Crisp mornings, beautiful foliage, pumpkin patches, fall fairs, apple picking, cozy sweaters -- and all of my favorite outdoor activities without humidity -- make autumn my favorite season of all. I usually find myself with energy to spare at this time of year -- a good thing since it's also "raking" season!

Get outside and enjoy all that the season has to offer. Hike, bike, fly kites, enter a charity walk or run, or enjoy one of my personal favorite family-style activities below:

Apple picking:

In Ontario, most of last year's apple crop succumbed to poor weather making this year's bumper crop all the more welcome. Locate an orchard near your city or community and enjoy picking apples with the kids. They're perfect in school lunches and as after-school snacks!

Take a hike!

Round up the kids, a few friends - and the dog - and head to a park or trail for a day of hiking. Pack some water, healthy snacks, a camera, a phone and, if it's particularly chilly, a thermos of hot chocolate and some mittens. Voila! A perfect fall escape!

Farmers' markets and fall fairs:

Visit a local farmers' market or fall fair for a day of fun and to scoop up locally-grown produce. Many offer craft stalls, pumpkin patches, hay mazes, a petting area with farm animals, baked goods, antiques, wagon ride and more. Don't forget to invite me!

Petting farms:

When my kids were younger, we spent many a fall day visiting petting farms where they'd get up close (sometimes too close!) with various farm animals. From pony rides to feeding goats and chasing chickens, we always enjoyed lots of active fun.

Bike rides:

Most Canadian families put their bikes away for the winter months - a sad day for many kids in particular. But wait - the snow isn't here yet and there's plenty of super cycling in the weeks ahead. Add a layer or two, bring along some mittens or gloves for chilly hands, and pack some healthy snacks or a picnic for the road. It's fun to explore new communities and to stop in somewhere for hot chocolate too!

What are your favorite ways to stay active with your family throughout the fall?