7 routes to drive for spectacular fall colours

This isn’t exactly a fall drive, but much of B.C. doesn’t have the right kinds of trees for spectacular displays of fall colours. If you’re missing seeing the seasons change, the VanDusen Botanical Gardens in Vancouver has made sure you can still experience fall foliage in all its multi-hued glory. Angelica and ginkgo trees, along with rudbeckia, asters, and Michaelmas daisies will put you in a fall mood with their lush golds and reds. http://vandusengarden.org/bloom-calendar/fall-bloom/

Alberta is famous for its larches, which turn a bright gold for a short time in the fall. Highway 40 through Kananaskis Country is an ideal way to see the trees without having to deal with the crowds you’ll find in more popular spots like Banff. Take a picnic — and make sure your camera is charged and ready, because you’ll be using it a lot. http://www.tourismcanmore.com/blog/looking-for-larches-5-great-autumn-adventures-in-kananaskis

Rolling hills provide the perfect backdrop for southern Grey County’s colourful fall leaves. This route takes you through charming small towns and past waterfalls, orchards and ponds — with a few stops for food and drink along the way. https://www.visitgrey.ca/travel-tools/travel-stories/southern-grey-county-fall-driving-route

Not far from Hamilton, the Dundas Valley is beautifully surrounded by the cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment, which provides spectacular views whether you’re driving or hiking. For the best view around, hike to the Dundas Peak from Spencer Gorge Conservation Area, or simply drive up Sydenham Hill from the town of Dundas and stop at the lookout for a true taste of fall. http://conservationhamilton.ca/spencer-gorgewebsters-falls/

The Mégantic region is home to mountains — Mont Mégantic and Mont Ham — and a plethora of rolling hills and quiet towns in between. Take a weekend and explore the area, checking out the hiking trails and museums and revelling in the expanse of stars once the sun goes down (the region is in the middle of an international dark sky preserve). http://www.routedessommets.com/en/discover-the-summit-drive

Along with gorgeous fall leaves, you’ll get a true taste of New Brunswick heritage along the St. John River from Edmunston to Fredricton and downriver from there. You’ll see beautiful fall colours all along the river, but if you’re itching for a selfie with something a little unusual, check out the “World’s Largest Axe” in Nackawic. https://www.discoversaintjohn.com/place/hiking-everyone

The full Cabot Trail (all 297 kilometres) is best travelled over the span of a few days to really drink in all the glorious scenery, but it’s doable in a full day if you’re short on time. The trail skirts the edge of Cape Breton Highlands National Park at its northern end, where you’ll see dramatic views over the ocean from high, wind-swept cliffs. The colours peak in early to mid-October. http://www.cabottrail.com/index.html