25 Best Places to See Fall Colours in Toronto 2026
In short: Fall foliage in Toronto is at its best in these 25 spots – think boardwalk trails, island views, and photo-ready city parks.
Are you looking for the best places to see Toronto’s spectacular fall foliage? Well, I’ve got all the information you need to find the best spots.
Why should you trust me? I have lived in Toronto my whole life, and autumn is my favourite season in the city. From mid-September to early-November I love grabbing my camera and visiting all the Ontario parks and Toronto attractions as they come alive with vibrant fall colours.
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Where to Visit Fall Foliage in Toronto
With so many fantastic parks, ravines, and trees in neighbourhoods across Toronto, there is no shortage of locations to admire the changing leaves in the city. Toronto is a fantastic location to capture beautiful autumn photos or just explore the many stunning parks and neighbourhoods during the fall season.
While Toronto is worth visiting any time of year, the fall is a particularly excellent choice. The mild weather, the reduced crowds, and the impressive autumn leaves make Toronto an ideal city to visit in September and October.
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⭐️ Best Toronto Tour: Toronto Sightseeing Bus
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Best Spots to See Fall Colours in Toronto
While there are many excellent places to see autumn leaves across Ontario, Canada this list is specific to locations within the city of Toronto, making it easy to enjoy the season without having to travel far.
As a local resident, here is my complete list of the best places to see fall foliage in Toronto.
1. Woodbine Beach and Boardwalk in Autumn
Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON
Woodbine Beach is not just one of the best beaches in Toronto, but it’s also a fantastic spot to enjoy Toronto’s fall foliage. This is my favourite spot to see the autumn leaves in all of Toronto and I spend a lot of time walking along the beach.
The 3.5-kilometre Beaches boardwalk runs along the shores of Lake Ontario and is my favourite place to be on a sunny weekend day. Whether you are walking your dog, riding your bike, or wanting to take the kids outside, I believe Woodbine Beach to be the best place in the city to capture the Toronto fall colours.
☞ Wondering what else there is to do in the area? Read my complete list of things to do at Woodbine Beach for all the details.
2. High Park Fall Colours
Address: 1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON
High Park, Toronto’s largest public park, is a popular – and beautiful – place to visit during the fall. While it’s best known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, autumn is equally as breath-taking.
The changing leaves create one of the most striking settings in the city, making it the best place to see fall colours in Toronto. I like coming here for a bike ride or a walk through some of the more hidden trails. It can feel like you’re in the middle of a forest!
My favourite spot in the park is around Grenadier Pond. The fall leaves frame the pond, and it is a truly beautiful spot to walk, ride your bike, or pull out your camera.
High Park also has many playgrounds, trails, dog parks, and even a petting zoo, making it a great place for families. If you’re also looking to see lots of unique birds, high park is the spot!
Conveniently located close to High Park subway station, it’s easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
3. Toronto Islands in the Fall
Ferry Terminal: 11 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON
While the Toronto Islands are one of Toronto’s most popular summer attractions, I love visiting the Toronto Islands in the fall. The crowds have gone and you appreciate the true beauty of the island in these quieter moments.
Not to mention, taking the ferry over to the Toronto Islands provides one of the best views of the Toronto skyline. Once on the islands, I recommend taking a leisurely walk along the boardwalk or wander through the charming island community with its quaint houses.
With most of the summer attractions on the island closed, the tranquillity and beauty of the Toronto Islands in the fall make it an excellent spot to take autumn photos in Toronto.
☞ Wondering what else to do on the islands? My Toronto Island Guide provides a list of all the activities and things to do during any season.
4. Toronto Waterfront at Harbourfront Centre
Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON
Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Toronto Waterfront offers awesome views of the iconic CN Tower. Take a stroll along the shores of Lake Ontario, enjoy a meal on a patio, or rent a kayak and go for a paddle out on the water.
As the leaves change colours, the entire area is bathed in a brilliant autumn glow, adding an extra level of beauty to your visit. Not far from Harbourfront you’ll also find Coronation Park and Trillium Park with great views of the Toronto skyline – perfect for selfies or sunset photos!
Whether you’re walking along the waterfront or riding your bike on the bike trail, the crisp autumn air and scenic views make for a delightful experience. It’s one of my favourite places to enjoy the fall views close to the downtown core.
5. Evergreen Brick Works – An Explosion of Autumn Colours
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON
While I love visiting the Evergreen Brick Works, it has to be one of the best places in Toronto to experience the peak fall colours. Nestled in the Don Valley, it offers breathtaking skyline views of Toronto framed by the gorgeous autumn colours.
There are numerous hiking trails, lookouts, gardens, and natural habitats to explore. On any given weekend you’ll find families walking the trails, photographers gathering to take great photos, couples and friends enjoying a treat at the licensed café on the patio.
I particularly love coming to the popular Saturday farmers market. A free shuttle bus is available from Broadview Subway Station for those wanting to travel by public transportation and a paid parking lot on site.
6. Moore Park Ravine
Address: 205 Moore Ave, Toronto, ON
Moore Park Ravine is a beautiful part of the longer Beltline Trail, offering some of the best nature trails in midtown Toronto. The ravine is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves are changing colour.
Running from Mount Pleasant Cemetery to Evergreen Brick Works, Moore Park Ravine features mostly flat terrain, making it an easy hike suitable for all ages.
As you stroll beneath the towering Governors Road bridge, you’ll be immersed in a canopy of vibrant autumn leaves.
The ravine is popular for running, hiking, biking, or just leisurely strolling. It’s also a favourite place for dog walkers, and you’ll often see families, kids, and dogs enjoying the trails together.
This trail provides a peaceful escape into nature within the city, offering a peaceful setting to experience the beauty of fall foliage in the Moore Park Ravine.
7. Glen Stewart Ravine
Address: 351 Glen Manor Dr, Toronto, ON
Located in the east end of the city in the Beaches neighbourhood, Glen Stewart Ravine is a small but picturesque trail that’s perfect for a quick autumn escape.
The walking trail, complete with a boardwalk path, winds through this pretty ravine. It’s a great spot to see the brilliant fall colours typical of Ontario.
Though the trail is less than one kilometre long and takes just about 20 minutes to stroll from one end to the other, it’s a favourite Instagram spot for capturing the striking autumn leaves.
Despite its size, Glen Stewart Ravine is an excellent spot to enjoy and photograph the beauty of fall foliage in Toronto.
8. University of Toronto St. George Campus
Address: 27 King’s College Cir, Toronto, ON
The University of Toronto’s downtown campus has to be one of the best places to see Toronto’s fall foliage in the downtown core. The campus is open to the public and there are gorgeous buildings, parks, and places to relax and appreciate your surroundings.
Hidden in the heart of the campus, Philosopher’s Walk is a scenic walkway that runs from Queen’s Park to the Royal Ontario Museum. This path is canopied by oak and beech trees, providing a beautiful display of autumn colours.
Along this path, you’ll also find U of T’s historic Trinity College, founded in 1851. Trinity College is one of the most stunning buildings in Toronto and the courtyard is a really pretty spot to visit in the fall. If you are taking Toronto’s sightseeing hop on hop off bus, don’t miss this hidden gem that many tourists (and locals) don’t even know about!
9. Autumn Foliage in Queen’s Park
Address: 110 Wellesley St W, Toronto, ON
Queen’s Park, one of the oldest parks in Toronto, is a hidden gem often overlooked in travel blogs. Located beside the Ontario Legislature and the University of Toronto campus, this historic park is a lovely spot to see the fall colours in the heart of the city.
The park’s beautiful landscape, combined with its historical significance, makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, a relaxing break, or a photo opportunity. It’s also located close to the Royal Ontario Museum and the trendy Yorkville neighbourhood.
Despite its central location and stunning fall foliage, Queen’s Park remains a relatively undiscovered treasure among Toronto’s many attractions. Don’t miss the chance to visit this pretty and historic park during the fall months.
10. Kew Gardens Park in the Fall Season
Address: 2075 Queen St E, Toronto, ON
Kew Gardens Park is just down the street from where I live in the Beaches neighbourhood. It is a delightful spot to enjoy some of Toronto’s best fall colours.
It’s easily accessible via the 501 streetcar line and close to Woodbine Beach. It has an excellent children’s playground and is close to Queen Street Easy with its many local retail shops, coffee shops, and patio restaurants.
Kew Gardens Park is a charming place to relax and appreciate the beauty of autumn in Toronto. With it’s proximity to the beach, the boardwalk, and lovely gardens it’s a lovely place to enjoy a fall afternoon.
11. Edwards Gardens
Address: 755 Lawrence Ave E, North York, ON
Edwards Gardens, located in North York, is one of the most picturesque gardens in Toronto, especially during the fall season. The gardens are free to visit, though there is paid parking available.
There are several paths throughout the gardens that follow a beautiful stream with waterfalls and pretty bridges.
As autumn arrives, the gardens come alive with striking fall colours and the mix of trees and plants creates a colourful landscape that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or some fall photography in Toronto.
12. Wilket Creek Recreational Trail
Address: Entrance through Edwards Gardens
Wilket Creek Recreational Trail has over 2 km of pedestrian and bicycle trails. Take a walk along the peaceful trails to admire and appreciate the wide variety of fall leaves and colours.
Accessible from Edwards Gardens, the trail follows Wilket Creek to E.T. Seton Park Road. The downhill path offers lovely views of the creek and the surrounding nature.
In the fall, the trail is adorned with vibrant hues of red and orange from the mature trees, making it a great route for enjoying the autumn foliage.
The winding ravine adds to the scenic beauty, making Wilket Creek Recreational Trail a perfect destination for those looking to experience the fall colours in Toronto.
13. Autumn View from the Baldwin Steps at Casa Loma
Address: 486 Davenport Rd, Toronto, ON
The Baldwin Steps, consisting of approximately 100 steps in total, lead up to Casa Loma from Davenport Road and Spadina Avenue. This elevated spot offers a fantastic view of the Toronto skyline, which becomes even more captivating during the fall when surrounded by pretty autumn colours.
Photographers particularly love this location as it combines spectacular views of the city with the gorgeous fall foliage.
Although it is a relatively small viewpoint, it’s worth a visit if you are in the area or planning a trip to Casa Loma. The Toronto’s Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Bus also makes a stop close by, making it convenient for tourists. to visit
The Baldwin Steps provide a unique vantage point to enjoy the beauty of Toronto in the fall, making it a delightful addition to your autumn exploration in the city.
14. Riverdale Park East
Address: 550 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON
Riverdale Park East is one of the best places in the city to capture a Toronto sunset. In the fall, the combination of the sunset with the gorgeous orange and yellow hues of the changing leaves makes it one of the prettiest views in the city during autumn.
Come to Riverdale Park with a blanket and pick a spot on the hill to capture a breathtaking Toronto sunset. Whether you’re looking to relax, take photographs, or enjoy a picnic at sunset, Riverdale Park is an excellent spot to experience Toronto’s fall colours.
15. Riverdale Farm and Riverdale Park West
Address: 201 Winchester St, Toronto, ON
Riverdale Farm needs to be on your “must-see” list if you are looking for something to do in the fall with kids. The farm is free to visit and our kids always loved seeing the animals and running through this historic property.
Nestled beside Riverdale Farm, you will find Riverdale Park West. I found this park to have some of the prettiest fall foliage in Toronto – and no one even knows about it!
It also has a small playground and across the street is the Toronto Necropolis Cemetery, one of the city’s oldest and most historic cemeteries, dating back to the 1850s. What a fascinating place to explore and take in the history while surrounded by colourful fall leaves.
☞ Looking for even more family-friendly things to do? Read my guide to the best things to do in Toronto with kids for an extensive list.
16. Todmorden Mills
Address: 67 Pottery Rd, Toronto, ON
Located in the Don River Valley, close to the Evergreen Brick Works, Todmorden Mills is a fantastic (and free!) site to explore a hidden piece of Toronto’s history. This park features historic buildings from the late 1880s onwards and it’s an interesting place to explore.
Todmorden Mills has several forest trails with brilliant fall foliage, making it a perfect destination for autumn walks in Toronto.
There are a few trails and two or three ponds, providing picturesque settings for a leisurely stroll. Free parking also help to make this an easy spot to visit.
17. Autumn Foliage in Tommy Thompson Park
Address: 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON
Tommy Thompson Park, a huge 500-hectare wildlife area, is an excellent destination for a fall hike in Toronto. Located close to Cherry Beach and on the Martin Goodman Trail, this park is a popular spot for hikers, runners, and cyclists.
With a strict no dogs/no pets policy, Tommy Thompson Park is a significant wildlife area, ensuring a peaceful environment for birding and photography. The fall season brings vibrant colours to the entire park, creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities.
I often come here when I’m looking to go on a longer walk or bike ride and the free parking makes it convenient for visitors looking to enjoy Toronto’s fall foliage.
18. David A. Balfour Park
Address: 75 Rosehill Ave, Toronto, ON
This large park near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue West is another favourite spot to see Toronto’s fall colours.
After being closed for several years for renovations, David A. Balfour Park reopened in 2022.
With gardens, a children’s playground, fountains, and sports fields, it’s a beautiful spot to visit in autumn. Several trails lead through a forested ravine and connect to the larger Beltline Trail.
19. Crothers Woods Forest
Address: Crothers Woods Trail, East York, ON
Crothers Woods Forest, a 52-hectare maple-beech-oak woodland, is a beautiful and relatively undisturbed escape in the middle of the city. Many of the trees in Crothers Woods are over a century old, creating a diverse and mature forest with rare wildflowers and tree species in the Toronto region.
The forest offers approximately nine kilometres of multiuse, dirt trails that are popular for hiking and mountain biking.
In the fall, Crothers Woods transforms into a vibrant canopy of leaves, both above and below. The autumn colours create a picturesque setting, making it an ideal place to take fall photographs.
20. Scarborough’s Guild Park and Gardens
Address: 201 Guildwood Pkwy, Scarborough, ON
The Guild Park and Gardens in Scarborough, formerly known as Guildwood Park, is a unique and fascinating park. The gardens are located on Toronto’s Scarborough Bluffs overlooking Lake Ontario.
This park spans 88 acres and features woods, formal gardens, and a remarkable collection of public art and architectural fragments.
Visitors to Guild Park can enjoy viewing sculptures and remnants from historic Toronto buildings, making it a fascinating spot for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
The park’s unique character and stunning fall leaves make it a favourite location for photoshoots and is one of Toronto’s best Instagram spots.
Entry to the park and parking are free, making it an accessible and attractive destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty of fall in Toronto.
☞ Looking for even more hidden gems like this one? My list of Toronto hidden gems includes over 40 unique and interesting spots that many locals don’t even know about!
21. Fall at the Scarborough Bluffs Park and Beach
Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S, Scarborough, ON
Located in Scarborough, Scarborough Bluffs Park and Beach is a breathtaking destination where you can admire the natural cliffs known as “the bluffs.”
The park features walking trails, bridges, picturesque ponds, and a beautiful beach. While it’s a pretty place to capture beautiful nature photos in any season, the fall is particularly special as the crowds disperse, leaving a peaceful and pretty view of the impressive bluffs.
A fall walk at Scarborough Bluffs Park and Beach allows you to enjoy the vibrant autumn colours against the dramatic backdrop of the cliffs and beach.
This combination of natural beauty makes it an ideal location for experiencing the best of Toronto’s fall foliage.
22. Rosetta McClain Gardens
Address: 5 Glen Everest Rd, Scarborough, ON
Rosetta McClain Gardens, located in Scarborough, is a well-maintained gem offering a serene setting overlooking Lake Ontario. This beautiful garden provides free parking and admission, making it an accessible and peaceful retreat within the city.
In the autumn, the gardens become particularly enchanting with vibrant fall foliage. The well-maintained gardens feature numerous benches and walking paths, allowing visitors to comfortably navigate and enjoy the autumn colours.
It’s important to note that dogs are not allowed in Rosetta McClain Gardens, ensuring a tranquil environment for all visitors.
23. Etienne Brûlé Park
Address: 10 Catherine St, York, ON
Etienne Brûlé Park offers a unique and captivating experience in the fall, thanks to the annual salmon migration. This beautiful park stretches along the Humber River, starting near the Old Mill, and is a great park to visit during the autumn season.
From mid-September to Thanksgiving weekend in October, you can witness the remarkable sight of salmon migrating upstream from Ontario’s Great Lakes to lay their eggs.
Watching the salmon make the metre-and-a-half jump at the Old Mill dam as they head upstream to spawn is a truly unforgettable experience.
In addition to the salmon run, Etienne Brûlé Park has some of Toronto’s prettiest fall foliage, making it a perfect spot for a fall visit.
24. Taylor Creek Park
Address: 260 Dawes Rd, East York, ON
Taylor Creek Park, located in the east end of Toronto, runs between Don Mills and Victoria Park. This creekside park has hiking and biking trails that are good for families, cyclists, and dog walkers.
With free parking, the park is accessible and convenient for all visitors. The main path is paved and follows a charming creek, providing a picturesque setting for your walk or bike ride.
While some parts of Taylor Creek Park are currently under construction until Fall 2024, the park remains a popular spot for enjoying the fall foliage in Toronto.
The vibrant autumn colours along the creek and trails make it a delightful place to visit during the fall season.
25. Rouge National Urban Park Fall Colours
Address: 55 Twyn Rivers Dr, Scarborough, ON
Rouge National Urban Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, is a favourite destination for fall hikes.
Bordering the cities of Toronto, Markham, and Pickering, as well as the Township of Uxbridge, this huge park offers many trail options that showcase Toronto’s vibrant autumn colours.
One of the best fall hikes in the park is the Rouge Marsh Trail, which provides a short but scenic hike with views of the largest remaining wetland in the City of Toronto. Alternatively you can hike to the Vista Trail Lookout for some truly spectacular fall views.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful hike, breathtaking fall foliage, or a chance to explore diverse natural landscapes, Rouge National Urban Park is a great option for those wanting to capture the beauty of autumn in Toronto.
Fall Foliage in Ontario
If you are ready for a road trip out of the city, several excellent spots to see the fall foliage in Ontario include Rattlesnake Point in Dundas, Algonquin Provincial Park, and Forks of the Credit Provincial Park in Caledon.
When is the Best Time to See Fall Colours in Toronto?
The leaves in Toronto start changing colour in September. The prime time to see the peak fall foliage in Toronto is between mid-September and late October.
Weather, of course, plays a role each year in the timing of the leaves changing colours, but ultimately, the best time of year to see the full fall foliage in Toronto is within the month of October.
Parks Ontario provides a helpful interactive map of the progression of fall colours in parks across Ontario.
Fall in Toronto: An Ideal Time to Visit
I can honestly say that my favourite season in Toronto is the fall. There are fewer crowds, the weather is ideal, and neighbourhoods filled with mature trees that transform into gorgeous shades of red, orange, and yellow during the autumn months.
The bottom line is that the city has hundreds of parks, ravines, and trails that make almost any neighbourhood in Toronto an autumn paradise. There are so many awesome places within the GTA to see the fall foliage, and it’s the ideal season to visit Toronto.
Whether you want to take photographs, enjoy a peaceful walk, or go on a longer hike, there’s a perfect spot in the city to experience the beauty of Toronto in fall.
Before You Go: More Toronto Posts
Now that you’ve read this post about the Best Places to see Fall Colours in Toronto, you might be interested in exploring more of what Toronto has to offer.
