A Spot of Leaf-peeping

Canadian-style.

I love Fall.

Before moving to Montréal, I thought Autumnal colours in Central Otago, New Zealand, were unbeatable. Although I know they are indeed still fabulous, Québec has some rather spectacular foliage to oggle at this time of the year.

I’ve been a slack tart on both the exercise and photography fronts of late; although I never tested positive for Covid, I’ve been suffering from relentless fatigue for weeks which has affected both my writing mojo and my general get-up-and-go, joie-de-vivre outlook.

Despite it now October and its usual glumness, we have been blessed with some random spectacular days the last two weeks. Knowing full well what is down the pipe, I kicked my butt into gear and grabbed my camera.

Here is a photographic account of three recent long walks to celebrate the leaf-peeping season.

Monday: Park Rene Levesque; Lachine

The small, riverside suburb is known for its canal and fur-trade history, quaint buildings and restaurant vibe. It’s a 10-minute drive from my apartment, so I frequently drive there simply to soak in the atmosphere — whatever the season.

I joined a girlfriend for a walk to celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving on Monday. We went early before the hoards arrived. Unfortunately, we were a couple of weeks late for the prime-time Fall leaf display but we enjoyed the stroll nonetheless.

Here are a few of my favourite shots:

We were lucky to have a crisp, blue sky accentuating the Fall colours. This was the only tree that was still pristine.

A puff of cloud helped highlight this young maple whose leaves had somehow survived the rain and wind from two days before.

The Sumac bushes are always radiant at this time of the year. This shot is looking across to Kahnawake on the south shore.

The Lachine marina is in the process of transformation; it will become a public park instead of a home to recreational vessels. Not sure what the exact plan is, so watch this space!

Tuesday: Angrignon Park and my ‘hood

I’d spied some spectacular foliage while driving to and from work, so was intent on capturing their beauty before mother nature whipped leaves away.

My first stop was to wander through the park that is a stone's throw from my apartment. Again, I’d missed the ‘best-of’ leaves, but some beauties were still hanging on.

The entrance near the metro was mirrored magnificence! I even caught a seagull in flight — middle, left.

I’m always amazed how some trees have completely turned while others are slow to do so.

A splash of radiance between some yellows and greens behind a blue backdrop is just the ticket for a fab photo.

This magnificent maple is not far from my apartment; I’d noticed her driving home and was intent on photographing her. Oh, to have this in my line of sight every Fall day!

Imagine having this display in your front yard. Gorgeous — although my Seek App is being temperamental and not enlightening me about the species…

Wednesday: Parc des rapids; Lasalle

It’s not the first time I’ve posted photos from this spot; it is one of my favourites. Despite living in a large city, I am so lucky to have easy access to nature — and water.

I had some minutes to kill before a much-needed hair-dye session and knew I could navigate this bird sanctuary in the time available.

Unfortunately, I didn’t see any birds other than seagulls, but the flora was its usual photogenic self.

My lead photo for this story was taken from the walking path; here are some more shots.

This shot gives you some perspective about the lay of the land; in the distance, you can see high rises that are on Isle des Soeurs, an island between Montréal and the Southern shores. The white structure at the very right is the new Champlain Bridge.

Can you spot the crazy jet skier?! There were two guys having some fun, all-be-it polluting the tranquil atmosphere. The rapids start at this point, making the St Lawrence Seaway necessary.

❤️ Sumac! Enough said!

This cherry plum tree was shimmering in a plethora of hues in the late afternoon sun. Its rich, deep tones of burgundy were breathtaking — although the photo doesn’t do it justice.

Although many readers are heading in the opposite direction weather-wise, I’d love to see how Autumn treats other readers worldwide.

Thanks to Dennett and the Weeds and Wildflowers team for allowing me to brag about Québec’s colours. They’re all taken on my iPhone 11 and with no filters.