BC’s Columbia Valley in Fall: The Best Things to Do & See

The Columbia Valley is where the mighty Columbia River begins its journey, flowing alongside the equally magnificent Canadian Rockies.

This beautiful BC region offers a wealth of classic Rocky Mountain landscapes and experiences, including sparkling lakes (some strikingly turquoise), dense forests, soaring mountain peaks, soothing hot springs, scenic hiking trails and cute communities.

BC’s Columbia Valley in the fall (Columbia Wetland Viewpoint Trail)

But the Columbia Valley has many unique aspects too, especially when visiting in the fall.

Thanks to the wide river valley and wetlands, temperatures are warmer on this side of the Rockies. It is also quieter. Accommodation is more affordable as well.

Better still, the outdoor adventure opportunities feel endless. And there are plenty of golden larches to be found at the end of September (without the crowds).

Larch forest near Diana Lake

In this post, I’ll share all of the best things to do in the Columbia Valley in the fall as tried and tested by us!

As well as recommendations for approachable hiking trails, wildlife-watching opportunities, hot springs and golden larch locations, this autumnal Columbia Valley guide includes our favourite places to eat and stay.

All you need to know to plan a trip is here!

In partnership with Travel Columbia Valley. This post includes some affiliate links – if you make a purchase via one of these links, we may receive a percentage of the sale.

Westside Road views in the Columbia Valley

Introducing BC’s Columbia Valley

The Columbia Valley is a mountain corridor region on the eastern side of British Columbia, Canada, situated on the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa and Secwépemc peoples.

Named after the mighty Columbia River – Canada’s second longest – the valley is home to the river’s source and wetlands.

Welsh Lakes Trail in the Purcell Mountains

The spectacular Canadian Rockies line the eastern side of the Columbia Valley, with the rugged Purcells bordering the western edge.

The communities of Radium Hot Springs, Invermere and Fairmont Hot Springs are nestled inbetween.

The Columbia Valley is an area of striking contrasts, featuring a diverse landscape of mountain peaks, wetlands, grasslands, and forests, as well as a range of travel experiences that span from complete relaxation to remote outdoor adventures.

Wilmer Wetlands Trail near Invermere

JR and I have visited or travelled through the Columbia Valley almost a dozen times over the years. It’s long been our favourite winter road trip stop, primarily for the local hot springs.

However, until recently, we had never taken the time to explore the area in the fall – a big oversight to say the least.

Bighorn sheep are an intrinsic part of the community of Radium Hot Springs

The Columbia Valley is a fantastic fall travel destination – beautiful landscapes, warmer temps than the other side of the Rockies, far fewer crowds, incredible hiking trails (some with golden larch!), multiple hot springs and easy access to Kootenay National Park.

This valley has it all! I know we’ll be revisiting next autumn.

Driving distances to Radium Hot Springs, Columbia Valley:

  • Calgary – 3 hours, 260km
  • Banff – 1 hour 30 minutes, 135km
  • Golden – 1 hour 10 minutes, 103km
  • Kelowna – 5 hours 30 minutes, 450km
  • Vancouver – 9 hours, 815km

Distances between Columbia Valley communities:

  • Radium Hot Springs to downtown Invermere – 15 minutes, 16km
  • Radium to Fairmont Hot Springs – 30 minutes, 38km
  • Radium to Canal Flats – 45 minutes, 62km
  • Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs – 25 minutes, 28km
  • Fairmont Hot Springs to Canal Flats – 20 minutes, 26km
Looking out across the Columbia Valley

The best things to do in the Columbia Valley in the fall

Time to get into this activities guide. Read on to discover the best things to do in the Columbia Valley in the fall, starting with our top ten favourite activities. We have personally tried every recommendation.

I’ve also shared another 10+ things to do, ideal for visitors who have a little more time to spend in this beautiful area in autumn.

Before heading out for your first adventure, be sure to drop by the Radium Hot Springs Visitor Centre. This welcoming facility is open year-round and has some great interpretive displays.

Screenshot of Columbia Valley Google Map with activities
Things to do in the Columbia Valley on Google Maps

See golden larch

Larch trees are conifers that shed their needles each autumn. Before they fall, the needles transform from green to a stunning golden yellow.

BC is home to three types of larch, with the alpine larch (Larix lyalli) growing best above 2,000m elevation.

During a short window at the end of September, the alpine larches glow gold with a backdrop of turquoise lakes and towering mountain peaks.

The Columbia Valley has an impressive number of incredible larch hikes, all without the busy scenes of nearby larch hotspots in the Rockies.

Diana Lake larch forest in fall

We had time for three beautiful larch hikes on our autumn trip, each of which I loved for different reasons:

  • Diana Lake – 12km return, 600m elevation gain (moderate). Small turquoise lake backdropped by expansive larch meadow
  • Welsh Lakes – 8km return, 500m elevation gain (moderate). A short but steep hike up to a turquoise lake encircled by larch
  • Conrad Kain Hut – 10km return, 700m elevation gain (difficult). Very steep trail to a viewpoint below Bugaboo Glacier, with scattered larch and big mountain views

On a return visit, I’d love to check out Brewer Lakes and the Lake of the Hanging Glacier.

Welsh Lakes

All five of these larch hikes are accessible via unpaved roads only. A high-clearance vehicle with AWD is preferable. Be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back.

Bear spray (and bear awareness) is essential – rent a canister from Far Out if you don’t have your own. Prepare to Leave No Trace at all times and bring plenty of clothing layers.

The window to see golden larch is pretty small – around 10 days, sometimes 2 weeks. Due to the elevation, winter hiking conditions (snow, ice) may be encountered.

Conrad Kain Hut Trail, Bugaboos Provincial Park

The most accessible larch hike in the Columbia Valley is Floe Lake, in Kootenay National Park. The trailhead is right on Highway 93 (read our Floe Lake trail guide for more details).

If you don’t have the time, energy or mobility to hike up into the alpine, there is another way to view the larches in the Columbia Valley.

Toby Creek Adventures, located near Panorama Mountain Resort, offers guided ATV and Side-by-Side trips to a larch forest.

Gemma stands on rock in front of Floe Lake, looking at camera. The calm surface of Floe Lake reflects the huge mountains above it
Floe Lake

Soak in the hot springs

The best follow-up to an autumn hiking adventure? A relaxing soak in hot springs!

And the Columbia Valley has not one, but two developed hot springs. Both are well worth visiting, especially in fall, when temperatures are cooler and surrounding mountains have a beautiful dusting of snow,

The community of Radium is named after the nearby hot springs in Kootenay National Park. Radium Hot Springs is one of my favourite hot springs in BC, primarily because the main mineral pool is enormous!

For this reason, it never feels too busy. The location is also spectacular, with dramatic rocky canyon walls towering over the main pool.

Radium Hot Springs warm pool

On our recent Columbia Valley trip, we also visited Fairmont Hot Springs for the first time. It too has an impressive setting, with the Rockies rising majestically behind the pools. The largest pool is on the cool side but is perfect for families.

For a more natural experience, head to Lussier Hot Springs. Part of Whiteswan Provincial Park, these hot springs feature rustic rock ‘pools’ next to the river. The unpaved access road is just south of Canal Flats – more information in our BC hot springs guide.

Fairmont Hot Springs (main pool)

Hike to the Dutch Creek Hoodoos

Located on the warmer side of the Rockies with the Columbia River an ever-present centerpiece, the Columbia Valley is host to some incredibly diverse ecosystems and landscapes.

Think wetlands, grasslands, open forests and mountain peaks.

To our surprise, some areas reminded us of our home region, the dry and desert-like Okanagan Valley. The similarity was obvious as soon as we started spotting hoodoos.

Dutch Creek Hoodoos from Highway 93

These craggy rock columns were created as a result of thousands of years of glaciation and erosion. The most prominent hoodoos in the Columbia Valley are found just south of Fairmont Hot Springs, close to Dutch Creek.

The best place to view the Dutch Creek Hoodoos is right from Highway 93. Head to the Centex gas station and then look up! There’s an unpaved pull-out a little further west.

Looking out over the Dutch Creek Hoodoos

As cool as the hoodoos look from below, it’s even more interesting to view them from above.

A 3km round trip trail leads to the very top of the Dutch Creek Hoodoos, offering impressive views of the eroding spires as well as Fairmont Hot Springs, Columbia Lake and the surrounding mountains.

The trail starts with a relatively long uphill climb (120m elevation gain) so it is a good way to warm up on a cooler fall day. The trailhead is located on Westside Road.

Dutch Creek Hoodoos

Explore Sinclair Canyon

Sinclair Canyon provides a dramatic welcome into the Columbia Valley on Highway 93. The rugged walls of this narrow gorge climb high and almost impossibly close to the two-lane road.

Take the chance to experience this stunning canyon up close. Park at Radium Hot Springs or in the small lot just north of the Kootenay National Park gates.

Sinclair Canyon

It is possible to walk the paved path all along the highway but the best viewpoint is just 200m from the parking area nearest the park gates.

There are beautiful views of the canyon itself as well as a hidden waterfall just to the side of the highway.

The Sinclair Canyon lookout is part of the Juniper Loop trail. This 6.4km circuit has around 320m of elevation gain and links Sinclair Canyon with Redstreak Campground and Radium Hot Springs.

Looking for more short hiking trails in the Radium area?

  • Another quick but rewarding walk is the Valley View Lookout. The main trailhead is at the Radium Visitor Information Centre (1km return) or you can access it from the Redstreak Campground Road.
  • The Sinclair Creek Trail System follows the lower section of the river. There are some pretty fall colours to see. This area is perfect for visitors with dogs as it is all off-leash.
Valley View Lookout at sunrise

Paddle or hike the Columbia Wetlands

The Columbia Wetlands stretch 150km from Canal Flats towards Golden.

Home to hundreds of bird species as well as beavers, painted turtles and more, this ecologically important area is also exceptionally beautiful and an interesting contrast to the mountainous backdrop of the Rockies and Purcells.

Canoe view looking right to beaver lodge in Columbia River wetlands, which includes layers and layers of tree branches and sticks next to shore
Beaver lodge in the wetlands near Invermere

There are a couple of ways to explore the Wetlands while visiting the Columbia Valley. My favourite option is by canoe, kayak or SUP.

If you don’t have your own boat, Columbia River Paddle offer guided tours and rentals in Invermere until mid-October.

Self-guided visitors can explore the calm and wildlife-rich wetlands habitat close to the launch (allow 1 to 2 hours) or continue 17km down the slow river to Radium Hot Springs and return by shuttle (allow 4 to 5 hours).

Wilmer Wetlands Trail

Prefer to keep your feet dry? No problem! Head to the Wilmer Wetlands Trail just north of Invermere.

This short hike has incredible views of the wetlands and surrounding mountains straight from the parking lot! The full 3.7km loop takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to hike.

Another great option is the Columbia Wetland Viewpoint Trail (3.7km return). It’s very close to the Dutch Creek Hoodoos and is an easy, mostly flat walk (allow 1 hour).

Columbia Wetland Viewpoint Trail

Cycle the Westside Legacy Trail

Fall is not just a great time to hike in the Columbia Valley; it’s an ideal season to bike too!

The premier cycling path in this area is the multi-use Westside Legacy Trail. Running from Invermere to Fairmont Hot Springs, this paved trail offers fantastic views of Windemere Lake and the Rockies.

We didn’t have time to explore the Legacy Trail on our fall Columbia Valley trip but our friends Sue and Dave from Travel Tales of Life enjoyed their recent ride along it (this photo is theirs!)

The route is quite hilly so I’d suggest using an e-bike if you’re planning to travel the entire 25km (50km return) length in one go. Rentals are available from Lakeside Bike Co. in downtown Invermere.

For an unpaved cycling experience, check out the Old Coach Trail overlooking the Columbia Valley Wetlands. The full length is 18km return. Alternatively, head to the Kloosifier-Johnson trail system near Panorama Mountain Resort.

Cycling the Westside Legacy Trail – photo credit Travel Tales of Life

Stroll downtown Invermere and Kinsmen Beach

While all three of the Columbia Valley’s communities are well worth a stop, Invermere has the largest downtown area.

Centred around 7th Avenue, downtown Invermere has a wealth of independent boutiques, art galleries, cafes and restaurants to explore.

The Invermere Bakery and Stolen Church Gelato & Coffee are definitely must-visits. Be sure to drop by Artym Gallery to say hello to the Rusty the Moose sculpture.

Need some hiking supplies? Invermere’s Valhalla Pure Outfitters has a huge range of clothing and gear. It also has an unusual setting – a 1926 church!

After checking out the shops, take a walk on beautiful Kinsmen Beach on Windermere Lake.

Rusty the Moose in downtown Invermere

Sip and savour local craft beer

The Columbia Valley is host to a couple of excellent craft breweries – Radium Brewing and Arrowhead Brewing Company (Invermere).

Both breweries offer a solid range of beers, with something for most tastes. It’s hard to pick a winner but Arrowhead just nudges ahead for me (I love sours and lighter beers).

Tasting flight at Arrowhead Brewing Company

In keeping with the Columbia Valley’s casual vibe, both breweries offer bar service. Guests are encouraged to bring food in from other businesses.

Radium Brewing is particularly well placed for this, with two great options (the Snack Bar and Wildside Pizzeria) just steps away.

When the sun shines, take the opportunity to enjoy a beer on either of the spacious patios.

If beer isn’t your preference, consider a trip to Taynton Bay instead. Tasting sessions at this Invermere distillery include five spirit samples.

Spot bighorn sheep

You don’t have to go far to see wildlife in the Columbia Valley! Most notably, this area is home to two herds of wild bighorn sheep.

Members of the Radium-Stoddart herd are often seen trotting or grazing in downtown Radium Hot Springs and nearby Sinclair Canyon. In November, the male bighorn sheep start to fight for mating rights.

Bighorn sheep in Sinclair Canyon (just north of Radium)

Being such a common sight, bighorn sheep are intrinsic to Radium’s landscape and identity. The community’s welcome sign even features two huge ram horns!

Unfortunately, due to vehicle collisions in the last few years, the herd size has decreased from 250 (in 2003) to 120.

The good news is that a wildlife overpass and fencing are currently being built on the south side of town, where the bighorn sheep like to cross the highway.

When viewing the bighorn sheep, be sure to give them plenty of space and an escape route. Drive carefully and stay alert for wildlife at all times.

Bighorn sheep in downtown Radium

Explore Kootenay National Park

Radium Hot Springs is the gateway to Kootenay National Park. Beyond Sinclair Canyon and the hot springs, there are many more places to visit in the rest of the park – don’t miss out!

  • Olive Lake – It’s hard not to notice this amazingly green-coloured lake while driving Highway 93! Walk the short boardwalk to two different lookouts over the colourful water (please note, annual seasonal closure from mid October onwards)
  • Kootenay Valley Viewpoint – Make a quick stop to enjoy the beautiful views over the Kootenay Valley and surrounding mountains.
  • Floe Lake – If you have the time, this long day hike is both challenging and rewarding (770m of elevation gain over 10km). It’s extra beautiful during larch season!
Olive Lake
  • Numa Falls – This powerful waterfall on the turquoise Vermilion River is just a few minutes walk from the parking lot.
  • Paint Pots – One of the more unusual sights in the Canadian Rockies, these bright orange mineral pools look like natural paint pots!
Numa Falls
  • Marble Canyon – 30 to 45 minute loop hike taking in a deep gorge with spectacular views of the river and surrounding mountains. A geological wonder!
  • Stanley Glacier Trail – Have half a day to spend hiking? This approachable trail leads to a wide basin with impressive vistas of a glacier as well as many peaks, tall waterfalls and impossibly steep cliffs.
Marble Canyon

More great things to do in the Columbia Valley in the fall

  • Play a round or two of golf – there are as many as 10 courses to choose from
  • Walk the Source of the Columbia River Trail in Canal Flats (1.5km return)
  • Relax at Nipika Mountain Resort, an off-grid eco-resort (they offer more active options too, like hiking and biking)
  • Fly through the trees on a guided zipline tour – Valley Zipline Adventures is open until mid-October
  • Stroll the interpretive boardwalk at James Cabot Provincial Park in Invermere
  • Visit Lower Bugaboo Falls near Brisco (unpaved road access only)
  • Take to the skies on a tour with Glacier Helicopters
  • Connect with nature on a guided forest bathing tour
  • Have a go at disc golf – three courses to choose from
  • Visit the public beach in Windermere, a small lakeside community just south of Invermere
  • Take in the beautiful views of Columbia Lake from Highway 93 (head to the roadside rest area)
  • Explore more of the Columbia Valley Bird Trail
  • Attend Invermere’s annual Fall Festival in late September or the Food & Artisans Market in mid-October
Columbia Lake

Where to stay in the Columbia Valley

The Piccadilly Motel is our favourite place to stay in Radium Hot Springs. This super clean, modern motel is the epitome of charming, especially with the bright red splashes of British memorabilia.

The double-decker bus parked outside the main reception area is originally from Liverpool and now acts as a breakfast dining room!

For evening meals, the Piccadilly is conveniently within walking distance of all of Radium’s top restaurants.

Piccadilly Motel
Piccadilly Motel room

After the Piccadilly closes for the season, a good nearby alternative is the Destination Inn (open year-round).

On a previous visit, we stayed at Radium Chalet. It’s an older place but the valley views from the rooms are incredible.

In Invermere, the Copper Point Resort is both convenient and comfortable. Located on Highway 93, all of the featured fall activities are easy to access.

Fairmont Hot Springs has a good range of accommodation options. At this time of year, my top pick would be Fairmont Hot Springs Resort for the beautiful views and quick, free entry into the pools.

It’s still possible to camp in the Columbia Valley in the fall! Kootenay National Park’s Redstreak Campground is situated on a forested plateau above Radium Hot Springs. It is open until mid-October.

The double-decker bus at the Piccadilly Motel

Where to eat in the Columbia Valley

The Columbia Valley has a growing dining scene, with a surprisingly wide choice of cuisines and styles.

With all three largest communities being so closely located, it’s easy to explore a variety of culinary experiences in just a short drive.

Chocolate cheesecake at Steamboat Lounge & Forage

The newly opened (spring 2024) Steamboat Lounge & Forage brings something unique to the Columbia Valley.

This high end eatery in Radium Hot Springs is intimate and cosy, with welcoming service and a great range of cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

The inventive food menu highlights sustainably sourced ingredients, something that naturally lends it to be plant-forward (vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free diners rejoice!)

Margarita flight at Steamboat Lounge & Forage

The Old Salzburg is one of Radium Hot Springs’ most popular and well-established restaurants.

Operating for more than 30 years, this Austrian restaurant specialises in schnitzel, steaks and homemade spaetzle (pasta). Fast, consistent and good value, we love the Old Salzburg for post-hike comfort food.

Schnitzel at Old Salzbury with spaetzle

In Invermere, we really liked the Birchwood Restaurant. This modern spot is adult-orientated and serves elevated versions of international dishes. Be sure to note that they do close temporarily in November for a ‘winter reset.’

For something a little more casual, head to longstanding local favourites the Horsethief Creek Pub in Radium and the Station Pub in Invermere. If beer is your priority, pick one of the local breweries and bring in food from elsewhere.

Birchwood Restaurant

Coffee and lighter bites

For coffee, snacks, sweet treats or lunch, look no further than the Big Horn Cafe in Radium Hot Springs.

Everything is baked or made from scratch and is as tasty as it looks! The early opening hours make it easy to drop by and pick something up on the way to a trailhead.

On a warmer day, consider a stop at Screamers for an ice cream! They also serve both savoury and sweet breakfast dishes.

Further south, Kicking Horse Cafe (yep, the same company behind the coffee beans) is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. Beyond the java, they have a range a light dishes and snacks.

In Invermere’s downtown area, plan to stop at Stolen Church Gelato & Coffee and then Invermere Bakery to pick up some sweet treats for the road. For the best breakfast or brunch in town, head to Begginnings.

Screamers mural in Radium

Read these related posts next:

The Best Hot Springs in BC: Complete Guide + Map

Where to Find Golden Larches in British Columbia

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Loop: Detailed 9 to 12 Day Itineraries

17+ of the Best Day Hikes in British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia Trip Planning: Essential Travel Tips to Know

2 Week BC Coast and Rockies Road Trip: Detailed Itinerary + Map

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