When talking about Canada, one cannot help but think of maple leaves. In this beautiful country known as the Land of Maple Leaves, the maple leaf has become a unique cultural symbol, with the vibrant reds on the branches and the romantic fallen leaves under the maple trees adorning this most beautiful season. Starting from the third week of September, the maple leaves in Canada begin to turn red: purples, deep reds, fiery reds, orange yellows, bright yellows, deep greens, and light greens intertwine, creating a spectacular view. This country has been rated by the United Nations as one of the most livable countries in the world for many consecutive years, where the lakes and mountains reflect the fiery red maple leaves, forming a paradise on earth.
Enchanted by the Forests
Quebec and Ontario in southeastern Canada are the two provinces with the most maple forests, home to thousands of farms producing maple syrup. Every year, Canadians joyfully celebrate the traditional Maple Syrup Festival, tasting the sweet treats that nature offers them. During this grand festival, the maple syrup farms are beautifully decorated, people don festive attire, sing and dance, and hold various harvest celebration activities, sharing joy with visiting tourists.
On weekends, some farms offer free samples of maple taffy and toffee for everyone to taste. From the historic city of Quebec, one can take a luxury yacht along the St. Lawrence River, enjoying the autumn scenery. The maple trees along the Montmorency Falls are stunningly beautiful. The maple forests of Île d'Orléans, filled with Normandy charm, stretch along the coast, where visitors can be seen at the maple syrup factories. Quebec, with its advantageous location, not only offers the most beautiful maple leaves but also the spectacle of migratory snow geese from the Arctic stopping here in the fall.
Captivated by the Rivers
Taking a boat tour of the Thousand Islands from Kingston is the most picturesque way to enjoy the fall foliage, as the entire water area resembles a beautiful paradise, with brilliant maple leaves dancing in the air and breathtaking scenery all around. The Thousand Islands is one of the most popular attractions in Eastern Ontario and is the most beautiful section of the St. Lawrence River, with over 1,800 islands belonging to both the United States and Canada. Many businessmen and artists enjoy the secluded lifestyle on these islands, where there are many luxurious homes and uniquely styled buildings, making the entire area feel like a treasure trove.
The waters here are incredibly clear, with at least 500 private or public cruise ships sailing among the islands daily. The tour of the Thousand Islands lasts about 1 to 3 hours, depending on whether it reaches Boldt Castle. Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island, is a fairy-tale-like medieval castle built in 1904 by American hotel magnate George Boldt for his wife. This castle has now been converted into a museum for visitors to explore.
Lost in the Canyons
Viewing the maple leaves in the Land of Maple Leaves is one of the highlights of traveling in Canada. With numerous maple trees across the country, every autumn, the mountains are covered in orange and red leaves, resembling piles of burning bonfires. Especially in the canyons, when these passionate colors are displayed before people's eyes, one cannot help but marvel at the wonders and beauty of nature.
If you have two to three days off, taking a maple-viewing train to explore the Agawa Canyon on the eastern shore of Lake Superior would be an excellent choice. In the famous maple capital of Ontario, Sault Ste. Marie, you can board a train operated by the Central Railway to delve into the canyon and explore its mysteries. The train stops at the bottom of the canyon for 2 hours, allowing passengers to disembark and explore. This 180-kilometer railway line weaves between elevated bridges and mountains, with bright red, orange, and golden maple leaves blending with the lake and mountain scenery, making one feel as if they are in a painting. You can sense how Canada's famous "Group of Seven" was inspired to create their immortal masterpieces. (Source: Xinhua News Agency)