Nova Scotia Fall Colors 2025

Nova Scotia has various types of trees: maple, oak, birch, beech, and ash. Such a diversity reveals itself in the fall months, when the leaves change their green hues into vibrant crimson, near-fuschia, orange, gold, yellow, red, and copper. The right timing is essential to capture the picture-perfect sceneries painted by nature.

Best time to visit Nova Scotia for fall foliage

Leaf-peeping season in Nova Scotia is roughly late September to late October. But the apex of fall colors usually occurs in mid-October, most commonly during the second week. The best bet would be to go to a spot with the greatest tree diversity, nice vantage points, and water basins, offering magical reflections.

Best places to see fall colors in Nova Scotia

Cabot Trail, Cape Breton

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the winning spot for seasonal splendor in Nova Scotia and one of the best fall destinations in all of Canada. In particular, Cape Breton is home to a scenic coastal drive called Cabot Trail Road, as well as a number of delightful hikes. If you're only going for the road trip, you will need at least a full day to check out the views. But if you'd like to incorporate some trekking into your adventures, reserve a couple of days to fully enjoy the lookouts throughout the island. As a bonus, you can take a helicopter tour and observe the show of nature from above. Mind that the weather here could get rainy and foggy at this time of the year.

Wentworth Valley

Another place blessed with gorgeous fall colors is Wentworth Valley. For the most spectacular panoramic views of the area, you should get to the top of Wentworth Mountain. Consider planning your trip during the Fall Festival of Colours at Ski Wentworth. The event usually takes place over two weekends in early-to-mid October. The resort offers scenic chairlift rides between 10 am and 3 pm at $15 per individual and $45 for a family of four persons. Besides, the program of the festivities includes guided hikes, BBQ, and other family-friendly fun amidst a bright palette of colors. Stay tuned for the updates on Ski Wentworth's official website, mentioned in the External Resources below.

Halifax Area

Sometimes, to find a feast for your eyes, you don't even have to stray far away from the capital city. You can simply walk around Shubie Park in Dartmouth, only 6 miles (10 km) north of Halifax. Another decent place nearby is Bayers Lake, nestled 7 miles (11 km) west of Downtown. The spot is located next to the End of the Birch Cove Trail, so if you have more time, you can also venture on a hike. Likewise, you can always stroll on the Sackville Riverside and enjoy the trees ablaze with color.

Mersey River, Kejimkujik National Park

If you're into a trip on the water, head to Kejimkujik National Park, rent a kayak or canoe at Jakes Landing, and paddle along the Mersey River gorge, studded with vivid maple trees. Additionally, you can combine boating with hiking and discover some lovely hidden treasures, like Mill Falls.

Bear River

Our last suggestion is a small village of Bear River, lying on the eponymous river, which divides the Annapolis and Digby counties and splits the village into two halves. The neat houses, churches, and laid-back community add to a special atmosphere. And brightly colored hardwood trees make for an unforgettable experience.

Tatamagouche Area

A vibrant Tatamagouche offers a plethora of ways to enjoy the best fall foliage experience around the town. Guests can take a stroll through the town and enjoy viewing the leaves while savoring local wine. Hiking on the Rogart Mountain Trail or spending time in Wentworth Valley are also among the best ways to explore Tatamagouche during the fall.

Harvest Moon Trailway

The Harvest Moon Trailway, located in the Annapolis Valley, offers a chance to appreciate scenic fall views on bikes or during walks. Fifteen hiking trails pass through historic sites, farmers' markets, and wineries en route from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grand-Pré to Annapolis Royal. The 68-mile (110 km) route can be completed in 1-2 days. A mountain bike or hybrid bike is recommended, and rentals are available in Wolfville and throughout the valley. 

Keppoch Mountain

Keppoch Mountain offers 9.5 miles (40 kilometers) of non-motorized multi-use wilderness trails on Keppoch Mountain to enjoy the colorful autumn scenery at its best. In addition, visitors have the opportunity to actively relax by riding mountain bikes, off-road bikes, or simply running through the area. Additionally, one of the park paths is fully equipped for wheelchairs.

Cape Smokey

Eastern Canada's only gondola, which takes you to the top of Cape Smoky, offers an unforgettable experience, especially in the fall. During the trip up the mountain, a picturesque coast in bright autumn colors will unfold before you. Fall Gondola Ride tickets can be bought at the following prices: Adult tickets (ages 19-64) are $49.99 online and $57.45 on-site; Student tickets (ages 12-18) are $44.99 online and $54.99 on-site; Child tickets (ages 6-11) are $26.99 online and $34.99 on-site; and Senior tickets (age 65-80) cost $44.99 online and $54.99 on-site.

Victoria Park

Victoria Park will pleasantly surprise you with its 3,000 hectares of wooded trails and beautiful, vivid fall foliage. Breathtaking 360-million-year-old geologic formations, old forests, and waterfalls are some of the spots worth seeing in the fall season. Public access to Victoria Park is free. It is open year-round. The park, however, is only maintained from April through November. 

Le Petit Bois Trails

Le Petit Bois Trails, located on the University of Sainte-Anne campus, consist of forest and coastal trails that explore the history and wildlife of the region while providing guests with wonderful views of the Canadian fall.

Other places for leaf watching in Nova Scotia

All in all, the spots listed above are just a few of the many charming locations which you can discover during your fall trip to Nova Scotia. You can also explore Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Point Pleasant Park and Shubie Park, Castle Rock Trail, and much more. Don't fear going off the beaten track and observe the beauty surrounding you everywhere across the province.