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Welcome Autumn with Adventures in Nature

A body of water surrounded by trees with fall colours.

Celebrate the Beauty of the Fall Season in the Credit River Watershed

Autumn is almost here and it’s the perfect season to make memories in nature. The Credit River Watershed comes alive with colourful leaves, migrating birds and crisp, fresh air. Whether you’re hopping on a wagon ride, strolling through the forest or spotting birds flying overhead with the kids, there are many ways to celebrate fall. Here are six fun activities to kick off the season with your friends and family.

Things To Do

1. Enjoy Waterfall Views at Belfountain Conservation Area
Immerse yourself in tranquility at Belfountain Conservation Area. Walk across the suspension bridge, gaze at the historic belle fountain and pay a visit to Fox Folly, which can be accessed on the west side of the river along the boardwalk. Belfountain is our most popular park during the fall season to enjoy the fall colour change. We encourage you to plan ahead. Reservations are strongly recommended.

The fox statue pays tribute to Samuel Western Brock, a trapper and groundskeeper for the park in the early 1900s when it was owned by Charles Mack.

2. Go Paddling at Island Lake Conservation Area
Take in the brilliant fall colours from the water at Island Lake. Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard and glide across the lake surrounded by forests with shades of autumn colour. It’s a great way to enjoy the season and see wildlife from a whole new perspective. Paddleboard rentals are available while conditions permit.

A person paddleboarding across the lake in the summer.
Discover loons, osprey and ducks as you paddle across the lake’s 400 acres.

3. Take a Fall Wagon Ride at Terra Cotta Conservation Area
Book a guided, interactive wagon tour through Terra Cotta’s autumn forest and soak in the vibrant seasonal colours while learning about the intriguing transformations that occur in nature. Rides run from late September to the end of October. Wagon rides are by group reservation only. Space is limited so book today.

A tractor pulling a trailer full of people.
Wagon rides are available by group reservation, with a maximum of 20 people per booking.

4. Take a Hike at Ken Whillans Conservation Area
Bring along a thermos of hot cider, a blanket and some seasonal treats, then enjoy a picnic surrounded by the colours of fall. Ken Whillans’ trails offer the perfect backdrop for a relaxing autumn afternoon with family and friends. The trail around the lake is take only 25 minutes making it the perfect stroll combined with a picnic.

Two people in a canoe on a lake with an escarpment in the background.
Ken Whillans is perfect for those looking for a leisurely paddle. Experience the awesome view of the Niagara Escarpment’s Devil’s Pulpit area.

5. Watch Fall Bird Migrations at Rattray Marsh Conservation Area
Rattray Marsh is a birders paradise and that’s no exception in the fall. Stroll along the boardwalk to observe migratory songbirds and waterfowl passing through the marsh set against a gorgeous backdrop of fall foliage.

A bird perched on a tree branch.
Bay-breasted warblers are songbirds that often stop at Rattray Marsh to rest and feed during fall migration.

6. Join a Native Tree-planting Event in your Community
Fall is a perfect time to put roots down. Join one of our tree planting events to contribute to local biodiversity and mark the season with action.

Two people posing next to a newly planted tree.
Tree planting is a great way to engage children with the environment.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, fall is a season best enjoyed outdoors. Let autumn inspire you to slow down, explore and enjoy the beauty of the Credit River Watershed.

Share your autumn experiences by tagging us on Instagram, Facebook and X.

By Kimberley Laird, Associate, Marketing and Communications

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