Kawartha Lakes is a popular summer destination, drawing thousands of people to its sparkling beaches every year. When Autumn arrives, cooler temperatures may mean beach days are behind us. However, there’s a lot more to the Kawarthas than summer vacation. Autumn may, in fact, be one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit Kawartha Lakes. You’ll find plenty of fun activities without the blistering heat and with fewer crowds to contend with. Here are just a few of the activities we love.
Watching the Leaves Change
The hiking trails alone are worth a visit to the Kawarthas. Year-round residents get to take in the beauty of every season, but there’s nothing like the Fall. The lush greenery in the Kawarthas turns into a spectacular display of colours. There is no shortage of spaces to explore this beauty. And here are just a few places you won’t want to miss.
The Canadian Shield
The northern part of the Kawarthas lies along the Canadian Shield, which you can access along Highway 118. It’s one of the most underrated places to visit in the Fall, where the trees are bathed in luxurious orange, red, yellow, and green.
Algonquin Park
When you have some time to spare, why not take a drive up to Algonquin Park? It’s a leisurely two-hour trip along ON 35 South, and the view is beyond spectacular.
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park
The second largest provincial park in Southern Ontario (next to Algonquin Park) is a breathtaking place to be. In the Fall, the crowds die down, but the fun is just beginning. Backcountry adventures include bird-watching, hiking, canoeing, fishing, and camping.
Looking for fun things to do in Peterborough in the Fall? You’ll find plenty of ideas right here.
Kawartha FarmFest
This annual self-guided driving tour of farms and attractions across Kawartha Lakes happens every weekend before Thanksgiving. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Kawartha FarmFest and is sure to be a blast for all ages. Come on out and see the cows, sheep, horses and other farm animals while you take your pick from the bounty of fresh crops.
Bobcaygeon Fall Fair
There’s nothing like ringing in the Autumn festivities like attending the Bobcaygeon Fall Fair. The gates open on September 29th at 2 pm. At 4, “Toonie Night” gives you the chance to ride the Midway without spending a fortune. Children can’t get enough of the pony rides or petting zoo. And we haven’t even mentioned the shows! There’s something for everyone:
- A talent show (with singing and live music)
- Horse Show
- Rabbitry
- Junior Sheep Show
- Goat Show
- Calf Show
The Saturday Night Fair Dance will feature performances by Doc Walker and the Limestone Cowboys. It’s good old-fashioned family fun that’s appropriate for all ages!
The Victoria Rail Trail
It’s open all year, but is especially magical in the Fall. 55 km of paths for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding provide a relaxing way to enjoy the fall foliage.
The trail leads from Lindsay along Sturgeon Lake through Fenelon Falls and Cameron Lake. There’s a marsh boardwalk and beach area where you can relax as you listen to the waves while appreciating the Autumn beauty.
Hit up a Farmer’s Market
The season of feasting is upon us. What better way to make your meals delicious and nutritious than by visiting one of Kawartha Lakes’ many farmer’s markets?
Lindsay Farmer’s Market
Here is one of the longest-running farmer’s markets in the province. Lindsay Farmer’s Market has been running since 1959, with 35 vendors offering seasonal produce, maple syrup, fresh baked goods, crafts, paintings and more.
Bobcaygeon Farmer’s Market
Everything sold at Bobcaygeon Farmer’s Market is produced within 100 km of the town. You’ll find a bounty of autumn-inspired deliciousness, from fresh produce and baked treats to artesian cheeses and more. Plus, there’s a tent with live entertainment and a children’s fun area.
Want to know more about the beautiful Kawarthas? Here are some of our most popular posts about the area:
- The Joy of Cycling in Peterborough and the Kawarthas
- Here are the Lakes Near Peterborough You Have to Visit!
- Discover the Best Kawartha Lakes Golf Courses
Take the Butter Tart Tour
These tasty treats weren’t invented in the Kawarthas. We just perfected them! The tour offers over 50 shops you can explore at your own pace. Take the fun-filled excursion by car, motorcycle or even by boat on the Trent-Severn Waterway!
Lang Pioneer Village Museum
When you think of a museum, you probably think of one building. However, the Lang Pioneer Village Museum is precisely what its namesake says, a village! Prepare to be transported to another time and place as costumed staff warmly welcome you. This picturesque Village consists of more than 30 homes and businesses, each telling a fascinating story from a period in history. Events include:
- Apple Fest on October 2nd
- Historic All Hallow’s Eve from October 28th to the 29th
- A Christmas Bazaar on November 19th
Buckhorn Pumpkinfest
It’s almost that time of year for jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkin pie, and all things pumpkin spiced! What better way to celebrate than with a festival? The Buckhorn Pumpkinfest takes place over four weekends in October and features daily entertainment, mazes, a bouncy castle, wagon rides, pumpkin bowling, and a haunted forest for those brave enough to enter.
Kawartha Fall Festival
Autumn is the perfect time for new beginnings. This year, get ready for the first-ever Kawartha Fall Festival, running from October 1st to October 10th at the Ken Reed Conservation Area.
Invent include:
- Cultural Show and Tell
- Birds of Prey demonstration
- Reptile and amphibian exhibit
- Music in the park
- Mushroom walk
Come on out and help make this family-friendly, educational, and entertaining event a hit. There is not cost for any of the events, but you might want to register in advance to avoid disappointment. Donations of non-perishable foods are also appreciated!
Have you ever thought about living in an area that makes it feel like you’re on vacation all year long? We’d love to talk to you about the Kawarthas! Reach out to us by email or call 705-775-2255 and we will be happy to answer your questions.
