Algonquin Park Fall Colour Report

Important Fall colour reports have concluded for 2023. Trees are now prepared for winter. Check back in early September 2024 for updates and images, or use the resources below to plan your autumn trip to Algonquin Park.

Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 30, 2023

Image: Snow at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 30, 2023 (click to enlarge). See more images below or see the live webcam views.

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Algonquin Park Webcam: Live Views of Algonquin Park

Algonquin Park's latest changing tree species, the Tamarack, is now past peak. The Tamarack is Algonquin Park's only cone bearing tree that changes colour and drops all its needles in preparation for winter. Search for Tamaracks in wetlands and bogs including the Spruce Bog Boardwalk, the Mizzy Lake Trail, or along the Opeongo Road.

Sugar Maple crowns are now bare after reaching peak fall colour on September 30. The yellow-orange colour of poplar (aspen) species, and the peak "Golden Encore" quickly came and went around Thanksgiving weekend as a result of high winds, heavy rain, and even snow. Poplar (aspen) are now bare in Algonquin Park.

Fall Colour and Environmental Conditions

Fall colour is subject to numerous environmental variables such as daylight length, moisture, temperature, frost, wind, heavy rain, etc., so the exact peak of fall colour is difficult to determine in advance. Use the trip planning resources below (or links in the sidebar) to plan your fall trip to Algonquin Park. High winds, rain, or even snow can sometimes quickly result in fragile leaves being knocked off the trees increasing what is called leaf fall. Check back for frequent updates as conditions warrant.

For live video see the Algonquin Park Webcam or The Friends of Algonquin Park's Facebook page for additional images. Keep watching this webpage for updates and the latest images as conditions warrant.


Current Status of Algonquin Park's Fall Colour

Below is the current status of Algonquin Park's fall colour change (click to enlarge). This diagram reports on the status of the most popular tree species during fall leaf colour season in Algonquin Park. Please check back throughout fall for updates as conditions warrant.

Current Fall Colour Leaf Change in Algonquin Park

Current Maple Colour Status in Algonquin Park

Current Poplar and Birch Colour Status in Algonquin Park

Algonquin Park is ablaze with vibrant red, orange, and yellow colours for only about a one month period in the fall. In a landscape so often dominated by the green of summer, how does this brief explosion colour happen in the early autumn? The answer involves a complex process of numerous chemicals and environmental variables. Read more at Why Does Fall Leaf Colour Change Happen?


Images of Fall 2023 in Algonquin Park

Algonquin Park Webcam: Live Views of Algonquin ParkBelow are recent images of Algonquin Park during fall 2023. Click to enlarge the images and see the captions for the image date and location. For live video see the Algonquin Park Webcam or The Friends of Algonquin Park's Facebook page for additional images.

Snow and fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 8, 2023

Image: Snow and fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 8, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 6, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 6, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Increasing poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 5, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 5, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Sugar Maple fall colour at Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

More Fall Colour Images from...

Highway 60 approaching the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023

Image: Highway 60 approaching the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: Highway 60 at km7 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: Highway 60 at km7 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 26 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 26 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 41 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 41 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 11, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maples along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Red Maples along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 202

Image: At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: At Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

At km 7 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: At km 7 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Near the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Approaching the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Approaching the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 18, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at Track and Tower Trail in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: At Track and Tower Trail in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Foggy Lake of Two Rivers in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: Foggy Lake of Two Rivers in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tamaracks along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: Tamaracks along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maples in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: Red Maples in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 26 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: At km 26 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 22 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: At km 22 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023

Image: At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 20, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tea Lake along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Tea Lake along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At the West Gate of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At the West Gate of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 8 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 8 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tamarack in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Tamarack in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Hardwood forest in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Hardwood forest in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023

Image: Red Maple in Algonquin Park on September 22, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 8 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 8 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Approaching the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Approaching the West Gate of Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Near the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near the West Boundary of Algonquin Park along Highway 60 on September 25, 2023

Image: Near Park Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 41 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 41 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 41 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 41 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 40 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 40 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 26 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 26 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 27 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 27 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At Peck Lake along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: At Peck Lake along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 20 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 20 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 16 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 16 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Maple fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Maple fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 10 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 10 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Brewer Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Brewer Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Brewer Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Brewer Lake in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 52 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 52 along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 25, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023

Image: Fall colour along Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023

Image: At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023

Image: At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 27, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At Peck Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: At Peck Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: At km 20 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: At km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Red Maples in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Red Maples in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Near the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Near the West Gate in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: At km 10 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

At km 8 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023

Image: Foggy morning at km 8 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on September 28, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour view from Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on September 30, 2023

Image: Fall colour at Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on September 30, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Fall colour at km 16 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Fall colour near Smoke Lake in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Tea Lake in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Fall colour in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 3, 2023

Image: Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 3, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 5, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 5, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 5, 2023

Image: Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 5, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 5, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 5, 2023 (click to enlarge).

 

Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 6, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Lookout Trail in Algonquin Park on October 6, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 7, 2023

Image: Poplar (aspen) fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 7, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Snow and fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 8, 2023

Image: Snow and fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 8, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 10, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 10, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 19, 2023

Image: Fall colour at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre on October 19, 2023 (click to enlarge).

Season To Date Summary

August 31, 2023 - The temperature recorded at the East Gate of Algonquin Park dropped to just 1°C overnight. Fall colour change is noted in some of the deciduous trees in Algonquin Park, particularly Red Maples growing near wetland and other moist soil locations.

September 4, 2023 - Temperatures in Algonquin Park reach a high of slightly more than 31°C, returning a "summer-like" feel to Algonquin Park.

September 11, 2023 - Shortening daylight length is causing some maple dominated areas to show a greenish-yellow colour hinting at the colour change to come (but the best is yet to come). Later changing poplar and Tamarack are showing no/minimal colour change.

September 18, 2023 - Good early season viewing of Sugar Maple and Red Maple at the landscape level is beginning. Sugar Maples that dominate the Algonquin Park landscape are showing an increasing yellow-orange colour hinting at the colour change that will come in the days ahead.

September 20, 2022 - Temperatures dips below freezing (-0.2°C) for the first time this fall. Patchy frost observed. Thick and widespread fog around major waterbodies.

September 21, 2023 - Temperatures dips to below freezing (-0.8°C) for the second night in a row. Fall colour is expected to improve.

September 22, 2023 - The Red Maple and Sugar Maple fall colour is increasing in intensity. Fall colour watchers this weekend will be reward with good early season viewing of the maple fall colour at the landscape level. The best maple colour along Highway 60 is observed from km 0 to about km 25.

September 25, 2023 - Sugar Maple fall colour reaches "near peak" status.

September 28, 2023 - Now is the time to observe outstanding views of Algonquin Park's maple fall colour.

September 30, 2023 - Outstanding fall colour viewing continues as 10 days of calm winds and no rainfall has allowed Algonquin Park's Sugar Maple and Red Maple fall colour to fully develop, without the risk of leaf fall from high wind or heavy rainfall events. Peak Sugar Maple fall colour is observed along the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor.

October 1, 2023 - Isolated light rain and wind, in the early morning hours of October 1, 2023 pushes the Sugar Maple fall colour to "just peaked" in the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor.

October 5 to 7, 2023 - Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and high winds have dramatically increased leaf fall in Algonquin Park. Sugar Maple crowns are now bare, with some understory fall colour remaining. The so-called "Golden Encore" of the poplar (aspen) species briefly peaked and is now in decline. Tamarack, Algonquin Park's latest changing tree species is increasing in colour intensity.

October 8, 2023 - Snowfall in Algonquin Park during the afternoon and evening as temperatures dip. Algonquin Park's remaining fall colour changes temporarily to white as the forest is coated in a sticky, wet, layer of snow. Leaf fall increases with snow and strong winds.


When Should I Visit Algonquin Park?

A trip to Algonquin Park between mid-September and mid-October is best for observing Algonquin Park's fall colour, but more precision regarding an exact date depends upon what species of tree you are interested in observing.

Trees of Algonquin Provincial ParkAlgonquin Park is home to 34 native species of trees. Of these species 10 are classified as conifers (cone bearing) and will retain their leaves (needles) year-round and are often referred to as "evergreen". The only exception is the Tamarack that changes to golden yellow colour before dropping its needles in preparation for winter. The other 24 species of deciduous trees change colour at different times, depending upon the species, their location in Algonquin Park, and the specific environmental conditions in that area.

No tree happens to grow in a random location, rather each tree struggles against great odds and hazards for a place in the sun and each species is subtly equipped to do better than its competition in certain conditions. Certain species of trees grow in different locations in Algonquin Park. Therefore the mosaic of forest types in Algonquin Park is no accident but is determined by soil type, moisture, climate, etc. resulting in the amazing blend of green, yellow, orange, red, and purple colours that makes Algonquin Park's fall colour so special.

Traditionally, Algonquin Park's fall colour occurs earlier than surrounding areas because of the Park's higher elevation, up to almost 600 metres above sea level. This can mean the best colour is observed several weeks (or more!) prior to leaf colour change in places like Ottawa (70 metres above sea level), Toronto (75 metres above sea level), or even communities just outside Algonquin Park's boundaries. Algonquin Park’s high elevation, thin soils, and cooler temperatures results in a shorter growing season for all plants including its trees.

Mid-September to Early October

Fall Colour in Algonquin Park

If visiting Algonquin Park during mid-September to early October, you will observe the colour change of the Sugar Maples and Red Maples. This fall colour covers hills in orange and red colours and is best observed at locations with expansive views such as trails and views across water. During the past 40+ years, the earliest Sugar Maple peak recorded was September 15, 1982 and the latest October 9, 1996. During 2016, the peak Sugar Maple colour was determined to be October 6 (almost record late), as a result of warm fall temperatures and a late frost. The average peak of the Sugar Maple canopy in the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor is September 27. See the current status of Algonquin Park's colour change above.

Early to Mid-October

Large-toothed Aspen in Algonquin Park

An Algonquin Park visit between early to mid October (including Thanksgiving) will observe the yellow-orange colours displayed by poplar and birch species, plus the orange colour of the Sugar Maple understory. This time known as the "Golden Encore" generally occurs after the Sugar Maple and Red Maple peak colour, but offers great landscape views in poplar and birch dominated areas. The eastern portion of the Highway 60 Corridor and the Park's East Side is a great location to view this colour.

Once leaves have fallen from the tops of the Sugar Maples, the understory changes colour at ground level as it was previously protected from cold temperatures by the blanket of overhead leaves. A hike along an interpretive trail dominated by maples is a great way to see understory fall colour up close.

Mid to Late October

Tamarack

A mid to late October visit showcases Tamarack at their peak yellow colour before dropping their needles in preparation for winter. The Tamarack is Algonquin Park's only cone bearing tree that changes colour and drops all its needles in preparation for winter. Search for Tamaracks in wetlands and bogs including the Spruce Bog Boardwalk, the Mizzy Lake Trail, or along the Opeongo Road. By late October or early November (depending upon environmental conditions) all deciduous trees are bare and prepared for winter.


Algonquin Park Autumn Day Use Guide Algonquin Park Autumn Day Use Guide

Algonquin Park Fall Colour HistoryFall Colour History in Algonquin Park

During the past 40+ years, the earliest Sugar Maple peak recorded in Algonquin Park was September 15 (1982) and the latest October 9 (1996). The average peak of the Sugar Maple canopy in the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor is September 27. Algonquin Park Autumn Day Use Guide

The best fall colour watching in Algonquin Park is expected from mid-September to mid-October. Fall colour is subject to numerous environmental variables such as daylight length, moisture, temperature, frost, wind, heavy rain, etc., so the exact peak of fall colour is difficult to determine in advance. High winds, rain, or even snow can sometimes quickly result in fragile leaves being knocked off the trees increasing what is called leaf fall.

Algonquin Park's Famous Fall Colours

Book Cover: The Last Forest Ranger by Tom LinklaterIn 1949, Tom Linklater was working alone at the West Gate of Algonquin Park and noted in his autobiography The Last Forest Ranger: Algonquin Park Memories...

“…Thanksgiving weekend was going to be very busy, as the colours were at their peak. I should have about three hundred permits made up ahead of time so that all I would have to do was fill in the driver’s name and car license number, and if he was stopping, note the place. Saturday was not that busy but Sunday was unbelievable. By about eleven o’clock I had used up all my permits. There was about a quarter mile of cars lined up waiting to get into the Park! I thought to myself this was ridiculous! These folks were not hunters or poachers, they just wanted to take some pictures of the colours that were at their best...”


Why Does Fall Colour Happen?Red Maple in Autumn, Algonquin Park

Algonquin Park is ablaze with vibrant colours during September and October. In a landscape so often dominated by the green of summer, how does this brief explosion of reds, oranges, and yellows happen in the early autumn? The answer involves a complex process of numerous chemicals and environmental variables. Read more at Why Does Fall Leaf Colour Change Happen?


Where Should I Visit in Algonquin Park?

Algonquin Park Autumn Day Use Guide
Autumn Day Use Guide - EN, FR, DE, ZH, JA, KO

The "Algonquin Dome" refers to the high elevation piece of the Canadian Shield that underlies the western two-thirds of Algonquin Park. Here an ancient mountain range continues to exist increasing elevation well above that of surrounding areas (primarily outside the Park). These ancient rolling hills covered by soils deposited by a glacier thousands of years ago, created suitable conditions for the growth of maples. The maples - primarily Sugar, Red and Striped - experience a cooler climate than those outside the Park area as a result of the higher elevation. These cooler conditions and the resulting shorter growing season make for an early fall and thus an earlier fall colour watching season than other locations in southern Ontario. Fortunately for visitors, Highway 60 runs through a large section of Algonquin Park's higher elevation. The Highway 60 Corridor provides easy access to the Park area dominated by these three species of maples for keen "leaf peepers".

Below is a satellite image taken near the peak of the Sugar Maple canopy showing the red/orange colour of the Sugar Maples and the boundary of Algonquin Park. Algonquin Park's West Side including the Highway 60 Corridor is dominated by maples, while the Park's East Side is dominated by pines that show green needles that do not change colour. This satellite image was taken on October 1, 2012.

Algonquin Park's Fall Colour Seen From Space

Suggested Places for Viewing Algonquin Park's Fall Colour

Below are suggested places for viewing Algonquin Park's fall colour. These locations change according to the date and conditions observed within Algonquin Park.

Recommended Interpretive Walking Trails

Regardless of the exact date, Algonquin Park's Interpretive Trails are a good way to view the fall colour. Trails offering lookouts with wide vistas are especially popular around the Sugar Maple peak and the later peak of poplar and birch species. These day walking trails range in length from 800 metres to 11 kilometres in length. Trails that are suggested for fall walking include:

Side Roads with Foliage Viewing Opportunities

The following side roads connected to Highway 60 offer foliage viewing opportunities with lower speed traffic than Highway 60.

  • Roads leading to Access Points around the periphery of Algonquin Park.

Visitor Updates for Fall 2023

Ontario Parks requires the online (or telephone) purchase of day use permits up to 5 days in advance, with capacity limits for each day. Learn more about purchasing/reserving your permit for entry into Algonquin Park.

West Gate Algonquin Sign

Ontario Parks continues to announce changes to visitor management strategies for fall in Algonquin Park. For this autumn, these strategies include...

How to Obtain an Algonquin Park Permit

Day Use Visitors (Daily Vehicle Permit)

  • All who use Algonquin Park must have a valid permit. Day use permits allow for day visits to Algonquin Park, including access to trails, museums, beaches, picnic grounds, etc. Daily Vehicle Permits are valid from 7:00am until 10:00pm. Permits can be purchased online or via telephone up to 5 days in advance of your arrival. See more information.
  • Booth Rock Trail - Special Permit Required - Ontario Parks has special capacity restrictions for Booth's Rock Trail for the fall. If you wish to walk this interpretive trail a special type of permit is required. Learn more.
  • 100% of Daily Vehicle Permits (day use permits) can be purchased online (or via telephone) up to 5 days in advance, so permits may sell out in advance.
  • In-person permit sales in Algonquin Park are not available, purchase online or via telephone.
  • Permits are not required to be posted on your vehicle dashboard, but visitors should make sure their license plate number is correct and up-to-date. Park Wardens will be using an internet based cell phone app to confirm vehicle license plates numbers in Algonquin Park. The permit holder may change a license plate number online or over the phone if the license plate number associated with your permit is incorrect.

Seasonal Permit Holders

  • Ontario Parks is advising that entry is not guaranteed for seasonal and commercial day use permit holders and is dependent upon capacity limits. Seasonal permit holders must reserve online, up to 5 days in advance, at no additional cost, to guarantee entry on a specific date. Seasonal day use permits include annual, summer, and winter versions. See more information.

Bus Permits

  • Ontario Parks has implemented new policies for obtaining Bus Permits in Algonquin Park from September 11 to October 23, 2023. See more information.

Overnight Campers (Developed Campgrounds and Backcountry Campers)

  • If you have a camping reservation, made up to 5 months in advance, you do not need to purchase a Daily Vehicle Permit in addition. Visitors with developed or backcountry camping reservations should proceed directly to their reserved developed campsite or backcountry access point. Permits are not required to be posted on your vehicle dashboard or campsite post, but campers should have a printed copy or digital copy of your confirmation letter as proof of your reservation with you while in Algonquin Park.

Lodge Guests

  • Lodge guests with reservations for a Park lodge should proceed directly to the lodge/resort as per their confirmation details.

Traveling through Algonquin Park on Highway 60

  • People traveling through Algonquin Park on Highway 60 between Oxtongue Lake and Whitney, Ontario do not need a permit. However, if you use any facilities (e.g. trail, picnic ground, bathroom, etc.) a day use permit is required.

Capacity Limits and "Sold Out" Algonquin Park

  • Ontario Parks will stop selling permits for Algonquin Park once capacity is reached. When Algonquin Park has reached capacity, visitors will not be able to purchase a permit (or use a seasonal permit), and you will not be permitted to use Algonquin Park.
  • Ontario Parks has not released the number of day use permits to be sold on any given day, or for different locations within Algonquin Park, or different types of permits.

When Will Algonquin Park Sell Out During Autumn?

Below is a record of dates when Daily Vehicle Permits (day use permits) were sold out in Algonquin Park in recent years. Please note that historical data is no guarantee of future permit availability.

2023 Sold Out Dates

Below is a list of dates when permits sold out in different geographic areas of Algonquin Park during fall 2023.

Status Date of Permit Date Sold Out* Geographic Area
Sold Out September 30, 2023 September 29, 2023 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 1, 2023 September 30, 2023 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 7, 2023 October 3, 2023 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 8, 2023 October 3, 2023 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 9, 2023 October 6, 2023 Highway 60 Corridor
* Day use permits can be purchased up to 5 days in advance.

Recent Years (2022 to 2020)

2022 Sold Out Dates

Status Date of Permit Date Sold Out* Geographic Area
Sold Out October 1, 2022 September 30, 2022 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 2, 2022 October 2, 2022 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 8, 2022 October 4, 2022 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 9, 2022 October 4, 2022 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 10, 2022 October 6, 2022 Highway 60 Corridor
* Day use permits can be purchased up to 5 days in advance.

2021 Sold Out Dates

Status Date of Permit Date Sold Out* Geographic Area
Sold Out October 2, 2021 October 1, 2021 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 3, 2021 October 3, 2021 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 9, 2021 October 7, 2021 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 10, 2021 October 7, 2021 Highway 60 Corridor
Sold Out October 11, 2021 October 8, 2021 Highway 60 Corridor
* Day use permits can be purchased up to 5 days in advance.

2020 Sold Out Dates

Below is a list of dates when permits sold out in along the Highway 60 Corridor of Algonquin Park during 2020. Permits for specific geographic sections for Algonquin Park were not yet in effect.

  • October 3, 2020
  • October 10, 2020
  • October 11, 2020

Hardwood Lookout Trail Closures

Ontario Parks has announced that Hardwood Lookout Trail will be closed on 16 days during the peak fall colour period. The shortest interpretive walking trail in Algonquin Park (and its parking lot), will be closed the following dates during fall to improve traffic flow.

  • September 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 2023
  • October 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 2023

Limiting Occupancy to Algonquin Park Buildings

  • All Algonquin Park buildings have fire code capacity restrictions. If a building is at capacity, Ontario Parks staff will require you to wait in line for entry. For your trip planning information, see the real-time occupancy at the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre, courtesy of The Friends of Algonquin Park.

Tips for Viewing Algonquin Park's Fall Colour

Fall colour in Algonquin Park

Coming to Algonquin Park to enjoy the best fall colour? Here are a few tips for fall colour watchers.

1. Plan ahead

Know where you want to explore and how to get there. Use information sources such as:

2. Know when to visit

Not all trees change colour at the same time. Traditionally, Algonquin Park's fall colour occurs earlier than surrounding areas because the Park's high elevation, thin soils, and cooler temperatures results in a shorter growing season for all plants including its trees. This can mean the best fall colour is observed several weeks (or more!) prior to leaf colour change in places like Ottawa, Toronto or even communities just outside Algonquin Park’s boundaries. Algonquin Park's fall colour season typically starts in mid-September and concludes in mid-October.

3. Know where to visit

No tree happens to grow in a random location, rather each tree struggles against great odds and hazards for a place in the sun and each species is subtly equipped to do better than its competition in certain conditions. Certain species of trees grow in different locations in Algonquin Park. Therefore, the mosaic of fall colour in Algonquin Park is no accident but is determined by factors such as geography, soil type, moisture, climate, etc. Check the “Where to Visit” section for more information.

4. Get a Park permit

Everyone who uses a provincial park requires a valid permit.

5. Stay locally

Consider staying within Algonquin Park or just outside the Park boundary to avoid entering the Park during the busy late morning or mid-day period.

6. Consider a weekday visit

Fall weekends are always busier than weekdays. If possible consider a mid-week visit to Algonquin Park as all facilities are open 7-days a week during the fall colour season.

During 2023, the busiest weekends in Algonquin Park are expected to be:

  • September 16/17,
  • September 23/24,
  • September 30/October 1, and
  • Thanksgiving weekend (October 7/8/9).

7. Avoid traffic congestion

On the busiest weekends of the year, traffic can become slow or even stopped at some locations in Algonquin Park. Most visitors enter Algonquin Park via the West Gate that can experience traffic congestion during the late morning/early afternoon on peak weekends. Consider entering or exiting Algonquin Park’s Highway 60 Corridor via the quieter East Gate (near Whitney, Ontario).

8. Visit on a cloudy day

Many people avoid visiting Algonquin Park on cloudy or rainy days during the fall colour season. Overcast conditions cut the glare and many people agree that leaf colours appear brighter than on sunny days. An added benefit is that the Park will have fewer visitors.

9. Drive and park safely

If you stop to look at fall colour or wildlife, ensure you pull completely off the traveled portion of the road and watch for traffic. Never stop in a lane of traffic. When parking do so in designated areas only. Never block emergency vehicle or pedestrian access.

10. Get away from your vehicle

Consider getting into a canoe, hiking a longer trail, or heading off the "beaten path" as most fall visitors stay close to their vehicles or hike only the shortest trails. Or for the adventurous visitor or one seeking solitude, head into the Park’s vast backcountry.

11. Keep wildlife wild

Algonquin Park is not a zoo, all animals in Algonquin Park are wild and act accordingly. Never feed or approach wildlife regardless of its size. Feeding, harming or harassing wildlife is illegal in Algonquin Park (and all provincial parks). Use caution with your cell phone camera as getting a closer image may cause you to approach an animal too closely.

12. Take home the proper souvenirs

The removal of natural or cultural objects from Algonquin Park is illegal. All vegetation (including brightly coloured leaves) and other natural features are protected and can not be removed from a Provincial Park. Many Park facilities sell appropriate souvenirs as memories of your visit.

13. Be a responsible pet owner

All pets must be on a leash not exceeding two metres in length and under control at all times. Pets can not produce excessive noise or harass wildlife. Pet owners must also “poop and scoop” in Algonquin Park.

14. Explore beyond the Highway 60 Corridor

Algonquin Park covers 7,635 square kilometres and many backcountry access points around the periphery of Algonquin Park, especially on the Park’s West Side, offer excellent fall colour viewing with fewer people. Algonquin Park’s backcountry accessible by canoe or hiking trail is also a quiet location for those seeking solitude. Check the Algonquin Park Canoe Routes Map or Backpacking Trails Map for route ideas.

15. Don’t litter

Garbage cans plus recycling and organics (compost) facilities exist in most locations in Algonquin Park. Garbage serves as a wildlife attractant and is also unsightly to other visitors. Use the provided waste management facilities or “pack out” your garbage.

16. Stay late

The busiest times in Algonquin Park are from late morning to mid-afternoon. If you are planning a day visit, your permit is valid until 10:00pm. Stay later and observe a sunset before heading home. For your safety, ensure you are off any trail prior to darkness. Only registered overnight campers are permitted in Algonquin Park after 10:00pm.


Algonquin Park Fall Colour Season Summary 2022

Below is a summary of the Algonquin Park 2022 fall colour season annotated with imagery. Please note that the timing of the best fall colour varies from year to year, see Fall Colour History in Algonquin Park for more details.

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2022. (click to enlarge).

Image: At km 13 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on October 1, 2022. (click to enlarge).

Fall colour at km 41 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on October 10, 2022.

Image: Fall colour at km 41 of Highway 60 in Algonquin Park on October 10, 2022. (click to enlarge).

2022 Fall Colour Timeline

September 5, 2022 - The temperature recorded at the East Gate of Algonquin Park dropped to 3°C overnight. Slight fall colour change is noted in the deciduous trees in Algonquin Park. Fall colour season is beginning!

September 13, 2022 - Shortening daylight length and cooler temperatures, and drought induced stress, have encouraged Red Maples, to intensify their fall colour change. Some Red Maples growing in normally wet areas, are already showing their peak colour. Sugar Maple dominated areas are showing a greenish-yellow colour at the current time, but the best is yet to come. Later changing poplar and Tamarack are showing minimal colour change.

September 15, 2022 - The temperature drops to -1°C overnight at the Park's East Gate. This below freezing temperature will further encourage trees to change colour in preparation for winter.

September 19, 2022 - Heavy rain and strong wind has increased leaf fall of early changing species such as Red Maples. These drought stressed trees started showing colour change in early September with some reaching their peak colour by mid-September.

September 23 & 24, 2022 - Two nights of below freezing temperatures (dropping to -2°C overnight at the Park's East Gate on September 24, 2022) will further advance fall colour change in Algonquin Park in the days ahead.

September 27, 2022 - Overcast conditions make for great viewing of Algonquin Park's increasing fall colour.

September 30, 2022 - Cold overnight temperatures with frost, shortening day light length, and light winds (that reduces leaf fall) are combining to offer the best maple viewing at the landscape level.

October 2 to 6, 2022 - Light winds, associated with a high pressure system, allowed maple leaves to remain on the trees and show their impressive orange-red colour to Park visitors. Temperature dipping to -6°C on October 2, 2022 encouraged the maple understory and poplar (aspen) to increase their fall colour change. Peak Sugar Maple colour at the landscape level in the western portion of the Highway 60 Corridor was reached on October 5, 2022, about one week later than average (see below).

October 7, 2022 - After a long period of calm weather, rain and wind has increased leaf fall in the Sugar Maple canopy. Algonquin Park's Sugar Maple understory and Poplar fall colour continues to improve.

October 10, 2022 - Wide-spread frost is encouraging the Aspen (poplar) fall colour to peak soon. Maples are in decline with bare crowns becoming more common in landscape views. The maple understory continues to change colour. Tamarack is showing a green-yellow colour in most locations.

October 11, 2022 - A Special Weather Statement issued by Environment Canada is forecasting wind gusts to 90 km/h on October 12, 2022. This high wind event is expected to dramatically increase leaf fall in Algonquin Park.

October 12 & 13, 2022 - Strong winds and heavy rain has made the crowns of most maples bare, but the understory remain intact. The aspen (poplar) fall colour reached peak and is now in decline depending upon the area. Tamarack are showing an increasingly strong yellow/golden colour in wetlands.

October 15, 2022 - Algonquin Park's fall colour season is in the final stages. More heavy rain and high wind has increased the maple leaf fall in the understory. Aspen (poplar) colour has quickly diminished with strong winds leaving some trees now bare. Tamaracks have also experienced increased leaf fall, causing them to be near peak or past peak depending upon the exact location.

October 20, 2022 - Snow covers the Algonquin Park landscape indicating the end of the fall colour reporting season. Tamaracks are the only tree species still in the midst of changing colour, with most Tamaracks now "past peak".


Related Information

 

Reserve your developed or backcountry campsite for your next visit.

Share your passion for Algonquin Park by becoming a member or donor.

Special regulations for Algonquin's special fishery.