Where to See the Most Stunning Fall Foliage in Canada
Autumn in Canada is unlike any other place in the world. From late September through October, the country becomes a living canvas of fiery maples, golden aspens, and glowing larches set against deep green coniferous trees and snow-kissed mountain peaks.
Whether you’re after a peaceful hike or a scenic drive, this guide will highlight the most stunning places to soak in the season’s colours this autumn from coast to coast.
Explore Canada’s Autumn Allure
Few places in the world can capture the magic of autumn quite like Canada. From September through October, the entire country transforms into crimson maples and oaks, golden aspens and larches, and more, all mixed with the deep green conifers that stretch across our mountain peaks, expansive valleys, lakes, and rivers.
Now, let’s take a look at some must-see destinations across Canada for stunning fall foliage.
Highway 99, British Columbia
While most are more familiar with Highway 99 from Vancouver to Whistler for skiing, there’s a northern stretch from Lillooet to Pemberton, where the road winds along gorgeous lakes, rivers, and streams with plenty of autumn colours to enjoy.
Make it an adventure and camp at one of many lakeside spots with your EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Refrigerator Freezer to keep your food at food-safe temperatures for days on end.
Highway 95, British Columbia
The quiet, meandering stretch of Highway 95 through the Columbia Valley from Kootenay National Park to Golden, BC, is a picturesque drive through the mountains, also offering plenty of expansive fall golden colors to enjoy.
Rocky Mountains, Alberta
The Rocky Mountains are warm and dry in September and October, and the summer crowds have dispersed. You’ll be rewarded with peaceful landscapes of reds and yellows from the aspen and sub-alpine larches. Try accessible spots near Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon, or hike from Lake Louise to Lake Agnes and enjoy a cup of tea at the historic Lake Agnes Tea House. Bring along the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Max, a portable and expandable power source, to supply all your emergency power needs when hiking.
Kananaskis Country, Alberta
Kananaskis Country is another accessible spot in the Canadian Rockies for fall colours, with golden larch displays from late September to early October, and aspen and poplar trees adding vibrant yellows and golds to higher montane areas. Visit mid-week and early in the morning to avoid crowds at the more popular trailheads.
Algonquin Park, Ontario
Of course, we cannot mention fall colours without mentioning Algonquin Park in Ontario. The oldest provincial park in Canada, it offers 2,955 square miles of dense forests, lakes, and rivers best explored on foot or by canoe, so be sure to pack smart and bring all the essentials for outdoor adventures.
The maple colours peak in late September and early October, although you can also enjoy aspens, tamaracks, and red oaks as they peak later in October.
Niagara River Parkway, Ontario
The historic Niagara River Parkway gained worldwide fame when former U.K. Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill called it "the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world." It follows the winding curves of the Niagara River, which divides Canada and the United States, to the waterfall.
Fall colours peak in early October, so take a drive through the parkway, enjoy the falls, and finish at one of the artisanal wineries.
Via Rail, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia
Via Rail trips offer a romantic and dramatic flair to fall colours in Canada, with routes featuring some of Canada’s most iconic cities, including Toronto, Montreal, Québec City, and Halifax. For a more rural stretch, head from Montreal up north to Jonquière or Senneterre.
With all the fall colours and family photos you’ll be taking, bring your EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh) and never miss another photo.
Montreal and Quebec City
For a truly urban fall getaway, check out Montreal and Quebec. Spend a couple of days in old Montreal, then board the Corridor train to Quebec City and explore the cobblestone streets there for a couple more days, and drink in the culture and scenery of French Canada amidst the urban fall colour landscape.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Finally, we can’t forget the maritime forests that blanket the Cape Breton Highlands National Park in reds, oranges, and golds that contrast beautifully against the dark blue of the Atlantic Ocean. Peak colour happens between early September and mid-October. Spend some time camping and enjoy some of the best hiking trails in eastern Canada.
Tips for Exploring Canada’s Fall Foliage
Go mid-week and early in the morning to avoid crowds in popular parks like Banff or Kanakasis in Alberta or the Algonquin in Ontario.
Seasons can vary widely, so keep an eye on locations and adjust viewing times if needed—plan exploring early colours in northern areas and later ones in southern regions.
Consider hiking, public transit, via rail, and other alternative forms of transportation.
Plan your accommodations, as autumn is popular.
Use reusable water bottles and follow "leave no trace" rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Month Is Fall Foliage in Canada?
Fall foliage in Canada varies significantly by location and elevation, starting as early as August in higher elevations and lasting until October or early November at most locations. Peak colour usually arrives in late September to mid-October for most regions, but coastal areas and valleys can hold onto warm tones into November.
Where Is the Best Place To See Fall Foliage in Canada?
Fall foliage occurs all across Canada, from Highway 99 in coastal Pacific British Columbia, to the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, to the Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario, and out to the Cape Breton Highland coastal Atlantic forests of Nova Scotia. Whether it’s the larch-lined trails of the Rockies, maple-covered hills in Ontario, or ocean-view lookouts in Nova Scotia, you’ll find a style of autumn scenery to match any travel mood.
Final Thoughts
Canada's fall foliage is a spectacle worth travelling from mountain passes in British Columbia to the maple forests of Ontario and the rugged coastlines of Nova Scotia. Whether you explore by car, trail, canoe, or train, every region offers its own unique perspectives and colours.
Remember to plan, pack smart, and bring essentials like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Max to capture every golden moment. Autumn comes and goes quickly in Canada; make sure you don’t miss your chance to see it in all its splendour.