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Cycle the Fall Colours in Kawarthas Northumberland

There’s no better way to experience a Kawarthas Northumberland autumn than from the seat of a bike. 

As the region’s farmlands, hilltops, and hardwood forests shift into brilliant shades of orange, red, and gold, the quiet backroads, rail trails, and singletrack that make this area a four-season cycling destination become something even more special.

Whether you’re after a leisurely rail trail ride, a technical mountain bike loop, or a multi-day bikepacking adventure, fall is arguably the best time of year to do it — cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and some of the best scenery in Ontario.

Why Fall is the Best Time to Ride

  • Cooler, more comfortable riding weather
  • Fewer bugs, quieter trails
  • The best colour of the year, typically peaking in early-to-mid October
  • Local food & drink stops along the way — breweries, bakeries, cafés, and farm markets are all part of the fall riding experience here

Plan Your Ride

Kawarthas Northumberland is an easy day trip or weekend getaway from Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto or the GTA — with routes for every skill level and local bike shops with rentals to help you make the most of your visit.

kawarthasnorthumberland.ca/cycling

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Canoe in shallow water close to shore, seen from directly overhead

Best Fall Day Paddling Routes

Kawarthas Northumberland is home to over 330 lakes and rivers, many of which are connected by the historic Trent-Severn Waterway. This means that there are plenty of scenic paddling routes to enjoy. Although the region isn’t known for long portage routes, you can certainly find many options for day paddles. You can also combine locations over several days to experience a variety and have a cross regional adventure dropping in and taking out in various locations.

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woman standing in front of Hope Mill with a bike bikepacking

Bikepacking in Kawarthas Northumberland

There are so many good reasons to go bikepacking! For some endurance athletes the day comes when a desired ride is so long that it simply can’t be done in one day, which is a good reason to consider a multi day cycling adventure. For others, the appeal of bikepacking is that a trip can be savored at a leisurely pace, while taking the time to sample a region’s hospitality and scenery. Whether wilderness adventure or luxurious leisure appeals to you, carrying just what you need on your bike gives a sense of freedom that many of us have not experienced since childhood.

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Silhouette of people fishing from a powerboat, with bright orange sun over lake

Top 5 Fall Fishing Locations

The angling opportunities available year round are simply astounding. The fall is a special time of year, however, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. With so many fishing destinations with over 350 lakes and rivers to choose from, here are my top 5 fall must-fish locations.

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