When autumn sweeps over Ontario, the landscape becomes a fiery tapestry ablaze with vibrant shades of golden oak, persimmon orange, deep burgundy and the proud maple leaf, as scarlet as a Mountie’s tunic. During this magical season, nights are cool and the days are warmed by the lingering summer sun, which makes for terrific driving tours, hiking, bird watching and other outdoor adventures.

Admire the spectacle of nature’s fall fashion show amidst the rolling hills of the Hockley Valley and Caledon Hills located near Toronto. Be dazzled by rugged scenery and artisan creativity on a studio tour in Central Ontario. Head to Georgian Bay, Muskoka and Algonquin Provincial Park, where landscapes provided inspiration for paintings by Canada’s famous Group of Seven, which may be viewed at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg.

Take a storied drive through history and broad strokes of vibrant colour in the 1000 Islands and Gananoque region. Get an aerial view of the area from the observation tower, then travel the hills and dales of the Ottawa Valley. Further north, board the Dream Catcher Express in North Bay for a colourful train excursion to Temagami. Trek through old growth pine forests or cruise scenic Lake Temagami in September. From Sault Ste. Marie, take the Agawa Canyon Train Tour, which is at its best during Ontario’s majestic changing of the colours.