As the leaves begin to change colours, the chase to catch them begins. The goal is to position yourself at the right place and time to witness peak fall colours in all their glory, which can be a bit tricky if you’re planning a trip in advance.

Fortunately, we had impeccable timing and experienced incredible conditions during mid-October in Quebec’s Eastern Townships and in Vancouver. Here's a brief recap with some notable places to see and things to do in both locations to help if you're planning to chase autumn colours this year!

QUÉBEC EASTERN TOWNSHIPS REGION

Our adventure started in Montréal where we picked up the all-electric Lexus RZ 450e and left the hustle and bustle of the city to drive towards the Eastern Townships, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills and abundance of colourful fall foliage. The forested hills and charming villages served as the perfect backdrop to capture and embrace the essence of the season. We took our time to wander through vibrant parks, hike along winding trails, cozy up in quaint cabins and savour all the tranquil moments that autumn in the Eastern Townships had to offer.

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS MUST-SEE HIGHLIGHTS

• MONT OWLS HEAD - Hike the Panorama Trail
  • Immerse yourself in nature on a relatively short hike with an expansive view.
• SAINT-BENOÎT-DU-LAC - Quebec's Smallest Municipality
  • Experience the quaint charm of the community.
• MONT ORFORD NATIONAL PARK - Cozy Cabin Retreat
  • Unwind in a rustic cabin just outside of Mont Orford National Park.
• ÉTANG BAKER - The Idyllic Heart-Shaped Lake
  • Take a scenic flight over the picturesque heart-shaped lake for a romantic escape.
• MISSISQUOI RIVER - Canoeing with Canoe & Co
  • Rent a canoe for a scenic float along the river; shuttle options are available.

EASTERN TOWNSHIPS TRAVEL TIPS

• LANGUAGE
  • French is the primary language in Quebec, so learning some basics can greatly enhance your experience. However, you can usually get by in the Eastern Townships with English.
• USEFUL RESOURCE - Tourisme Québec's Interactive Mapping Tool
  • Tourisme Québec has developed a valuable mapping tool that provides weekly updates on fall conditions in various regions throughout the province. It's an invaluable resource for planning your trip around the colours!

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

After an incredible few days spent basking in the colours of Québec's fall foliage, we made our way to the west coast. Known for its easy access to the ocean and nature, Vancouver is a popular and beloved Canadian destination. The lush parks, looming mountains and waterfront views provided a different but equally beautiful palette of fall-colours mixed in with massive coniferous trees, set against the backdrop of modern high-rise buildings.

On this leg of the journey, we drove the impressively fuel-efficient Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid to explore the city and the natural beauty surrounding it. Mornings were spent with hikes through the serene rainforests of Lynn Canyon and Stanley Park, while evenings found us meandering the city streets. These two contrasting worlds create the perfect combination for adventurous travellers seeking variety.

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VANCOUVER MUST-SEE HIGHLIGHTS

• GASTOWN - Vancouver's Oldest Neighbourhood
  • Explore Gastown's cobblestone streets for a plethora of shops, cafes and restaurants, perfect for foodies and coffee lovers who like to browse for a variety of goods including apparel and souvenirs.
• STANLEY PARK - Seawall Strolls and Old Growth Forest
  • Don't miss a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the seawall at Stanley Park for views of water, mountains, beaches and plenty of fall colours amongst the rainforest trees.
• LYNN CANYON - Suspension Bridge
  • For a more budget-friendly alternative to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, visit Lynn Canyon Park. The suspension bridge is free, and the surrounding forest offers great hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous be sure to go for a cold dip in the creek!
• LIGHTHOUSE PARK - Rainforest Hike
  • Hike through an old-growth rainforest to reach a rocky shoreline with a lighthouse and breathtaking views of the mouth of the Howe Sound. Keep an eye out for owls and other wildlife in the park.
• WRECK BEACH - A Unique Coastal Experience, Au Naturale
  • Renowned not only for its clothing-optional status but also for being one of Vancouver's hidden gems. While this is a famous nude beach it also happens to be one of the nicest beaches in the city. Prepare for a mini workout navigating the famous staircase for an authentic taste of "Vancouver culture" that's unlike any other.

VANCOUVER TRAVEL TIPS

BEST SUNSETS

• Lonsdale Quay
• Sunset Beach
• Lighthouse Park

BEST SUNRISES

• Queen Elizabeth Park
• Burnaby Mountain
• Cypress Lookout

WEATHER-APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Vancouver's weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or shine. Layered clothing and a waterproof jacket are essential in the fall.

EXPLORE AND ENJOY

Vancouver is a diverse and vibrant city with plenty to offer, so be open to new experiences and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful part of Canada!