Autumn is beginning to paint the watershed red, and if you're looking to catch the fall splendour in a quiet, uncrowded location, you can't go wrong at Mill Pond Conservation Area this season.
What Mill Pond CA may lack in hayrides and pumpkin patches it makes up for with 1,300 acres of maple forests, wetlands and natural shoreline around Mill Pond near Big Rideau Lake.
By mid-September, signs of autumn are beginning to show. Grasses are browning and spots of red and gold can be seen through the woods.
Six kilometres of trails wind through the mixed deciduous forest that will quickly turn to a riot of red, gold and orange once cooler nights and mild days replace the stickiness of summer.
Tucked five kilometres down Brighton-Houghton Bay Road off Highway 15, it's much quieter than some of our better-known fall colour spots, like Foley Mountain.
You might find a few anglers using the public boat launch, or spot another family picnicking at the covered shelter beside the old sugar shack.
It's a great place to take some fall photos in the leaves, by the water or in front of the 180-year-old log home on site. If that's not your style, simply enjoy a rigorous walk in the quickly crisping air.
But don't wait to get out there and see for yourself! After all, it won't belong before the leaves have all fallen and we're bracing for snow.
For all the details and directions, visit https://www.rvca.ca/conservation-areas/no-fee-required/mill-pond-ca.
