2. Hit the Trails
Fall and hiking are a natural match.
The Columbia Valley is surrounded by an expansive network of trails ranging from leisurely walks to full-day mountain adventures. Cooler temperatures can make longer days on the trail especially enjoyable, while the changing landscape gives familiar viewpoints a completely different look.
For travellers who would rather explore with someone who knows the area Playwest Mountain Experiences offers guided hiking adventures around the Columbia Valley, Purcell Mountains, Canadian Rockies and Kootenay National Park.
Their guided experiences range from shorter outings to full-day adventures, making it easier to find something suited to your experience level and the amount of time you have available. Remember that mountain conditions can change quickly in fall, particularly at higher elevations, so check current trail and weather conditions before heading out.
3. Paddle the Columbia River Wetlands
Fall isn’t only about exploring on foot.
The Columbia River Wetlands offer another way to experience the landscape at a slower pace. Stretching through the Columbia Valley, the wetlands are home to an incredible variety of birds and wildlife and offer beautiful mountain views from the water.
Columbia River Paddle offers guided paddling experiences through the wetlands, including routes between Invermere and Radium. A guided trip is a great way to learn more about the river, wetlands, local wildlife and the history of the area while enjoying a relaxed day outside.
If paddling is on your fall itinerary, be sure to check seasonal availability and conditions before planning your outing.
4. Enjoy a Round of Fall Golf
Golf season isn’t necessarily over when summer ends.
The Columbia Valley is known for its mountain golf courses, and fall rounds come with an added bonus: crisp temperatures, changing colours and spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery.
Guests staying at Bighorn Meadows Resort have one of the area’s best courses right outside their door. The resort is located alongside The Springs Course in Radium Hot Springs with beautiful fairway and mountain views throughout the property.
The nearby Radium Course gives golfers another option just a short drive away, making it easy to turn a fall getaway into a golf weekend.
Course operations depend on seasonal conditions, so check current tee-time availability when planning a later fall visit.
5. Explore Radium Hot Springs and Kootenay National Park
You don’t have to travel far from Bighorn Meadows to find your next adventure.
Radium Hot Springs sits at the gateway to Kootenay National Park, making the resort a convenient starting point for scenic drives, hiking trails, viewpoints and days spent exploring the Rockies.
Take your time driving through the park, stop at viewpoints along the way or choose a trail that matches the weather and your energy level for the day.
Closer to the resort, explore the Village of Radium Hot Springs, browse the local shops and keep your eyes open for the area’s famous bighorn sheep. Wildlife is frequently spotted around Radium and even around Bighorn Meadows itself—one of those little moments that can quickly become a favourite memory from your trip.
Just remember to admire wildlife from a safe distance and never approach or feed animals.
6. Enjoy a Brew, or Two
After a day outside, slow things down with a locally brewed pint.
Located right in Radium Hot Springs, Radium Brewing is a welcoming stop after a day of exploring the Columbia Valley. The local brewery creates small-batch craft beers, with a rotating selection of ales, pilsners, stouts and seasonal favourites on tap. Settle into the cozy taproom by the wood-burning fireplace, or enjoy the spacious patio while taking in views of the Purcell Mountains.
Settle into the taproom or enjoy some fresh mountain air on the patio while sharing a pint and planning tomorrow’s adventure. Its location right in Radium also means you don’t have to travel far from Bighorn Meadows to enjoy a relaxed afternoon or evening out.
7. Warm Up and Unwind
Some of the best fall days are the ones that end with nowhere else you need to be.
After hiking, golfing, paddling or exploring the valley, return to Bighorn Meadows and sink into one of the resort’s year-round outdoor hot tubs. Crisp mountain air and warm water are a hard combination to beat after a full day outdoors. During the earlier part of fall, guests can also enjoy the resort’s seasonally heated outdoor pool, which typically remains open through Thanksgiving weekend.
For another classic Radium experience, the famous Radium Hot Springs mineral pools are just minutes from the resort and offer a relaxing way to warm up as the temperatures begin to cool.
Sometimes the best part of a fall getaway is simply giving yourself permission to slow down.