5 Best Locations For Fall Family Photos in Hamilton, ON
Fall is, hands down, my favorite season. There's something about the cool, crisp air that makes everything feel right. It's the time of year when I still get to wear my summer shorts, but finally pull out my favorite oversized sweaters — seriously, my favorite outfits of all time. We can finally hike without swatting mosquitoes the whole time, and there are so many beautiful trails here in Burlington and Hamilton that I always wish we could hike them all. Then there's cozy Thanksgiving dinners, everything pumpkins, and — more than anything — those gorgeous fall colors that get me every single time. It's such a wholesome, cozy season, I wish it would stay with us longer than just four weeks.
Unsurprisingly, fall also happens to be the best time of year for fall family photos. The weather is still mild enough for a comfortable outdoor session, the light is warm and golden, the bugs are gone, and the fall foliage is unbeatable. If you're thinking about booking a fall family photo session, here are my top 5 favorite fall photography locations in Burlington and Hamilton.
TOP 5 LOCATIONS FOR FALL FAMILY PHOTOS IN BURLINGTON AND HAMILTON
#1. Kerncliff Park, Burlington — Best for Peak Fall Foliage
Rocky cliffs and a long boardwalk make this Burlington photo location a stunner — and it's incredibly reliable when it comes to timing. Every year, right around Thanksgiving, the foliage hits peak fall color here. Bonus: it also makes for a beautiful family hike if you're looking for a Thanksgiving weekend activity near Burlington. Parking is free, but it can get very busy on the weekend, so come early.
#2. Princess Point, Hamilton — Best for Golden Rod & Lakefront Views
This Hamilton family photo spot is a two-for-one. In mid-September, the open field fills with golden rod for a vibrant, beautiful backdrop. By October, everything shifts to warm oranges, reds, and yellows along the trail and lakefront. It's a favorite among Hamilton photographers, so weekends get busy — if your schedule is flexible, aim for a weekday session. One thing to note: there's no free parking or washroom on-site, but a coffee shop and McDonald's are just nearby.
#3. Christie Lake Conservation Area, Hamilton — Best Hidden Gem
My personal favorite fall photography location for the past two years. I even did our family photos here, twice! This hidden gem has a private beach that gives serious Muskoka vibes. It's a bit of a drive from Oakville and Burlington, and there's an admission fee, but the scenery makes it more than worth it. It stays peaceful even on weekends — come for your family session, then stay to soak in the fall beauty on a family hike.
#4. City View Park, Burlington — Best for Convenience
Our family's go-to spot for a quick, easy hike, and one of the most convenient fall photo locations in Burlington. It's quiet, the trails are lovely, and the fall colors here peak beautifully around mid-October. Free parking and an on-site washroom make it easy to plan a family photo session here without extra hassle.
#5. Dundurn Castle, Hamilton — Best for Variety of Backdrops
A historic castle with equally stunning grounds — no wonder Dundurn Castle is one of the most popular family and wedding photography locations in Hamilton. It's gorgeous year-round, but especially in the fall. I love it for how easy the drive is from Burlington, with almost no weekend traffic. The grounds are large, flat, and stroller-friendly, so little ones can run free while you soak in the variety of backdrops — tall trees, historic architecture, and everything in between.
Every year, once the kids are back in school, I start counting down to fall — the colors, the cozy weather, all of it. And every year, my calendar fills up fast for both weekday and weekend fall mini sessions and full family sessions. If you've been thinking about booking your fall family photographer in Hamilton or Burlington, now's the time to reach out before your favorite dates are gone.
I'm currently offering both fall mini sessions and full family sessions this year. Send me an email, lucy@lucytran.com, and let's find the perfect time and location for your family's fall photos!