Fall foliage and cool sunny days make this the perfect time of year to go exploring
It’s officially fall, a great time to escape the usual and check out some of Canada’s top destinations.
Montebello, Quebec
Located on the north shore of the Ottawa River, Montebello is an easy drive from both Montreal and Ottawa. Just north of the city-centre, you’ll find Omega Park, where you can hike all day and drive past moose, elk, bison, and bears in their natural environment. While you’re there, you can learn about the history of the town at Manoir Papineau, the home of the region’s first seigneur. Don’t miss the Fromagerie Montebello on Rue Notre Dame.
Prince Edward Island
If you’re want to camp outdoors and cycle along the ocean, Prince Edward Island National Park just north of Charlottetown is the place to go. It offers plenty of beaches, and if you like fishing, you can to sign up for a deep-sea fishing excursion. Many visitors also hike along the scenic Confederation Trail, once a CN railway until it closed in 1989.
Qu’Appelle Valley, Saskatchewan
Northeast of Regina, the Qu’Appelle Valley is filled with rolling hills and ravines to hike among. You can bring your RV and camp at the Echo Valley Provincial Park. Located between the Echo and Pasqua Lakes, the park offers the chance to canoe and fish. You can opt to stay in Fort Qu’Appelle—established in 1864 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, the town of 2,000 is known for its rich history.
Don River Valley, Toronto
Toronto’s largest urban park, the Don River Valley Park covers 200 hectare (550 acres) and sits in the heart of the city alongside the Don River. There you can take part in guided tours and bikes rides along the park’s trails. Several art installations sit along the trails, and the area is rich with wildlife such as foxes, deer, and beavers.
Photo: iStock/DarleneMunro.