque in the fall. The center also provides educational exhibits on the river’s history and power development.

• Mille Roches Island: Part of the Long Sault Parkway, Mille Roches Island is a short drive west of Cornwall. It offers camping, picnic areas, and waterfront views, all surrounded by fall foliage. The island is a popular spot for a peaceful day trip.

• Guindon Park: West of Cornwall, Guindon Park is a large natural area with trails that meander through forests and along the shoreline. It's an excellent location for a quiet walk to celebrate the season.

Popsilos in Prescott Russell: a unique way to see massive pieces of artwork on farm silos that dot the vast expanse of fields. See the glowing fields. Knock on a few producers’ doors to taste the flavours of the counties.

South Eastern Ontario offers a stunning canvas of fall, winding roads, and scenic landscapes that make it the perfect destination for an autumn drive. Whether you're exploring the historic towns along the Rideau Canal, the charming villages along the St. Lawrence River, or the picturesque islands in the Thousand Islands region, each route offers its unique beauty. Prince Edward County adds its charm with its rolling hills and vineyards, enhancing the vibrant fall foliage. From the shores of Lake Ontario in Kingston to the hidden gems near Cornwall, the region is filled with opportunities to soak in the rich hues of autumn.