Fall magic is happening now in Lanark County.

The best part of fall goes beyond the vibrant yellows, blazing oranges and crimson reds that brighten the streets and waterfronts each autumn. It’s the whole package: pushing yourself to reach a summit where the view spreads out before you, following up a crisp afternoon outdoors with a cup of something warm and delicious, celebrating the harvest, or taking a spa day where the cool air makes the warmth of a sauna feel even better.

Fall invites you to make the most of cooler weather, then cozy it up and make it delicious.

In Lanark County, a fall afternoon can take you wherever the season calls. From outdoor adventures to cozy getaways, here are five experiences to help you fall for Lanark County.

See the Fall Colours

Autumn’s brilliance looks even more stunning from above! Hike to the lookout at Blueberry Mountain and take your time drinking in the landscape below, a patchwork of autumn colour. Pack a thermos, pause at the top and let the view be your reward.

For a less intense hike, High Lonesome Nature Reserve has eight kilometres of leaf-strewn trails to explore, complete with beaver ponds, meadows and wetlands to add to the variety. In Perth, the Tay River Towpath combines a scenic walk with local history presented in a series of interpretive panels.

Keep the adventure rolling on the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, a former railbed turned multi-purpose trail connecting communities through Lanark County and beyond. This level, gravel trail is flanked by forest and pasture and ideal for exploring by bike, ATV, or on foot.

Savour Fall Fare

Everything tastes better after a day spent outdoors, especially when the changing season finds its way onto your plate. In Carleton Place, the award-winning Black Tartan Kitchen showcases local ingredients in its Scottish-inspired dishes. Gather in Perth is another destination that works hard to feature the best of the season, using fresh, local produce where possible.

For an afternoon of delicious discoveries, you can experience the flavours of Lanark County, one stop at a time, on the Sip & Savour Trail. This self-guided trail brings together chocolate, craft beer, spirits, and dining experiences across Lanark County.

Fall Spa Getaway

There’s something extra inviting about a spa visit in sweater weather. A spa day is an invitation to step out into the cool air, sink into warmth, and spend an unhurried afternoon with very little on the agenda.

At Maplestone Ranch & Retreat near Clayton, the thermal experience includes a wood-fired Finnish sauna, a saltwater hot pool, a hydrotherapy hot tub and a cold plunge. Cycle between heat, cold and rest, then take a quiet moment to enjoy the Highlands setting. Extend your fall escape with an overnight stay at Closs Crossing’s Stillwater Den and enjoy a spa experience without leaving your accommodation with their on-site thermal circuit.

In Almonte, The Monte combines a boutique inn stay alongside the Mississippi River with a thermal circuit that includes a hot tub and sauna. Spend the day exploring one of Eastern Ontario’s most picturesque small towns, then return for a warm, unhurried evening. You can also book time at Winners Retreat in Carleton Place, where saunas, steam, a cold plunge and heated pools bring a beach-inspired feel to a fall spa day.

Autumn Reflections

Fall colours are especially beautiful when reflected in the water. A paddle on a beautiful fall day offers a different perspective on the season, with blazing foliage crowding the shoreline.

In Carleton Place, rent a kayak through Kayakomat at Centennial Park and explore the beautiful Mississippi River. The self-service system lets you book online, unlock your equipment and head out for a paddle.

In Smiths Falls, Smiths Falls Pedal & Paddle offers kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ask for advice about a route that suits your experience and the day’s conditions, then enjoy the colours from the water.

Farm-Fresh Autumn

Some fall traditions are worth making time for every year, like choosing a pumpkin, wandering a farm, and bringing a some of the harvest home with you.

Start your pumpkin-picking outing at Geobern Farm near Almonte, where they offer family-friendly activities and your pick of the best pumpkins of the season. At Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm near Pakenham, autumn takes centre stage long before it’s time to choose a Christmas tree. Browse fall decor, pick out a pumpkin, and enjoy a tractor ride amid stunning fall scenery.

If you want to get up close and personal with a soft and fuzzy farm animal, book a llama or alpaca walk with Serendipity Farm & Sanctury or visit Wheelers Maple for an old fashioned pancake breakfast, a chat with a llama or two, and a hike through a sugarbush blazing with the colours of maple trees in fall.