As the leaves begin to paint the town in shades of gold and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s time to embark on some cozy fall day trips from Toronto.
Grab your comfiest sweater and your favorite pair of boots because these excursions are best enjoyed in the autumn.
So, let’s dive into some fall day trips from Toronto and explore the enchanting wonders that await just beyond the city’s limits.
Elora & Fergus
This day trip is perfect if you love spooky season.
The nearby towns of Elora and Fergus are bringing back their annual Monster Month and it’s a marathon of all things Halloween!
In September and October, these charming historic towns start to resemble Halloween towns with creatures around every corner.
Plus, there are all kinds of spook-tacular events, parades, and activities to take part in.
Downey’s Farm
This fall, you have to pay a visit to Downey’s Farm Pumpkin Fest this September and feast your eyes on their famous orange sea of gourds.
Thousands of pumpkins are on display at this charming family farm in Caledon, just 45 minutes outside of downtown Toronto.
During the annual fall fair, there is an incredible 8-acre corn maze, farm animals, live entertainment, and the “boo barn,” plus fun games like straw jumping, duck races, jumping pillows, the pedal cart track, and goat mountain slide.
When: September 23rd to October 31st, 2023
Where: 13682 Heart Lake Road, Caledon
Dundas Valley Conservation Area
Lush canopies of autumn leaves as far as the eye can see — that’s what you’ll find at Dundas Valley Conservation Area this time of year!
Described as “one of southern Ontario’s most spectacular natural treasures,” the Dundas Valley is the place to go for breathtaking lookout points and attractions around every corner.
Located just an hour outside of Toronto, the 1,200-hectare conservation area is comprised of forests, meadows, streams, wildlife, waterfalls, and ancient geological formations.
Where: 650 Governors Road, Dundas
Rouge National Urban Park: The Vista Trail
If you;re looking for a spot closer to home, The Vista Trail at Rouge National Urban Park is a breathtaking escape right here in Toronto.
This 1.5 km trail will take you to a two-level viewing platform that overlooks the spectacular valleys below.
On a clear day, these views cannot be beaten, but they are even more special in the fall as the leaves change colour.
In fact, Parks Canada says it is one of the best places in all of Toronto to observe autumn colours.
Where: North trailhead at Zoo Road, south trailhead at 55 Twyn Rivers Drive
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Bala
There are so many reasons to visit the charming cottage country town of Bala, Ontario, the fall views being one of them.
Located where Lake Muskoka and the Moon River converge, downtown Bala is a must-visit small town. And it’s a two-hour drive from Toronto!
The region is home to many beautiful nature trails, like the Gibson Lake Trail, Bala Historic Walk, and the Cranberry Trails at Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh.
Speaking of cranberries, people love to visit Bala for the town’s famous award-winning Cranberry Festival, which takes place every October.
Vettä Nordic Spa
A relaxation destination like no other! Vettä Nordic Spa is a peaceful oasis hidden in a picturesque valley just one hour north of Toronto.
This spa offers a traditional Finnish hydrotherapy circuit of heat, cold, and relaxation.
It is said to have one of the largest authentic wood-burning saunas in North America, plus all kinds of Finnish-inspired experiences to help you soak your stress away.
The property is nestled in the highlands of Horseshoe Valley, making you feel as if you’ve truly escaped from the city without having to travel too far.
Where: 3210 Line, 3 Line North, Oro-Medonte
Bronte Creek Provincial Park
Just a short drive from downtown Toronto lies Bronte Creek Provincial Park, a haven of fall colours, trails, and peaceful surroundings.
This park has tons to offer throughout the year, but it truly shines during the enchanting autumn months.
One of the park’s highlights is the Spruce Lane Farmhouse, a charming turn-of-the-century farmhouse that transports you back to the 1880s.
Maiden’s Blush Trail, Trillium Trail, and Gateway Trail offer easy, picturesque strolls, some of which are wheelchair and stroller-friendly.
Where: 1219 Burloak Drive, Oakville
