Top Places to See Fall Colors in Golden and Revelstoke

In this guide, we'll lead you to the top curated hikes and viewpoints in Golden and Revelstoke, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of fall. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply seeking the most “gram-worthy” views, read on to uncover some of the best locations to see the fall foliage in British Columbia.

Golden's Top Picks for Autumnal Trails

Experience the fall in Golden, BC, as we take you on a tour of the best fall foliage trails in the area.

Walking Trail

Golden Rotary Trail

This picturesque 10-km loop trail in Golden offers an easy hike that typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. Located entirely within the town's limits, this trail treats hikers to beautiful river views, a convenient pub at its midpoint, and numerous scenic vistas of the town. As you traverse the trail, you'll also have the opportunity to witness the vibrant fall foliage transforming the landscape. We suggest parking near the town hall on the south side of the Kicking Horse River bridge and commencing your journey along the river dike.

Hiking Trails

Opabin Plateau and Lake O’Hara

The Lake Oesa Trail in Field, BC, is a challenging 9.0km loop. You can only access it through the Parks Canada reservation system, and cars are not allowed year-round. It usually takes about 3 hours to complete.

If shuttle reservations to Lake O'Hara aren't available, you have the option to hike there by following an 11-kilometer road from the parking lot. While the road inclines, gaining roughly 400 meters in elevation, it's not overly steep. Most hikers can complete this trek in approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

For a relatively straightforward and shorter route with a view of Opabin Plateau, consider taking a walk along the access road leading to Lake O'Hara. You can commence your journey from either the West Opabin Trail or East Opabin Trail, concluding at the opposite trailhead, creating a loop. This trail extends all the way to Opabin Lake before guiding you back down via the East Opabin Trail.

Mount Hunter Lookout Trail

Accessing the trail from the Wapta Falls Road entrance parking lot, this 11.7-km trail near Parson, British Columbia, is considered challenging and takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes to complete, making it ideal for birdwatching and a slow paced hike.

The Mount Hunter Lookout Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike, featuring a steady incline to a fire lookout. After climbing a ladder for incredible views, continue to a higher lookout with a ranger's cabin. A short walk further brings you to a clearing with panoramic views of the valley, Rocky Mountains, and Purcell Mountains.

Quartz Lake via Quartz Creek Trail

This challenging 8.9-km out-and-back trail near Golden typically takes around 3 hours to complete. To reach the trailhead, you'll head down around 5-km on the Quartz Creek Logging Service Road, accessible from the eastbound side of Highway 1. It's worth noting that a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the road conditions.

The trail itself has steep uphill sections, with occasional descending areas. While heading through the forest, hikers will encounter diverse terrain, including rocky terrain, fallen trees, creek crossings, and muddy patches. Amongst the trail at some points of the hike, there will be intermittent clearings that reveal epic mountain vistas on the right side of the trail.

The real gem of the hike is the picturesque Quartz Lake. For those interested in backcountry camping, two tent pads are available in this idyllic location.

Revelstoke’s Best Fall Foliage Trails

Every autumn, Revelstoke puts on a natural display of vibrant hues and remarkable life cycles. To experience the best views, colors, and fall spectacles like Kokanee Salmon Spawning check out some of the suggestions listed below.

Walking Trails

Sutherland Falls Trail

Explore Sutherland Falls, situated within the scenic Blanket Creek Provincial Park, only a quick 25-minute drive from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke. This trail, an uncomplicated out-and-back path, typically takes around 10 minutes to complete. It immerses you in a realm of vivid colors, woodlands, and a cascading waterfall. As you journey along, you’ll see the Kokanee Salmon returning to their spawning grounds.

You do not need a Parks Pass to enter Blanket Creek Provincial Park, dogs are welcomed so long as they are on a leash.

Pro Tip: Continue your adventure and venture down to the beach in Blanket Creek Provincial Park for unparalleled views of the Selkirk and Monashee Mountain Ranges.

Big Eddy Walking Trail

Another great walking trail, a short 10-minute drive from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke, is the Big Eddy Walking Trail, situated along the Columbia River. This trail becomes a tapestry of fall colors. The trail generally takes about 40 minutes to complete and is a public walking trail, where parking is free and dogs are welcomed.

Pro tip: Wander over the Big Eddy Bridge for a stunning 360-degree view of the foliage.

Nels Nelsen Trail

Just a short 10-minute drive from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke, is the Nels Nelsen Trail. This quick viewpoint and walking trail showcases Revelstoke’s rich history and rewards you with breathtaking views of the town and fall foliage from above. The hike weaves in fascinating nuggets of local history with information scattered along the trail and usually takes around 29 minutes to complete.

A National Parks Pass is required, you can purchase a Day Pass at the Gate. Dogs are welcomed on a leash.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to read the original rules of the Ski Jump Track!

Hiking Trails

Boulder Mountain Lookout

Discover Boulder Mountains secret lookout via a short 2.4-km out and back hike which becomes a canvas of fiery oranges and golden yellows during the fall season. At the lookout you are rewarded with views that stretch as far as the eye can see. This hike generally takes an hour and 5 minutes to complete and is located 10-minutes away from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke. This hike requires you to park on the shoulder of the road at the trailhead. Dogs are welcomed.

Pro Tip: Pack a light lunch to enjoy on the rock at the lookout.

Hermit Trail

The Hermit Trail in Glacier National Park, is just a short 35-minute drive from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke. This challenging 5.8-km trail, with a 900-meter elevation gain, typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete. As you ascend, you’ll discover that this trail offers an escape into the rugged beauty of nature at its most vibrant, and at the top you’ll be rewarded with the fall colors and views of the valley below.

A National Parks Pass is required, you can purchase a Day Pass at Rogers Pass Visitors Centre. Dogs are welcomed on a leash.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for changing temperatures at higher elevations, wear sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes, and ensure you have an ample supply of snacks and water for your hike.

Meeting of the Waters

Check out the convergence of two crystal-clear rivers, each flowing from its own glacier, framed by the vibrant colors of fall foliage. This natural wonder can be found in Glacier National Park, just under an hour’s drive from Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke. The short 1.3-km hike typically takes about 25 minutes to complete, allowing you to explore at a leisurely pace. Along the trail, you’ll discover the intriguing ruins of a once-thriving lodge.

A National Parks Pass is required, you can purchase a Day Pass at Rogers Pass Visitors Centre. Dogs are welcomed on a leash.

Top Places to Stay

After your adventures in Golden and Revelstoke B.C., you'll want a cozy retreat to relax and unwind. Basecamp Lodge Golden is located in the heart of Golden. This charming lodge offers comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect home base for exploring the fall foliage trails in the area. Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke has convenient access to the best fall foliage trails, providing a comfortable and stylish place to rest after your outdoor adventures, complete with an outdoor hot tub with the perfect views to catch the autumnal colors right from your base.In this guide, we'll lead you to the top curated hikes and viewpoints in Golden and Revelstoke, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of fall. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply seeking the most “gram-worthy” views, read on to uncover some of the best locations to see the fall foliage in British Columbia.