Top Places to Capture the Fall Colours in Almaguin

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Top Places to Capture the Fall Colours in Almaguin

When autumn arrives in Almaguin Highlands, the landscape transforms into a spectacular mix of gold, orange, red and deep green. From winding backroads and quiet trails to sweeping lookouts and unexpected roadside treasures, there are plenty of places to experience—and photograph—the season.

Pack your camera, grab a cozy sweater and take the scenic route as you explore some of the best places to experience fall throughout Almaguin.

Perry Township: Brooks Falls & the Almaguin Highlands Information Centre

Start your fall adventure in the Township of Perry with a stop at Brooks Falls in Emsdale. Surrounded by colourful forest and the rushing waters of the falls, it’s a beautiful spot for a fall walk, picnic and, of course, a few photos.

Grab a warm beverage from a local Almaguin café, bring your bestie and make an afternoon of it. There’s plenty of space to stretch out on a cozy blanket or settle in at one of the picnic tables for the perfect fall picnic surrounded by colourful scenery.

The parking lot is located at 690 Deer Lake Road, with signage along the way to help guide you to the falls.

While you’re in the area, stop by the Almaguin Highlands Information Centre to catch the last days of The Banger before continuing your fall colour drive.prucedale: Recreational Trail

For a quieter way to experience the season, head to Sprucedale and explore the recreational trail. Surrounded by forest, the trail offers a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the changing colours and enjoy a crisp autumn walk.

Ryerson Township: The Screaming Heads of Midlothian

For something a little more unusual, head to the Screaming Heads of Midlothian. The surreal 300-acre artscape, created by artist Peter Camani, is home to enormous concrete sculptures, a castle and even a two-headed dragon.

In fall, the fiery foliage creates an unforgettable backdrop for the towering sculptures. Keep an eye out for the resident peacocks, too.

There is no admission charge, although donations are welcome. The Screaming Heads are located at 981 Midlothian Road, just outside Burk’s Falls.

Fall tip: With fewer bugs and visitors, autumn can be an especially enjoyable time to explore and photograph this wonderfully whimsical landscape.

Burk’s Falls: Heritage River Walk & Savour This

The Heritage River Walk is an easy way to enjoy the fall colours right in Burk’s Falls. Follow the trail along the river and take in the changing foliage, waterways and waterfalls.

When you’re ready to warm up, stop at Savour This… Artisan Bakery for a cozy fall treat. It’s the perfect combination of a scenic walk and a little local indulgence.

Sundridge: High Rock Lookout, Lion’s Park & Lake Bernard

For one of the area’s most spectacular views, head to High Rock Lookout Park. From the lookout, Lake Bernard stretches out below, surrounded by a sea of autumn foliage.

Down by the lake, Lion’s Park is another beautiful place to enjoy an autumn afternoon. Located on the shores of Lake Bernard, the park offers plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery.

When you’re ready for a cozy meal, stop at Bernard’s Bistro on the Lake and continue enjoying the views of Lake Bernard.

Joly Township: Get Lost on Kent Mills Road

Sometimes the best fall adventures happen when you take the long way.

Kent Mills Road in Joly Township is a winding, scenic route that eventually leads toward the Algonquin Park access area near Kearney. Surrounded by forests and rugged northern Ontario scenery, the road offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, explore and capture the colours.

For a little more adventure, consider an ATV experience with TerraVenture ATV Tours. It’s a great way to get beyond the pavement and experience the backroads and forests of Almaguin from a different perspective.

Kearney: Get Off the Beaten Path

Just beyond Joly Township, Kearney offers another way to experience the fall landscape.

For an adventure that takes you deep into the autumn scenery, Off Road ATV Tours Ontario offers guided ATV experiences in the Kearney area. With the region’s forests and backroads putting on a spectacular show in the fall, it’s a chance to experience the colours from somewhere beyond the usual roadside lookout.

South River: Moose Mountain, Tom Thomson Park & NAISA

For those looking for a view from the top, the trail locally known as Moose Mountain near South River is worth the climb.

The approximately 2-kilometre loop winds through the forest before reaching a spectacular elevated view. It’s not technically a mountain, but there is a climb—and the view makes it worthwhile.

For another scenic stop, Tom Thomson Park offers a chance to enjoy the fall scenery along the waterfront.

And for something completely different, stop at NAISA Café and Gallery, where art, sound and community come together in an unexpected cultural stop during your fall road trip.

Magnetawan: The Dam Trail & The Grill and Grocer

In the Village of Magnetawan, follow the 1.5-kilometre Dam Trail around the island near the restored dam and locks.

Along the way, you’ll find waterfalls, granite outcroppings, the old lighthouse on Lake Cecebe and views toward Centennial Park. The trail offers a beautiful combination of water, rock, forest and fall colour.

After your walk, stop at The Grill and Grocer for a meal before continuing your fall adventure through the village and surrounding countryside.

Powassan: The Pines & Powassan Mountain

For a forest hike with a rewarding lookout, explore The Pines at the Powassan Mountain Conservation Area.

The trail system includes several loops, with the Lookout Trail leading to spectacular views of the surrounding highlands and Lake Nipissing in the distance.

The area is particularly beautiful in fall, when the red pines and surrounding hardwood forest create a colourful northern Ontario landscape.

Once you’re back in town, make time for a stop on Main Street and enjoy some of Powassan’s local shops and restaurants.

Take the Scenic Route

The best part of fall in Almaguin is that you don’t have to choose just one destination. Pick a few stops, take the scenic route and leave some room for the unexpected.

Whether you’re hiking a forest trail, following a winding backroad, discovering a quirky roadside attraction or settling in for a cozy afternoon, Almaguin is full of ways to experience—and capture—the magic of autumn.