Whether it's the colours of the leaves or fall fun activities that inspire you to explore, here are 5 day trips that will help you make the most of the season.

1. Birds Hill Provincial Park

Popular for day trips from Winnipeg year-round, Birds Hill Provincial Park is particularly charming in the fall. Admire autumnal hues along trails like the Cedar Bog Trail (3.5 km) or the Aspen Trail (6.4 km) or cycle on a mountain-biking designated trail like the Oak Ridge Trail (6.4 km).

Nearby, explore The Village, a brand new shopping and dining destination located beside Pineridge Hollow. Stroll through the outdoor plaza and step into unique shops like Teekca's Boutique, The Faded Barn and Flourish. Now in a new space, the farmers' market continues to bring its bounty with local growers. Looking for food and beverage? Grab a coffee from Empty Cup, a cocktail or beer from the The Village Square and a delicious hearty meal from NuBurger! For even more reason to visit, plan your trip around a workshop or event - with everything from yoga and punch needling to embroidery and watercolour to choose from.

3. Notre Dame de Lourdes

Go off the beaten path and explore a new region of Manitoba. Travel over the rolling hills of Notre Dame de Lourdes and take in the stunning fall scenery along the way. A popular local haunt, Big Al's Burgers, serves up more than burgers and fries and is a wise stop for lunch or dinner.

Head 1.6 km south of town to find a family-friendly fall attraction King Korn Maze. Make your way through the corn maze or visit later in October to scare yourself silly at a haunt. There's a snack shack on site for all your mini-donut cravings.

4. Whiteshell Provincial Park

Manitoba's gorgeous slice of the Canadian shield is a no-brainer for fall explorations. Pick from cozy accommodations like Otter Falls Resort, Inverness Falls Resort and Pinewood resort. From there, you’ll have access to all the beauty of Whiteshell Provincial Park including popular hiking trails like the Centennial Trail, McGillvary Falls Trail and Top of the World Trail.

Or, take a guided tour of the Bannock Petroforms, where Knowledge Keeper Diane Maytwayashing will provide an overview of the park and share Indigenous stories and teachings.

5. Red River North

For those who like to take in the scenery on a drive, River Road is both a visually striking and historical route to take in Manitoba. Along the way, you’ll pass by St. Andrew’s Rectory and Church - a quintessential example of Hudson Bay-style Red River architecture with grounds open year round. Continue your tour of historic buildings past Hay House, one of only a handful of stone houses left from the Red River Settlement era.

Nearby, Oak Hammock Marsh is one of the best fall destinations in Manitoba. Take in the colours and sounds of the marsh or plan to visit for one of the many autumn events.