10 stunning fall hikes in BC that will have you falling in love with the season

The colourful and vibrant fall season is upon us, which means we’re due for some stunning fall hikes this upcoming season. Fortunately, BC has no shortage of stunning adventures to choose from, ranging from easier strolls through nature to challenging treks through the mountains.

So with that in mind, here are 10 of the most stunning fall hikes to check out in BC this season.

Note: When planning your trips, make sure to consult trail conditions before you arrive and follow marked trails. Always let someone know ahead of time if you’re planning a day hike or overnight stay outdoors. Familiarize yourself with this safety list prior to departure. 

Lindeman Lake Trail

Located in the Chilliwack Provincial Park, the Lindeman Lake Trail is perhaps the most beautiful in the fall. Wind your way through the forest on this out-and-back trail, with a gorgeous lake rewarding your efforts. At just 3.5km, this hike can be accomplished in only a couple of hours.

Where: Chilliwack Provincial Park
Length: 3.5km

Kanaka Creek Cliff Falls 

The Cliff Falls area of Kanaka Creek offers hikers an “easy” set of hiking trails, according to Vancouver Trails – and it’s a great spot for families to spend the day outdoors any time of year. The trail itself widens to the Cliff Falls picnic area, with plenty of tables and a view of the stunning falls to the right. Those who want to continue on their journey can follow the meandering trail through the forest to the Bell-Irving Salmon Hatchery.

Where: Maple Ridge
Length: 4 km

Wedgemount Lake

Known as one of the most challenging hikes in Garibaldi Park, Wedgemount Lake offers an elevation gain of 1160 meters in just 6km. However, the alpine views and a glimpse of the amazing Wedgemount Waterfall make it more than worth it.

Where: Garibaldi Provincial Park
Length: 12 km

Teapot Hill

 

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Right beside Cultus Lake, Teapot Hill is one of those hikes where you won’t be bummed out if visibility isn’t great. Why? Because there are tons of actual teapots dotting the landscape on the trail, making what’s in front of you just as fun as what’s beyond. Plus, the porcelain-foliage combo is just so darned cool.

Where: Cultus Lake Provincial Park
Length: 4.8km

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Norvan Falls

One of the longest trails we’re recommending is also one that includes a waterfall! This iconic North Shore hike is between Grouse and Seymour, runs alongside a river, and ends with a very nice waterfall to take in. Plus, those looking for an extra challenge can opt for a side trail with more rugged terrain on the way out or coming back.

Where: Lynn Headwaters Regional Park
Length: 13.8km

Mount Gardner Loop

Maybe one weekend you see Bowen Island from away, and maybe one weekend you see it up close! This loop is the longest hike on the list, and is more or less a full-day trip including the ferry. But, find yourself there on a clear day, and you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the area from a whole new perspective.

Where: Bowen Island
Length: 15.9km

Lower Gold Creek Falls Trail

Sitting in the heart of Golden Ears Provincial Park, this trail is both nice to drive to and nice to actually walk. This is another heavily forested (and heavily trafficked) trail, but on clear days you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the surrounding falls.

Where: Golden Ears Provincial Park
Length: 5.5km

Addington Lookout Loop

Minnekhada Provincial Park is always a beautiful fall destination, and this series of trails let you see practically all of it. Enjoy the marshes, climb some hills, and keep on the lookout for wildlife! This is an absolute hotspot for those who like birds, so maybe even bring some binoculars with you.

Where: Minnekhada Provincial Park
Length: 6.9km

Pacific Spirit Regional Park

 

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For those who prefer to stay in the city, there’s Pacific Spirit Regional Park, which although scenic year-round, is especially beautiful as fall approaches. You can walk through wooded trails and also down to the beach if you feel like it. That means you can make your hike as long or as short as you’d like.

Where: UBC Endowment Lands, Vancouver
Length: Almost 75 km of hiking trails

Little Qualicum Falls

These cute falls are also located on Vancouver Island and are super easy to get to! Near Qualicum Beach and Parksville, take the well-groomed path and check out the wonderful falls. The loop trail also allows you to check out the many different cascades and pools of these gorgeous falls.

Where: Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, Vancouver Island

And that’s a wrap on some stunning fall hikes, BC! Enjoy the changing foliage and be sure to prepare for wetter trail conditions.

Curiocity Staff

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