A Guide to Top Fall Destinations in British Columbia

Similkameen River, BC | Photerrestrial

In the fall, British Columbia has stunning fall foliage and weather that remains pleasant and mild. Many locations across the province are worth exploring, but we’ve covered the best of the best in this guide to the top fall destinations in British Columbia.

Campbell River

Campbell River, a community on Vancouver Island, is one of the province’s best locations for outdoor enthusiasts. Known as one of the top places in the world for salmon fishing, this community attracts many, especially during the early fall, which marks the peak season to reel in these coveted fish. Also, the town’s local distilleries serve seasonal beverages, stunning hiking trails lead to waterfalls, boat tours operate throughout the year, and Downtown Campbell River offers charming boutiques and local businesses.

Campbell River | Xavier Barbot

Chilliwack

Framed by forested mountains, Chilliwack is a busy and scenic community. It offers numerous attractions that captivate visitors throughout the autumn season. Chilliwack, a prominent hub for corn agriculture, offers the opportunity to explore its surrounding corn mazes and pumpkin patches during the harvest season. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, visit the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. And to usher in the season, indulge in a delicious pumpkin-flavored beverage at one of Chilliwack’s breweries or restaurants. 

Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park | Hunter Reilly

Surrey

Surrey, a bustling city along the Fraser River near the United States border, is one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. This lively metropolis also features plenty of scenic areas, including many surrounding pumpkin patches and apple orchards during the fall season. Visitors seeking top-notch fall foliage scenery should head to trails like Tynehead Regional Park or Green Timbers Urban Forest Park. Surrey embraces the season with numerous festivals, including the Arts Council of Surrey’s Fall Fair at Newton Cultural Centre, and spooky Halloween spectacles like the Cougar Creek House of Horrors

Tynehead Regional Park | Matt Drenth

Okanagan Valley

The expansive Okanagan Valley region is a can’t-miss fall destination with a wide range of activities to experience. The Okanagan Valley’s numerous wineries, hosting tours and tastings throughout the fall, serve as a major attraction for visitors. Kelowna, the largest city in the Okanagan Valley, features several standout seasonal attractions, including farmers markets, guided wine trails, honey farms, and corn mazes. Also, the Okanagan Valley has world-class hiking trails, scenic bodies of water, and stunning fall colors. 

Kelowna | Kolby Milton

Victoria

Victoria, British Columbia’s capital, is one of the country’s must-visit autumn hotspots. This city’s stunning Victorian architecture, pleasant weather, abundant natural beauty, and non-stop excitement combine to create an ideal fall retreat. Visiting the Butchart Gardens is all the more spectacular when the leaves begin to change. And nature enthusiasts will appreciate Victoria’s picturesque hiking trails, delightful waterways, and bustling parks. Take a creepy ghost tour to embrace the Halloween spirit or relax at Victoria’s cafes and tea houses to warm up after a day of fun outside.

Victoria

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