These enchanting B.C. parks have vibrant fall colours without the crowds

Fall is officially underway, and Raincouver is back in full swing. But it won’t be long before sunnier days are back in the forecast, which means October is an opportune time to visit some of the most vibrant provincial parks for fall colours.

We talked to a representative from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and BC Parks to uncover where to find the most striking autumn colours, from the most popular destinations to the hidden gems.

So whether it’s the rugged coastline at Rathtrevor Beach Park or the golden larches lining Goldstream and E.C. Manning Parks, here’s where to soak up the season in B.C.

Popular parks for fall colours

According to BC Parks, these are consistently the most visited provincial parks during the autumn season (between 2019 and 2025):

1. Cypress Park 
2. E.C. Manning Park 
3. Rathtrevor Beach Park 
4. Goldstream Park 
5. Golden Ears Park 
6. Mount Seymour Park 
7. Porteau Cove Park 
8. Shannon Falls Park 
9. Stawamus Chief Park 
10. Juan de Fuca Park 

Lesser-known parks to explore

Prefer to take the road less travelled? You’ll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking fall scenery at these hidden gems. No matter if they’re entirely new to you or not, they deserve a spot on your itinerary!

Here are some lesser-known parks to take in the season without the crowds:

• Birkenhead Lake Park
• Coquihalla Canyon Park
• Skagit Valley Park
• Rolley Lake Park
• Conkle Lake Park
• Gladstone Park
• Granby Park
• Red Bluff Park
• Boya Lake Park
• Charlie Lake Park
• Bealton Park
• Eskers Park
• West Lake Park

Before planning your visit, make sure to check each park’s individual access information, current advisories, and weather conditions.

“Nature can be unpredictable, so we suggest you plan your hiking trip with safety in mind,” says the ECCC. “Check the ‘Plan your trip section’ on the BC Parks website, where you’ll find all the essentials for active park advisories, things to do, how to visit responsibly, and accessibility.”

Note that the park gates of some of the spots above may technically be closed after Sept. 30, but limited winter access is still available. Winter accessibility info for each park is available online.

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