An autumn stay in Kelowna, British Columbia was like strolling into a warm, golden dream. As the busyness of summer faded, our visit was the perfect opportunity to slow down and savour the rich colours and fall flavours of the Okanogan Valley. The crispness in the air carried the scent of apples, fresh grapes, and woodsy undertones, setting the scene for a cozy, harvest-inspired getaway.
Exploring Nature’s Palette
One of the most enchanting aspects of Kelowna in autumn was the transforming scenery, a true delight to our eyes. A drive up to Knox Mountain offered sweeping views over Okanagan Lake, with the whole valley decorated in hues of gold, rust, and evergreen. We tend to be pretty adventurous, so hiking through Myra Canyon was an amazing treat, with its historic train trestles and breathtaking views of the mountainside, as well as glimpses of the lake and town far below. It’s the kind of place that reminds you of the sheer beauty and resiliency of nature: the towering slopes are covered in all kinds of fall foliage, including a bounty of fiery larch trees dotting a sea of green. Right in town, we strolled along Mission Creek, a hidden gem that locals love, where vibrant trees, a flowing river, and a salmon run creek create a beautiful backdrop for a peaceful walk or family outing. We loved exploring the area in search of local wildlife, including salmon, ducks, squirrels, and a turtle pond!
Harvest-Season Delights
We tapped into our inner foraging and farming spirits throughout the playground of Kelowna’s autumn harvest season. Our visit synced perfectly for when the valley’s renowned wineries and farms opened their doors with a fresh, welcoming energy. Wineries like Grizzli offer a special charm during this time, with tastings that showcase the season’s best flavours and the winery’s unique focus on decadent dessert wines, as well as events that connect visitors to the winemaking process and embrace community engagement. Grizzli’s 31 CHARKAY bistro pop-up made our visit even more special. We enjoyed an unforgettable meal that focused on seasonal dishes, local product, and a family history that embraced the warmth and richness of autumn and paired perfectly with local wines, fully embodying the spirit of the season.
Family-Friendly Farm Adventures
Kelowna’s farms and orchards invite families and friends to pick apples, pumpkins, and pears straight from the source. Paynter’s Fruit Market, with its pumpkin patch offering an array of sizes and colours, was the perfect destination for a hands-on harvest experience. We wandered through the fields with a basket in hand, choosing our perfect pumpkins and fresh, crisp apples, while delighting in the whimsical fall and Halloween decor. The Gellatly Nut Farm, with its heritage trees and unique nut varieties, offered another down-to-earth experience: we strolled amongst the rows and rows of beautiful nut trees, collecting hazelnuts, walnuts, and chestnuts and learning about the history of the family farm.
The Sweet Side of Local Living
Beyond the wineries and orchards, Kelowna’s love for local flavours extends to spots like Meadow Vista, where beekeeping takes center stage. In the fall, you can see the hives being wrapped for the season and taste the fresh honey that captures the essence of the Okanagan. Meadow Vista’s offerings go beyond honey, introducing you to unique meads and bee-inspired products that reflect the valley’s dedication to sustainable, artisanal production.
A Calm, Cozy Atmosphere
What truly set Kelowna apart in the fall for us was the sense of tranquility that settled over the valley. The summer crowds were gone, leaving space to soak up the peaceful beauty that autumn brings. From unique smokehouses like The Hatchery, to an array of cozy local cafes, to scenic lakeside picnics taking in the sunset at City Park, every moment felt like a warm hug and an opportunity to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures. Kelowna in the fall isn’t just about seeing beautiful sights—it’s about feeling connected to the land, tasting the fruits of local labour, and celebrating the gifts of the season. For us, it was an experience that nourished our spirits as much as our bodies, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation wrapped in picture-perfect autumn aesthetics and harvest vibes.
