While it’s always a bit sad when summer ends, there’s something truly magical about the fall. Part of what makes this time of year so special is seeing the leaves change. That’s why nature lovers across the province flock to provincial and national parks to enjoy this annual event.
Luckily, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy brightly-coloured Ontario foliage. There are many beautiful spots to view the autumn leaves right here in Toronto. In this post, I’ll look at five of the most awe-inspiring vantage points in the city.
1) High Park
Located in Toronto’s west end, High Park spans an incredible 161 hectares. Within its boundaries, you’ll find several different types of forest and an abundance of trees, including black oaks, black ashes, and red maples. In the fall, these species form a brilliant tapestry of colours. Visitors can enjoy them while strolling along the park’s nature trails or taking in the scenery around peaceful Grenadier Pond.
2) Leslie Street Spit
On the other side of the city, you’ll find the Leslie Street Spit. The 5 km path along this east-end peninsula leads from Leslie Street to the water’s edge, and visitors will find plenty of gorgeous vegetation along the way. There are nearly 400 plant species in the area, including a variety of poplar, aspen, and dogwood trees. Brightly-hued leaves and refreshing autumn air make now the perfect time to check out the forests and wetlands on the Leslie Street Spit.
3) David A Balfour Park
If you’re looking to spend the day outdoors, you can’t go wrong at David A Balfour Park. Located in the heart of the city, this 20.5-hectare area has it all—a beautiful gated garden, decorative fountains, a kids’ playground, and a whole lot of natural beauty. The park, which sits near Yonge Street and St. Clair Avenue West, provides scenic ravine views. You’ll find lush greenery in the summer—and a vista of spectacular colours in the fall. Once you’ve enjoyed the view from above, try heading down into the ravine to explore the park’s trails.
4) Don Valley Hills and Dales
Without a doubt, one of the best places to enjoy Toronto’s fall foliage is in the Don Valley. As part of the city’s Discovery Walks series, Don Valley Hills and Dales is a great route for exploring the region. The colourful oak, pine, beech, basswood, maple, and ash trees are not to be missed. You’ll also find that the walk provides many opportunities to stop and visit points of interest, including Riverdale Farm and the neighbourhoods of Cabbagetown and Rosedale.
Just one word of caution: the entire route can take over two hours to complete. So if you’re taking the family, choose your starting point wisely.
5) Crothers Woods
Crothers Woods is another great spot to see vibrant autumn leaves in the Don Valley. This 21 hectares of forest features a variety of tree species, including sugar maples, American beeches, and black walnuts. In the fall, their leaves turn the region vivid shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold. The trails of Crothers Woods are great for hikers and cyclists alike. For your first walk, consider the 2.4 km trail known as the Crothers Woods loop.
These are a few of our favourite places to watch the leaves change here in Toronto, but this is by no means a comprehensive list. Wherever you live in the city—or wherever you’re considering moving—you’re bound to find your own perfect spots to unwind and enjoy the natural world.
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