Most people associate fall with cozy plaids, boots, and trusty toques. But Kamloops dances to a different tune. We bask in our own "endless summer," where the sun shines warmly amid autumn's rich palette of reds, golds, and greens. Curious about the best autumn activities here? Dive into the top 10 fall recommendations from Kamloops locals below!
Fall Fishing in Kamloops
Ever thought of the perfect fishing getaway? Kamloops, BC awaits you! Autumn brings vibrant scenes and a chance to snag the renowned Kamloops Rainbow Trout. There are over a hundred accessible lakes; even if you're boat-less, many have ready-to-use fishing docks.
Local Tip For Enthusiasts: Kamloops shines this year as the host of the World Fly Fishing Championships, September 24-30, 2023. Be there!
Autumnal Farmers Markets
Fall in Kamloops? Think crisp apples, warm pies, and fresh pumpkins. Grab these and more at Kamloops' two Farmers' Markets. On Saturdays, head to St. Paul Street from 8:30am to 12:30pm or Victoria Street on Wednesdays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. You'll find everything, from freshly baked goods to local produce to crafts.
For a unique touch, drop by the Kweseltken Farmers' and Artisan Market at the Kamloopa Powwow Arbour on Sundays from 8:00 am to 2:00pm until September 25. "Kweseltken" translates to "relatives" in Secwépemc. Dive into a cultural treat with traditional foods, handmade items, and fresh weekly essentials. It's a fall feast and cultural journey all in one!
Celebrate BC Craft Beer
Cheers to October - it's craft beer month in BC! Kamloops is buzzing with excitement. Looking for fresh brews?
Discover hidden gems like Bright Eye Brewing on the North Shore. Fancy a Strawberry Pineapple Sour? They've got it straight from the tank. Iron Road Brewing is a local favourite, offering delightful beers and a menu all about those taco Tuesday vibes every day. Don't miss the Noble Pig Brewhouse, Red Collar Brewing, and Alchemy Brewing Co. for more hoppy delights.
Skip driving - opt for a guided beer or wine tour.
Local Tip: From October 1 to November 30, indulge in Kamloops' special sip and stay packages courtesy of the BC Ale Trail. Bottoms up!
Coffee Shop Sipping
There's something special about a cozy, local coffee joint. Kamloops cafes are embracing the autumn vibes. Sure, they've got your classic PSL, but they're mixing things up with cool creations like S'mores Mochas and Cinnamon White Hot Chocolates that will warm your hands as the days turn colder.
Strolling down Victoria Street in downtown Kamloops? Be on the lookout for gems like Hebrews Ahava Coffee House and Motivo Cafe. Don't miss Amplified Cafe, the Vic Downtown, and the Art We Are. Perfect pit stops as you browse the local scene!
Endless Summer Golf
Grab those golf clubs! Kamloops is calling. With our bonus fall days, you can enjoy the greens into September and even October. Fancy beating your own record? Swing by renowned courses like Tobiano and Talking Rock, especially with those end-of-season rates.
And if you're up for a tailored golf adventure, Golf Kamloops has just the package. Tee up, and let's go!
Take on a Fall Hike
Swap the damp forests for Kamloops' distinctive desert trails. There's a special charm here that coastal paths can't match. As summer waves goodbye and autumn paints the landscape, it becomes the ideal season for a trek. Ready for a hiking challenge? Dive into trails like Battle Bluff or explore the serene McConnell Lake. The autumn leaves create the perfect backdrop for those who crave a calming walk.
We've curated a list of our top 5 accessible trails for the fall season. So, lace up those hiking boots and get ready for an unforgettable Kamloops adventure!
Fall Biking in Kamloops
Ever caught those Friday Fails or Saturday Sends on Pinkbike? Chances are, you've glimpsed Kamloops' iconic riding scenes. Kamloops boasts legendary tracks, with pros often spotted at Kamloops Bike Ranch or racing down Harper Mountain trails. But if you're just starting out or prefer a chill ride, Lac du Bois Grasslands and Kenna Cartwright Nature Park have your back.
Ask any local rider – fall's cool vibes and fewer crowds make it the prime time to hop on and ride.
Witness the Fall Salmon Run
Please Note: Before heading out, check the BC Parks website for any park closures due to wildfires.
Experience a true marvel of nature, the Adams River salmon run. Witness the river transform into a shimmering red as countless salmon return to spawn. Happening between late September and mid-October, it's a sight you won't want to miss. While there, explore the beautiful 26-kilometer trails of Tsútswecw Provincial Park. Round out your experience with learning along the Story Trail, which offers insights into indigenous tales and the region's rich flora.
Get Ready to Pumpkin Patch
Kamloops transforms into BC's cozy autumn corner when September hits the Thompson Valley. Sagebrush joins the trees in a golden dance, and sunflower fields light up with vibrant hues. Ready for some classic fall fun? Venture through pumpkin patches, pick that perfect pumpkin and lose (then find) yourself in corn mazes. Kamloops offers the essence of autumn, backed by BC's picturesque scenery. So, gather the crew - it's time for some unforgettable fall adventures!
Pumpkin Garden | Kamloops, BC
Desert Hills Ranch Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze | Ashcroft, BC
Pumpkin Patch | Cache Creek, BC
Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze | Chase, BC
Pumpkin Patch & Apple Picking | Vernon, BC
Pumpkin Patch | Salmon Arm, BC
Fall for Arts and Culture
Kamloops might not be all glitz and glamour, but where we do shine is in arts and culture – especially during the fall! For art enthusiasts, the Kamloops Art Gallery features "Tob Tob Kin" from September 16 to December 30, 2023, and "Black Drones in the Hive" from September 23 to December 30, 2023.
If you're up for a musical treat, mark your calendar for the Kamloops Fiddlers Senior Free Afternoon Concert at the Oasis Church on September 15, 2023. Another musical gem, "A Falcon, A Storm or A Great Song," will resonate at the Kamloops United Church on September 16.
Music lovers, brace yourselves for a double treat!
On September 23, the Kamloops Symphony rolls out with two fantastic shows. Don't miss the "Daniel Clarke-Bouchard Recital" and "Rhapsody in Blue" at the Sagebrush Theatre. A perfect time to soak in the city's cultural brilliance!
Your fall travel plans shouldn't break the bank. Good thing we've secured the best travel deals and discounts available in Kamloops so that you can spend your money on more important things. Can't make it this fall? Here are the top 10 things to do this winter in Kamloops.
