As the warmth of summer fades and the crisp days of fall arrive, new adventures await those eager to step outside and explore. If you’re looking for ideas amidst the many options, check out this list of 5 things to do along the historic Gold Rush Trail this season. From exploring farm tours and diving into wildlife adventures to enjoying family events, fall offers exciting opportunities to make the most of this beautiful time of year!
1. Sip delicious wine with amazing views
It’s wine time! As you explore the Gold Rush Trail this fall, don’t miss the chance to enjoy breathtaking vistas while sipping award-winning wines from the renowned Fort Berens Estate Winery. Since its founding in 2009, this charming winery has been drawing increasing numbers of visitors each year and has earned numerous accolades, including gold, silver, and bronze medals at international competitions such as the prestigious Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Alternatively, grab lunch at Abundance Bakery in downtown Lillooet, then head over to Cliff and Gorge Vineyard, situated on the Historic Texas Creek Ranch just 18 km (11 mi) south of Highway 99.
2. Visit a farm and enjoy a variety of fun activities
In Cache Creek, make sure to include a visit to Horsting’s Farm on your list of things to do in the fall along the Gold Rush Trail. Enjoy interacting with farm animals, savouring freshly baked goods, and exploring a variety of produce harvested from their fields. The Adventure Field offers fun seasonal events for the whole family, including thrilling pedal cart races!
If you’re seeking a traditional pumpkin patch experience, climbing goats, and corn maze adventures, don’t miss Desert Hills Ranch in Ashcroft. With activities for all ages, you can also pick up locally grown veggies from their farm market and possibly meet adorable baby animals during your visit!
3. Take a guided tour of an Indigenous Village and eat local salmon
If you’ve planned a September trip along the Gold Rush Trail to enjoy early fall activities, you’re in for a treat! Through the end of September you can experience an award-winning guided tour of the archaeological Xwisten Experience Tours village site and witness a fascinating salmon drying and prepping demonstration.
To complete the tour, enjoy a delicious salmon barbecue or try some homemade bannock from the onsite Bearfoot Grill. If your getaway is scheduled for October, you can still immerse yourself in Indigenous history by joining Cariboo Chilcotin Jetboat’s Iron Canyon Adventure in Williams Lake. Their guides will share insights about the region’s history while you explore key geographical sites.
4. Go Fly Fishing at stunning lakes
There are hundreds of accessible lakes along the Gold Rush Trail. For an all-inclusive, world-class fly fishing experience in the fall, book your stay at Northern Lights Lodge, located near the outflow of Quesnel Lake. September and October are ideal for trophy fishing, with the opportunity to cast amidst the spectacle of spawning Sockeye. September and October are known as trophy time, an amazing time to visit as you can cast amid the spectacle of the spawning Sockeye.
Alternatively, if you’re travelling from Clinton to Cache Creek, visit Loon Lake, ranked among North America’s Top 10 naturally stocked lakes. Its population of natural Rainbows is eager to bite, whether you’re fly fishing or spin casting. Another excellent option is Timothy Lake, near 100 Mile House, renowned for its large Kokanee population. Consider booking a cabin at Martens Resort, which offers activities for the whole family to complete your adventure!
5. Be captivated by the wildlife
Watching wildlife is definitely one of the top five things to do along the Gold Rush Trail this fall! Get your camera ready to spot goats, mule deer, moose, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. British Columbia is a birding paradise, with over 250 species residing in the Cariboo Mountains. Ecotours BC offers bird watching around Quesnel Lake and other wildlife adventures year-round.
As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, British Columbia’s Gold Rush Trail provides an autumn experience like no other. With adventures for all ages and interests, this region continues to captivate and inspire travellers with its nature-bound and history-rich experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime!
For a list of all Gold Rush Trail experiences, click here.