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9 Great Fall Colour Hotspots near Toronto

TORONTO, ON., Oct. 1, 2020 — October means fall leaves are at their peak. This year saw a quick arrival of beautiful red and yellow tree canopies across the GTA. So if you are looking for a great spot to see the best of what fall has to offer, visit one of these prime viewing spots.

Terra Cotta Fall Festival takes place October 7, 14, 21 and 28. *photo by Credit Valley Conservation*

Terra Cotta Fall Festival
Deep within the Credit Valley Conservation System is the historic community of Terra Cotta. Make the trip extra special by stopping buy during the Fall Festival running October 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. It’s not only the chance to see amazing fall colours, but also enjoy crafts, nature hikes and food from all over the world.
www.cvc.ca
Cost: Free
Harvest Festival Admission is $8 per adult and $5 for children 6-14. Children five and under get in free!

Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Discover nearly 10 kilometers of hiking trails at Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Here you will find a huge selection of deciduous trees alive with colour. The area is also home to more than 190 bird species making it the perfect place to capture plenty of instagram worthy pics.
Don’t forget to stop and see the 50 metre deep Bronte Creek Ravine too.
https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/brontecreek
Cost: Rates vary depending on activity

Dundas Peak Lookout

A popular leaf spotting destination for Hamiltonians, Dundas Peak lookout is a 20-minute hike from Tew Falls offering majestic and breathtaking colourful views from the top of the Niagara Escarpment out across the valley. Look down 110 m below to the historic town of Dundas, and Spencer Gorge. Spot Hamilton’s skyline off in the distance. But don’t get too close to the edge It’s a perfect outing that includes a short hike and perhaps a visit to the quaint village of Dundas to enjoy a local latte at Detour or craft brew at Shawn and Ed. While you are in the area you may as well take in the beautiful nearby Webster and Tew Falls. NOTE: Due to the area’s overwhelming popularity and new distancing rules, all visitors to Spencer Gorge Conservation Area (which includes Dundas Peak, Tew Falls and Webster Falls) will need to make a reservation online prior to visiting from September 19 to November 15, 2020. Reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Cost: $10 registration fee $10 per vehicle $5 per person

Erindale Park
Erindale Park is a nature lover’s dream hidden within the City of Mississauga. Home to fishing, hiking, mountain biking and bird watching, there are plenty of things to do while checking out the fall colours.
https://www.discovermississauga.ca/see-and-do/item/erindale-park
Cost: Free

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area
Another Mississauga gem, Rattray Marsh provides a unique glimpse of nature in the heart of the city. Leaves are now at their peak, casting a beautiful glow across the Marsh. This park is easily accessible with walking trails and raised boardwalks. There is also plenty of opportunities to see native birds in their natural habitat.
www.cvc.ca
Cost: Free

Scotsdale Heritage Farm
Scotsdale Heritage Farm is one of the area’s best examples of traditional pioneer farming. Nestled along the Niagara escarpment, the farm features heritage buildings and barns, active farming and beautiful forests and wetlands. There is even evidence of an early indigenous settlement. The perfect place to bring the family to enjoy the fall colours and learn a little bit about or past.
https://scotsdalefarm.com
Cost: Donations Appreciated

Mono Cliffs, Caledon
Located along the Bruce Trail, Mono Cliffs provides breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment. See the fascinating examples of the Ice Age recession with 30 ft metre cliffs and amazing rock formations that offer a challenging hiking experience. Not just a great place to see the fall foliage, it also contains unique ferns and ancient cedars.
https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/monocliffs
Cost: Free

Cheltenham Badlands is located on Old Base Line Road between Chinguacousy Road and Creditview Road.

Escarpment Side Road, Caledon
A walk or drive along the Escarpment Side Road offers visitors a view unlike any other. Rolling hills and vast vistas allow panoramic views of the fall colours. See if you can spot the City of Toronto and Mississauga off in the distance. Other nearby autumn hotspots include the Cheltenham Badlands and Forks of the Credit. Afterwards enjoy craft beer and yummy comfort food at the Caledon Inn or craft cider at Spirit Tree Cidery.
Cost: Free

Glen Haffy Conservation Park, Caledon
Looking for a peaceful escape from the city? The Glen Haffy Conservation Park is a tranquil oasis whether you are taking in the fall foliage or casting your fishing line in ponds stocked with rainbow trout. Stunning trails take you through the Niagara Escarpment and the Oak Ridges Moraine.
https://trca.ca/parks/glen-haffy-conservation-area/
Cost: Admission starts at $4 per person depending on the activity.