Experience the Splendor of Autumn in the Ottawa Valley
Written by: Andrew Hind
Every autumn, the forests of Ontario come alive with breathtaking colors, attracting visitors from around the world to witness the stunning beauty.
While Algonquin Park has traditionally been the favorite destination for leaf-peepers, its immense popularity has led to overcrowding when the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows make their grand appearance. Fortunately, the Ottawa Valley offers an equally spectacular alternative, featuring numerous spots to soak in Ontario’s magnificent fall foliage.
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Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre
Visit Shaw Woods Outdoor Education Centre located in Eganville, where you can gaze upon foggy wetlands framed by a stunning display of yellow-gold trees. With 14 kilometers of hiking trails winding through 210 acres of breathtaking wilderness, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to explore.
The Old Growth Trail, which winds through forests reminiscent of the untouched landscapes that used to blanket Eastern Ontario, is a popular route year-round. Leaf-peepers particularly enjoy Johnny’s Lookout Trail, offering panoramic views of the enchanting forest and Shaw Pond.
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Bonnechere Provincial Park
Keep your hiking boots handy! Bonnechere Provincial Park (Friends of Bonnechere Park) offers a wide variety of trails that take you through pine and hemlock forests, lush meadows, and alongside the sparkling Bonnechere River, teeming with diverse wildlife, including birds and bears. The stunning High Falls is particularly mesmerizing when surrounded by trees dressed in autumn colors.
Be sure to explore the three Footprints in Time (FIT) Trails, which provide interpretive experiences based on traditional First Nations teachings, educating hikers about the natural and cultural history of the region. These trails are fully accessible to individuals with mobility and vision impairments and have received the prestigious Rick Hansen Gold certification for accessibility.
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Calabogie Peaks Fall Colour Chairlift Rides
Known for its winter skiing and snowboarding, Calabogie Peaks Resort also offers chairlift rides in early October, allowing you to take in the stunning vistas of the Ottawa Valley adorned with rich reds, yellows, and oranges.
From September 21 through October 14 on weekends, you can ride the chairlift to the summit of Dickson Mountain, where you can revel in the breathtaking sights. Want to capture the moment? Whitelock Images will be available for professional photo shoots (booking required; fees separate from lift ticket).
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Madawaska Valley Studio Tour
The Madawaska Valley Studio Tour (October 5 & 6) provides a delightful reason to explore the charming towns and backroads of the area. This self-guided tour features around two dozen artists across various disciplines, including pottery, glass, painting, and woodworking. Discover unique artworks for your holiday shopping while enjoying live demonstrations.
Nature’s creativity shines at various locations along the route. In Combermere, visit Lookout Park and Crooked Slide Park, complete with a recreated loggers’ chute. Admire the historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Wilno, known for its breathtaking views of the valley below. Eganvale, fondly referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Bonnechere,’ is equally captivating.
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Up the Mighty Ottawa
Fuel up your vehicle (or charge your electric vehicle), buckle your seatbelt, and set off on a weekend road trip along the “Up the Mighty Ottawa” driving tour. Starting in Deux Rivieres (Two Rivers), near Mattawa, this route follows the Ottawa River to White Lake, located just northwest of our nation’s capital. Along the way, you’ll discover charming communities like Arnprior, which features the excellent Arnprior District Museum, Pembroke, known for its vibrant murals, and Petawawa, home to the delightful Mount Molson Dairy Bar.
Throughout your journey, you’ll encounter breathtaking sights, including the hydroelectric dam and scenic lookout near Rolphton—remarkably, it stands taller than Niagara Falls at 43 meters. Don’t miss the stunning hilltop Westneath Lookout, which offers a panoramic view of forests, rivers, and farmlands, including a visit to Whitewater O’Brien Winery for a taste of the Ottawa Valley. The highlight of this route is the breathtaking 100-meter-deep Barron Canyon in Algonquin Park, sculpted by glacial rivers that once flowed with a force rivaling a thousand Niagara Falls.
Learn more: Up the Mighty Ottawa Driving Tour
Recommended Accommodations in the Ottawa Valley:
Quality Inn & Suites
Petawawa
Calabogie Peaks Hotel
Calabogie
Quality Inn
Arnprior
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City of Ottawa Adventures
Extend your road trip to Ottawa, a city that fully embraces the charm of autumn (Fall Rhapsody | Ottawa Tourism). The city’s lush green spaces burst with vibrant fall colors, with Major Hill being a favorite spot among locals in October. Enjoy a memorable afternoon stroll along the 7.5 km Confederation Boulevard loop, which runs alongside the Ottawa River and showcases many of the capital’s significant national landmarks. No trip to Ottawa would be complete without a visit to the iconic Rideau Canal.
Best Places to Stay in Ottawa:
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
Staying at the Fairmont Château Laurier during the fall offers a magical experience. Located in downtown Ottawa, this historic hotel showcases stunning views of the city’s autumn colors, with golden trees reflecting off the Rideau Canal. The crisp fall air and vivid foliage provide a perfect setting for a luxurious retreat. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk around Parliament Hill or sipping a warm drink by the fire, Château Laurier combines timeless elegance with seasonal charm, ensuring an unforgettable getaway.BOOK NOW
The Westin Hotel
A stay at The Westin Ottawa in the fall seamlessly blends modern comfort with remarkable seasonal beauty. Situated in the city’s heart, the hotel offers sweeping views of downtown Ottawa, including the iconic Parliament Buildings and the scenic Rideau Canal, both made even more captivating by the vibrant reds and golds of autumn. With a prime location just moments away from the bustling ByWard Market and picturesque autumn pathways, The Westin Ottawa is an ideal base for experiencing the season’s charm in the nation’s capital. BOOK NOW
Enhance your fall escape by checking out ToDoOntario’s Fall Colour Report. This valuable guide provides the latest information on the best locations to experience the vibrant autumn foliage throughout the province. Whether you’re trekking the scenic trails of Algonquin Park, driving through the picturesque hills of Muskoka, or uncovering hidden treasures in Southern Ontario, the Fall Colour Report is an essential resource for planning your journey and timing your visit for maximum viewing enjoyment. It’s a must-have for anyone eager to experience Ontario’s breathtaking fall landscapes at their peak brilliance.
