Kingston an historic town in the heart of Ontario is rich in heritage and spots that will take your breath away. In fall, Kingston and its surrounding neighborhood transforms into a realm of vibrant colors and cozy charm. As the leaves turn brilliant shades of different colors, Kingston dons its fall attire, inviting visitors to embark on a seasonal journey with so much to look forward to. Whether you are a foodie, a fitness freak, a history buff, or a nature enthusiast, Kingston has something to offer you in the fall.
Kingston is some 3 or 3.5 hours from Toronto and is closer to Montreal as well. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who would love to trek and get lost in the woods, Kingston has something special to offer you in the fall. So, grab your sweater, your camera, probably your umbrella, and your sense of adventure as we set off on a captivating journey through Kingston’s autumnal wonderland.
Our travel group is very particular about when we travel and how we travel. We make sure that everyone feel accomodated. So we came up with a plan to drive early evening so that we can enjoy the scenic route filled with colors. Here is the route link for our readers. We made a quick pit stop at Quinte West and we were indeed blown away by the picturesque view of the river and the bridges. Then a quick stop for coffee at Belleville lead us to beautiful waterfront and a beautiful church. It was then time to wrap and proceed towards our AirBnB in Kingston.
Rock Dunder: Unearthing Nature’s Majesty
Hike and explore this hidden gem in Ontario to be surprised by the splendour of Rock Dunder. Rock dunder offers 3 trails, all of which are very scenic. We took the summit loop which is the longest one ~2.84 KM loop. This hike takes us through lush forests, granite rocks, and tranquil lakeshores, presenting a diverse tapestry of Ontario’s natural beauty. The breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the pristine Rock Dunder Lake will certainly bowl you over. Add the fall colors to it, you are in for a treat. The summit, a rocky outcrop, rewards hikers with a spectacular 360-degree vista. The Summit Loop is an invigorating adventure, providing both hikers and nature enthusiasts with an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to come back for sure.
1000 Island Tower: Your Gateway to Scenic Splendor
1000 island tower is gateway to sensory feast and gives you access to the front row seats to view nature’s colorful blanket. The panoramic view of the islands draped in fall foliage with different colors like orange, red, purple will take your breath away. No amount of time spent here would be enough and no pictures can do justice to the spectacle this place has to offer. The roads here lead to the USA and you will pay a small fee for toll charges.
The view from this elevated vantage point captures the very essence of fall, inviting reflection, admiration, and a profound connection with the beauty that unfolds beneath the vast, open sky. The view of the St. Lawrence river is the icing on the cake, making the trip worth its money. There is an entry fee for Adults and kids aged 6-12, for latest pricing check: http://1000islandstower.com/2.html. There is group discount as well if you go as a group of 10+.
Rideau Locks Kingston: Gateway to Elegance
Rideau locks were constructed to power the mills and a power station is a place with rich heritage and natural beauty. This stop was recommended by a colleague of ours and the stop was well worth it. There are a series of four locks, seamlessly integrated into the natural terrain. These manually operated locks, constructed in the 1820s, serve as a vital connection between the Rideau Canal and the tranquil waters of Colonel By Lake. The locks are both a marvel of 19th-century engineering and a gateway to the scenic beauty of the region. The lush greenery turns into a colorful canvas in the fall season and is a visual treat. The stairs are tight and narrow but the climb down is worth the sight that we are offered.
Kingston Trolley Tour: An Honorable Mention
The tour winds through the cobblestone streets of the downtown core, passing by iconic landmarks such as City Hall, the Royal Military College, and the historic waterfront. As the trolley meanders through tree-lined avenues and vibrant neighborhoods, passengers are treated to a fantastic view of Kingston’s architectural treasures and natural landscapes. I would suggest to take this tour in the summer or when there is a hop on and off service. With the hop on and off service, you can get down at a place of choice to get to know the places better or even tour around. Unfortunately, we were unable to take advantage of that and explore the area of interests further.
Whether strolling along the shores of Lake Ontario, ascending to panoramic views, or delving into the city’s historic narratives, Kingston leaves an indelible mark on those who venture into its embrace. Kingston has a lot more to offer and we will back to this beautiful region in the near future.
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