12 prime spots for leaf peeping less than 2 hours from Montréal

Whether you’re in the heart of the city or on the outskirts, there are plenty of spots to see nature decked out in its stunning autumnal shades! Here are 12 places within 2 hours of Montréal to inspire your next outing.

Autumnal aerial view of a large lake surrounded by a mountainous forest.

Plan the best time to go

A map to follow the changing fall colours every week

Be sure to use our interactive map, which is updated weekly, to plan the time when the trees will be at their peak in the area you plan to visit!

In Montréal

1. Parc du Mont-Royal

Urbanites are sure to be wowed by the proximity of nature abounding in the very heart of the city thanks to Parc du Mont-Royal. Hop on the metro to Mont-Royal station or take a drive and park in one of the lots near Chemin Remembrance, then walk to the Camilien-Houde lookout.

2. Jardin botanique and its light sculptures

Another must-see spot to soak up fall colours is the Jardin botanique – Espace pour la vie, one of the world's largest botanical gardens, boasting 75 hectares of greenhouses and thematic gardens. Plan to visit in the evening during the annual Gardens of Light event, where gorgeous paper lanterns glow against the stunning red and orange hues of the trees.

3. Parc Jean-Drapeau

Parc Jean-Drapeau is spread out over Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame. You can walk or cycle along the 25 km of roads and paths, alternating between views of the river and the vibrant foliage still clinging to the trees.

Less than an hour away

4. Mont Saint-Bruno

📍 Montérégie
🚗 35 minutes

For a fall outing with a little one in a stroller or a canine companion, head to Parc national du Mont Saint-Bruno. Make the most of the season by picking your own apples at its orchard or stopping off at the Le Vieux Moulin tea room (open on weekends and holidays) for a hot drink before a walk around one of the five lakes in this preserved area.

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5. Mont Rougemont

📍 Montérégie
🚗 50 minutes

In Haut-Richelieu, enjoy a hike along the Jean-Baptiste-Jodoin trails which are accessible from the Michel Jodoin cider mill. The 2-hour walk boasts views of the Montérégie region and its vast fields from the summit. Reward yourself afterwards with a tasty cider or sparkling apple must, which can be enjoyed with family or friends at one of the picnic tables at the mill.

6. Parc national d’Oka

📍 Laurentides
🚗 50 minutes

Along Montréal’s North Shore, head into the beautiful Laurentides region and take a drive to Parc national d’Oka. Known for its lovely beach in the summer, this spot is also popular for climbing Calvaire hill in the fall. At the top, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Lac des Deux Montagnes, bordered by colour-drenched trees.

Less than 2 hours away

7. Réserve naturelle Gault

📍 Montérégie
🚗 1 hour

Back in the Montérégie region, head for Mont-Saint-Hilaire and park at the foot of the first global biosphere reserve in Canada! Soak up the glowing scenery, birdwatch and enjoy 24 km of hiking trails designed for all levels.

8. Bromont

📍 Eastern Townships
🚗 1 hour

Venture to Parc des Sommets de Bromont and take in some of its 125 km of trails on foot or by bike. You’ll feel like a tiny speck in this massive park boasting warm, autumnal hues. End your day on a relaxing note at BALNEA Spa + réserve thermale or book a table for a tasty meal in Vieux-Bromont.

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9. Mont Orford

📍 Eastern Townships
🚗 1 hr 20

Looking for a dog-friendly outing to enjoy the peak fall colours? Head to Parc national du Mont-Orford and hike one of the trails. Your canine friend is sure to enjoy the scent of the gentle change of season while you take in the gorgeous scenery. For a festive and lively atmosphere, keep an eye on the event schedule for the Flambée des couleurs, which is held on weekends from mid-September to mid-October.

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10. Mont Sutton

📍 Eastern Townships
🚗 1 hr 30

Le Mont Sutton boasts views of the changing leaves from many different angles. In addition to a chairlift offering a delightful aerial ride, there are mountain bike trails, hiking paths and even a giant kilometre-long zipline! Extend your stay by opting for non-traditional accommodations at Au Diable Vert and don’t miss a fun outing to VéloVolant.

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11. Tremblant

📍 Laurentides
🚗 1 hr 45

From mid-September to mid-October, Tremblant resort is the ideal destination to take in the Music and Colours festival from a restaurant patio on Place Saint-Bernard. After a breathtaking hike in the heart of Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, let the rhythm of the warm music lull you into beautiful end to the day.

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12. Coaticook

📍 Eastern Townships
🚗 1 hr 50

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook boasts the longest suspension bridge in North America, where you can take in the amazing array of colours surrounding the river that flows beneath your feet. Extend this daytime family outing by venturing out to the luminous and magical Foresta Lumina, a 2.6 km nighttime trail.