The Top 5 Reasons to Visit The Canadian Rockies in The Fall

The Canadian Rockies are a site to see year-round. The unbelievably blue lakes, snow-capped mountains and roaming wildlife are always in season, but many people limit themselves to visiting during the summer and winter months. Personally, my favorite season in Canada is the fall. The mountains come alive with golden-yellow leaves and the temperature is perfect for a little Baileys with your coffee. Here are the top five reasons to visit the Canadian Rockies in the fall.

(And if these don’t convince you, the beautiful images provided by Justin Rauch should do the trick)

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1. Lose yourself in a sea of golden leaves

The turning of the season provides stunning blankets of colour throughout the mountains. The local National Parks are famously known for the colour of the larch trees in the fall. People visit from all over the world to see these picture perfect conifers. A hike through the larches is the perfect way to forest bath (look it up) and enhance your IG page.

2. Have the place to yourselves

October and November are considered shoulder season in the Canadian Rockies. For people who want to avoid the crowds, this is the perfect time to visit. The towns, trails and attractions are all significantly less busy at this time of year. The tourists have packed-up and the locals come out to play. This time of year is stunningly beautiful and you will get to experience it much more intimately during these months.

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3. Have your adventure for a fraction of the cost

Shoulder season means shoulder season pricing! Everything from van rentals to attraction passes are at a fraction of the cost they would be in the summer months. As there are fewer people visiting during these months, local businesses often offer great deals to encourage travel. This is the time to visit if you’re visiting on a budget.

4. Experience events that are most loved by locals

The fall boasts some of Banff’s best festivals that are most loved by the locals. If you like to be surrounded by the local culture when you travel, we suggest checking out the Banff Centre Mountain Film & Book Festival, as well as The Banff Craft Beer Festival. These festivals take place in October and November.

Jasper Dark Sky Festival (see point No. 5): October 18th - 27th

Banff Centre Mountain Film & Book Festival: October 26th - November 3rd

Banff Craft Beer Festival: November 21st - 23rd

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5. Lay under the stars at the best time of year

Jasper National Park is home to the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world, meaning that it’s limited light pollution allows for optimal star gazing. October has been cited as the best month for viewing the stars in Jasper. During October you can visit the Dark Sky Festival and are even likely to see the aurora borealis.

The Bottom Line

The Canadian Rockies are always going to provide a majestic and soulful experience. You will not leave disappointed, regardless of what time of year you choose to visit. All the seasons here have boast-able reasons to come and experience them, however the cool breeze, warm sun and golden tones make fall the winner in our hearts.

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~ Sayonora Friends