British Columbia offers so many opportunities to escape and enjoy the outdoors during the fall months that you may have a hard time choosing where you will go. The beautiful colors of the autumn are on display no matter where you look, and outdoor activities still abound during the cooler months. This is a great moment to take a time out from life in general and step into the beauty that nature has on display everywhere in the province.
Visit Cranbrook
This lovely town and surrounding area make it the perfect escape during the fall months. One of the best things is the fact that you can view some of the most beautiful autumn colors here, including some of the unique golden larches. If you would like to see some of these golden beauties, head out to the South Star Recreation Trail, which will take you through stands of larch and lodgepole pine. These easy trails cover more than 30 kilometers of forest and are used year-round for hiking or biking. There is history and culture here as well, along with some great stores, hotels and restaurants, so it is easy to fill your time.
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Go to Kootenay National Park
One of the lesser known national parks, fall is one of the best times to visit. The golden larches are gorgeous, the other colors pop out as the summer months change to autumn. There are amazing hikes to enjoy or choose to spend your time relaxing and soaking in the mineral springs at Radium Hot Springs. Find the famous Red Chairs of Parks Canada for incredible views of the area. Check out the Continental Divide day use area for a short walk with interpretive signage about this unique natural feature. Whatever you choose to do, you will enjoy every second.
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Spend Some Time in Powell River
Considered the hidden gem of the Sunshine Coast, this is a perfect place for a weekend getaway or some down time this fall. A wonderful area to spend time on the water or going for a hike, Powell River and the entire Sunshine Coast region is well known for its mild, dry weather. This is most accessible and largest town on the Sunshine Coast, and the history here is interesting, along with the rich heritage. Rent a kayak and head out on the water, choose a hike, grab a beer at Townsite Brewing, check out the Historical Museum and Archives or the Forestry Museum. Wander the beaches and keep your eyes peeled for whales!
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Go to Harrison Hot Springs
Most people don’t realize that Harrison Hot Springs has much more than just the springs themselves. The hot springs themselves are still closed unless you are staying at the Resort, but the area offers some unique opportunities and fun activities that will allow you to get some peace and quiet on a short holiday. Enjoy some Forest Bathing with Ya Doma Nature and Forest Therapy, or enjoy a boat tour, rent a kayak or take a bike ride. Explore Harrison’s fresh air on uncrowded trails and paths as you soak up the fall atmosphere and foliage. If you have some free time, check out Agassiz & Harrison Mills Circle Farm Tours, a free self-guided tour that takes you to a variety of farms and food producers in the Agassiz Harrison area. Have another type of adventure and search out the elusive Sasquatch, you never know where you might find him!
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Visit Fort Langley
The largest agricultural region in the province normally is host to the country’s largest cranberry harvest in the fall, and although it is not happening this year, there are still plenty of reasons to pass some time here. The orchards and pumpkin patches are another great reason to spend some time in the region, not to mention the well-established wine and craft beer scene here. There are cute little shops to check out and good food to be enjoyed. If you are interested in history, you can learn more at the Fort Langley National Historic Site or the Langley Centennial Museum. You can even cycle the historic Fort to Fort Trail!
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Head to Duncan
A quick trip to Vancouver Island will allow you to visit the neat town of Duncan, which is known for having the largest collection of publicly displayed totem poles in the world. You can easily see these on a self-guided tour, so a perfect activity to enjoy at your own leisure. If you are into shopping, make sure to check out the Cowichan sweaters, which have been a staple of the Coast Salish peoples since wool was introduced in the 19th century. The fall months are the perfect time to visit, as you can enjoy the harvest activities, cideries, breweries, distilleries, and the lovely colors that are everywhere. Take a walk to explore, go biking, spend some time fishing or make a tee time to enjoy some golf. There is plenty to keep you busy for days in this lovely area.
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Go to Osoyoos
Canada’s desert offers a unique view of the autumn season. Found at the southern end of the Okanagan, this is a fantastic place to spend some time this fall. You can immerse yourself in local Indigenous culture at Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre or learn about the antelope-brush ecosystem at the Osoyoos Desert Centre. Take time to tour the region’s many wineries and restaurants. This is the time to unplug and relax in this lakeside community and to take in the beauty of the South Okanagan in the autumn months.
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Hang out in Nelson
If you haven’t yet had the chance to travel to this charming town, take the time to visit in the autumn when you can view the gorgeous red and gold foliage that pops up amongst the 350 heritage buildings. The town is located along the shore of Kootenay Lake in the West Kootenays, so there is plenty of outdoor activities to keep you enjoying the fall colors, such as the hike up Pulpit Rock to see some golden larches, or check out one of the many great restaurants. The Slocan Valley is nearby to explore, and the up and coming vineyards of Creston Valley are worth a visit. You can even head northeast to visit the historic town of Kaslo and enjoy a stroll along the Kaslo River Trail.
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Head to Vernon
Vernon is a lovely community that stands out in the North Okanagan region. It’s very close to Canada’s largest salmon run, which is in the Shuswap, and of course the Okanagan harvest makes fall one of the best times to explore this area. The gorgeous Okanagan Rail Trail offers visitors the chance to hike or bike through the wonderful fall atmosphere. This trail connects Vernon to Kelowna along a lakeside route, so there is plenty of opportunities for some great photo ops. If you are not wanting to spend a lot of time hiking, instead you can take some time to discover the downtown’s vibrant murals. Make sure you have time to head out to the largest salmon run in the province in nearby Tsútswecw Provincial Park.
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Spend Some Time at 100 Mile House
A hidden gem along the Gold Rush Trail, 100 Mile House was originally a fur trading station and stagecoach stop. Amazingly, this area is full of hundreds of small lakes that have incredible fall foliage and great cabins to stay in. Check out the surrounding area to discover the history of the region, including Canada’s largest log barn and the variety of heritage buildings at the 108 Mile Ranch Historic Site.
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Go to Fernie
The scenic mountain town of Fernie, just down the road from Cranbrook, offers an amazing experience in the Canadian Rockies without any crowds. Along with the phenomenally gorgeous colors that come along with the fall, you may even get a dusting of snow that will just augment the beauty of the region. The historic town and surrounding area provide visitors with late season hiking opportunities, golf, and river fishing if you want to be outdoors. Otherwise check out the Fernie Art Walk or the Fernie Brewing Co., which is one of the favourite stops on the East Ale Trail.
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Soak Your Troubles Away at Ainsworth Hot Springs
The resort at Ainsworth Hot Springs allows visitors to relax in the healing mineral waters that have been used for hundreds of years. The springs were first visited by the Ktunaxa First Nations peoples who enjoyed the waters after long days of hunting, fishing, and gathering roots and berries in what is now the Kootenay region. The Ktunaxa First Nations peoples used the waters for their healing and rejuvenating powers. Ainsworth Hot Springs, as a business, has been welcoming guests since the 1930s. Spend some time in the natural cave that is part of this experience, as it is something that you may only do once in a lifetime. The resort offers accommodations and guests need to be staying at the hotel in order to access the hot springs. The surrounding area is beautiful, and you will enjoy every moment.
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Hang out in Invermere
The mountain destinations fantastic in the fall. These are the places to spend some quiet time. Breathe in the fresh air, curl up in one of the many cabins that you can rent in the area, and soak up the beauty. The stunning landscapes come alive with color during the fall months in this hub of the Columbia Valley. Choose to spend time hiking or biking and exploring the many trails in the region, try your hand at fishing or paddling, take a trail ride through the fall foliage, or just hang out in the downtown area to experience the restaurants and shops.
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Visit Salt Spring Island
This lovely little island is a dream at anytime of the year, but the colours are absolutely stunning during the fall. With an incredible number of beautiful accommodations to choose from and first-rate culinary choices, you can easily spend a few days and nights just enjoying the laid-back life of the island. Of course, the outdoor experiences and stunning scenery here will leave you breathless. Once you experience the calm life of the island and the wellness opportunities that will bring you peace in mind and in soul, you might never want to leave.
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Experience the City of Victoria
There is something magical about BC’s capital city in the fall months. The splashes of color that peek up amongst the historic buildings, or throughout the many acres of parkland, give visitors a surreal feel as they explore the city. Just one of many outdoor places to enjoy, Milner Gardens and Woodland is alight with color this time of year, not to mention the incredible Beacon Hill Park. You might want to check out Hatley Castle as well, as it is also afire with vibrant color and can be a great setting for romantic fall photos. There is plenty to keep you busy in the city – museums, restaurants, historic sites, the harbour and all the gorgeous parks.
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Head Up the Highway to Whistler
Whistler is incredibly well known worldwide for being a ski, snowboarding and winter sport destination, so some people miss the opportunity to experience it in the different seasons. Not only is the fall a great time to take advantage of off-season deals, but the area is much less crowded and more enjoyable for those just looking for a little rest and relaxation. Check out all the different stores and restaurants, enjoy the art galleries and museums, or spend some time in one of the many spas. Of course, the outdoors will call to you – from golfing to kayaking to hiking – there is something for everyone. The breathtaking scenery and the beauty of the fall colors aren’t too bad either.
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Explore the Okanagan Valley
If you enjoy wine, then the Okanagan in the fall is probably the best place to take a time out from life. It’s all about the wine in the autumn in the Okanagan Valley. Some of the best wines in the country are produced here, and this time of year is harvest season, with plump grapes just waiting to fulfil their destiny. The backdrop of the picturesque mountains creates a lovely atmosphere that everyone will enjoy, with or without wine. The golf courses are also something to be enjoyed, not to mention the Thompson Okanagan’s parks which are home to gorgeous glaciers and valleys full of colourful foliage.
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Discover the Similkameen Valley
We can’t talk about a fall trip without mentioning the unique and lovely Similkameen Valley. This is a smaller wine country than the Okanagan but the quaint vineyards and organic orchards lining the Crowsnest Highway make the trips worthwhile. This is a place to slow down and relax. This is a place to discover the fabulous fall harvests and try out the local flavours. Of course, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had so you can spend as much time as you like enjoying the mild fall weather. There are many choices of accommodations here, such as B&Bs, farm stays and vineyard stays, and fantastic choices of homemade foods and great restaurants. This may not be what you expect from autumn in BC, but it will definitely make you fall in the love with the season here.
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Drive Vancouver Island’s East Coast
There is a short drive between Nanaimo and Campbell River on the beautiful Vancouver Island. You can complete this drive in about three hours if you are in a hurry, but fall is the time to take your time and discover all the fantastic places along this route. You can travel on the main Highway 19 but choose to take the side highway when possible – Highway 19A.
The Strait of Georgia coastline is stunning, and the side highway will take you through the charming towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach where you will encounter great cafés and little stores, not to mention the deserted beaches. Make sure you stop at the Goats on the Roof Old Country Market. Head to the interior of the island to discover Horne Lake Caves and the incredible old-growth trees in Cathedral Grove. Campbell River as a destination is fantastic and here you can view the famous fall run of chum salmon.
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Explore Cariboo Country
This area is named after the woodland caribou and the name brings to mind a zone of wilderness and adventure. The region stretches from Cache Creek in the south, all the way north past Quesnel. It is bordered by the picturesque Cariboo Mountains in the east and the Fraser River to the west, and home to incredible canyons, grasslands and forests full of fall foliage. You can explore the lakes and spend some time fishing or kayaking or choose to stay at a ranch and experience the life of a cowboy. There are also plenty of historic places and cultural sites to enjoy.
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Go to the Southern Kootenay Rockies
There is nothing quite like autumn in the Southern Kootenay Rockies. We have already mentioned how special Nelson is, but there is much more to discover in the region, including the incredibly gorgeous old-growth cedar forest beneath the Kokanee Glacier. Ghost towns can be found in the mining areas and there is more history to be found in the other little towns as well. Check out the town of Rossland, the region’s other main town, which is the best place to stay to explore the trail network which will take you through some stunning scenery and fall foliage full of golds, reds and oranges.
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Experience Ucluelet
If you happen to be looking for someplace incredibly unique and special that is not too far away from Vancouver, this is a destination that should be on your to do list in the fall. Just six hours from the city, on the always gorgeous Vancouver Island, you can hike and explore the amazing Wild Pacific Trail, or spend some time visiting the unique Ucluelet Aquarium or the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse. You won’t see any more pristine coastline or breathtaking scenery on the Island than what there is here. The temperate rainforests create an atmosphere of otherworldly delight, as you step into a different type of autumn. This is a piece of heaven on the Island, and much less busy than some of the other areas, making it a perfect fall getaway.
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Discover Smithers
Smithers is one of those towns that you have to do a double-take when you get there. You may not believe that you are still in British Colombia, since this little town in the gorgeous Bulkley Valley resembles some of the small towns you find in the Alps. The alpine-inspired main street boasts great coffee shops, interesting stores, local breweries and even a German-style sausage shop in Bavarian-style buildings. The backdrop of Hudson Bay Mountain and the Bulkley River with the fantastic golds, oranges and reds of the fall foliage gives the town an incredible vibe. Explore the region by heading down the road to the ‘Ksan Historical Village in Hazelton or pick up a rod and do some fly fishing. There are also some lovely hikes in the area if you decide you want to stretch your legs.
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Relax at the Quaaout Lodge & Spa
We haven’t chosen too many specific businesses as destinations for this list, but this lodge and spa on the shore of Little Shuswap Lake, just northest of Kamloops, is definitely worth a mention as a fall destination. The balconies and patios give you incredible views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. You can spend some time on the great golf course, or take in the sockeye salmon run, which is one of the largest in North America and only minutes away in Tsútswecw Provincial Park. Take a walk on the tranquil beach or treat yourself to one or two of the treatments at the Lodge’s Le7ke Spa.
Address: 1663 Little Shuswap Lake Road, Chase
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Hang out in Revelstoke
The gold of the trees frames the river that runs through Revelstoke and gives visitors a chance to enjoy the fall foliage without even having to go very far. Of course, this mountain town offers up amazing chances to get outdoors and explore the region though, so you might want to include some adventure time in your schedule. The town is tucked between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains, which abound with hiking and biking trails and stunning vistas. At the end of the day you can enjoy one of the many great restaurants and breweries or distilleries in town.