The province of Quebec is renowned as one of the best places to go in Canada for fiery fall landscapes that burst with rich colours as leaves turn from green into golden yellows, fiery reds and blazing orange hues. From late September throughout October, here are three of the top places to explore Quebec’s captivating fall foliage.
Just north of Quebec City, lies Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier, which is a favorite spot for hikers and photography buffs thanks to more than 60 miles of scenic trails that are just bursting with incredible autumnal hues.
Quebec’s beloved ski hills like Mont Tremblant and Mont Sainte Anne are well worth a visit in the shoulder season to revel in the rich kaleidoscope of fall foliage that blankets the mountains. Meander through wooded trails or take the chairlift to the mountain top to enjoy a unique aerial view of the forest canopy above the tree line. The vistas are truly jaw dropping.
The unparalleled landscape of the Charlevoix region on the northern shores of the St. Lawrence River make it one of the top places for a fall road trip. Gently rolling hills are densely packed with aspen, poplar and maple trees all showing off their autumn colors, and an abundance of wineries, cheese makers and gourmet restaurants make for ideal pit stops along the way as you follow the region's famed Flavour Trail.
Want to enjoy some seasonal tunes while admiring the colourful fall leaves? Bonjour Québec's exclusive Autumn Playlist on Spotify is the perfect accompaniment to a fall road trip or hike.
If you’re looking to combine another favourite fall activity, apple picking, with leaf peeping then check out these Quebec pick-your-own orchards. You’ll be amazed at all the many apple varieties grown in the province.
Frier Orchards: Visitors can pluck more than a dozen varieties of crisp, juicy, flavourful apples at this third-generation orchard in the town of Rockburn. The welcoming family-owned farm features 45 acres with over 75,000 apple trees. Tour the farm and take the opportunity to see how fresh juice and cider are made at the cider mill. You can also relax over an afternoon picnic in the scenic orchard.
Les Jardins d’Émilie: Why not enjoy a day of family fun in a picturesque countryside setting at this charming apple orchard located about an hour east of Montréal. This picturesque u-pick farm even has a dedicated play area for children, a mini petting zoo, and live entertainment for the whole family.
Cidrerie-Verger Léo Boutin: Are you in the mood for apple crêpes, farm animals, wagon rides, fresh cider and more? Well, head on over to this scenic orchard in Montérégie. The farm is open year-round with prime apple-picking opportunities at their best during the fall foliage months of September and October.
Le Gros Pierre: Enjoy apple-picking from mid-August through to mid-October, at this Compton orchard that offers more than 20 varieties of crisp and juicy apples. You’ll also find fresh baked goods, a children's playground, and an interpretive educational trail for those who want to learn more about the harvesting process. Take a tractor ride to the colourful pumpkin patch to say hello to the property's legendary witch, Orise.
