Ontario Fall Colours Report
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ontario Fall Colours—from the brilliant red maples of Algonquin Park to the golden tamaracks of Northern Ontario. This seasonal guide will help you plan your trip and know when and where to catch peak autumn foliage across the province.
When to See Ontario Fall Colours
The changing of the leaves is one of Ontario’s most iconic natural events. Because of Ontario’s vast size, fall colours progress from north to south.
Northern Ontario: Colours begin in early September, peaking by late September.
Central Ontario & Algonquin Park: Sugar maples usually peak between late September and early October.
Southern Ontario: Regions near the Great Lakes and southwest Ontario often peak in mid- to late October, sometimes lasting into early November during mild autumns.
Factors like frost, rainfall, temperature, and elevation can shift timing each year, so check reports often before planning your visit.
Current Algonquin Park Fall Colours Status
Algonquin Park Current Leaf Colour Status: ~70% Colour Change
Algonquin is one of the most popular destinations in the province for Ontario Fall Colours—its maple hillsides, scenic lookouts, and hiking trails showcase some of the most vibrant foliage in the country.
Ontario Fall Colours Map
Our Ontario Fall Colours Prediction Map shows when each region is likely to hit its peak. Use the slider to see the weekly progression across the province. This map is updated annually and combines historical data, local reports, and regional weather patterns.
The graphic above predicts the weekly fall colour stage for each region/county in Ontario from August 25 through November 10. Stages are defined as follows: No Change (fully green), Minimal (just starting to change), Patches (small pockets of colour), Partial (around 30–50% colour change), Almost Peak (approaching full colour, ~50–90% change), Peak (most vibrant, near 100% colour), and Past Peak (fading or bare trees). The graphic doesn’t claim to be 100% accurate. These estimates are based on historical trends and available regional reports, along with geographical factors (latitude, elevation, proximity to water). In cases where specific data was lacking, surrounding regions’ patterns were used to extrapolate likely timing.
Peak Fall Colour Hikes in Algonquin Park
Planning Your Visit to Algonquin Park in Autumn
Timing & Weather
Visit between late September and mid-October for the highest chance of peak colours.
Check back on this page or the Algonquin Visitor Centre live webcam which shows tree colours.
Remember: cool nights and sunny days make colours more vibrant.
Permits & Crowds
You’ll need an Algonquin Park Vehicle Permit, which you can register for online.
Trails and parking lots fill quickly during peak weekends—arrive early or visit midweek.
Trails & Access
- Popular spots often close temporarily for crowd and traffic control, like Hardwood Lookout.
- Choose less-traveled trails like Centennial Ridges for quieter viewing.