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Brighter / Brighter Magazine / 5 wow moments to enjoy in Western Canada

5 wow moments to enjoy in Western Canada

Autumn in Canada means golden forests, wildlife and quiet adventures. Savour local harvests, explore vineyards and parks, and chase the northern lights.

Sponsored by Destination Canada

6 January 2025

A lake with a mountain behind it and reflected in the water at night time.

If you’ve ever dreamed of Canada, autumn is the time to go. It’s like nature put on a show just for you—golden leaves everywhere, crisp mountain air and the kind of quiet that makes outdoor adventures feel magical. Even the wildlife comes out to say hi, from wandering elk to bears getting in their last snacks before winter.

Think British Columbia’s misty rainforests, the Rockies dressed in their autumn best and endless northern skies. Even better: there’s no peak-season crowds so you have the trails, lakes and stunning views to yourself.

See grizzly bears in the wild

Time your visit to Knight Inlet Lodge in the Great Bear Rainforest for late September during the salmon runs, when bears are most active near the lodge’s viewing platforms. For a deeper connection to the area, join a guided tour led by Indigenous hosts who share local knowledge and traditions. Then paddle the calm inlets early in the morning for the best chance of spotting other wildlife.

A grizzly bear in a lake with a fish in its mouth.

Savour the harvest

Autumn in the Okanagan Valley is a feast for the senses, with its golden vineyard rows and overflowing farm stands. Start your day with a bike ride along the Myra Canyon Trestles, a quieter section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail offering panoramic views of the farmlands below—early mornings are especially serene.

Afterward, head to the less touristy wineries; head to the tasting room at Tantalus Vineyards for some of the region’s best Rieslings. And don’t miss Davison Orchards for more than just cider—their fresh apple pies are local favourites.

Take a side trip to Whistler

The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a bucket-list drive that truly shines in autumn, with its golden hues and quieter roads. Start by crossing the Lions Gate Bridge to North Vancouver, where the Capilano Suspension Bridge offers magical canopy views.

Stop at Porteau Cove Provincial Park to explore lesser-known rugged beaches, and don’t miss the Sea-to-Sky Gondola near Squamish for sweeping vistas of Howe Sound. The trails at the top are perfect for a peaceful stroll. In Whistler, the village buzzes with cozy fall energy, and the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre offers a blend of Indigenous heritage and alpine beauty.

Lose yourself in Jasper National Park, Alberta 

Spanning more than 11,000 square kilometres, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for those craving true wilderness. While most people flock to the main lookouts, consider an early morning paddle on Pyramid Lake—you’ll have the glassy waters and snow-dusted peaks to yourself.

For hiking, skip the crowds and opt for the Edith Cavell Meadows Trail; the views of Angel Glacier are incredible. Driving the Icefields Parkway? It’s as spectacular as everyone says but pull over at Tangle Creek Falls for a quiet moment away from the busier stops like Athabasca Falls. 

Add on a trip to see the northern lights

For some of the most jaw-dropping displays, head to Yellowknife, just a 2-hour flight from Calgary. Sitting directly beneath the auroral oval, it’s one of the most reliable spots in the world to catch the lights.

Locals know to visit in late September or early October, when the skies are clear but the lakes are still ice-free, adding a mirror-like effect to the aurora’s vibrant greens and purples. Find a quiet lakeside spot outside town to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience. Or try Aurora Village, where heated teepees and local guides make the magic unforgettable.

Visit keepexploring.com.au for more Canada travel inspiration.

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