Top things to do in Kamloops this October
Privato Vineyard and Winery
Royce Sihlis
The ultimate guide to autumn adventures
October has arrived in Kamloops, and with it comes the unmistakable chill in the air, signalling the official arrival of spooky season. The aroma of pumpkin spice wafts from every cafe and bakery, Mother Nature is hard at work putting on a colour show, and the promise of Halloween and delicious treats lurks around every corner.
Visiting Kamloops in October? You’re in for a treat! The city is bursting with ways to celebrate the season, and there’s no shortage of adventure to be found.
Here's our list of must-do activities to tick off your Fall bucket list!
Autumn Outdoor Activities
Fall Hiking
Kamloops and outdoor enthusiasts are a perfect match for fall. With outdoor activities for everyone—from beginners and families to adrenaline-seeking pros—Kamloops offers adventures for every type of explorer.
Kenna Cartwright Park
Dylan Sherrard
KAS Observatory Stake Lake
Phil Marshall
For the beginner or family friendly outing: Rivers Trail
Grab the family and take a leisurely walk along Rivers Trail. This accessible route follows the Thompson River, lined with stunning fall foliage. Soak up the autumn charm as Kamloops transforms with its vibrant fall hues.
Feeling hungry? Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican food, fresh handmade pasta, or a great slice of pizza, Downtown Kamloops has just the spot. If you're after something lighter, cozy up in one of the local coffee shops—pumpkin spice lovers, this is your moment!
For the hiking enthusiasts: Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Whether you're on the hunt for the perfect city lookout or want to chase the sunset over Kamloops Lake, Kenna Cartwright Park is the place to be. With over 40 km of trails in one of BC’s largest municipal parks, there's plenty of room to roam for both hikers and mountain bikers. The extensive trail system includes a variety of evaluation gain difficulties, from easy strolls to trails that’ll get your heart pumping.
For sweeping views of the Thompson River weaving through the valley, take on the Tower Trail. The ascent rewards you with breathtaking panoramas of the city. For a great place to catch the sunset, take the Sunset Trail—where the name says it all. It’s a local favourite to watch the sun dip behind the mountains, leaving you with a sunset you won’t forget.
For the stargazers: Stake Lake Star Park & Observatory
The best time of year for stargazing in Kamloops is from late summer through fall (August to October), when the nights arrive earlier with pleasantly mild temperatures.
Nestled alongside the cross-country ski trails, Stake Lake Star Park offers a premier stargazing destination. With open landscape and dark, clear skies, it's the perfect place to settle in with binoculars, telescopes, and lawn chairs for a magical night under the stars.
Local Tip: Want a closer look at the stars? The Kamloops Astronomical Society (KAS) is hosting its final fall viewing at the Stake Lake Observatory on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 7PM to 9PM.
For more spots to catch those starry skies, check out our guide to stargazing in Kamloops.
Fall Mountain Biking
Fall mountain biking in Kamloops makes for breezy rides and spectacular colours. Here are some local trails to soak up the natural splendor of the season.
Lac du Bois Protected Grasslands
Dylan Sherrard
All-Wheels Pump Track
Andrew Snucins
For the cross-country mountain biker: Lac du Bois Grasslands
Known locally as “Batch” due to its closeness to the Batchelor Heights neighbourhood, the Lac du Bois Grasslands' smooth, flowy terrain is perfect for all skill levels—from beginners to expert XC and trail riders. The open sightlines allow beginners to build confidence, focusing on the trail ahead, while advanced riders can rip through the singletrack. Don’t miss the ride from "Shady Glenn" to reach "Naked Pistol" for breathtaking views along one of Batch’s best trails.
Maintained by the Kamloops Bike Riders Association (KBRA), consider becoming a member or getting involved in trail maintenance to give back to our local mountain bike community.
For the downhill rider: the Kamloops Bike Ranch
As Canada’s largest municipal bike park, the iconic Kamloops Bike Ranch is the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers and jump enthusiasts. With jumps of all sizes, new riders can ease into the smaller lines before working their way up to the big booters for some serious airtime.
New since summer 2024, the All-Wheels Pump Track is a freshly paved course designed for all skill levels and wheels—whether you're on a mountain bike, rollerblades, skateboard, scooter, or anything in between. Check out our blog for insider tips on riding The Ranch, straight from a local mountain bike ambassador.
Maintained by the Kamloops Performance Cycling Centre (KPCC), show your support through donations or trail maintenance to help keep these trails in top shape. Meet you at "The Ranch" for a world-class ride!
Searching for more trails? Check out our guide to Kamloops mountain bike trails for more places to ride! And don't forget to bring a map, download our local trail map so you can explore with confidence.
Fall Harvest
The sips trail of the season
October is BC Craft Beer Month, and our local breweries are stepping up with one-of-a-kind brews that are sure to impress. From bold IPAs to creative small-batch creations, Kamloops’ breweries have the perfect pour to keep you coming back for more.
Red Collar Brewing
Frank Luca
Kamloops' Room to Roam White IPA
This fall, Tourism Kamloops proudly presents its first Kamloops-inspired beer: Room to Roam White IPA. Crafted in partnership with Red Collar Brewing, this Belgian White IPA delivers a light, crisp profile with refreshing citrus notes that reflect the natural beauty of the Thompson Valley.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, stop by Red Collar Brewing on Lansdowne Street to enjoy this unique brew. Grab a can to go from the tasting room or find it at select locations to savour a true taste of Kamloops wherever you roam.
More breweries to add to your sips list
Kamloops’ vibrant craft beer scene offers more than just great brews—it creates unforgettable experiences. Located on the North Shore, Bright Eye Brewing is a lively spot with an in-house arcade, where you can enjoy endless free plays on Mondays while sipping some of their inventive craft beers.
As Kamloops’ first microbrewery, The Noble Pig is a local classic for its "noble brews" and scratch-made pub fare. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a pint of expertly crafted beer paired with unique and hearty dishes.
Bright Eye Brewing
Dylan Sherrard
The Noble Pig
BC Ale Trail
If you’re after more than just great beer, Alchemy Brewing combines their brick-oven pizza with fun competition. From Saturday night trivia to pool and pinball, there’s always something to make your night out extra fun.
Finally, Iron Road Brewing is your go-to spot for cozy fall vibes. With their cold brews and legendary nachos, it’s the perfect place to settle in and unwind after a day of adventure. Each of these breweries brings something unique to the city, offering not just great beer, but memorable moments too.
Alchemy Brewing
Tamra Jaeger
Iron Road Brewing
BC Ale Trail
Must-try wine tasting stops
BC wine tasting in the fall offers a special kind of magic. With vineyards glowing in autumn colours and the rush of summer behind, you can relax and savour each sip at a slower pace. It’s the perfect season to discover new wines and perhaps even get the inside scoop on this year’s harvest and upcoming vintages.
Monte Creek Winery
Royce Sihlis
Privato Vineyard and Winery
Royce Sihlis
At Monte Creek Winery, the wine tasting experience goes beyond the glass. Set above the Thompson River, the winery’s stunning tasting room offers panoramic views that complement the vibrant fall colours of the vineyard. Whether you’re warming up by the fireplace or admiring the striking bell tower, Monte Creek combines scenic beauty with unforgettable wines for a truly memorable experience.
Privato Vineyard and Winery is a hidden gem, nestled on an 80-acre family farm. In the fall, its rustic charm becomes even more enchanting as the gardens turn into an autumn wonderland, complete with a pumpkin patch and cozy spots to unwind. Privato is also home to Woodward Cider Co., where you’ll find the ultimate fall vibes. With a scenic patio and outdoor games—cornhole tournament, anyone?—it’s a must-visit destination this season.
Hop on over (pun totally intended!) to the Thompson Valley for a self-guided sip trail, where there's a spot to delight every beer enthusiast, cider fan, and wine lover!
Crisp air, fresh fare
Kamloops Regional Farmers' Market
If you're looking for a more laid-back but equally delightful experience, make sure to visit everyone's favourite outdoor Saturday Kamloops Farmers Market before it wraps up for the season at the end of this month. Pumpkins, donuts, coffee and fresh fall produce are calling your name! It's the perfect time to stock up on all your Thanksgiving fixings or find a local craft that will make the perfect holiday gift (tap on the shoulder for getting your shopping done early!) Head down to 200 block of St Paul Street from 8:30AM to 12:30PM to catch the local vendors.
Kamloops Farmers' Market
Johann Vincent
Kamloops Farmers' Market
Johann Vincent
Craving more fresh vegetables and baked goods? You're in luck! The Kamloops Farmers Market also features a midweek outdoor market on Wednesdays in Downtown Kamloops on the 400th block of Victoria Street, 8:30am-1:30pm. Happy market hopping!
Farmers Market hours of operation
Saturdays 8:30AM – 12:30PM
200 block of St Paul St
Wednesdays 8:30AM - 1:30PM
400 block of Victoria St
Family-friendly activities
Pumpkin Patches
Would a fall activities list be complete without a true autumn classic of the pumpkin patch? The good news is Kamloops doesn't disappoint when it comes to fall fare. With ample pumpkin patches in the region, it's time to break out the plaid and prepare the hunt for the perfect pumpkin.
Here's a list of local pumpkin patches around Kamloops to find your match of the season (and snap those shots along the way!).
- Privato Vineyard and Winery Pumpkin Patch
Kamloops, BC - Stoney Flats Harvest Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Pritchard, BC - 3rd Annual Pumpkin Pop-Up
Sun Peaks, BC - Desert Hills Ranch Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Ashcroft, BC - Horsting's Farm Pumpkin Patch & Haunted Corn Maze
Cache Creek, BC - Pete Murray's Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze
Chase, BC
Choose one pumpkin patch or visit them all! It’s time to dive into the best fall activities that the whole family will love. Check out Spookloops for more October events to get into the scary spirit!
Privato Vineyard and Winery
@emilymayphotographer
Cleavage Axe Co
Axe-citing day out
Get ready for a smashing good time at the 3rd Annual Pumpkin Pop-Up event hosted by Cleavage Axe Co! This fall extravaganza promises a day filled with family friendly activities and endless fun. From axe throwing to pumpkin smashing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Kids can indulge in free activities like marshmallow roasting, zipping around in a maze, picking the perfect pumpkin, launching potatoes, and even carving their very own gourd masterpieces.
It’s the ultimate seasonal celebration, blending adrenaline-fueled action with the cozy charm of fall traditions we all know and love.
The Pumpkin Pop-Up opens at 4PM on October 11, 2024. Stick around for the Axe Throwing Tournament at 6PM—$30 entry, with the winner claiming half the prize pot! Located at 3240 McGillivray Creek Road along the way to Sun Peaks Resort, this fall fun runs from October 11-14 and October 18-20, 2024, with availability for midweek group bookings upon request.
Pumpkin Pop-Up hours of operation
October 11, 2024
Grand Opening: 4PM
Axe Throwing Tournament: 6PM
October 12 - 14th, 2024
11AM to 7PM
October 18 - 20, 2024
11AM to 7PM
For the love of Arts & Culture
Kamloops Art Gallery
Discover the vibrant arts and culture scene in Kamloops. The Kamloops Art Gallery offers rotating art exhibits throughout the year, ensuring there's always something fresh to inspire your creative side. The current art exhibits on display at the gallery include:
Every day is a day at the races when you’re mentally and physically ill by local resident Adrian Romeo
Available Sept 28 - Dec 28, 2024Stories that animate us, works by multiple artists
Available Oct 4 - Dec 28th, 2024
Kamloops Art Gallery
Mary Putnam
Kamloops Art Gallery Store
Kathleen Fisher
The gallery also hosts talks, tours, and hands-on studio programs, offering a more interactive way to experience the art. Be sure to visit the Gallery Store for a special keepsake or a thoughtful gift for any art enthusiast.
Gallery hours of operation
Tuesday to Saturday, 10AM - 5PM
Thursdays, 10AM - 8PM *Free Admission on Thursdays
Culture Days in Kamloops
Running until October 13, 2024, Culture Days is a series of free events celebrating the arts, culture, and creativity within our community. Starting on September 20, 2024, this national initiative invites everyone to connect with their local arts and cultural experiences. This year, the following businesses are hosting exciting events for you to join:
Visit their website for a full list of local events!
Sagebrush Theatre
Dylan Sherrard
Spooky theatre performances: The Woman in Black
Western Canada Theatre is setting the stage for spooky season with their chilling production of The Woman in Black. In an eerie Victorian theatre, a lawyer, with the help of a curious actor, delve into the haunting secrets of his past. Running from October 10 to 20, 2024 at the Sagebrush Theatre, this thrilling show is a must-see for fans of supernatural scares. Recommended for ages 12+, visit their website to get your tickets!
The Woman in Black show times
October 10 - 20, 2024
Evenings 7:30PM
Saturday & Sunday Matinees 2PM
Wednesday Tea Matinee 11AM
*no shows available on Mondays
Plan your fall adventure in Kamloops
As October dances onto the scene, Kamloops transforms with autumn hues, offering an experience tailored to every whim and fancy. Whether you're a fall fanatic, nature lover, or art aficionado, October is your playground of possibilities. It's time to explore the best of the city this season. Dive into the magic of sweater weather, and let pumpkins be your compass on a journey through Kamloops. Let the autumn adventure begin!
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this month! Snap those memorable moments and share your journey by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #ExploreKamloops.
