As the intense heat of summer gives way to crisper blue-sky days, there is no better time to visit Orillia and Lake Country. The natural beauty of our lakes and trail systems truly comes to life when leaves turn to brilliant reds, oranges and yellows. Whether it’s canopied-covered country roads when riding or driving, or the silence of our forested trails, autumn visits are preferred over summer stays for many.
If you’re looking for solitude and great views in your vintage automobile, sportscar or motorcycle, or piling the kids into the family van, a driving tour of Lake Country during fall is always a good choice for a scenic afternoon. There are plenty of places to dine, shop and site see along the way, too.
Experienced cyclists from all over Ontario choose the hills of Oro-Medonte during the fall months to get in a challenging ride amongst the kaleidoscope of colours in the area’s back roads, where there are fewer cars and plenty of like-minded people. There are also loops for families too! Visit Cycling Strategy to find routes for all levels.
Looking for bike-friendly businesses to stop in at on your journey? A visit to Cyclesimcoe.ca before your trip will help you plan your routes in and around Orillia and Simcoe County, including where to eat and stay.
Orillia never fails to offer remarkable recreational opportunities at any time of year, but the freshness of fall is one of the best times to hit the Millennial Trail, a three-metre-wide multi-use path that runs through two of Orillia’s amazing waterfront parks – Couchiching Beach and J.B. Tudhope Memorial – and follows Lake Couchiching through Orillia from the Ramara Ganaraska Trail, to the Uhtoff trails in Severn Township.
For the history and art buffs, the Millennium Trail offers a unique glimpse in the historic City’s past and present. Along the way, 14 heritage signs will guide your route with the stories of Orillia’s early beginnings, while you’ll also pass by several designated heritage sites, permanent art installations, and even two National Historic Sites. Free, guided mobile tours are available to download on your app store through the Tripvia Tours library.
Looking to restore your soul amongst tall trees? Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Copeland Forest. The beauty of this 4,400-acre forest just outside of Orillia is that it offers a serene respite with trails for a variety of recreational users including bikers, equestrians and hikers. Several entry points make it convenient to access.
Or, if you want a unique perspective of the entire region, why not explore the region’s historic waterways with a self-guided paddle excursion? Orillia & Lake Country boasts several easy ways for you to rent your gear and plan your route on a budget. If you’re looking to explore on land, Humdinger Bicycle Tours offers both rentals and pre-planned scenic routes to explore the region’s canopied roads and waterfront trails.
Looking to stay warm while you explore? Try out one of our free, self-guided fall driving tours so you can take in the beauty of the season from the comfort of your own vehicle.
After your fall adventures, enjoy a mouth-watering meal at FARE Restaurant on the historic shores of Brewery Bay, and you can chalk this up as a perfect day.
Speaking of food, there are plenty of places to dine in Orillia’s Lake Country, whether it’s overlooking the sparkling waters of a lake or river, or in the middle of a thriving downtown community, from gourmet to vegetarian to casual dining, there is something to please every palate – it’s the perfect garnish to your daily adventure.
Extend your visit by booking an overnight stay in Orillia
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