Autumn in Niagara is a beautiful time for exploring Niagara Falls. The spectacular fall foliage is what we’re known for.

Niagara is not a big city. Instead, it’s a region of small and medium-sized rural villages and cities. It’s a nice area to drive or bike on a warm fall day to observe the trees’ colours.

CYCLING ALONG THE NIAGARA PARKWAY

The Niagara River Recreation Trail is an excellent place to observe the fall colours by bike. The Niagara River Recreation Trail was built in 1986. It’s a paved path for non-motorized traffic from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Fort Erie. It’s 58 kilometres (33 miles) long, but it isn’t necessary to ride the entire length. There are lots of places to stop for a meal or drink from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Fort Erie. The Niagara River Recreation Trail is a cyclist’s dream, the autumn season for this Niagara trail is especially spectacular to see.

Most of the riverfront area is thick with trees, and the entire route is tourist-friendly. If you want a longer trek, it is easy to connect to the Greater Niagara Circle Route, which will take you all across Niagara.

DUFFERIN ISLANDS

Nestled at the foot of the escarpment and located south of the falls on the Niagara Parkway, it is a series of man-made streams running through a forested area with family-friendly hiking trails.  The parking is free, the area is accessible to people with disabilities, and you can watch ducks and geese land on the water. Great for photographers; and nature lovers alike, this parkland is breathtaking.

This is a genuine must-see for anyone serious about enjoying the Niagara autumn views. 

QUEENSTON HEIGHTS IN AUTUMN

Another great place for a fall hike is Queenston Heights, the site of an important battle in the War of 1812. Gen. Isaac Brock died there, and a massive monument commemorates his service. It is at the top of the Niagara Escarpment, near Highway 406, and just south of Niagara-on-the-Lake. It is also the southern end of the Bruce Trail.

Not only are the fall colours beautiful, but so is the view down the Niagara River toward Niagara-on-the-Lake from Queenston Heights.

Take the Niagara Parkway, which goes from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Niagara Falls to Fort Erie, if you just want to go for a nice drive in the fall. On one side, you can see the trees and neighbourhoods on the American side of the Niagara River. On the other side, you can see the fall colours in Canada. This is a really relaxing way to see the best autumn colours Niagara has to offer.

NATURE GLEN

Niagara Glen Nature Reserve is a nature reserve on the Canadian side of the Niagara Gorge, near the Niagara Whirlpool. It is one of the best-preserved examples of the original Carolinian forest in Southern Ontario. Operated by Niagara Parks, it’s located high atop the Niagara Gorge and overlooks the Niagara River. Visitors can hike or participate in guided hiking tours, bouldering permits, and educational programming.

THE VIEW

Niagara Falls is a magnificent destination, and autumn is a particularly delightful time to experience its beauty. Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and the bountiful array of trees, with their vibrant hues. As the seasons transition the foliage undergoes a magnificent transformation.

Autumn is a beautiful time to plan your next getaway to Niagara Falls. Here are some more Fall things to do in Niagara, brought to you by the Tourism Partnership of Niagara.