Most visitors already know that Grey County is home to many site along the world famous Bruce Trail network but we’re also lucky enough to have a number of beautiful independent trails that are perfect for viewing vivid autumn colours. While it can be tricky to perfectly time the leaves’ changing colours, it doesn’t even really matter when the trails and fields are beautiful the whole year through! You certainly can’t go wrong if you choose a spot along The Bruce Trail – the main stretch of trails and any one of the smaller side loops (many of which will take you past one of the plentiful waterfalls sprinkled throughout the county!) will provide a lovely location for enjoying the great outdoors. Choose a staring location based on whether you want a hike that provides a good amount of exercise or just a casual stroll in the woods. If you’re willing to put in a little effort in exchange for some great look-out spots, you might try Skinner’s Bluff, a 7km stretch located along Colpoy’s Range Road. A family favourite of ours is the Eugenia Falls/Hogg’s Falls loop accessible at the Eugenia Falls parking lot or off of Lower Valley Road east of Flesherton. This 12.6km loop takes a while (3 hours or so depending on your speed) but it’s a great hike up and down hills, past waterfalls and overlooking the scenic Beaver Valley. If you’re looking for something a little easier, try Indian Falls or the Old Baldy Trail. Located just north of Owen Sound, Indian Falls is a 1km walk along the Indian River and allows for great views of the 15m tall horseshoe-shaped falls. Old Baldy Look-out takes you to the top of the valley, allowing for picture-postcard views of the quiet and quaint village. If waterfalls are your thing, Grey County is blessed with a number of water fall trails that are an ideal “autumn in the country” experience.
What’s another quintessential autumn activity? Apple picking in the Beaver Valley! If you’re in the mood to pick your own, try one of these local spots:
T & K Ferri Orchards and Apple Market – Ravenna
The Farmer’s Pantry – Clarksburg
Filsinger’s Organic Foods & Orchards – Ayton
Ridgewood Springs Farm – Chatsworth
When your apples are picked and you’re still looking for outdoor adventure, handcrafted artwork or amazing food, you don’t have to go far – you’ll find it all here in Grey County. The award-winning “Apple Pie Trail” stops at many points throughout the small towns of Clarksburg, Meaford, Ravenna, Thornbury, The Town of the Blue Mountains, as well as at various farmer’s markets. Apple growing brought the agricultural, culinary and arts communities together in the Grey County/Southern Georgian Bay area and there’s no better time to experience the culture, local history, seasonal menus, shops and markets than during the autumn months.
If you’re looking for something a little different to do, why not head over to the Thornbury Fish Ladder to watch the salmon as they make their way along fall migration routes. There’s even a self-guided Salmon Tour in the Owen Sound area, which can be followed on foot, on a bike, in a canoe/kayak or in a car. (While you’re in Thornbury or Owen Sound, take some time to visit downtown and stop in at some of the quaint and charming small businesses.) The best times to view the salmon are mid-September to late October.
Grey County is the perfect location for outdoor adventures year-round, but it can really be something to see come fall. Whether you’re here to explore, enjoy the great outdoors or just relax, you can “Colour It Your Way In Grey”. At 2 hours from the Greater Toronto Area and 1.5 hours from Kitchener-Waterloo, Grey County is the perfect location for a weekend away, a cottage or your next home!
