The province of Ontario lies in east-central Canada, bordered by the provinces of Manitoba and Quebec and five US states. It is Canada’s second largest province with Toronto as its capital city. Ottawa, capital of Canada, is also located in Ontario.

It is a province not only of lakes (250,000 of them), but also provincial parks (over 330) and forests that come alive with colour as summer gives way to autumn.


Agawa Canyon

The fall foliage season in Ontario, Canada, reaches its peak from mid-September to early October. This year Ontario experienced the perfect conditions for breathtaking fall foliage. Thanks to the wet spring and warm summer, visitors to Ontario this autumn will witness a resplendent display of crimson and gold foliage.

Ontario is arguably the most colourful place in the world in autumn as 70% of the province is covered in ancient Boreal Forest. Travellers who undertake the great Canadian tradition of embarking on an epic road trip will find the views from the highways and byways of Ontario truly enchanting during the fall foliage season. And not just in the countryside for the autumnal scenery is equally impressive in the charming towns and villages.

Spectacular Fall Foliage Touring Locations

In the Muskoka Region, 1600 lakes, dense forests and rolling hills dominate the landscape making this resort region the perfect place for a fall foliage driving tour. Stops are recommended at Gravenhurst, Port Carling, Bracebridge and Bala. These market towns are perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon exploring antique shops, boutiques and cafes.


A Muskoka cottage

Gravenhurst, located a mere two hours from Toronto, is commonly referred to as the gateway to Muskoka. It nestles between two lakes and takes pride in being the homeport of the historic RMS Segwun, North America's oldest operating steamship. Also located on the Muskoka wharf is the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Centre with many hands-on displays and antique boats. For further information visit www.discovermuskoka.ca

Close by Algonquin Park offers an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing and camping for the more active visitor. The park, located only three hours from Toronto and Ottawa, is Ontario’s most popular outdoor playground. The expanse of colour across Algonquin Provincial Park’s vast tree covered 7,725 square kilometers (3000 square miles) is truly a sight to behold in autumn. Catch the maples at their peak in the last week of September. A couple of weeks later, the aspens, tamaracks and red oaks are at their colourful best. For more information visit www.algonquinpark.on.ca


Agawa Canyon Train

Algoma Country is a vast stretch of wilderness area located 690 km northwest of Toronto. The rustic beauty of Algoma Country is transformed each autumn into a kaleidoscope of colour which has inspired notable devotees such as the famed Group of Seven. The Agawa Canyon Train Tour is a popular way for visitors to experience the spectacular fall foliage in Algoma. The train travels from Sault Ste. Marie to the scenic Agawa Canyon Park taking in the colourful fall foliage along the way. Visit www.agawacanyontourtrain.com

Visitors have wide choice of overnight accommodation ranging from modern hotels to cosy family-run B&Bs in charming resorts. These resorts often hold local seasonal fairs and festivals offering an insight into Ontario’s history and local crafts.

Festivals during this year’s fall foliage season include:

War of 1812 Rendezvous & Fur Trade Celebration - 24-26 September. The War of 1812 Rendezvous & Fur Trade Celebration takes place in Sault Ste. Marie 696 kilometres northwest of Toronto. This fun-for-the-whole-family event will be housed in two of the oldest stone buildings in Ontario. Experience a British soldier militia muster, witness cannon demonstrations, and participate in Voyageur games. For more details visit www.algoma1812.ca


Cranberries by the barrow-load

Bala Cranberry Festival 15-17 October. The Bala Cranberry Festival, situated 160 km north of Toronto is a Muskoka region institution. The festival features cranberry marsh tours, local arts and crafts and an entertaining street carnival. This interactive event celebrating the cranberry, also invites visitors to join in on the pressing of the fruit. For more details visit www.balacranberryfestival.on.ca

For more information about this colourful province visit www.ontariotravel.net