It’s one of the most beautiful times of the year, with vibrant red, orange and yellow foliage creating a breathtaking backdrop – and you don’t have to travel far to view the stunning fall colours! From trails to conservation areas and hidden gems throughout the city, there are many places to explore the natural beauty of the fall right here in Vaughan.

If you’re planning to catch the fall colours at their peak, here’s an itinerary with suggestions on some of the best places to experience the magic of autumn in Vaughan. So grab some comfy footwear, a light jacket and maybe a camera to capture the beautiful displays. Try it all in one day or spread it out through the season, and don’t forget to share your favourites with us!

Kick off your fall adventure at one of Vaughan’s conservation areas, like the Kortright Centre for Conservation (Kortright Centre). As one of our city’s most cherished natural gems, the Kortright Centre is nestled in more than 800 acres of woodlands and offers an immersive experience in nature with a variety of trails that wind through dense forests and open meadows. Just a short drive from the Kortright Centre is Boyd Conservation Area – another must-visit spot for fall enthusiasts. Situated along the Humber River, this conservation area is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Be sure to bring a blanket for an impromptu picnic by the river. Or, if you’re looking for a lesser-known but equally breathtaking destination for fall foliage in Vaughan, visit the Nashville Conservation Reserve. This expansive area offers a quieter, more secluded experience that boasts sweeping views of rolling hills and valleys, all adorned with the rich hues of fall. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, birds and other animals that call the reserve home.

After your morning exploration, you’ve likely worked up an appetite. Head to Kleinburg Village and stop for a snack or lunch before meandering through the Heritage Conservation Area to see the mature trees in all their glory. Just a short walk away is Bindertwine Park or you can opt to visit the McMichael Canadian Art Collection to explore their stunning grounds, including the well-known sculpture garden, which is surrounded by colourful trees and benches to rest.

To close off your day of leaf-hunting, we suggest visiting the MacDonald House, a memento of Canadian art history, in Thornhill. This heritage house located at 121 Centre St. was once the home of Group of Seven artist, JEH MacDonald; one of his most famous paintings – The Tangled Garden – was inspired by the garden in the backyard. While you’re in Thornhill, the Sugar Bush Nature Walk is a beautiful woodlot with mostly flat terrain, a playground and washrooms.

If accessibility is a concern, be sure to check out our Trail Guide for information on each trail’s terrain and difficulty. Or, visit one of the many district parks in the city. Our cherished parks provide an easy, accessible way to see the fall colours without too much walking.

Vaughan is a city that truly shines in the fall.  This autumn, see the magic of the season unfold!

Vaughan is a great one-day trip, but it’s an even better weekend or week-long family getaway! With so much fun in store and so many places to explore, 24 hours simply isn’t enough.

Make the most of your visit by planning an overnight stay at one of our many luxury accommodations, incredible hotels and cozy inns. Check out our accommodations directory for a wide range of amazing places to stay to recharge and make the most of your vacation in Vaughan!

As you explore all that Vaughan has to offer, don’t forget to tag us at #VisitVaughan and follow us on Instagram at @visitvaughan!