Quebec’s fall colours are beginning to appear, bringing a new reason to escape the city and explore the landscapes beyond Montreal.
There is something particularly beautiful about autumn in Quebec. As the temperature drops, the landscape begins its transformation, with forests moving from green into shades of golden yellow, burnt orange, and deep red. And while Montreal itself will soon be surrounded by colour, some of the most striking autumn scenery can be found just beyond the city.
The Laurentians are already beginning to show the first signs of the season, with areas around Sainte-Adèle and Saint-Hippolyte starting to turn yellow. Further north, the mountains and forests offer a more immersive way to experience the changing landscape, making the region an easy choice for a scenic autumn escape.
For something a little different, L’Étang Baker in the Eastern Townships is another destination to have on the list. The heart-shaped lake is surrounded by forest and becomes particularly striking once the trees turn shades of red and gold. About an hour and a half from Montreal, it offers the kind of quiet, cinematic setting that makes autumn feel like an occasion in itself.
Further toward the Gatineau side, Lusk Cave and Morrison’s Quarry offer a more dramatic take on the season. Morrison’s Quarry is especially striking, pairing vivid turquoise water with the warm tones of surrounding autumn foliage. The contrast creates an almost surreal landscape, particularly when the trees reach their peak colour.
The timing, of course, is everything. Bonjour Québec’s interactive foliage map tracks the progression of the season across the province, from the first hints of yellow to the brief window when the forests reach their most vibrant reds and oranges. The map is updated weekly, making it useful for planning a day trip or weekend escape around the best available colour.
For now, the transformation is only beginning around Montreal. But with cooler nights arriving, the landscape is set to change quickly. Soon, the roads leading out of the city will be lined with some of Quebec’s most beautiful scenery, making this the perfect season to trade the city streets for a little autumn magic.
