Solo fall travel in Canada

After kids head back to school and most people have taken their summer vacations, the fall shines as the perfect time of year for solo travel in Canada. The leaves are showing off their crimson and the weather is comfortably cool.

Enjoy the flexibility of solo travel. Go when you want and pick the activities that bring you joy. If you escape during the week, you can beat the crowds at popular tourist attractions. For those who enjoy bustling crowds, fall festivals are the perfect way to celebrate the season.

Canada is renowned for its beautiful and temperate fall, go out and experience it with these top tours and festivals!

Top fall activities in Canada for solo travellers

From the towering Rockies to the open waters of Newfoundland, Canada is full of stunning remote and wild areas. We’ve highlighted places that stand out for their beauty, solitude and wildlife.

Foliage tours

Looking to peep some fall color? Check out our list of self-guided foliage tours of rural and urban sights, perfect for those who want to set their own pace.

For drivers: Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Located on Cape Breton Island, known for its rugged seaside cliffs, Cabot Trail offers some of Canada’s best fall scenery. A scenic driving route, Cabot Trail is one of the top road trips in North America. It is recommended to spend at least four days to drive the 298 km route and stop at major sights along the way, including Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

The Cabot Trail is paved and well-developed, making driving easy. Stunning views of the Atlantic and mountains covered by trees with crimson leaves await. Plan stops in some of the charming small towns you will pass through on the route, such as Chéticamp, known for is Acadian culture. Hike among the fall colour on the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

For hikers: Larch Valley Trail, Banff National Park

The distinctive yellow needles of towering Larch trees, which can grow to a height of over 30 metres, makes the moderate climbs on the Larch Valley Trail worth it. “The feeling of topping out after a rolling trail and attaining the treeline above the larches will fill you with pride,” writes Banff and Lake Louise.

Early October is the best time to go if you want to catch peak yellow. Plan to take about three to four hours to complete the 8.9 km out and back trail, more if you want to take your time. To lengthen your trek, continue your hike to Sentinel Pass, which will reward you with views of the Ten Peaks and Paradise Valley.

For bikers: Fitz Montreal Bike tours

Take in fall colour on the streets of Montreal during an afternoon bike tour of the city with Fitz Montreal Bike Tours. You’ll have to join a group for this three-hour tour, but according to the reviews, the guides are worth it. Learn about the history and culture of Montreal on seven stops including Mount Royal Park, Notre-Dame Basilica, Old Montreal and the Old Port of Montreal.

Fall festivals

Our temperate autumn weather is perfect for outdoor festivals! Check out these popular festivals if you want to enjoy being with the crowds while travelling solo.

Celtic Fall Colours International Festival

Held annually in October, the Celtic Fall Colours Interntional Festival features more than 50 concerts and more than 200 cultural events held throughout Cape Breton Island. Put this festival on your list if you’re a fan of Celtic music, visual arts and traditional living, and fall colours, of course! Learn how to square dance and mill frolic, or share a community meal. Go on a guided hike and purchase local honey and produce at Cape Breton farmer’s markets.

Due to volume of offerings and distance between venues, be sure to take a good look at the festival itinerary while choosing the events.

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Ontario

Canada’s largest Bavarian festival attracts about 700,000 visitors annually. Enjoy Bavarian-inspired concerts, events and food in September and October. Sports lovers should watch or play during the Oktoberfest Golf Experience and Hockey with Hans. Beer lovers rejoice the Official Keg Tapping!

“The festival is vital to the region, helping to boost the local economy and support local businesses, while highlighting the area’s German heritage,” writes the Government of Canada.

Jasper Dark Sky Festival, Alberta

In 2011, Jasper National Park was designated a Dark Sky Preserve, meaning it’s limited light pollution makes it’s skies ideal for stargazing. In October, head to Jasper Dark Sky Festival for magnificent views of the night sky, lectures by astronomy experts, music, movies, drone shows and more.

Tips for an awesome fall solo trip

Travelling solo can be incredibly rewarding. But there are safety considerations. One of the most important safety precautions you can take is telling loved ones back home what your plans are. Set up check-ins with a trusted friend or family member after events where you will be away from your hotel room or campsite, such as solo hikes or heading out for a drink. A simple text is all it takes.

Also, be sure to consider travel insurance. You should know that your provincial or territorial health insurance plan may not fully cover you if you experience a medical emergency away from home. An Allianz Travel Insurance plan with emergency medical protection may help fill coverage gaps.

Allianz Travel Insurance plans with trip cancellation benefits may reimburse certain non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled, delayed or interrupted due to a covered reason. We also offer 24/7 call center assistance for claims and other travel needs.

Solo travel is a wonderful way to explore where you want, when you want. Purchase travel insurance to protect your health and wellbeing during your next solo adventure.

Get a travel insurance quote today and find out how an Allianz Travel Insurance plan can protect you on your next trip.