Embrace Autumn: Must-Do Outdoor Activities in Ottawa This Fall

1. Explore Ottawa’s Scenic Fall Trails

Ottawa is home to stunning parks and trails that transform into a vibrant landscape of reds, yellows, and oranges during the fall. The Gatineau Park is a must-visit, offering hiking trails for all skill levels. Take a leisurely walk with the family and soak in the picturesque views, or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike up to lookouts like Champlain Lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the fall foliage.

For those staying within the city, the Arboretum at the Central Experimental Farm offers a peaceful setting where you can stroll among century-old trees and enjoy the changing leaves. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon picnic or family photo session.

2. Visit a Local Pumpkin Patch

No fall experience is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Ottawa and its surrounding areas boast several charming farms that offer pumpkin picking, hayrides, and fun family activities. Head over to Proulx Farm or Saunders Farm to pick the perfect pumpkin for your Halloween carving or fall décor. These farms also offer corn mazes, petting zoos, and plenty of opportunities for family fun.

3. Take a Fall-Themed Cruise on the Ottawa River

For a unique perspective of the city, hop on a fall-themed river cruise. Ottawa River Cruises offers scenic boat tours that showcase the beauty of the changing season while giving you a glimpse of some of Ottawa’s famous landmarks. Enjoy the crisp breeze as you sail past Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and other historic sites, all while being surrounded by the rich colors of autumn.

4. Apple Picking Adventures

Autumn is also apple-picking season! Spend a day at Mountain Orchards or Cannamore Orchard, where you can hand-pick fresh apples right off the tree. These local farms often provide additional activities, like hayrides, petting zoos, and playgrounds, making it a perfect day trip for families. After picking, treat yourself to warm apple cider or freshly baked apple pie.

5. Enjoy the Ottawa Fall Rhapsody Festival

One of the city’s most anticipated seasonal events is the Fall Rhapsody Festival. Held annually in Gatineau Park, this festival celebrates the beauty of autumn with guided hikes, outdoor exhibits, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of fall and learn more about Ottawa’s natural surroundings. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the festival offers some of the best photo opportunities of the season.

6. Get Spooky at Halloween-Themed Events

As October rolls in, so do the Halloween festivities! Saunders Farm hosts one of Ottawa’s most popular fall attractions: FrightFest. This spooky event offers haunted hayrides, spooky mazes, and other ghostly attractions for thrill-seekers. For those looking for a milder Halloween experience, check out the daytime activities at Fulton’s Sugar Bush, where you can enjoy family-friendly Halloween fun.

7. Savour Seasonal Treats

Ottawa’s local cafés and bakeries fully embrace the flavors of fall. Treat yourself to a pumpkin spice latte, warm apple cider, or freshly baked pastries. Local spots like The SconeWitch and Art Is In Bakery are known for their delicious seasonal offerings. Don’t miss out on trying some of the city’s fall-themed menus, which often feature pumpkin, apple, and cinnamon-infused creations.

Embrace Fall in Ottawa

Fall in Ottawa is a season of beauty, adventure, and family fun. From exploring scenic trails to picking pumpkins and savoring autumn-inspired treats, there’s no shortage of activities to make the most of this stunning time of year. As you get ready for fall, plan ahead and enjoy all the natural beauty and seasonal events Ottawa has to offer