When do the leaves change?

Colour usually starts on the highland plateau in late September and reaches the lower valleys and the coast in early to mid-October. Peak timing shifts each year with temperature and rainfall, and one windy storm can strip the trees quickly, so plan a range of dates if you can.

Where to see the colour

  • The Cabot Trail through the Highlands, especially the climbs over French and MacKenzie Mountains
  • The Margaree Valley, where hardwoods line the river
  • The eastern side around Cape Smokey and Ingonish
  • The Bras d’Or Lake shoreline, which often turns a little later than the Highlands

Celtic Colours International Festival

For more than a week each October, the Celtic Colours International Festival brings concerts, ceilidhs and community events to venues across the island. It coincides with the fall colours, so roads and accommodation are busy. Book early.

Celtic Colours festival

Cruise passengers in autumn

Many cruise ships visit Sydney in the fall. A full Cabot Trail loop rarely fits a port day, but Baddeck and the Bras d’Or Lake offer good colour within a shorter drive.

Private shore excursions

Photography tips

  • Overcast days make the colours richer and soften harsh shadows.
  • Morning mist in the valleys usually lifts by late morning.
  • Lookouts on the western side face the sunset.