Best of Canada
The Best Fall Colour Drives in Canada
Where to chase the maple gold, from Algonquin to the Laurentians to the Cabot Trail.
Canadian autumn is a moving target: colour sweeps from north to south through late September and October, and the best drives put you in the middle of it. Go midweek, start early, and book lakefront cabins months ahead.
Peak dates shift a few days each year, but late September to mid-October is the safest window for most routes below.
1Algonquin Park corridor
Highway 60 through the park is Ontario's classic colour drive. Walk the Lookout Trail at peak for a canopy-wide view.
Explore Algonquin Park corridor
2Laurentians (Route 117)
Montreal to Mont-Tremblant through maple, lake and rolling hill. Combine with a sugar shack stop.
3Cabot Trail
Cape Breton highlands turn gold against the ocean. The Skyline Trail is the marquee viewpoint.
Explore Cabot Trail4Charlevoix coast
North shore of the St. Lawrence past Quebec City, through a UNESCO biosphere of hills, farms and fjord.
5Niagara Parkway
Winston Churchill's 'prettiest Sunday afternoon drive' is at its best under October vineyard colour.
Explore Niagara ParkwayPlanning a trip to The Best Fall Colour Drives in Canada?
Book your stay, activities and transport in a few clicks.