Fiery Fall Colour Views
We’ve been asked again and again, when our favourite time of year to ride the Highlands is. That’s easy; when the leaves are blazing their crimson reds, oranges and yellows. We welcome the cooler fall temps in Ontario’s Highlands. When the sun rises above the trees providing some warmth on your back and lighting the fall backdrop which we like to call the big show, you know it’s going to be an epic day of riding.
To make this year your best fall ride, we’ve created a list of six locations for you to view some of Ontario’s Highlands’ best fall colour.
Route: The Fall Loop, The Highlands Loop, Dynamite Alley
After riding west through Algonquin Provincial Park, stretch your legs at Oxtongue River Ragged Falls Provincial Park. The entrance can be found off of Hwy 60, with the falls just a short walk on a well-groomed trail from the parking lot to an overlook that offers a stunning view of the fall colours. You will quickly understand why Tom Thomson and the members of the Group of Seven, as well as other artists painted here.
Most fall colour viewing traffic travels west to east; this is why we suggest riding east to west.
Route: The Highlands Loop, Valley Sally, Curvy Quebecor
Take a break from riding at this not so well-known lookout point. Westmeath Scenic Lookout has a great view of the fall colours and surrounding countryside. You can also see the Ottawa River in the distance. For a better view, climb to the top of the hill to the covered lookout.
Foymount – Opeongo Road
Route: Deep Valley Run, Opeongo Loop
Foymount is one of Ontario’s highest populated points at 500 meters above sea level, and guarantees a great view. The best part? You don’t have to get off your bike to catch this panoramic vista. The view can be seen as you ride Opeongo Road, which features one of the best curves in the Highlands.
Route: The Fall Loop, The Highlands Loop, Dynamite Alley
Just a short ride up Skyline Park Road off of highway 118, you will find a paved parking lot that is just steps away from an awesome panoramic view of Haliburton. This is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and stop for picnic lunch with all of your trip’s food finds.
Route: Deep Valley Run, Calabogie Boogie, The Highlands Loop, Meand’rin Motorbikes
Located on the Madawaska River, Cherry Point Picnic Area is a perfect pull off from highway 508 to take a break and view the fall colours. A.Y. Jackson, a famous Group of Seven painter, once painted this scenic location. Continue your ride west through Calabogie and along Centennial Lake Road for more great views.
Hardwood Lake to Denbigh – Highway 28
Route: Valley Sally, Calabogie Boogie, Deep Valley Run
Highway 28 is another road with a great view. As it twists and turns through the vibrant maples, you will get an understanding of why this area is called the Highlands as it opens up to a grand view of rolling hills and epic colours.
Map of Locations
Before you venture off on your fall ride, you might also want to check out these items to help you plan:
- The Ontario Fall Colour Report – Find out when the fall colours are at their peak
- The Ride the Highlands Fall Loop – We’ve created a loop that guides you through some of Ontario’s Highlands’ best fall colour
- The Top Ontario Fall Colour Motorcycle Rides – Check out some of the best routes and stops for your fall colour viewing
You are about to experience the best time of year for riding the Highlands. Enjoy the ride.
