Bike Train leads guided bike tours throughout Ontario, getting you there by train. (Handout)

Top spots to see the colours in Canada Where to pick fall fruits and veggies Best fall drives in North America

As summer’s last days came to an end this week, sunburns were nursed with sticky aloe vera and last photo albums of camping adventures were uploaded to Facebook. While many of us said goodbye to schedule-free days and headed back to school or work, it doesn’t mean the fun has to end. Take advantage of the cooler weather and quieter roads to soak up the outdoors before the country (slowly) braces itself for winter.

PITCH A TENT

Camping in the fall offers a refreshing alternative to being squished into slots with fellow vacationers. Plus, many parks offer special rates in the off-season (check out www.campcanada.com). “It's a perfect time if you are someone who seeks peace and quiet, which is often a reason to go camping in the first place,” says Tim Southam, public affairs manager at Mountain Equipment Co-op.

When dressing for autumn adventures, Southam suggests a 3-layer rule: a base layer (merino wool works well), a light fleece for added warmth, and a shell on top for wind or rain protection. One MEC employee’s motto: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear!” No matter if it’s your first time braving the elements or you’re a die-hard camper, MEC encourages anyone to share stories online at www.mec.ca .

EXPLORE BY TRAIN, BY BIKE

Whether on rugged mountain bikes or sleek road racers, fall is a perfect time to grab your two-wheeler of choice and explore Canada’s immense back country. And having a car is no longer required for such excursions. VIA Rail lets passengers bring bikes on board to any Canadian destination, and offers seasonal packages (The Fall Colours of the Qu’Appelle Valley package explores Manitoba and Saskatchewan, for example). And Ontario cyclists take note: Bike Train leads guided bike tours throughout the province, getting you there by train.

“Fall is a fantastic time to go for a cycling getaway. The air is a little cooler, allowing cyclists to stay comfortable and explore further afield on their bicycles. Furthermore, the train ride is an experience in itself,” says manager Peter Lipscombe. www.biketrain.ca and www.viarail.ca.

WATCH NATURE TRANSFORM

If you haven’t seen the leaves change colour during the autumn months, then you’re missing out on a true Canadian experience. As soon as evening temperatures drop in eastern parts of the country, several species of trees transform into golds, reds and everything in between.

“[It’s] over so quickly, it certainly makes people get outdoors and enjoy the day,” says Helen Lovekin, media relations coordinator for Ontario Tourism.

While you’re “leaf peeping,” you can also check out fall fairs and stay at charming country inns. “Fall is one of the best times to reflect how we’re part of nature; something we can savour and enjoy but don't control,” says Lovekin.

Regular leaf reports, suggested fall driving routes and a calendar of events throughout Ontario can be found at www.ontariotravel.net – for specific parks in Ontario, check www.parkreports.com/fall, while Quebec's colours can be seen at www.bonjourquebec.com/ca-en/automne0.html.

PLAN A ROAD TRIP

Whether it’s for lobster in Halifax, live country music in Calgary or cocktails in Toronto, the best way to check out the country’s diverse offerings is by getting there the classic way – via the open road. Fall means less traffic, which should be a tempting reason to go all on its own. seen the 30-foot Canadian nickel in Sudbury? How about the giant teepee in Medicine Hat, or the three-story-high orange in Montreal? Sight-seeing has been given a whole new meaning with www.bigthings.ca, a website that categorizes the country’s extensive collection of giant objects. Need more advice on how to plan your excursion? For detailed maps, construction and weather updates and information on cities and towns throughout the country, check out www.transcanadahighway.com.