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Vancouver summers are the reason many of us choose to call the city home, but its surrounding small towns truly come to life in the fall, filled with history, charm, great eats, and cozy sips. Whether you’re cafe hopping or looking for a stunning fall hike, fall festival, or hot spring to visit – or all of the above – you’ll find all of it and more at these enchanting small towns in British Columbia.
Nakusp
Situated in the Selkirk Mountains in southeast BC, the town of Nakusp is home to many stunning lakes, forests, and the clearest hot springs in the province.
During the spring, summer, and fall seasons, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking around the hot springs. This includes trails to the new Kuskanax Footbridge and the original historic hot springs site. Up for more of an adventure? There’s a beautiful trail leading to Kimbol Lake and plenty of kayaking and canoeing opportunities around the Kuskanax River and nearby Arrow Lakes.
Where: West Kootenay, BC
Duncan
Located on the traditional lands of the Cowichan First Nation, Duncan is home to the world’s largest collection of outdoor totems, as well as multiple Victorian-era buildings to explore. Full of history and charm, this quaint town has a brand new night market running until November this year, so fall is a great time to plan a visit!
Where: Cowichan Valley, BC
Naramata
A hotspot for wine enthusiasts and beach lovers, Naramata offers visitors breathtaking views and flowing wine in the heart of BC’s wine country. Situated along the southeast shore of Okanagan Lake, the town also has hundreds of trails to offer adventurers of all kinds, whether you’re looking for a scenic hike or a ride on your mountain bike.
Where: Southern Okanagan Lake, BC
Mayne Island
Recognized as one of the prettiest small towns in British Columbia, this island is known for its unforgettable wildlife experiences, which include frequent Orca sightings! If you’re all about hanging onto summer for as long as you can, this destination offers the best of both worlds, with beautiful natural scenery and beaches on beaches.
Where: Southern Gulf, BC
Smithers
There’s nothing more charming than a fall trip to the mountains, and that’s exactly what you’ll achieve by visiting the quaint town of Smithers. Visitors can enjoy a mix of hiking, fishing, skiing, and exploring the town’s thriving arts and culture scene – which includes several art galleries, live music venues, and the annual Bulkley Valley Exhibition & Fall Fair!
This ‘Fair of the North’ is the longest-running in BC outside of the Lower Mainland, featuring a rodeo, live music, half-time shows, Midway rides and games, equestrian and canine sports, a parade, and much more.
Where: Bulkley Valley, BC
Penticton
One of two cities in the world to be situated between two lakes, Penticton is undoubtedly a popular summertime destination, but you’ll also be treated to gorgeous fall colours this upcoming season. A thriving hub for endless outdoor opportunities and arts and culture events, Penticton is a great day trip destination fro Vancouver.
Visitors can enjoy swimming in warm waters, camping, mountain biking, hiking, and perusing the town’s local shops, museums, galleries, and theatres. Oh, and if you want to check out a bit of local history, consider visiting the S.S. Sicamous Heritage Park!
Where: Okanagan Valley, BC
Harrison Hot Springs
In addition to being a world-class hot springs destination, Harrison Hot Springs is home to a stunning clear-blue lake (Harrison Lake) and plenty of lush forests to explore. Go for a late-summer dip, fishing, or boating on the lake before summer ends, or get cozy at the resort. Those interested in local history can check out the Harrison Hot Springs Museum and stroll through the Native Village.
Where: Harrison River Valley, BC
Fernie
The only BC city to be completely surrounded by the Canadian Rockies, Fernie is a one-stop destination for skiing, snowboarding, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Most of the heritage buildings date back to 1908 and 1909 – a rarity in small-town BC, according to Tourism Fernie!
Where: Elk Valley, BC
Pemberton
Situated just 20 minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton has plenty of hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and pumpkin-picking opportunities to offer visitors, all the while surrounded by the stunning Joffre Lakes (temporarily closed until October 6th), Birkenhead (open until September 30th), and Nairn Falls Provincial Parks (open until September 30th).
Where: Pemberton Valley, BC
Gibsons
The Town of Gibsons offers visitors the chance to live out their dreamy beach vacations no matter the season, situated just a 40-minute ferry ride away from West Vancouver. Best known as the location behind CBC’s longest-running show “The Beachcombers,” the town also offers visitors the chance to stroll a bustling public market, and enjoy several nearby parks and beaches – including the popular Armours Beach – which has been a fave among locals for over 100 years!
Where: Sunshine Coast, BC
And that’s a wrap on some stunning small towns to visit across British Columbia this fall. Happy adventuring!
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