As the air turns crisp and the trees blossom into vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow, Quebec transforms into a photographer’s paradise, offering a symphony of colors perfect for dreamy fall road trips.
The Perfect Autumn Escape
From the scenic Laurentian Mountains to the rolling hills of the Eastern Townships, there's no shortage of breathtaking landscapes and charming villages to discover. Here are three of the best routes to consider for your autumn adventure.
The Laurentian Route
If you're looking for a classic fall road trip, the Laurentians region offers a perfect mix of outdoor beauty and natural charm. Known for its many ski mountains, golf courses and pristine lakes, this region is ideal for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Discover windy roads that travel through mountain towns like Mont-Tremblant above and Saint-Sauveur. Both are known for their vibrant autumn colors and varied outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and even year-round gondola rides.
Make sure to stop in Parc National du Mont-Tremblant, where you can hike through forested trails with panoramic views of the fall colors. This area is particularly popular in September and October, so plan accordingly to avoid the crowds while soaking in the stunning foliage. Week days are the best times to visit if you are looking for some quieter surroundings.
The Eastern Townships Route
For those who want to combine beautiful scenery with local flavors, the Eastern Townships Route is a must. This region is located just east of Montreal, along highway 10 and it is known for its unique blend of nature, culture, and gastronomy. There is an abondance of trails to discover, great ski mountains too and cute little towns like Sutton, Magog, and Bromont that make you want to move there.
Personal favorites in the area: I like to visit the ski mountains in the fall, like Mont Orford above, or staying in one of many local eco-cabins in the woods and finding calming lakes to paddle on.
The Charlevoix Experience
I am not going to hide it anymore, this is my favorite region of Quebec. For jaw-dropping views of both mountains and the St. Lawrence River, Charlevoix is the place to be. This region is one of Quebec’s most stunning and diverse scenic road, taking you through rugged coastlines with steep hills, lush valleys, and vibrant fall forests.
If you start your trip in Quebec City, follow Route 138 along the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River. This scenic drive will take you through villages like Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie which are worth visiting or staying at if you want to explore more of the area. Both villages are known for their art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and breathtaking vistas. There is also a train that travels between Baie St-Paul and La Malbaie if you are looking for a daytime activity.
Fall in Charlevoix is a photographer's dream, with golden forests set against the dramatic backdrop of the rugged mountains like Les Palissades de Charlevoix pictured above. Hiking enthusiasts will also find plenty of trails, from easy walks to more challenging climbs in Parc National des Grands-Jardins and Parc National des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie.
Personal favorite: Hiking La Chouenne trail picture below, or the Mont du Dome trail are great hiking adventures in the fall. Both trails are quite popular so it's worth getting there early or planning to go on a week day/night.
Tips for your fall road trip in Quebec
- Timing is key: Fall foliage is usually at its peak from late September to mid-October. The more north that you travel, the more advanced the colors will be. Check local foliage reports to time your trip for the best colors. Bonjour Quebec has a great interactive map that helps you track fall colors progress, I often use it to plan my trips.
- Pack layers: Fall season in Quebec can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- Take your time: Don’t just rush through the scenic routes, take time to soak in the local culture. Stop at the small towns and villages, support small businesses and enjoy local food, art, and culture.
From the mountains of the Laurentians to the vineyards of the Eastern Townships and the coastal beauty of Charlevoix, Quebec's fall landscapes are nothing short of magical.
Hope this blog post will help you plan your next adventure!