Fall is the best season for day trips. You get to sip on warm mugs of pumpkin spiced anything, and you can still spend the day outside without freezing your buns off. If you’re feeling the itch to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Toronto to take this fall.
1. Rattlesnake Point
If you’re up for a fall adventure with a colourful escarpment and epic views, you’re going to love Rattlesnake Point. Located along the Niagara Escarpment, this natural conservation area is not to be missed. Hike up to Buffalo Crag Lookout Point for breathtaking views, and walk along one of the many trails Rattlesnake Point has to offer. And if you’re up for it, you can also try rock climbing to see the escarpment from a whole new vantage point!
2. Elora Mill Spa
In the heart of Elora’s charming village, you’ll find the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa where you can spend the day getting pampered, while also the gorgeous scenery all around you. Elora is a quick 1.5-hour drive from Toronto, so you can spend the whole day there without wasting much time on the drive. The hotel is located on top of a rushing river, and the spa is perched cliffside on a waterfall. Make sure to check out the outdoor infinity pool and hot tub that overlooks the river, and if you’re up for a cleansing walk or challenging hike through the gorge, they’ll be more than happy to set one up for you!
3. Prince Edward County
A short 2.5-hour drive from Toronto, Prince Edward County has all you could want in a fall day trip. With gorgeous country scenery, artisan shops, and an ever-evolving wine and food scene, put P.E.C. at the top of your list this season. Crowds tend to thin in the fall, so it’s the ideal time to see what the county has to offer. Sip wine at a vineyard like Devil’s Wishbone, have a meal at the Drake Devonshire Inn, and head to Campbell’s Orchards for some classic autumn festivities including pumpkin picking, hay rides, and homemade pies at the market.
4. Forks of the Credit Provincial Park
Situated on the famous Bruce Trail, Forks of the Credit is a great spot to hike and have a picnic on a warm fall day. Walk the beautiful trails and make your way to the waterfall, which is said to be a little underwhelming, but a waterfall no less! Another option is driving or riding your bike through the roads of the Forks. On your ride, you’ll see The Credit River, rolling hills, 19th-century farmhouses, country stores, and of course a beautiful forest with changing leaves.
5. St. Jacobs Country
Just north of Waterloo, you’ll find St. Jacobs country, known for its Mennonite community. One of its biggest draws is the St. Jacobs Farmer’s Market, open year-round. Peruse and shop from hundreds of vendors who offer fresh-farm produce, crafts, imported goods, and ready-to-eat food you can enjoy right there! Explore the shops and bakeries in St. Jacobs village and stop by the Block Three Brewing Company to try some of their artisanal small-batch beers.
6. Niagara-on-the-Lake
People flock here in the summer for a taste of Ontario wines, but we definitely prefer it in the fall. Take a drive down the tree-lined old town that features heritage homes and sprawling views.
Featured image: Instagram/ @megan_duchesne
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