Don’t let anyone tell you that Kamloops is not worth visiting in the shoulder season. The fall is an amazing time to come to this city – our temperatures stay higher longer, the sun shines bright over our valley, and the fall colours dance across our hoodoos.
If you’re planning a trip out to Kamloops from September to November plan to check out these destinations for the perfect view of our fall colours. We know they’ll all provide the perfect backdrop for your autumn social post.
1. Riverside Park
Located right downtown Riverside Park is the perfect place for a walk after lunch, evening activities before heading back to your hotel, or a weekend gathering with friends. Enjoy the outdoors in fall’s sweater weather. You can walk along the tree-lined River’s Trail to see the changing leaves; have lunch and some hot chocolate at one of its numerous picnic tables; let your kids play on the various playgrounds or throw a Frisbee around as a family; and check out the beautiful panoramic river view from the pier, with a backdrop of stunning autumn colours on the north shore.
2. Kenna Cartwright Park Viewpoints
So many travelers come to Kamloops for the views from our hoodoos. You will love the hiking trails at Kenna Cartwright Park – it’s one of the largest municipal parks in British Columbia. With its breath-taking designated viewpoints and easy to advanced trails, Kenna Cartwright Park is a spectacular spot to see the fall colours in the city from above it all.
3. Scenic Lookout off Columbia Street
If you want to enjoy a great view of the city without the hike, the Scenic Lookout off Columbia Street might be the place for you! From just outside your car, you can see the picturesque rivers, trees and city combining to paint a perfect fall scene. It’s a great romantic spot post-dinner to watch the sunset or the perfect friend-cation photo-op.
4. River Walk
Rivers Trail at Riverside Park is not the only place to enjoy fall colours bouncing against our waterways. You can explore 40 km of trails following the Thompson and North Thompson River valleys to view the reds, yellows, oranges and browns of fall in the historic and cultural sites, natural areas, urban parks, and public art along the way.
5. Golf
Kamloops’ warm weather means our golf season extends a bit longer than most places – and we know that if you are a golfer there is no better way to appreciate fall colours than when you are out on the course. Take advantage of the long golf season in Kamloops and you won’t be disappointed. We have beautiful courses suitable for every skill level; after the perfect golf shot, you’ll also be able to take the perfect Instagram shot with the stunning and unique scenery surrounding you and your foursome.
6. Horseback Riding
Getting on the back of a horse will always offer one of Kamloops’ most unique vantage points for the colours of fall. You can explore the trails and backcountry of Kamloops on horseback led by experienced guides to show you the magic and beauty of the season surrounding you.
7. Patios and Restaurants
For a not so obvious way to celebrate the colours of the season, try hitting up a restaurant and getting a seat on a patio. You’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal, great company, a warm fall breeze, and the magic of the fall.
You can choose from our charming restaurants, lively pubs, food trucks, or our breweries and wineries to find the perfect viewpoint for checking out Kamloops’ fall scenery.
8. Salmon Run
A short distance from Kamloops offers another one-of-a-kind view of the season. Start by viewing the different colours of the trees as you hike on the various trails in Tsútswecw Provincial Park (Roderick Haig-Brown) and follow it up by stopping at the viewing platforms in the park to witness an amazing fall event – the spawning of the bright red and green coloured salmon in the Adams River.
People come from all around the world to check out the Salmon Run. Don’t forget to cross this off your bucket list while you are visiting Kamloops in the fall.
9. BC Wildlife Park
We know kids love fall – leaves, colours, and those knit gloves. The BC Wildlife Park offers a fun way to view the flora and fauna of fall for the whole family. Wander the paths in the park, ride the train, play at the playground, and visit with all the animals – you’ll experience the changing colours of the season with over 65 different species of British Columbian wildlife.
10. Mountain Biking
Like Kamloops’ golf season – our biking season is longer than most. If you are itching to get out on the trails one more time before putting the bike away for the winter Kamloops is your destination. Our mountain biking paradise is the perfect place to check out our fall colours. You’ll fly by the rugged landscape, rolling hills, thick forests, and downhill tracks while you take in the reds and yellows of the fall.
Exploring can work up quite a thirst! So why not après at a brewery or winery to enjoy the flavours of the season. Don't forget to check out local travel deals to plan your stay.
