Indian summer: when Eastern Canada blazes

In early autumn, an intense palette of warm tones bursts across Eastern Canada. As Indian summer lights up the forests, we discover a whole new side to Canada's magnificent landscapes.

As early as mid-September, the first hard frosts fall on the lakes and undergrowth, confirming the old adage that there are only two seasons in Eastern Canada: a brief summer and winter. Never short of ideas, nature has invented a third, even more beautiful season: Indian summer. In just a few days, temperatures warm up and Eastern Canada is covered in gold and purple.

To what s’wait?

If you can imagine these flamboyant landscapes, it's a very different feeling to be there, under an intense azure sky, in a chalet on the shores of a lake whose waters have been warming up all summer. From mid-September onwards, the deciduous trees begin to turn yellow or red, depending on the species. In practical terms, if you want to take advantage of Indian summer, plan to travel between September 20 and October 20. Bear in mind, however, that the season can vary from year to year, being shorter or even three weeks longer. After that, all the leaves will quickly fall to make way for winter. During this beautiful period of Indian summer, evenings and nights are already cooler. In September, average temperatures in Montreal fluctuate between 9°C and 20°C, while in October, the average drops to between 3°C and 13°C.

The best Indian summer spots

While conifers with their perpetually green needles dominate the forest in the far north, the further south you go, the less they are present, making way for deciduous trees. The latter take on the most flamboyant colors before shedding their leaves for the winter. So, to enjoy the most dazzling spectacle, head for the forests of southern Quebec and neighbouring provinces. Here are five destinations where you can experience this unique season and make lasting memories:

1. Admire the colors of Indian summer in Algonquin Provincial Park: located in Ontario, this is one of the best spots to admire the spectacular colors of the forest on fire. Hike or... canoe.
2. Drive the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia: while this route is always beautiful, it's particularly spectacular in late summer and early fall.
3. Visit Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley: in late summer, the orchards of the Annapolis Valley in eastern Nova Scotia open their doors to visitors. It's an opportunity to take part in the traditional apple picking. And to sample fresh cider and local produce.
4. Take an autumn cruise on the St. Lawrence River: from the water, the river's shores flash by in a cameo of warm colors. Several companies offer cruises, including some departing from Quebec City and Montreal.
5. Discover Mont Tremblant Park and the Laurentians: easily accessible from Montreal or Ottawa.

4 must-do Indian summer activities

1. Hiking: a great way to enjoy the magic of this beautiful season at your own pace.
2. Roadtrip by car or camper van through the national parks.
3. Explore lakes and rivers by canoe, as the First Nations did in days gone by.
4. Fly over the forest in a seaplane: a must, for a bird's-eye view of the vast wilderness, bursting with color under the sun!