5 Ways to Enjoy the Fall Colours in Brockville
Summer is officially over, and the fall has just begun. The trees are going to start turning to their fall colours soon (if they haven’t already) and the 1000 Islands region is going to look even more spectacular than normal. With that in mind, it’s a great time to spend outdoors. There are many options in and around the Brockville area to experience the autumn foliage.
Take a hike to Rock Dunder
Though not directly in Brockville, Rock Dunder has some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Part of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere, Rock Dunder looks over the Rideau Waterway Land Trust, a protected area of pristine land and water. There are three different trails that you can take, each providing their own spectacular views. Autumn is definitely the best time to visit and check out the fall colours.
The Cabin Trail
This 1.3 kilometre walk will take you past a beaver pond, through mixed forest and a white pine plantation. It is the easiest of the three hikes.
The Morton Bay Loop
The Morton Bay Loop is a 2 kilometre hike that has two moderately steep sections. It goes to and from a small peninsular outlook over Morton Bay.
The Summit Loop
Running alongside Dean’s Island, this 3.9 kilometre climb goes through a variety of forest, and offers sneak peaks over rocky cliffs. The Summit Loop trail is the hardest, and the most popular, of the trails, offering a brilliant panoramic view of the Rideau Waterway.
Rock Dunder is available to visit between May 15 to November 15, sunrise to sunset. The property is private property, and there is a $10 charge per car for a day pass. Passes can be bought through Eventbrite.
Explore Mac Johnson Park
If you want to stay a little closer to Brockville, Mac Johnson Wildlife Area is a great choice. With 11 kilometres of trails that cross over woodlands, wetlands and field areas, you will have a wide variety of views of fall colours. Famous for its Trumpeter Swans, Mac Johnson is filled with wildlife and native plants. You’ll be sure to see something interesting every time you go. There are picnic areas of the north and south sides of the park, so you can make a day trip out of the walk!
Mac Johnson is located in the north end of Brockville, 2 kilometres from Highway 29. For more information, check out the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority.
Walk the Brock Trail
If you want to stay within the city limits, or want to see the fall colours close to home, the Brock Trail will take you where you need to go! The Brock Trail is a flat, 12 kilometre trail that goes throughout the city, from the downtown, along Buell’s Creek and up north from the waterfront. The Brock Trail continues to expand with a number of proposed additions, so even if you’ve taken the trail before, it’s well worth another visit. The Brock Trail begins along the St Lawrence River, along the waterfront. Explore our various parks and then wander along Buell’s Creek as you take in the fall colours.
Visit an Apple Orchard
Brockville is lucky to have apple orchards, such as Halls Apple Market, in our area. While the trees still have green leaves on their branches, the branches are also heavy with crisp, sweet apples, fresh for the picking. You can take part in this fall tradition of apple picking with the option to pick your own apples or by taking a wagon ride through the orchard. The apples are also available to buy in their store, along with baked goods, giftware and souvenirs.
Cruise Along the St Lawrence
Brockville is lucky to have easy access to many options when it comes to taking a cruise up and down the St.Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands.
Brockville 1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises
If you want to keep things local, head down to Blockhouse Island and take a cruise with Brockville’s very own 1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises. Home of the 1.5 hour “Jewels of the St.Lawrence” cruise, you can explore the east end of the 1000 Islands and take in all the beautiful fall colours while looking at all the beautiful homes as well.
Rockport Cruises
If you’re wanting to see the islands from a more central location, Rockport Cruises will take care of your viewing needs. Zigzagging across the river to see both the Canadian and America waterfronts, Rockport Cruises shows off the beauty of the St.Lawrence throughout the fall, including the famous Boldt Castle.
Gananoque Boat Line
Further west, you’ll find the Gananoque Boat Line. These cruises explore different tour topics such as landmarks, lost ships, and visits to Boldt Castle. Running until October 20th, Gananoque Boat Lines show off the Canadian and American waterfronts through much of the bright fall colours.
