Outdoor Adventures in Prince Edward County This Fall

Fall in Prince Edward County is basically a love letter to the outdoors — and this one’s sealed with golden leaves, cool breezes, and maybe a little trail dust on your boots. Whether you’re pedalling past vineyards, strolling sun-dappled dunes, or chasing that perfect leaf-peeping shot, autumn is The County’s low-key flex. It’s quieter, cooler, and full of those “I can’t believe this is real” views. So go ahead — grab your binoculars, or best flannel and let’s get outside.

Two Wheels, Endless Views

Cycling in The County is a year-round love affair, but come Fall, it’s downright irresistible. With summer crowds gone and the temperatures just right—crisp but not chilly—it’s prime time to hop on your bike and soak in the stunning autumn scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned pedal pro or just out for a leisurely spin, renting a bike or e-bike is the perfect way to cruise the rolling hills and lakeside trails. Feeling adventurous? Take a wine bicycle tour! Glide past fiery Fall foliage, pop into charming wineries for tastings, and enjoy the freedom of exploring on two wheels. 

Wetsuits & Autumn Winds

Calling all water lovers — just because it’s Fall doesn’t mean you have to hang up your wetsuit! Sure, the water might be a bit brisk, but the fresh autumn air and steady winds at Sandbanks Provincial Park’s West Lake make it prime time for kite-surfing and paddle boarding. Crisp temps? Perfect excuse to show off your skills while the stunning Fall colours set the perfect backdrop. So, suit up, hit the waves, and ride those breezy autumn winds like a pro!

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a dreamy way to spend a Fall day. Glide across calm waters on East Lake, West Lake, Black River, or Lake on the Mountain. Prefer kayaking? Rent one from our Outdoor Activities page or the Parks Store at Sandbanks Provincial Park and North Beach Provincial Park. Black River, in particular, offers a peaceful, sheltered paddle — perfect for birdwatching, spotting blue herons, and soaking in the serene sounds of nature. At just six kilometres long, it’s a relaxed round-trip paddle ideal for beginners and casual adventurers. 

Leaf It to The County

If you're the type who believes the journey is the destination (and you have a love for Fall playlists), then a scenic drive through The County’s back roads is a must. Imagine cruising past golden fields and vineyards, under canopies of maple trees blazing in orange and red, with fiery Staghorn Sumac lining the roads like nature’s own roadside confetti. Whether you're rolling through Hillier’s wine-soaked countryside, the quiet corners of South Marysburgh, or the pastoral charm of Sophiasburgh, every turn glows with autumn magic. Take a peaceful detour out to Big Island — wide-open farmland, tranquil waterfront views, and barely another soul in sight. Just you, the leaves, and your latte. 

Feeling more active? Stretch your legs with a walk through the forested trails of Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area (don’t skip quirky Birdhouse City), or hop on a bike and cruise the Millennium Trail, where vibrant sumac and goldenrod light up the landscape. 

Quiet Shores & Cozy Strolls

Fall at Sandbanks Provincial Park is like having your own private slice of paradise—because, well, you basically do! The summer crowds have packed up, leaving the beaches all yours to relax with a good book, dip your toes in the cool water, or channel your inner adventurer by hiking the  dunes. There’s something magical about the crisp air and the Fall colours painting the landscape, making it prime time for scenic strolls, photo ops, and birdwatching as migratory feathered friends pass through. Camping fans, you’re in luck too — Sandbanks Provincial Park keeps its sites open through October, mosquitos-free and ready for you.

Trail Time & Tranquility

If you’re craving a little peace and quiet this Fall, Little Bluff Conservation Area is your go-to hidden gem. Tucked away from the usual bustle, this serene spot offers scenic trails with killer views of Lake Ontario — perfect for birdwatching, picnicking, or just soaking in that fresh, crisp Fall air. 

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Massassauga Point Conservation Area. With over 1,200 metres of shoreline on the Bay of Quinte, it’s perfect for picnics, gentle hikes, and soaking in autumn views. Wander the trails to see remnants of the old hotel, wharf, and limestone quarry, and explore the Bur Oak Savannah with its rare prairie plants. The combination of history, nature, and calm fall air makes it a serene spot to pause and enjoy the season.

And if hiking’s your jam, Prince Edward County has no shortage of trails to explore

• Dunes Nature Trail (2.4 km)
• Woodlands Trail (6 km)
• Lakeshore Trail (11-13 km)
• Sandbanks Beach (3.5-4 km)
• West Point Trail (2.6 km)
• Sandbanks Loop (4.5 km)
• Millennium Trail (48 km) (multi-use trail that spans The County from Picton to Carrying Place)
• Little Bluff Conservation Area (1 km)
• Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area (up to 7 km)
• Beaver Meadow Wildlife Management Area (2 km)

Feathers, Flight & Fall Migration

If you’re a fan of our feathered friends, Fall is the absolute best time to visit Prince Edward County. The Fall Birding Festival is happening at the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory (PEPtBO), where you can watch daily bird banding — including the adorable saw-whet owls starting in October — plus join guided walks and workshops through the end of the month. PEPTBO is also home to one of Canada’s only International Monarch Butterfly Reserves — where these tiny travelers embark on an almost 5,000-kilometre migration to Mexico every Fall.

The South Shore is a birdwatcher’s dream, recognized as an Important Birding Area thanks to migratory birds stopping by on their epic journeys. Spring dazzles with warblers and 140 species, but Fall brings owls and raptors dropping in for a visit. 

Ready, Set, Explore The County

However you like your fresh air served — paddleboarding at Sandbanks, cruising the backroads with your Fall playlist on blast, or hiking straight into serenity — The County is ready to deliver. So lace up, layer up, and check out our Plan Your Visit page to  plan your crisp, cozy, adventure-packed County getaway. And hey, if you spot a saw-whet owl while you're out there… that’s just the universe saying, “Nice choice.”