Canada puts on one of the world's great fall colour shows — maples turn red and gold from late September through October, rolling from north to south across the country. A fall foliage trip can be a drive, a cabin weekend or a city break built around the colour. This guide covers where and when to go, and where to stay.
When Is Fall Colour in Canada?
Fall colour peaks in late September in the north and mountains, and moves south through October. Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes peak in late September to mid-October; the West Coast peaks later and softer. For timing, see Canada in September and Canada in October.
Best Fall Foliage Destinations
Quebec
Quebec is Canada's marquee fall-colour province. The Laurentians and Eastern Townships put on spectacular shows, and Quebec City and Montreal make great bases. See Quebec fall colours: where and when to go and best fall getaways in Quebec.
Ontario
Ottawa and the Gatineau Hills, Tobermory and Algonquin are Ontario's colour hotspots. See best fall getaways in Ontario and best fall colour drives near Toronto.
The Maritimes
Nova Scotia's Halifax and PEI's Charlottetown offer coastal colour — red maples against the sea. See best places to visit in Canada in October.
The Rockies
Banff and Lake Louise turn gold in late September — larches rather than maples, but stunning. See our Banff hotel recommendations.
British Columbia
The BC Interior and Kelowna offer a softer, later fall colour season paired with wine harvest.
Find hotels, vacation rentals, activities and car rentals for Canada.
Fall Foliage Trips by Type
- Road trips: See best Canadian road trips for fall colours and best fall colour drives in Canada.
- Weekend getaways: See best fall weekend getaways.
- Cabins and lodges: See best cabins and lodges for fall.
- Romance: See romantic fall getaways.
- Thanksgiving: See best Thanksgiving weekend getaways.
Where to Stay
Fall lodging ranges from forest cabins to lakeside lodges. For destination picks, see our hotel guides for Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Vancouver and Banff, and the best fall colours in Canada collection.
How to Choose
Choose Quebec and Ontario for the brightest maples, the Maritimes for coastal colour, the Rockies for golden larches, and BC for wine-country fall. For the full season picture, see our summer lake holidays, spring vacations and winter getaways planners.
