Appreciating Canada's Fall Colors in Ontario

Appreciation of fall colors is, of course, highly subjective, with plenty of debate about which spot is best for catching nature's autumnal display.

For many, the answer is, "In Canada, in Ontario, in a boat."
Countless lists of color "hot spots" rank Ontario near the top. And one of the best ways of exploring the province's north woods when colors are at their peak is via canoe or kayak.

You'll also experience some unusual adventures-such as howling at wolves and waiting in silence for the spine-tingling response of a nearby wolf pack. Adult wolves and newborn pubs usually join in the chorus. It is one of the indelible memories you'll take home from a fall paddling getaway.

Team up with Paddling Ontario and experience nature's autumnal extravaganza at its best. Paddling Ontario is an alliance of tourism operators who offer outfitting for canoe, kayak and related adventures, including accommodations that range from trailside camping to luxurious resorts and spas and comfortable small inns.

Here's a sampler:

Algonquin Park "Wolf Howl" Canoe Trip. This beginner-friendly outing is one of the most popular weekend canoe trips into Algonquin Provincial Park. Each trip begins with an overnight stay at a forest cabin, followed by two nights/three days of canoe camping in the vast park. Orientation includes a slide show and discussion of Algonquin Park wolves, summarizing recent studies of wolf ecology and local conservation efforts.

Then, you'll learn about the world of the wolf-and a little about yourself-as you travel into an easily accessible area that is home to a wolf pack. You'll paddle misty morning lakes and walk on forest trails, taking in the colors of fall and searching for signs of woodland creatures. Cost is US $435 per person, including one-night lodge stay, two nights' camping, meals and all necessary equipment. Available Thur-Sun through September 28.

Agawa Canyon/Superior by Rail, Kayak and Canoe. Sea kayak along the shores of Lake Superior, canoe the rivers of Algoma and take a wilderness train tour into Agawa Canyon. Following a ride on the Algoma Central Railway through the steep cliffs of the Great Canadian Shield, is a gentle paddle down the Montreal River. There, guides provide an introductory course in sea kayaking, followed by a tour. Then comes a ride by van along the spectacular coast of Lake Superior for dinner and lodging at the Voyageur Lodge on Batchawana Bay.

On Day 2, after a good night's rest and hearty breakfast, you'll set off on a kayak adventure on Lake Superior, choosing the most favorable bay according to prevailing wind conditions. Day 3 is devoted to paddling the Goulais River that runs through a wilderness valley that is spectacular in fall.

The trip is completed with a train journey to Sault Ste. Marie. Cost is US $490 per person, including taxes, lodge accommodation (two nights), two lunches, train fare, guide services, and use of kayaks and wet suits. Saturday departures September 16 through October 7.

Kawartha Colors Kayaking. Looking for a kayaking "soft adventure" that only takes a day? Check out this trip to the Kawarthas, the popular vacation region only 99 minutes from Toronto and easily accessible by car. This getaway allows you to enjoy a relaxing day of kayaking amid some of the 1100 islands of Stony Lake. You'll transfer by launch to an island livery for a day of guided kayaking, including instruction and a BBQ luncheon.

These waters are part of the famous Trent-Severn Waterway. First visited by early explorers in 1608, they are home to loons, osprey and blue heron. Cost is US $85, including guided kayak tour, instruction, BBQ luncheon and transfer to the island. Departures September 25 and October 8.

For reservations and additional information, call Paddling Ontario at (705) 745-9343. Visit www.paddlingontario.com.

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