The 8 Best Places to View Fall Colours in Toronto [2023]

  • Published: August 28, 2023
Best Places to View Fall Colours in Toronto

The changing of the leaves from green to vivid red, orange, and yellow hues signals summer’s end. Watching the leaves turn, “leaf peeping,” is a timeless tradition that aligns with transitioning from energetic summer pursuits to more laid-back autumn activities.

Before winter’s chill breezes in, seize the opportunity to browse farmers market stalls, go apple picking, or embark on late summer day trips. There’s still lots to do in the city as summer winds down:

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In Toronto, the unique blend of crisp autumn air and earthy scents heralds the fleeting yet enchanting seasonal shift. Make this year’s leaf peeping experience memorable by packing snacks, inviting friends, and bringing along the dog to enjoy breathtaking fall foliage from the city’s finest vantage points.

Summary

What’s a good way to plan a leaf peeping trip?

Planning an inner city excursion to enjoy Toronto’s fall colours can be an exciting way to embrace the city’s natural beauty of fall. Consider these tips when planning your trip:

  • Check the timing: Keep an eye on the changing colours and plan your trip accordingly. The peak time for fall colours in Toronto is typically from late September to early October.
  • Plan your transportation: Decide on walking, biking, driving, public transit, or a combination. Keep in mind that Toronto’s comprehensive public transport system makes navigating the city easy.
  • Pack essentials: Since fall weather can be unpredictable, dress in layered clothing and wear comfy waterproof shoes, like rainboots, and bring an umbrella. Capture moments with your digital or phone camera—and bring along with extra battery life. To keep fueled, pack snacks or a picnic. 
  • Check local events: Toronto has many events and activities that coincide with the change in seasons that can add to your leaf peeping experience. While you’re exploring, take in other attractions like festivals, local markets or seasonal activities.

By setting up your ideal trip with a well-thought out leaf peeping strategy, you can get the most out of autumn.

The 8 Best Places to View Fall Colours in Toronto

Let’s now immerse ourselves in the captivating tapestry of autumn hues and explore Toronto’s finest locations to witness this vibrant seasonal transformation!

1. Rouge National Urban Park

More than 18,000 acres of forested trails, valleys, wetlands, and diverse plant and animal life centred around GTA’s Rouge River. Enjoy vibrant fall foliage views on varied trails and lookout points, with maple, oak, and birch trees turning vivid red, orange, and yellow. You’ll encounter lots of birds and might even encounter some deer or beavers.

Location Information:

Web: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/on/rouge
Phone:  416-264-2020
Address: 1749 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto, ON M1B 5W8

2. Evergreen Brick Works

A former quarry and industrial site that’s now a public park and cultural centre with a beautiful view of the city skyline—great for sightseeing fall colours. Located in the Don River Valley amid nature trails, this location also has tours, festivals, nature-based activities, and a sustainable garden market.

Location Information:

Web: https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-works/
Phone: 416-596-7670
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8

3. High Park

Located steps from High Park and Keele stations, this is the city’s largest park, offering numerous hiking trails and lookout points for observing autumn’s fiery leaf displays. Its recreational amenities encompass a zoo, gardens, sports facilities, and playgrounds, with a regular calendar of events.

Location Information:

Web: https://www.highparktoronto.com/
Phone: 416-338-0338
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3

4. Edwards Gardens

This beautiful botanical garden is renowned for its breathtaking, plentiful fall foliage, attracting photographers and weddings. Beyond curated gardens, it features forested walking trails with bridges and a stream. Onsite attractions encompass events, a children’s garden, a greenhouse, and a garden shop.

Location Information:

Web: https://torontobotanicalgarden.ca/get-gardening/public-gardens/edwards-gardens/
Phone: 416-397-1341
Address: 755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON M3C 1P2

5. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Spanning 36 acres, it stands as the downtown core’s largest park, offering extensive picnic areas where visitors can unwind amid picturesque surroundings adorned with warm-coloured leaves. Its open fields and verdant spaces beckon outdoor activities like sports and kite-flying amidst the vibrant fall foliage.

Location Information:

Web: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/241/index.html
Phone: 416-338-2614 (City of Toronto booking)
Address: 790 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G3

6. Mount Pleasant Cemetery

This scenic cemetery features kilometres of drives and walking paths adorned with unique trees, fountains, statues, and botanical gardens, enhancing the leaf peeping experience. Its photogenic vistas make it a year-round favourite among photographers, while its serene ambiance offers a peaceful environment for contemplation and admiration.

Location Information:

Web: https://www.mountpleasantgroup.com/en-CA/Locations/Cemeteries/Mount-Pleasant.aspx
Phone: 416-485-9129
Address: 375 Mount Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON M4T 2V8

7. Humber Bay Park

Etobicoke’s 47-acre waterfront park, nestled south of Lake Shore Boulevard West near Park Lawn Road. In fall, the area transforms, boasting maple, oak, and birch trees in vibrant autumn hues. The park’s diverse natural habitats—trails, picnic spots, and a beachfront—create a picturesque, lakeside haven for soaking in the beauty of changing leaves.

Location Information:

Web: Humber Bay Park East & Humber Bay Park West
Phone: 416-485-9129
Address: 375 Mount Pleasant Rd, Toronto, ON M4T 2V8

8. Tommy Thompson Park

An artificial man-made peninsula, also known as Leslie Street Spit, has lookouts with stunning views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. The park’s diverse natural habitats feature an array of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, and indigenous grasses, creating an ideal environment for taking in the leaves turning with the option to birdwatch, hiking, and observe wildlife.

Location Information:

Web: https://tommythompsonpark.ca/
Phone: 416-661-6600
Address: 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON M4M 3M2

FAQs About Viewing Autumn Foliage in Toronto

Typically, autumn in Toronto lasts mid-September to late November, and trees begin to change colours towards the end of September and peak in mid-October.

This varies year-to-year, depending on weather conditions. This year “The Golden Season,” as it’s sometimes called, is predicted to land late September to early October.

As temperatures drop and sunlight decreases causing shorter days, leaves begin to change. Colder climate and reduced light affect the leaves’ ability to process their pigmentation, resulting in the colour change.

Some top Ontario spots for fall foliage include Algonquin Provincial Park, Muskoka, Niagara Escarpment. Ottawa’s ideal too with Gatineau Park, Rideau Canal, and Major’s Hill Park as popular spots

Final Thoughts

Toronto’s urban leaf peepers experience breathtaking cityscape views overlaid with a vibrant tapestry of colourful foliage. Though warmer temperatures may slightly delay the onset of seasonal transformations, maximize fall colour viewing experiences and make lasting memories by bringing suitable gear, a camera, and perhaps the company of friends to share in the beauty!

And for more beauty in the city and around, we have other picks for you:

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The Best Sunflower Fields and Mazes Around the GTA
The Best Alpaca Farms Near Toronto

Sarita Wiggan

Sarita Wiggan

Sarita Wiggan is a Toronto-raised creative with a deep appreciation for the city’s diverse cultural communities. Learn More About Sarita Wiggan

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