Fall and winter in British Columbia are two of the most magical times to explore the province, and there’s no better way to experience them than with a thoughtfully planned getaway. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best seasonal activities, scenic views, cozy retreats, and family-friendly adventures across BC. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a fun-filled family trip, or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, this guide will help you plan the perfect fall or winter vacation. With Prestige Hotels & Resorts as your home base, you can enjoy the beauty of the seasons while relaxing in comfort and style.
Embracing the Beauty of The Seasons
When fall arrives in British Columbia, the landscape transforms into a canvas of gold, crimson, and amber. Crisp mornings give way to sunny afternoons that make the perfect backdrop for exploring charming mountain towns, lakeside trails, and local markets bursting with seasonal flavours. As fall gives way to winter, the scenery shifts once more. Snow blankets mountain peaks, lakes glisten with icy edges, and festive lights bring warmth to long evenings. Whether you’re wandering through Nelson’s historic streets, strolling along the Shuswap in Salmon Arm, or simply taking in the view from your hotel balcony, these seasons in BC are a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the beauty that surrounds you.
Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventures
We are undoubtedly spoiled with the amount of good views we have in BC, whether you’re travelling by car through the alpine top of a mountain pass, witnessing big sheep roam where the wildflowers bloom, hiking to see a waterfall framed in golden foliage, or even just looking out your hotel room window.
One of the most memorable autumn drives is through the Strawberry Pass near Rossland, where the colours of larch and aspen frame alpine lakes like Nancy Greene. Before the deep winter snow arrives, locals often head up to trails like Old Glory or Mount Lepsoe for panoramic views that stretch across the Rossland Range.
Further east, the Creston–Salmo Pass winds through dense forest that glows golden in fall and turns frosted white as winter settles in. Pulling over at the summit offers a chance to stretch your legs, and hikers seeking a quieter adventure can explore the nearby Monk Creek Trail or the alpine meadows surrounding Kootenay Pass.
Closer to the Okanagan, high-altitude routes like the Connector (Highway 97C) deliver striking contrasts between sunlit valleys and snow-covered peaks. With plenty of pullouts along the way, it’s easy to pause and take in the shifting beauty of the season, whether you’re on your way to a ski hill or simply chasing the scenery.
Cozy Comforts and Seasonal Dining
After a day exploring mountain trails or winding roads, there is nothing quite like warming up with a good meal. Many of our destinations come alive in autumn with flavours that match the season, from hearty soups and wood-fired pizza to a crisp glass of local cider.
Our on-site restaurants are designed to impress, offering cozy spaces, seasonal menus, and flavours that highlight the best of each region. When you feel like venturing out, the local community has even more culinary gems to discover. In Salmon Arm, The Night Cafe feels like the locals’ best-kept secret, with a creative menu and an intimate, candlelit atmosphere. Rossland Brewing Co. is exactly what you want from a brewery, with good beer in a relaxed setting. In Radium, Big Horn Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere and possibly the best coffee in the Kootenays. Island Restaurant in Golden charms with its historical vibe, and over in Prince Rupert, Dolly’s Fish Market & Restaurant is a must-try for casual, satisfying seafood.
Festive Celebrations and Local Events
Fall and winter in British Columbia are filled with experiences that go beyond the outdoors. Seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and local celebrations bring each community to life. In Vernon, the Vernon Winter Carnival is Western Canada’s largest winter festival, featuring events like the Ice Sculpture Symposium and the Carnival of Chocolate in February. Cranbrook hosts the Witches Market: Season of Samhain in October at the Cranbrook History Centre, offering a curated collection of magical, mystical, and handcrafted treasures from local artisans and vendors. In Prince Rupert, Winterfest takes place in December, with festivities including tree lighting, free snacks, and hot chocolate.
This is just a sample of the many festivals across BC, and almost every community has its own farmers’ market, craft fair, or seasonal event that highlights local food, art, and culture. These celebrations provide a perfect way to experience the warmth and spirit of the region during the cooler months.
Relaxation and Retreat at Prestige
After days of exploring BC’s stunning landscapes and seasonal festivities, there is nothing better than returning to the comfort of your Prestige hotel. Whether it’s curling up with a warm drink in a room with a view, enjoying a massage at the spa at the Prestige Resorts in Radium, Nelson, Sooke, Salmon Arm, or Cranbrook, or soaking in the hot tub, every stay is designed to help you unwind.
You can also linger over a complimentary breakfast at the Prestige Riverside Lodge Quesnel, Prince George Lodge, or Aberdeen Lodge Kamloops and take your time easing into the day. For evenings spent under the stars, relax around the outdoor fire pits at our Resorts in Sooke or Salmon Arm, or sink into the plush bedding with a holiday movie on TV, letting the warmth and comfort of your room make every winter escape cozy.
With so many options across the province, there is a Prestige for every type of getaway!
No matter what kind of winter escape you are dreaming of, BC is full of experiences that will leave you refreshed, inspired, and ready for more. From scenic mountain drives and cozy culinary discoveries to festive celebrations and tranquil moments at your Prestige hotel, every detail of your getaway can be perfectly planned. Right now, you can turn those dreams into reality with an exclusive offer. Enjoy 15% off any room type at all Prestige properties by using the promo code “ WESC” on our website here. Blackout dates may apply. Do not wait. Plan your fall or winter escape today and discover just how magical these seasons can be with Prestige Hotels and Resorts.
