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.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Nova Scotia for viewing fall colors?
Nova Scotia is at its colorful best from late September to late October. During this time of the year, the leaves of oak, maple, birch, beech, and ash trees change from green to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, red, and copper. This transformation peaks in mid-October and offers a breathtakingly beautiful sight that lures tourists to the region. Show more
Where are the best places to view fall colors in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia abounds in scenic fall foliage spots. While Cabot Trail, Halifax area, Wentworth Valley, Mersey River at Kejimkujik National Park, and Bear River are popular for their fall colors, you can also discover some hidden gems like Shubie Park and Sackville Riverside. Cabot Trail stands out for its spectacular coastal drive and hiking trails that are perfect for viewing the colorful fall leaves. Show more
What unique species of trees can be found in Nova Scotia?
A stunning palette of colors spreads over the vast landscape of Nova Scotia in autumn due to the many species of trees that thrive in the region. Among the most prominent trees that paint the countryside with shades of crimson, fuschia, orange, gold, yellow, red, and copper are oak, maple, birch, beech, and ash. The colorful hues make for a picturesque spectacle of nature's artistry. Show more
Are helicopter tours available to view the fall foliage in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?
Tourists seeking a unique vantage point to view the stunning fall colors of Cape Breton Highlands National Park can book a helicopter tour. Flying high above offers a once-in-a-lifetime view of the breathtakingly beautiful autumn landscape. Nevertheless, as weather can turn rainy and foggy during the season, visibility can become uncertain aboard a helicopter. Show more
Are there any fall festivals or events to attend in Nova Scotia besides the Fall Festival of Colours?
Nova Scotia has numerous fall festivals and events besides the Fall Festival of Colours. These events include the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival, Halifax Pop Explosion, Halifax Oktoberfest, Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival, Nova Scotia Fall Wine Fest, and Wolfville Magic Winery Bus. Tourists should regularly check local listings and the Nova Scotia website to stay informed about upcoming celebrations. Show more
