Interesting stories and experiences from the Crowsnest Highway region
Top 10 Things to Do in Fall Along the Crowsnest Highway
Fall transforms the Crowsnest Highway through some of BC’s most spectacular landscapes. From the misty mountains and autumn adventures of Hope to the golden larches of Manning Park, the vineyards and harvest flavours of the Similkameen and Osoyoos, and the colourful forests and welcoming communities of Boundary Country, every stretch of Highway 3 brings something new to discover.
This is a season made for slowing down and exploring. Hike beneath golden larches, wander lakeside trails, play a round of disc golf with a valley view, or settle into a cozy cabin after a day outdoors. Follow the flavours of fall from local coffee and comfort food to harvest wines, cider, fresh produce and long-table dinners. Along the way, discover farmers’ markets, fall fairs, seasonal festivals, family farms and the small-town experiences that make the journey as memorable as the destinations.
So take the scenic route, leave room for a few detours and let autumn set the pace. Chase the colours, taste the harvest, explore a new trail, linger over a good meal and keep your eyes open for the wildlife and unexpected moments along the way. From Hope to Christina Lake, the Crowsnest Highway is more than a road trip—it’s a collection of experiences waiting to happen. Every Mile. A New Memory.
Here are our top 10 ways to experience the 395-kilometre (245-mile) journey this fall along the Crowsnest from Hope to Christina Lake, including Manning Park, Similkameen Valley, Osoyoos, and Boundary Country.
1. Hope: Fog Fest & Autumn Adventures
On Saturday, October 3, join us for the 2nd Annual Witches and Warlocks on Kawkawa. Dress up in your favorite witch, wizard, or magical costume and paddle across the lake alongside fellow spellcasters. Families, friends, and paddlers of all ages are welcome to take part in this memorable gathering. Free food and drinks will be provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring a propane fire pit to enjoy the festivities lakeside. There will also be free door prizes, making this a magical day you won’t want to miss.
The fun continues on Halloween Day with Monsters on Wallace, a family-friendly celebration filled with spooky charm. Visitors can take part in a community-wide shopping passport program, explore local businesses, and enjoy free magical activities for both the young and the young at heart. With treats, entertainment, and festive surprises around every corner, Monsters on Wallace is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween in Hope.
This year marks the 4th Annual Fog Fest, and we’re thrilled to welcome visitors back for three unforgettable weekends filled with the same beloved themes that have become a community tradition: Romance in the Mist, Girls Gone Foggy, and Foggy Little Christmas. Throughout the festival, the town comes alive with special events, unique experiences, and themed itineraries designed for every type of visitor. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a fun-filled weekend with friends, or an early holiday escape, Fog Fest offers countless ways to immerse yourself in the magic of the season.
(Pro tip: for even more inspiration, dive into Hope’s full seasonal guide before you go.)
2. Hope: Coffee, Lakes & Autumn Colours
Ease into your fall day with a visit to Mia Pizza & Pasta, one of Hope’s newest culinary gems. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the warm smile of Chef Lorenzo, whose authentic Italian hospitality makes every guest feel like part of the family. More than just a meal, dining here is an experience, as Chef Lorenzo shares the passion, traditions, and recipes that have inspired his cooking for years.
As the autumn air turns crisp outside, settle in with a plate of Lorenzo’s signature seafood pasta, a comforting dish brimming with rich flavours and made with the care only a true Italian chef can deliver. From handmade sauces to family-inspired recipes, every bite feels like a warm embrace. Surrounded by the welcoming atmosphere and heartfelt charm of the restaurant, you’ll quickly discover why Mia Pizza & Pasta has become a must-visit stop during Fog Fest. In Hope, comfort food isn’t just something you eat, it’s something you experience.
3. Manning Park Resort: Larch Madness
Every Fall, Manning Park transforms into a golden paradise. From late September to early October, the alpine larches ignite in brilliant shades of yellow and gold, standing out against deep blue skies and rugged peaks.
The best way to see them? Hike the iconic Mount Frosty Trail for sweeping views, or take a gentler stroll along the shores of Lightning Lake, where the reflections double the glow. With every crunch of leaves underfoot and every turn in the trail, the magic of Larch Madness comes alive.
Photographers, hikers, and nature lovers flock here during late September to early October because once you’ve seen a mountainside glowing gold, it’s hard to forget. Bring your boots, your camera, and a little sense of wonder.
Don’t forget to share your shots with #LarchMadness and #ManningPark—the golden season only lasts a short time, so make every moment count.
4. Manning Park Resort: Cozy Cabins + Rustic Charm
After a day of golden trails and crisp mountain air, there’s nothing better than retreating to your own cozy cabin or lodge room at Manning Park Resort. Picture it: the glow of alpine larches still fresh in your mind, a fire crackling, a warm drink in hand.
Step outside for one last breath of mountain air or wander a quiet lakeside path at dusk. Every detail—from the rustle of leaves underfoot to the soft glow of sunset over the peaks—wraps you in the season’s magic.
Rustic charm meets modern comfort here, making it easy to rest, restore, and recharge—whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family.
5. Similkameen Valley: Disc Golf & Trails at China Ridge
Just a short drive from Princeton, China Ridge is the kind of place where fall feels wonderfully uncrowded. The trails wind through forests, grassy slopes and open ridge country, with autumn adding a wash of gold to the landscape. Spend the day hiking, biking or playing a round of disc golf surrounded by wide-open mountain scenery, with cooler temperatures making fall an ideal time to get outside.
As you explore the extensive trail network, keep your eyes open for wildlife and enjoy the changing perspective with every turn. Climb higher and the trees give way to sweeping views across the Tulameen River Valley and toward the surrounding mountain ranges. With more than 45 kilometres of maintained trails and additional routes to discover, there’s plenty of room to find your own quiet corner of the Ridge.
Fall is also a beautiful time to experience China Ridge by bike or on foot before winter settles in. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and take your time—the crisp mountain air, golden grasslands and wide-open views are all part of the experience. And because China Ridge is open year-round, your autumn adventure can be just the beginning of another reason to return when the snow arrives.
6. Similkameen Valley: Harvest & Wine Adventure
The Similkameen Valley comes alive in autumn with fresh harvests, bold red wines, and cozy vineyard stays. Explore family-run wineries, cideries, and a distillery, where every sip tells the story of the land. Wander through orchards, sample seasonal produce, and soak in the dramatic valley scenery that makes this region so captivating.
Time your visit to coincide with the Similkameen Sizzle in Keremeos, Canada’s only hot pepper festival. Held on September 20 at Keremeos Memorial Park, this free, lively event celebrates the valley’s spicy harvest with live music, food tastings, and the legendary hot pepper eating contest. From sipping bold local wines to discovering artisan sauces and fresh produce, the Sizzle perfectly blends harvest fun with the region’s vibrant flavours and community spirit.
When the day winds down, stay a little longer. Plan your day or weekend getaway with the Similkameen Wine Itinerary, highlighting must-see stops and seasonal discoveries while leaving plenty of time to enjoy signature events like the Sizzle. Autumn in the Similkameen is all about savouring local flavours, taking in sweeping valley views, and creating lasting memories in one of British Columbia’s most scenic wine regions.
7. Osoyoos: Fall Trails & Scenic Adventures
In autumn, Osoyoos’ trails come alive with vibrant colour, crisp air, and beautiful seasonal scenery. Take your time exploring the outdoors, from a peaceful stroll along the Irrigation Canal Walkway to a scenic visit to sẁiẁs Provincial Park, where you can enjoy tranquil views of Osoyoos Lake and the stunning colours of fall.
For something wilder, climb the network of trails at Mount Kobau or Strawberry Creek and take in the South Okanagan from above. Wherever your boots or bike take you, the mix of desert, wetlands, and rolling vineyards makes Osoyoos an outdoor playground painted in autumn’s brightest shades.
8. Osoyoos: Fall Flavours Await
After a day on the trails, the flavours of Osoyoos are the perfect reward. Cozy cafés serve up comfort in a cup, while vineyard restaurants pair panoramic views with farm-fresh menus that celebrate the season.
In autumn, the valley also comes alive with long table dinners set among vineyards and orchards—where harvest ingredients shine and every seat feels like part of the family. It’s the kind of experience that lingers long after the last glass is poured.
From hearty, soul-warming meals to light bites that let local ingredients shine, every table here tells a story of the South Okanagan’s harvest. In Osoyoos, dinner isn’t just a meal—it’s part of the adventure.
9. Boundary Country: Fall Foliage Drive
When autumn arrives, Boundary Country becomes a living canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. A slow drive or an unhurried walk along forested lakeshores is enough to surround yourself in colour.
This is also the season of wildlife—deer slipping through the trees, elk grazing in open meadows, and migrating birds filling the skies. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially magical, when the light softens and the valley feels hushed, as if holding its breath.
Keep your camera close, but don’t rush. The most unforgettable moments here come when you simply pause, look a little closer, and let nature reveal itself.
10. Boundary Country: Markets & Fall Fairs
In fall, Boundary Country brims with colour and community. Wander farmers’ markets piled high with apples, pumpkins, and homemade preserves, or browse artisan stalls where every display tells a story of the season.
Local fairs in towns like Grand Forks and Rock Creek bring out the rides, the music, and the laughter of neighbours catching up over warm drinks and baked treats. For something slower, visit family farms like Jerseyland Organics or PV Ranch, where orchards, animals, and hands-on traditions give you a taste of the valley’s heritage.
Here, autumn is about more than the harvest—it’s about connection, flavour, and the small-town spirit that makes Boundary Country shine.
Wrap Up Your Fall Journey
The Crowsnest Highway isn’t just a road—it’s autumn unfolding around you. Misty mornings in Hope. Golden larches at Manning Park. Fiery vineyard hills in the Similkameen. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the quiet of a lakeside walk, the warmth of cider or wine as the sun slips behind the mountains. Every turn brings a new story.
This fall, trade routine for adventure. Let colours shift around you, let harvest festivals surprise you, and let the stillness between stops become part of the magic. From Hope to Christina Lake, nature dazzles, communities welcome, and the highway itself invites you to slow down and look closer.
You don’t need the perfect plan, just curiosity, a camera, and a little room in your heart for the season. Because along the Crowsnest Highway, every mile is more than scenery. It’s a memory in the making.
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