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Best Fall Drives In Durham
An Ontario Fall Getaway Guide
As soon as that first crisp breeze hits the air here in Durham Region, we all get the itch. It’s the desire to get out on the open road and soak in the incredible display of fall colours that our province has to offer. The vibrant reds, brilliant oranges, and stunning yellows are calling.
As your neighbours right here in Ajax, we know the best local and regional routes to make your next fall getaway in Ontario unforgettable. We've compiled our team's top 5 favourite drives, all easily accessible from anywhere in Durham.
Plus, we've matched each journey with the perfect Nissan to make the drive just as enjoyable as the destination.
The Oak Ridges Moraine: A Perfect Fall Drive in Durham Region
You don’t have to go far to be completely immersed in autumn beauty. The Oak Ridges Moraine, which runs right through the northern part of Durham Region, offers rolling hills, dense forests, and winding country roads that are simply spectacular in the fall.
Why It's a Top Ontario Fall Drive
Its incredible convenience for anyone in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, or Oshawa makes it the perfect choice for a spontaneous afternoon trip. You can go from your driveway to a stunning canopy of fall colours in under 30 minutes.
Your Fall Colours Route & Key Stops
- The Route: From Ajax, head north on Lakeridge Road (Durham Road 23). Follow it up towards Uxbridge and Port Perry. The roads around the Goodwood and Dagmar conservation areas are particularly scenic.
- Key Stops: Visit a local farm for pumpkin picking, stop in the charming town of Uxbridge for a coffee, or take a short hike at the Walker Woods or Glen Major Forest.
- Pro Tip: Take a detour through the country roads west of Port Perry for beautiful views of Lake Scugog framed by autumn leaves.
The Perfect Nissan: The Rogue
The Nissan Rogue is the quintessential family SUV for this perfect Fall Drive in Durham Region. It's efficient for cruising country roads, and its available panoramic moonroof provides an unbeatable, immersive view of the colourful trees overhead. With plenty of cargo space, you'll have no trouble bringing home a few pumpkins.
The Kawartha Lakes: An Iconic Fall Getaway in Ontario
When you think of a classic Ontario Fall Getaway, cottage country is what comes to mind. The Kawartha Lakes region is just a short drive north and offers that iconic mix of shimmering lakes, granite rock cuts, and forests bursting with colour.
Why It's a Classic Fall Getaway
This drive delivers the full cottage country experience without the long haul to Muskoka. The winding roads, charming small towns, and stunning lake vistas make for a truly memorable day trip.
Route & Stops for Your Fall Drive
- The Route: Take Highway 35/115 north from the 401. A great loop involves driving through Lindsay, Fenelon Falls, and Bobcaygeon.
- Key Stops: Watch the boats at the Trent-Severn Waterway lift locks in Fenelon Falls or Kirkfield, grab a famous butter tart from The Kawartha Buttertart Factory, and explore the shops in Bobcaygeon.
- Pro Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy at a waterfront park, like Garnet Graham Beach Park in Fenelon Falls.
The Perfect Nissan: The Pathfinder
For a full-day adventure with family or friends, the Nissan Pathfinder is your ideal vehicle. With three rows of seating, everyone can come along comfortably. Its rugged capability and smooth ride are perfect for a longer trip, and its generous cargo space means you can pack everything you need for the perfect fall getaway.
Northumberland County: A Scenic Fall Drive Through Ontario's Hills
For a more peaceful and pastoral experience, head east. Northumberland County, known as "Ontario's Feel Good Town," is famous for its beautiful rolling hills, which become a patchwork of incredible colour in the autumn.
Why You'll Love This Fall Drive
This route allows you to escape the biggest crowds. It's a relaxing drive that's more about the simple beauty of the countryside, with endless photo opportunities, charming towns, and fantastic farm-to-table food stops.
Route & Key Stops
- The Route: Drive east on Highway 401 and exit at Port Hope. From there, take scenic country roads like County Road 9 and County Road 25 north towards Campbellford and Warkworth.
- Key Stops: Walk across the spectacular Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge in Campbellford, grab some award-winning cheese at the Empire Cheese Co-op, and browse the art galleries in the village of Warkworth.
- Pro Tip: Don't miss the "Church-key" Cured Meats in Warkworth for some amazing local treats to take home.
The Perfect Nissan: The Murano
A refined country drive calls for a refined vehicle. The Nissan Murano offers a premium, ultra-comfortable ride that's perfect for a leisurely day exploring Northumberland's hills. Its sophisticated interior and smooth handling make this Fall Drive in Ontario feel like a true luxury experience.
The Niagara Escarpment: A Breathtaking Fall Drive in Ontario
If you're looking for dramatic views and breathtaking lookouts, a drive west to the Niagara Escarpment is a must. The massive cliffs and deep valleys provide a stunning backdrop for the vibrant fall colours.
Why It Offers the Best Fall Views
The elevation is key. Driving up the escarpment and stopping at lookouts like Rattlesnake Point or Mount Nemo provides panoramic views that stretch for miles, offering a sea of red, orange, and yellow.
Your Route to the Top
- The Route: Take the 401 west past Toronto to Milton. Exit onto regional roads like Tremaine Road or Appleby Line and head north towards the escarpment.
- Key Stops: Conservation Halton parks like Rattlesnake Point and Mount Nemo offer incredible (and very popular) hiking trails and lookouts.
- Pro Tip: These parks now require online reservations for entry during peak times. Book your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment!
The Perfect Nissan: The Altima AWD
The winding roads of the escarpment are a joy to drive. The Nissan Altima with available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive is the perfect sedan for the job. It's stylish, fun to drive, and the AWD system provides extra grip and confidence on those beautiful but potentially leaf-covered corners.
Ganaraska Forest: A Rugged Fall Drive in Durham Region
For those with a more adventurous spirit, the massive Ganaraska Forest, located on the border of Durham and Northumberland, offers a different kind of fall drive. The network of unpaved forest access roads takes you deep into the heart of the autumn canopy.
Why It's a Unique Fall Adventure
This isn't about paved roads and quaint towns; it's about getting off the beaten path. You'll be surrounded by nature, with endless trails for hiking or ATVing, making it a true outdoor enthusiast's fall getaway.
Route & Key Stops
- The Route: Head east to the boundary of Durham Region and access the forest from roads like Porter Road or the Ganaraska Forest Centre entrance. A day pass is often required.
- Key Stops: The Ganaraska Forest Centre is the main hub. From there, you can park and hike on designated trails like the Treetop Trekking course.
- Pro Tip: Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel/dirt roads. Drive slowly and be aware of other users like hikers, bikers, and ATVs.
The Perfect Nissan: The Frontier
A rugged drive calls for a rugged truck. The Nissan Frontier PRO-4X is built for this kind of adventure. With its durable suspension, off-road capabilities, and versatile truck bed, it's the ultimate tool for exploring the forest's backroads and trails, ensuring your Fall Drive in Durham Region can go wherever the trail takes you.
Find Your Perfect Vehicle for a Fall Drive at Ajax Nissan
Before you set out to explore the best of the Ontario fall, make sure your vehicle is ready for the adventure. And if you're looking for the perfect new ride to make this season unforgettable, we're here to help.
Our team would love to show you the perfect Rogue, Pathfinder, or Frontier to power your next Fall Getaway in Ontario. Happy driving!
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