To see the most beautiful fall colors in Quebec, head to the big national parks of the Laurentians, Mauricie, Charlevoix and the Eastern Townships between mid-September and mid-October. Here are the 10 spots that, in my opinion, offer the most spectacular views, whether you’re starting from Montreal, Quebec City or anywhere else in the province.
When is the best time to see the fall colors in Quebec?
The color season usually starts in the first week of September in the northern and higher-altitude regions, then gradually moves south across the province. The peak most often falls between September 20 and October 10, depending on the region: it arrives around the end of September in the Laurentians and Mauricie, and a little later in the Eastern Townships. Before you leave, check the interactive map just below to adjust your itinerary to how the season is actually progressing.
Follow the fall colors in real time - interactive map
Many destinations offer breathtaking views, but you still need to be in the right place at the right time. How do you know whether to choose Mont-Tremblant National Park, La Mauricie, or head to Mont Orford in the Eastern Townships instead?
So you don’t miss a thing this colorful season, Bonjour Québec offers an interactive map that lets you follow the fall colors across Quebec in real time. With this tool, you can plan your getaway with peace of mind, based on the color peak, and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
So don’t wait any longer: plan your fall outing today and discover Quebec at its most beautiful.
My top 10 most beautiful places to see the fall colors in Quebec
From the park closest to Montreal to the most spectacular spot in Charlevoix, here are my favorites for this fall.
1. Mont-Tremblant National Park (Laurentians)
About 2 h 15 from Montreal, this park offers one of the most beautiful color displays in the province, with lakes surrounded by mountains and plenty of lookouts to take in the view. You can admire the scenery by kayak or paddleboard on Lac Monroe, or go hiking on one of the park’s many trails. For a bird’s-eye view, take the gondola at the Tremblant resort, right next to the park. If you get the chance to camp there, enjoy sunrise and sunset over the treetops: it’s a wonderful experience.
Good to know: Mont-Tremblant National Park is one of the most popular spots this time of year. Book your accommodation in advance. Also keep in mind that Tremblant village gets very busy, as do the park’s most accessible hikes.
2. La Mauricie National Park (Mauricie)
This vast and incredible park offers more than 100 km of trails and striking views over the Saint-Maurice River. About 2 hours from Montreal, it’s well worth the trip. In the fall, I especially recommend the Mékinac trail for its views over the valley. It starts from the Rivière-à-la-Pêche service centre (Saint-Jean-des-Piles entrance).
- Total distance: 5.5 km loop
- Duration: 3 h
- Level: intermediate to difficult
3. Jacques-Cartier National Park (Quebec City region)
40 km north of Quebec City, this spectacular glacial valley bursts with vivid colors that contrast with its rock walls. The Les Loups trail takes some stamina, but it offers one of the best views of the Jacques-Cartier River.
- Total distance: 11 km (450 m elevation gain)
- Level: intermediate to difficult
More accessible, although rated intermediate, L’Éperon trail lets you see both the Jacques-Cartier River and the Rivière à l’Épaule. Your efforts will be rewarded with the magnificent scenery nature offers in the fall.
- Total distance: 5.4 km (210 m elevation gain)
- Level: intermediate
4. Montagne Noire (Saint-Donat, Lanaudière)
Famous for the observation tower at its summit, the Montagne Noire trail in Saint-Donat leads to one of the highest peaks in the Laurentians. It’s a must in September and October for a 360° view of the colorful forest. Pick a dry day for this difficult hike to avoid ending up in the mud. The loop offers varied perspectives over the forest, and the view is worth the effort. Stop for lunch at the Le Mésangeai shelter or right at the observation tower.
- Total distance: 6.6 km (223 m elevation gain)
- Estimated duration: 2 to 3 h
- Level: difficult
5. Grands-Jardins National Park and Le Massif de Charlevoix (Charlevoix)
The whole Charlevoix region lights up in the fall. Grands-Jardins National Park, with its northern vegetation, and Le Massif de Charlevoix, with its plunging views over the St. Lawrence, are among the most beautiful viewpoints in Quebec. Gondola, via ferrata or hiking: there are plenty of ways to enjoy them.
6. Forêt Ouareau Regional Park (Lanaudière)
About 1 h 30 from Montreal, this forest offers many trails with magnificent viewpoints. Its family-friendly, safe trails wind through a forest that turns bright with color. Here are a few trails to discover, by difficulty:
- Petite rivière du Nord, for a short, easy walk: 2.1 km (Grande-Jetée sector), easy
- Belvédère de la Croix loop, for great views: 2.5 km from the Massif sector or 5.8 km via the Contreforts trail, intermediate
- Ancien poste loop, for a long, sporty day: 16.8 km from the Massif sector, difficult
7. Mont Sourire (Saint-Donat, Lanaudière)
If there’s one trail with an incredible view for very little effort, it’s Mont Sourire. In under 2 km, you easily reach the lookout, with views of Saint-Donat village, Montagne Noire, Mont Ouareau and Mont Kaaikop. If you still have energy, you can extend the loop to Mont Carcan and Mont d’Or.
- Total distance: 2 km (80 to 120 m elevation gain)
- Estimated duration: 1 h
- Level: easy
8. Mont Orford (Eastern Townships)
About 1 h 30 from Montreal, the Orford area is known for the intensity of its colors. National park trails, ski resort slopes or the local color festival: there’s no shortage of options. I recommend the Pékan trail, which leads to the top of Colline des Pins and offers a lovely view of Mont Orford and the Étang aux Cerises valley. Perfect for an easy, peaceful outing.
- Distance: 5.5 km (loop or out-and-back depending on the sector)
- Level: easy
9. Gatineau Park (Outaouais)
Right next to Ottawa-Gatineau, this park offers free access to spectacular forest trails. The Luskville Falls trail climbs 300 metres, with a steep, rocky ascent at the start, for a red-and-gold panorama over the whole valley.
Good to know: the park is managed by the National Capital Commission (NCC). Check parking conditions on its website before you go.
- Distance: 4.2 km (loop)
- Duration: 2 h 30
- Level: difficult
10. Mont Sutton (Eastern Townships)
The charm of Sutton village comes together with the trails of the Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton (PENS) and the activities at the ski resort. For thrill-seekers, the giant zipline offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding colors. I recommend the Round Top trail: it’s the best-known trail in the area and leads to the highest peak of the massif, at 968 metres. The climb passes peaceful Lac Vogel and Lac Spruce, then ends with a steeper ascent with wooden stairs and rocks.
- Distance: about 7.4 to 8.7 km (loop)
- Estimated duration: 2 h 30 to 3 h 30
- Level: intermediate to challenging
Frequently asked questions
When do the fall colors start in Quebec?
The first colors usually appear in late August or early September in the northern and higher-altitude regions. The peak most often falls between September 20 and October 10, depending on the region and that year’s weather.
Where can I see the fall colors near Montreal?
Mont-Tremblant National Park, Forêt Ouareau, Saint-Donat (Montagne Noire and Mont Sourire), Mont Orford and Sutton are all 1 h 30 to 2 h 30 from Montreal by car, and all offer spectacular fall views.
Where can I see the fall colors near Quebec City?
Jacques-Cartier National Park is about 40 km north of Quebec City. Allow about 1 h to 1 h 30 by car to reach Charlevoix, Grands-Jardins National Park and Le Massif de Charlevoix.
How can I follow the fall colors in real time?
Bonjour Québec’s interactive map, updated regularly in September and October, lets you track how the colors are progressing region by region before planning your outing. You’ll find it in the “Follow the fall colors in real time” section of this article.
Do I need to book to visit Quebec's national parks in the fall?
Yes: weekends during color season are very popular. In SÉPAQ national parks (Mont-Tremblant, Jacques-Cartier, Grands-Jardins, Mont-Orford), it’s recommended to book your access and parking several days, or even weeks, in advance. La Mauricie National Park is managed by Parks Canada and Gatineau Park by the National Capital Commission (NCC): check their respective access conditions before you go.
In summary
In short, from the Laurentians to Charlevoix, via the Quebec City region and the Eastern Townships, Quebec offers an incredible variety of landscapes to admire the fall colors. Whether you’re looking for a day trip from Montreal or a multi-day road trip to Charlevoix, there’s surely a spot on this list waiting for you this fall.
