Welcome to the Similkameen Valley
British Columbia, Canada
Rugged. Rustic. Real.
Fall in the Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
As summer days grow shorter and the season transitions to fall, the Similkameen Valley takes on a new character. Warm days give way to crisp nights, golden grasslands contrast with fiery aspens, and clear blue skies stretch over a landscape rich with the flavours of harvest. It’s a season made for slowing down, getting outside and discovering the valley at its best.
Take a fall road trip along Highway 3, beginning in the spectacular mountain landscapes of Manning Park and winding through Princeton, Hedley, Keremeos and Cawston. Along the way, discover changing landscapes, welcoming communities, scenic trails and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.
Start with the brilliant fall colours and outdoor adventures of Manning Park, then explore Princeton’s trails, historic sites, museums and Bronze Sculpture Walk. Continue through historic Hedley and into the warmer, drier landscapes of the valley, where agriculture takes centre stage. Follow the Similkameen Valley Farm Trail to discover more than 20 roadside stands overflowing with apples, pears, squash and other seasonal bounty, or sip your way along the Sip the Similkameen Trail for local wines, cider and farm-to-table flavours.
Cooler autumn days are made for hiking, biking, fishing, golf and wildlife watching. Explore China Ridge, cast a line in the Similkameen or Tulameen Rivers, visit the Grist Mill & Gardens, or discover the stories and heritage of the valley’s communities. As the sun sets, settle into a riverside campground, cozy B&B, orchard or vineyard stay beneath spectacular star-filled skies.
Whether you’re chasing autumn colour, following the harvest, exploring local history or simply taking the scenic route, fall in the Similkameen Valley invites you to slow down, stay awhile and discover more. Linger Longer.
Festivals and culture bring the season to life—from the Similkameen Sizzle Pepper Festival to the Grist Mill’s Heritage Fall Fair. History buffs can explore museums and heritage sites, while art lovers will enjoy Princeton’s bronze sculptures on a self-guided walk.
Cathedral Lakes Lodge is open for the 2026 season until Oct 12.
Check out our Fall Blog for trip ideas, and be sure to take in one of our local events.
Planning a wedding? The Similkameen Valley offers a unique blend of rural charm, scenic backdrops, and relaxed venues for an unforgettable celebration.
The Similkameen Valley is the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Similamix and Smelqmix People.
Official visitor website for the Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, Canada, including Cathedral Park, Cawston, Chopaka, Coalmont, Eastgate, Hedley, Keremeos, Manning Park, Olalla, Princeton, Tulameen, and Twin Lakes.
Top Rated Experiences
Getting Here Is Easy
The Crowsnest Scenic BC Highway 3 runs straight through the Similkameen Valley. Starting from the west exit from Hope, you will travel to Manning Park, then onward Princeton, followed by Hedley, Keremeos and Cawston. Further eastbound you will arrive at the junction of Highway 97 at Osoyoos and gateway to the Okanagan Valley in the Thompson-Okanagan Region of BC’s Interior. We are a 3-hour drive from Vancouver.
If you were to drive the valley from end to end, you’d cover 111 miles (180 km). Start at Manning Park in the west and end up at the BC Highway 97 junction in Kaleden (Hwy 3A) or Osoyoos in the east. How long it takes to drive it will be up to you, there is plenty to see and do! Check out our road trip routes to get you here from any direction.
What Does Similkameen Mean?
The Similkameen River and valley are named for their Indigenous people, the Similkameen, meaning “people of the river.” Learn more.
