Canada in September: Weather, Fall Foliage and More!

September marks the beginning of autumn in Canada and the temperature is generally mild. Expect cooler weather than August or July. But no need to pack multiple layers and a massive coat.

As the second largest country on earth, Canada spans numerous climatic zones with highly variable weather trends. The rule of thumb is it’s warmer in southern regions and cooler along the coast. Cities such as Ottawa, Vancouver and Winnipeg see a maximum average of 18°C (65°F). Toronto has a maximum temperature of 20°C (68°F) and a minimum of 13°C (55°F).

September brings more rain to Canada than most other months, with anywhere between 60 and 100 millimeters (2.4 to 3.9 inches). By mid-month, the foliage begins transforming into glorious golden hues, offering an enchanting incentive to explore the great outdoors.

For more seasonal info, check out our post on the best time to visit Canada.

From thinner crowds to better bargains and fabulous fall foliage, there’s a myriad of reasons to consider a trip to Canada in September.

• Uncrowded attractions: The hordes of vacationing families have returned home from summer break, creating peaceful serenity at Canada’s most popular tourist sites.
• Lower costs: The end of peak season sees hotels and airlines drop their rates, making this a cost-effective month to travel. Plus, ample availability entails extra flexibility.
• Pleasant weather: Although notably cooler than the peak summer season, the weather in September remains relatively warm throughout most of Canada. The climate is especially agreeable in the more southerly locales.
• Fall foliage: From mid-September, Canada’s thick forests transform into a kaleidoscope of color. Leaf peepers should check out early fall favorites such as Saanich (BC), Saskatoon (Saskatchewan), or Mont Tremblant (Québec).
• Fun festivals: The big-ticket event in September is the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which lures movie buffs from around the globe. For traveling oenophiles, Ontario’s Niagara Grape and Wine Festival is a top spot to quaff.

Agreeable weather and fewer fellow tourists ensure plenty of great places to visit and things to do in Canada in September.

Niagara Falls is an easy day trip away from Toronto. But if you’re partial to a tipple, it’s worth spending a few days visiting the local vineyards. Over a hundred sublime wineries gravitate around St. Catharines, a small Ontario city hosting the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival. While there, explore Niagara-on-the-Lake to admire historic old abodes with glistening waterfront views. Wine lovers on the West Coast can tour eclectic vineyards at Okanagan Valley (BC) instead.

Algonquin Provincial Park is a sprawling, leafy expanse showcasing some of the country’s finest fall foliage—aim for mid-September or later. Planning to take a trip to Montreal? The Gardens of Light festival sees hundreds of exotic Chinese silk lanterns illuminate the footpaths of Montreal Botanic Garden.

September is a top time to visit Canada’s spell-binding natural sites. Head for the Rockies for a hiking tour to destinations like Banff, Jasper, or Yoho National Park. The red-sand beaches of Prince Edward Island are refreshingly uncrowded this time of year. Nova Scotia is also exquisite during this time of year. Or, if you’re exploring the west, Pacific Rim National Park is awash with beautiful beaches and luscious rainforest trails.

Pleasant temperatures and fiery orange foliage make September an excellent time to explore Canada. And as it sees fewer travelers, you’ll encounter thinner crowds at all the major sites. Enticing film and wine festivals serve as the “maple syrup on the pancake” during this exciting month.

If you’re overwhelmed with ideas, book a customized trip to Canada for a personalized holiday experience.