If you’ve never been to SDG Counties in the fall, it’s time to add it to your bucket list.
The season here is nothing short of magical. Golden fields, fiery forests, and quiet country roads that lead to breathtaking views along the St. Lawrence River — it’s the perfect backdrop for your next autumn escape. Whether you’re here for the scenery, the flavours, or the fun, there’s no better place to experience the beauty of fall.
Beyond the stunning landscapes, SDG Counties comes alive with festivals, farms, and fall attractions. From apple and pumpkin picking to haunted houses and harvest events, there’s something for everyone — families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
Here are a few must-do fall activities to make the most of your October in SDG Counties!
Cannamore Orchard, Crysler
As the sun sets and the nights grow longer, Cannamore transforms from a charming farm into one of Eastern Ontario’s top Halloween attractions — the legendary Acres of Terror.
This multi-attraction experience is designed to thrill and entertain, featuring:
- The Spooky Wagon Ride — a chilling ride through the orchard’s haunted trails
- The House of Terror — a classic haunted house full of jump scares and surprises
- The Spooky Village — a walkthrough area with themed buildings and live actors
- The Fog Maze — where you’ll find out if you can keep your cool when you can’t see what’s ahead
For families with younger kids, Cannamore also offers daytime, less-scary versions of Acres of Terror, perfect for all ages.
Extreme Fear Hauntings, Chesterville
Extreme Fear Hauntings is not your typical pumpkin patch or haunted walk — it’s built for people who want the full scare immersion. Here’s what they’ve got:
- Dark Cemeteries: Before you even reach the main haunt, you travel through old cemeteries where thousands of souls are said to rest. The build-up begins early.
- Multiple Themed Zones: Haunted Mansion, Church, Hospital, Asylum, Morgue — each space is crafted with its own style of fright. Expect intense atmospheric detail.
- Scares & Jump Moments: Actors, thematic décor, fog, darkness, and more combine for jolts and chills. Even people who think they’re tough tend to jump.
- Family-Friendly / Lite Version: For those not quite ready for full darkness and jump scares, there are daylight or matinee events with reduced intensity or lighting-on/no jump scares. Great if you want the Halloween fun but not the heart attack!
PumpkInferno at Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg
If you want one autumn outing that feels like walking into a glowing dream, PumpkInferno at Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg is it. Think thousands of hand-carved pumpkins, twisting paths through history, creative displays, photo ops, and fall magic after dark. The visual spectacle is unlike many other fall events. The glow of the pumpkins paired with the historic buildings and autumn night sky creates something truly memorable. It’s family-friendly but still magical for older kids, teens, adults — lots of “wow” moments.
Mix it with dinner in the Village, a quick shop for artisan items or fall decor, and it becomes an all-evening event!
Fields of Gold, Monkland
As the crisp autumn air settles over SDG Counties, Fields of Gold in Monkland transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall festivities. Just an hour’s drive from Ottawa, this family-run farm offers a delightful blend of seasonal attractions, making it a must-visit destination for autumn enthusiasts.
Every Friday night in October, Fields of Gold unveils the Haunted Sunflower Trails—the only spooky sunflower trail in Eastern Ontario. From 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, brave souls can wander through the eerie paths lined with towering sunflowers, encountering surprises and thrills along the way. It’s an experience that combines the beauty of nature with a touch of Halloween spookiness.
For those seeking a challenge under the stars, the Night Maze offers a unique twist on the traditional corn maze. Navigate the labyrinthine paths by flashlight, adding an element of mystery and excitement to your adventure. It’s a perfect activity for friends and families looking to make lasting memories this fall.
Capture the essence of autumn with a visit to the Pumpkin Photo-Op Wall. This charming setup provides the perfect backdrop for family photos, selfies, or simply soaking in the fall ambiance. With pumpkins aplenty and picturesque surroundings, it’s an Instagram-worthy spot that embodies the spirit of the season.
Paranormal Investigations at the Historic SDG Jail
f you’re seeking spine-tingling thrills this October, look no further than the Historic SDG Jail in Cornwall, Ontario. Built in 1833 and operational until 2002, this former prison has a dark history marked by executions, suicides, and untold tragedies. Today, it stands as one of Ontario’s most haunted sites, offering an unparalleled opportunity for those brave enough to delve into its eerie past.
Thanks to the collaboration between Phantoms of Yore and The Haunted Walk, you can now participate in exclusive paranormal investigations within the jail’s haunted walls. These 3.5-hour events provide small group experiences, ensuring an intimate and immersive adventure. Guided by experienced paranormal investigators, you’ll learn to use professional-grade equipment such as EMF meters, spirit boxes, and infrared cameras to explore the jail’s most notorious areas, including the gallows and solitary confinement cells.
Upcoming investigation dates include October 24, 25, 30, and November 1, 2025. With tickets priced at $74.99 per person, these events are expected to sell out quickly due to limited availability. Advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot in this unforgettable experience. To book, click here.
These are just a few of the things to do while visiting SDG Counties this fall. You can check out our event calendar, subscribe to our newsletter, or follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on everything happening in the region. We can’t wait to see you!
Oh, and while you’re here… you can enter for a chance to win two tickets to PumpkInferno! 🎃✨ Just head over to our contest page for all the details on how to enter. Don’t miss your chance to experience this magical autumn event!