Fall Foliage in Montreal

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©Nunzio Guerrera

If you've missed the fall foliage display in northern or central Quebec, Montreal offers one more chance to enjoy seasonal splendor! The city is generally the last in the province to see the change of colors. Yet, the right place and time are still the key to the most unforgettable experience, and we've got you covered here.

Peak fall foliage in Montreal

When elsewhere across the province, leaves burst out with delicate yellow, warm orange, and bronze-red already in mid-September, the fall foliage season in Montreal typically starts in late September and peaks by mid-October. Anyways, the exact season depends on the weather, so we recommend checking for the latest fall foliage reports when planning your trip. During some years, the season may even extend well into early November.

Where to see fall foliage in Montreal

Central parks

Montreal offers a host of options to take in the trees ablaze with color. No need to stray far away from the Downtown—drop by the famous Mount Royal Park and take a boat ride to enjoy the seasonal ambiance. Also, the iconic Old Port of Montreal is a must if you're craving fall foliage with an equally neat background. Across the Old Port, you can also marvel at the fall colors of Parc Jean-Drapeau on Saint Helen's Island. To get there, you have to cross the St. Lawrence River either on foot or by bike across one of the bridges or by metro or ferry.

Montreal Botanical Garden

The best leaf-peeping spot in the northern part of Montreal must be Montreal Botanical Garden, celebrated for its diverse exotic flora. The park boasts ten themed greenhouses and a Chinese lantern garden. Late afternoon is the best time to visit: take your time to observe the fall colors first and proceed to the lantern show at dusk. The place is easily reachable by Line 1 of the Montreal subway.

Parc Angrignon

Parc Angrignon, located in southern Montreal, offers the utmost tranquility. At first sight, you might even think you're far away from the city, but it's only a 10-minute ride by the very same Line 1. Take your time to enjoy numerous walking trails, a pond, playgrounds, picnic tables, and surely the stunning fall colors.

Fall foliage near Montreal

Western suburbs

Additionally, dozens of excellent fall peeping locations can be found scattered throughout Montreal's western suburbs. By taking a 20-minute drive, you can check out Bois-de-Liesse Park, known for its lush old-grown hardwood and countless birches. Twice as far from the Downtown lies Bois de l'Île Bizard, offering a unique experience, with boardwalks amidst the marshy grounds, colorful woods, and possibly wildlife encounters. Another gem, nestled 24 miles (39 km) from Montreal, is Morgan Arboretum, a national reserve with multiple trails and a splendid fall color display.

Mont Saint-Hilaire

Montreal's eastern suburbs have something to offer to leaf-peepers too. Set 26 miles (42 km) from Downtown, the Mont Saint-Hilaire is a wonderful place for fall colors. Take a walk along the Richelieu River banks and see unparalleled fall vistas yourself.

Montreal to Jonquière train ride

Our last but very special suggestion to experience fall foliage is a scenic train ride from Montreal to Jonquière offered by VIA Rail. Treat yourself to a 317-mile (510-km) journey across Quebec's dense woodlands. All additional information is available on VIA Rail's official website, which can be found in the External Resources below.

After all, when planning to visit Montreal this fall, you will probably look for comfortable accommodations nearby. You're welcome to explore available options on the map featuring lodgings in Montreal and its suburbs.