Written by Martin Lortz

When autumn arrives in Ontario, the landscape bursts into fiery shades of red, orange, and gold. For motorcyclists, there’s no better way to enjoy this seasonal display than by hitting the open road. Crisp air, winding roads, and stunning foliage make fall one of the best times to ride. From Algoma Country to Muskoka or the Highlands, Ontario is home to some of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Canada, especially when framed by fall colors.

These six Ontario motorcycling routes provide scenic views, stunning roads, and unforgettable rides — perfect for adding to your fall touring bucket list.

Deer Trail Loop – Algoma’s Hidden Gem

• Distance: 120 km / 72 mi
• Best For: Day ride with scenic lookouts, rivers, and rolling hills
• More information - Deer Trail Loop

The Deer Trail Loop, tucked away in Algoma Country, is a compact yet unforgettable fall ride. Starting and ending in Elliot Lake, this loop winds along rugged rock cuts, forested valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. In autumn, the fiery reds and yellows of maples pop against the evergreens and granite cliffs.

Highlights

• Dean Lake Bridge – A 100-year-old steel bridge that is a popular photo stop.
• Elliot Lake Lookout Tower – Sweeping panoramic views of the town and surrounding forests.
• Serpent River – A winding stretch that hugs the water and glows with color.

Fall Touring Pointers

Because it’s a shorter loop, the Deer Trail is perfect for a relaxed fall day ride. Bring a camera—you will find plenty of pull-offs with breathtaking views. Start early, as the days get shorter in the fall.

Grand Algoma Loop – Ontario’s Signature Motorcycle Ride

• Distance: 682 km / 424 mi
• Best For: Multi-day touring with iconic Lake Superior views
• More information - Grand Algoma Loop

The Grand Algoma Loop is one of Ontario’s most iconic motorcycle routes. Starting in Sault Ste. Marie, the route takes you north along Highway 17, hugging the rugged shoreline of Lake Superior, before heading east through the heart of Algoma. In autumn, the combination of Superior’s blue waters and fiery hillsides creates one of the most dramatic riding experiences in the province. Not to mention, the east side of the route is where you find Highway 129, also known as Ontario's Tail of the Dragon.

Highlights

• Lake Superior Provincial Park – Old Woman Bay and Agawa Bay, both stunning in the fall.
• Wawa Goose & Sandy Beach – Classic roadside stops with brilliant color backdrops.
• Batchawana Bay – Ideal lunch stop with sweeping lake views.
• Chapleau Crown Game Preserve – A unique detour through dense boreal forest
• Ontario's Tail of the Dragon - 100 kilometers of twists and turns.

Fall Touring Pointers

This is a big ride - plan at least two days. Overnight options include Wawa, Chapleau, or back in Sault Ste. Marie. Dress in layers: Lake Superior’s shoreline can be chilly, even when inland temps are mild.

Lake Temiskaming Tour – Northeastern Ontario’s Colorful Border Ride

• Distance: 450 km / 280 mi
• Best For: Cross-border loop with French Canadian flair
• More information - Lake Temiskaming Tour

The Lake Temiskaming Tour straddles the Ontario and Quebec border, circumnavigating the vast lake that characterizes the region. In the fall, this ride becomes a vibrant display of color, with rolling farmland, winding rivers, and rugged hillsides illuminated by autumn skies. Begin in Temiskaming Shores (New Liskeard) and follow a clockwise loop through Ontario and Quebec.

Highlights

• Temagami Fire Tower – Enjoy the stunning view from the 100-foot-high tower, located on the summit of Caribou Mountain, 400 feet above the town.
• Fort Témiscamingue National Historic Site – History paired with golden poplars and red maples.
• Notre-Dame-du-Nord – French Canadian charm with local cafés perfect for warming up on a crisp day.
• Devil’s Rock Lookout – A must-stop, offering dramatic views of Lake Temiskaming.

Fall Touring Pointers

Fuel up before heading out, as services can be sparse in some stretches. The mix of small towns and scenic byways makes this loop ideal for a weekend getaway. Pack for cooler mornings - the north gets cold early in the season.

Hub-and-Spoke Touring – Ride the Highlands

• Distance: Flexible, 100–300 km (60-200 mi) daily loops
• Best For: Riders who want twisty roads and variety
• More information - Hub-and Spoke Touring

The Ride the Highlands region in Eastern Ontario, is a mecca for motorcyclists, especially in the fall. Instead of a single loop, base yourself in towns like Haliburton or Bancroft and ride different loops each day - this is the “hub-and-spoke” approach.
Highlights

• Calabogie Road (Hwy 511) – Famous for its twists, lined with brilliant fall foliage.
• Barry’s Bay – A central hub with cozy accommodations and pubs.
• Bon Echo Provincial Park – The towering Mazinaw Rock framed by autumn colors.
• Opeongo Road – A winding forested ride that feels remote yet accessible.

Fall Touring Pointers

Hub-and-spoke touring means you can ride light, leaving your luggage at a base hotel or lodge. With cooler fall mornings, it’s a bonus not to pack up gear daily. The Highlands’ elevation means colors peak earlier—late September is prime.

The Big Loop – Muskoka

• Distance: 1000 km (620 miles)
• Best For: Classic Ontario cottage country ride
• More information - The Big Loop

When imagining Ontario’s fall colors, Muskoka often comes to mind—and the Big Loop is one of the best ways to experience it by bike. Starting in Gravenhurst, this 1000 km loop leads you past shimmering lakes, granite outcrops, and forests bursting with color.

Highlights

• Lake Rosseau and Lake Muskoka – Mirror-like lakes reflecting the fiery trees.
• Highway 141 – A rider favorite with twists, turns, and sweeping views.
• Rosseau and Port Carling – Charming small towns with great coffee and food stops.
• Dorset Lookout Tower – A must-stop to take in the full fall canopy from above.

Fall Touring Pointers

Muskoka is popular in autumn, so expect some traffic—especially on weekends. Ride early in the day for quieter roads. Stop at local bakeries for fall treats like butter tarts and apple pie.

The Bush Chicken – Ride the Highlands Adventure Route

• Distance: ~1100 km
• Best For: Adventure bikes, gravel lovers, and off-the-beaten-path riders
• More information: The Bush Chicken

With a name as quirky as its terrain, the Bush Chicken is a dual-sport/adventure motorcycle route in Ride the Highlands. Named after the partridge (nicknamed bush chicken), which has a habit of exploding out of the ditch just as you round a corner, this route blends gravel, dirt, and pavement. In the fall, riding it means crunching through colorful leaves on remote backroads.

Highlights

• Gravel backroads and logging trails – A mix of terrain for ADV riders.
• Remote lakes and forests – Fall colors without the crowds.
• Small-town charm – Stops in Bancroft or Barry’s Bay for fuel and food.

Fall Touring Pointers

This route is best tackled on an ADV or dual-sport bike - a cruiser won’t suffice. Bring tools, a GPS, and ride with a buddy. The mix of gravel and dirt can become slick with fallen leaves and autumn rain, so tread carefully.

Fall Motorcycle Touring Tips for Ontario

To make the most of your fall motorcycle ride, keep these tips in mind:

1. Dress in Layers: Mornings can be near freezing, while afternoons may warm up.
2. Watch the Roads: Wet leaves, frost, and wildlife (especially deer) are common hazards.
3. Plan Fuel Stops: Remote areas like Algoma and Northeastern Ontario can have long gaps between stations.
4. Book Early: Muskoka and the Highlands are popular fall destinations - secure lodging in advance.
5. Mind the Light: days are shorter, plan rides to finish before dusk.

Ontario’s fall colors are world-class, and experiencing them from the seat of a motorcycle makes them even more memorable. Whether you’re drawn to the sweeping Lake Superior shoreline on the Grand Algoma Loop, the cross-border charm of the Lake Temiskaming Tour, or the gravel adventures of the Bush Chicken, there’s a route for every rider.

NOTE: This is sponsored content produced in partnership with Destination Ontario