Another of the main reasons to visit
Canada in autumn is the spectacular changing colours of the leaves.
Known as “leaf-peeping” season, every year the country is ablaze with fabulous autumnal colours, particularly in Eastern Canada and Quebec. Head to some of the urban parks in Québec City such as Plains of Abraham and Parc du Bois-de-Coulonge for dazzling displays of colour. Alternatively, travel further afield to Parc National de la Jacques Cartier for prime hiking and photography.
Whilst in Quebec, take in the stunning sights on foot or by a horse and carriage ride through the old town, designated a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. Head here in the early morning for stunning light or early evening to catch the last glow of the setting sun. Canada’s capital Ottawa, is also highly regarded for its autumn foliage. Visit Gatineau Park for its beautiful oaks, birch, sugar maples, spruce and firs.
In Western Canada, the Rocky Mountains are a spectacular sight with the rustic reds and golden yellows of larches and aspen trees. Take a hike through Banff National Park to admire the colours up close, or better still, ride the Rocky Mountaineer train through the breathtaking Rockies. A drive along the Icefields Parkway is also not to be missed, where you will be rewarded with bright aspens and birches lining the highway, set against rugged mountain landscapes.
Even though the Butchart Gardens is alive with beautiful blooming flowers throughout the year, autumn is a very special time to visit. Here you can see the beautiful autumn foliage from the Japanese Maples within the Japanese Garden, whilst other autumn favourites include Beautyberry, chrysanthemum and coneflower.