Cottage country in the fall is nothing short of magical—and Haliburton offers one of Ontario’s most captivating autumn escapes. With its forested trails, quiet lakes, and welcoming small-town charm, this region is perfect for weekend getaways, scenic drives, and cozy cottage stays. From Haliburton Village to Eagle Lake and beyond, here’s how to experience fall at its finest.
Your Guide to Fall in Haliburton: Trails, Towns & Cottage Country Charm
Haliburton Village & Head Lake
The heart of the Highlands, Haliburton Village is surrounded by dense forests and sits on the shores of Head Lake—making it a prime destination for fall colour. Stroll the Head Lake Waterfront Trail, lined with mature trees and lakeside views, or visit the Haliburton Highlands Museum to learn about the area’s rich history.
Nearby, the Haliburton Sculpture Forest offers a unique blend of art and nature. With 40 sculptures nestled among the trees, it’s a peaceful and inspiring walk, especially when the forest is ablaze with autumn hues2.
Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve
North of the village lies Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve, a 100,000-acre playground for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 400 km of hiking trails, this private forest is ablaze with colour in late September and early October. Book a hiking pass or join a guided canopy tour—an unforgettable experience that includes paddling, hiking, and walking among the treetops on the world’s longest canopy boardwalk2.
Skyline Park & Eagle Lake
For panoramic views without the hike, head to Skyline Park. Located at 196 Skyline Park Road, this elevated lookout offers sweeping vistas of Head Lake, Haliburton Village, and the surrounding Highlands. Picnic tables dot the area, making it a perfect stop for lunch or sunset photos.
Just 16 km north, Eagle Lake and Sir Sam’s Ski & Ride offer another stunning vantage point. Ride the fall colour chairlift or explore 23 km of trails through hardwood forest, open meadows, and ancient rock outcrops.
Scenic Drives & Lookouts
Haliburton is full of winding roads and elevated views that make for unforgettable fall drives. Try:
- The route between Haliburton Village and Eagle Lake
- Skyline Drive to the lookout
- County Road 648 toward Wilberforce
These routes offer brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows—ideal for photographers and weekend explorers.
Fall Markets & Local Events
Haliburton’s fall calendar includes:
- Art workshops and sculpture events at Glebe Park
- Fall colour updates and guided hikes from My Haliburton Highlands
- Local artisan markets and seasonal pop-ups in the village
These events are great for meeting locals, sampling regional flavours, and finding handcrafted gifts.
Farm Visits & Outdoor Fun
Fall is a great time to explore Haliburton’s rural charm. Visit Abbey Gardens, a community hub transforming a former gravel pit into a sustainable green space. Enjoy forest trails, local food, and seasonal events. For families, nearby farms offer pumpkin patches, goat walks, and Highland cattle viewing.
Fall in Haliburton
From quiet lakes to forested trails and cozy towns, Haliburton is a fall destination that blends natural beauty with authentic charm. Whether you’re hiking through the Highlands, paddling across Head Lake, or admiring sculptures beneath fiery maple leaves, The Janssen Group can help you find your perfect place in this stunning region of Ontario cottage country.
Let our local experts guide you through Haliburton’s most desirable communities—from Drag Lake and Kennisis Lake to Redstone Lake and Kashagawigamog Lake. Consult with The Janssen Group trusted Realtors Drew & Kristin Bishop to buy or sell your next dream property in Haliburton.
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