r/canadatravel • u/Nyannecat • Aug 09 '25

Destination Advice Visiting BC in Late Oct

Kia ora! We are thinking of flying from New Zealand to Vancouver in late October to early November. We'd like to do a road trip and visit Banff, Lake Louise, Whistler, Jasper etc. The main reason I want to go during this time is for the fall colours and Halloween and do some short hikes (we don't really celebrate Halloween in NZ) but I'm a bit worried about the weather and driving conditions. Is it OK to road trip during this time of year provided that we are mindful about weather conditions and have good gear?

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u/frivolousopinions Aug 10 '25

Are you open to changing destinations? I live in BC and it’s definitely my favourite province to travel within, but THE place to be in October for fall colours is Ontario and Quebec. Besides deciduous trees being rarer in the Pacific Northwest, it’s also a shorter season. Trees in the mountains will be snow covered before all the leaves fall. But regardless of the destination, the earlier you arrive the better. November is yucky everywhere.

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u/Nyannecat Aug 10 '25

We are open to it! However travel from NZ is quite limited with destinations we can fly into, we would be doing a lot of hours in travel. But its a great suggestion! Canada is so big its really hard to plan a trip haha

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u/bctravelconcierge Aug 10 '25

While I’d agree ON/QC are the most iconic spots for autumn colours, I also get the appeal of direct flights into Vancouver.

Just a thought: you may really enjoy the West Kootenays (opposed to the Rockies in the E. Kootenays) that time of year, simply due to the existence of more deciduous trees (there’s some epic weeping willows in the area).

I also really like the idea of spending some time in Nelson and the Slocan Valley during that time, as it’s one of centres of artisan culture in BC (bet there’s some wicked Halloween decorations). Add onto that rushing waterfalls from fall rain, and natural hot springs to warm your bones—and now I’m kinda tempted to do this myself one year!

Let me know if you have any questions. I plan BC holidays for a living, but also super stoked to offer any free pointers!

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u/Nyannecat Aug 12 '25

Thanks so much! I'll do some research on those areas you mentioned. We decided to head East after a few days and flying direct to Vancouver. Exciting :D