Fall in Canada: Best Rockies Destinations and Packages

Fall in the mountains is peaceful. Crisp leaves cover the ground, bright colors call you outside for adventure, and a cool wind invites you inside for a warming drink after.

Most visitors assume they should go to Eastern Canada to see the most vibrant fall colours. But the Canadian Rockies are one of the best places to experience fall in Canada. Wildlife is active as bears prepare for hibernation and elk enter their rut. Landscapes are vibrant as golden larches appear between dark green pine, and the towering Rockies are dusted with snow.

The best Rockies destinations to experience fall in Canada are Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise. From these places, you can experience fall colors, active wildlife, and seasonal activities all at once.

We design our packages with this in mind, connecting experience to experience. With stunning train rides, comfortable transfers, and the best road trip routes, we can shape each adventure to your tastes.

Below, discover what to see in Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise by month, and our favourite packages combining them.

In Short

• September in the Rockies is best for off-peak summer experiences, and the most vibrant fall foliage
• October in the Rockies is the peak of fall weather, has fewer crowds, and is your final chance to take Rocky Mountaineer for the year
• November in the Rockies is the beginning of winter in the mountains, and is typically cold with fewer activities

Credit: Travel Alberta / Gerard Yunker

Why Visit the Canadian Rockies in Fall

The Canadian Rockies are stunning year-round, but are known for being busy during peak travel season — between June and August. Come mid-September, the larches are in their full fall colors, and the national parks through the Rockies are beginning to quiet.

Related Post: Top 5 Canada Tours Recommended by Travel Experts

Fall in Canada is short and changes drastically from beginning to end. This is even more true in the Canadian Rockies, where mountain weather speeds the change of season. But this short season is the perfect time to explore Canada at its least busy and most colorful.

We design each of our trips to capture the best of the fall. Personal recommendations from your Travel Designer will help shape your journey for the season. Whether it's hiking through fall foliage in Banff or taking the last Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper, we'll design your trip around you.

Rockies by Month | Banff in Fall

Fall in Banff is perfect for travellers who want to see the popular town when it is a little quieter.

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Banff in September

Banff in early September is like an off-peak summer. While the beginning of the month still sees many visitors, after Labor Day — the first Monday in September — Banff begins to quiet. According to historical forecast data, the temperature in Banff in September begins at an average high of 70°F, meaning you can still enjoy plenty of warm, sunny days in September. Banff's main fall attraction is the yellow larches.

While they look indistinguishable from pine trees for most of the year, larches are deciduous trees — trees that lose their leaves in winter — meaning they also turn a beautiful gold in autumn. 'Larch season' is famously short in the Canadian Rockies. While it is dependent on weather, larch trees are usually at their brightest during the last two weeks of September, making this month the perfect time to visit for fall colors.

The best place to see larches is on a famous hike through Larch Valley. From Moraine Lake — accessible by tour or shuttle — a famous five-and-a-half-mile hike takes you through the alpine to Larch Valley. Here, you will be entirely surrounded by golden larches and, behind them, the Ten Peaks. That being said, if hiking isn't for you, you'll still be able to see larches on the drive between Banff and Lake Louise around Mount Temple.

By the end of the month, the temperature drops to 40°F or 50°F. This is when the enticing cool of fall begins in Banff.

Credit: Fairmont

Banff in October

October is the heart of fall in Banff, and the month with the biggest transition. Visiting then, you will see why autumn is such a short season in the Rockies. At the beginning of October, larch trees are bright yellow, crunchy leaves line Banff Ave, and the weather is pleasantly mild. By the end of October, snow is often falling.

Based on forecast data, the temperature in Banff in October is typically between 45°F and 60°F, and begins to drop below 32°F (0°C — freezing!) at night. This means you should pack a warm jacket and prepare to want hot drinks and hearty meals after your adventures — perfect in Banff, where cafes and eateries line the streets.

October is one of our favourite times of year to recommend a stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, especially for families. While the grand castle is stunning year-round, in October, it takes on an atmospheric tone. The hundred-year-old building is reportedly home to two ghosts: Sam the Bellman, who is known to help guests with bags and elevators, and the Ghost Bride, who dances alone in the Cascade Ballroom. The hotel often runs ghost tours throughout the month to introduce both curious and apprehensive guests to these residents.

Credit: Tourism Banff & Lake Louise (TBLL) / Dan Evans

Banff in November

November is one of the quietest months in Banff as the Rockies transition between fall and winter. Fall colors have faded, and winter is setting in, staying below 32°F all day.

Being an in-between period means that there are fewer attractions available in Banff in November than most other times of the year. We recommend that, for winter activities, you wait until December to visit. Then, there will be more snow coverage for horse-drawn sleigh rides and more festive attractions.

Rockies by Month | Jasper in Fall

Fall in Jasper is a great time to make the most of its wildlife-viewing and stargazing opportunities.

Credit: Tourism Jasper

Jasper in September

September is one of the best times to see wildlife in Jasper. Bears are preparing to hibernate, and the elk rut has begun, meaning both are more active than usual. And, with fewer visitors, roads are less busy, making shy wildlife more common in the area.

We include evening wildlife tours led by local tour guides in our itineraries. These guides know the area and the animals best, and will put you in all the right places for your dream encounter.

There are fewer larches around Jasper than Banff, so don’t expect spectacular fall colors near town. However, if you drive the Icefields Parkway, you will find stretches of the road lined with golden trees.

Behind the larches, the first few snowfalls will leave the mountains freshly dusted. Now is the time for the classic snow-capped mountain view that draws visitors to the Canadian Rockies from across the world.

Credit: Tourism Jasper

Jasper in October

Like the rest of the Rockies, Jasper is quiet in October. It is a great time to see popular attractions with fewer crowds. This is the last chance to take a Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island, and one we love to include in our itineraries for the most intimate experience of the iconic spot.

Our favourite way to explore Jasper town in the fall is to try the hearty foods that make up Canada's mountain cuisine. When booking with Canada By Design, ask your Travel Designer about food tours in Jasper. They can arrange your afternoon and evening to be spent eating around town. Alongside a local, you will be welcomed to the best spots, and the ones you can return to in the coming days.

As the month comes to an end, Jasper holds the Dark Sky Festival. As the world's largest accessible dark sky preserve, the festival celebrates some of the best stargazing in the world with events like movie nights, concerts, and fireside chats, all under the starry night.

October is also the last opportunity for you to take Rocky Mountaineer into the mountains for the year.

Related Post: Onboard a Rocky Mountaineer Train: What to Expect

The luxury train is the most idyllic way to arrive in Jasper and the perfect beginning, or end, to your journey.

While mid-summer is the most popular time to ride Rocky Mountaineer, taking the journey in fall means you get to see the beauty of Western Canada at its most atmospheric. Orange and red leaves line the tracks, the first snowfall of the season dusts the tops of mountains, and lakes are still blue and free of ice. And, onboard Rocky Mountaineer, you can enjoy it all from the warmth of the train. You'll relax under domed-glass windows, enjoy regionally-inspired fine dining, and sip cozy drinks.

Credit: Travel Alberta / @NorthGroveCreative

Jasper in November

November in Jasper is really the beginning of winter rather than the end of fall. The town begins celebrating as such, with Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge hosting its annual Christmas in November celebration.

But, like in Banff, we find that our guests have less to do in November than the neighboring winter season. Our winter Rockies trips begin in early December by design, ensuring that visitors experience the best of the Canadian Rockies.

Rockies by Month | Lake Louise in Fall

Lake Louise is at a higher elevation than Banff and Jasper, so cold weather arrives earlier here than in the valleys.

Credit: iStock / Erik McRitchie

Lake Louise in September

Lake Louise in September is the perfect balance of summer and fall in Canada.

The nights begin to draw in, meaning you are at the perfect time to stay at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and dine overlooking the sunset on the lake. And you can enjoy early-but-not-too-early sunrises and see the often busy destination much less crowded. But in September, the days are still long, so you will have plenty of time to walk the lakeside path and explore the area.

If the weather is cool, enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea overlooking the water. You'll keep warm alongside savory bites, sweet treats, and endless pots of tea. And the view at this time is beautiful. The lake is its signature blue, and the surrounding Mount Victoria, Mount Temple, and Fairview Mountain might be topped with snow.

Credit: Travel Alberta / Erik McRitchie

Lake Louise in October

Snow falls earliest in Lake Louise thanks to its higher elevation. That means in October, there is a chance that snowy trails might greet you upon arrival.

While the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is always our first choice for lake-front views, fall is the perfect time to consider staying just away from the lake.

Related Post: MICHELIN Canada: A Guide to Top-Rated Hotels and Restaurants

The lake itself is significantly less busy than it is in peak months. Parking is easier, and visits are much more peaceful, even during regular daytime hours.

Just away from the lake, the Post Hotel offers a lesser-known stay. Winning one MICHELIN Key and backing onto the Bow River, the Post Hotel feels like a classically luxurious mountain retreat. It is traditional, decorated in lavish warm wood, stone fireplaces, plush armchairs, and twinkling lights. But, at the same time, it feels intimate and refined. It offers a warm atmosphere that is only more inviting and cozy in autumn. And, you're still only five minutes from Lake Louise.

Credit:Travel Alberta / Paul Zizka @paulzizkaphoto

Lake Louise in November

In November, temperatures stay below 32°F, snow begins to fall, and Lake Louise begins to freeze. But, while beautiful, you can't skate on its surface or take sleigh rides around its shore until December.

We recommend waiting a few weeks before visiting and instead traveling in December. This means you would get a better balance of winter activities and festive events in addition to the snowy views.

Best Fall Canadian Rockies Packages

At Canada By Design, our favorite fall trips in Canada are the ones that let you see the landscapes from different perspectives and give you ample time to soak it in. For that reason, we design our trips around the experiences that highlight the sense of place here, and build in time to slow down among it.

Whether it's on a train deep in the larch-spotted backcountry or by a quiet lake during sunset, we'll find the place and the way you'll connect best, and design the rest of your journey from there.

Credit: VIA Rail

Ultimate Fall Trip in Canada

Canadian Rockies Train Tour Grand Circle | 7 Days

On this train trip, experience the soft comforts of fall. Arrive in the mountains by sleeper train, making the most of the cozy night onboard. Enjoy dinner in the dining car over sunset, breakfast as the sun rises, and warm drinks in the dome car as the sights glide by. Spend four days exploring the Canadian Rockies' quieter side by way of private tours. Then, board one of the last Rocky Mountaineer journeys West to end your adventure.

For more information on how we design this trip for fall, see our detailed itinerary below.

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Best Fall Rocky Mountaineer Trip

Jewels of the Canadian Rockies by Rail | 6 Days

Journey through Canada's spectacular West in early October to enjoy one of the last Rocky Mountaineer journeys of the year. After you arrive in Jasper to a starry sky, spend three days deep in the mountains. Enjoy peaceful travel between Jasper and Lake Louise along the snow-capped Icefields Parkway. Then, relax in Banff while touring the national park at its quietest.

Credit: Travel Alberta / Dan Schykulski

Best Fall Road Trip

Canadian Rockies Lakes and Glaciers Self-Drive | 7 Days

Enjoy the freedom of clear roads lined with larch trees and snow-capped mountains on a fall road trip through the mountains. In fall, the roads are quieter, the stops more intimate, and the sights just as stunning. And, with less traffic and snow covering higher elevations, wildlife descends out of the alpine and are spotted more frequently by visitors. And, as always, we will arrange exciting excursions curated for your tastes along the way.

What to Expect on your Fall Train Trip

Our popular Canadian Rockies Train Tour Grand Circle runs from spring until mid-fall. But our expert Travel Designers ensure this trip is always right for the season, and right for you.

This is what your time in Canada's mountains could look like in fall.

Credit: Destination BC

Days 1-2: Vancouver, British Columbia to Jasper, Alberta

Spend your first morning in Canada exploring Vancouver. Visit Gastown to see the brick buildings and cobblestone streets lined with bright yellow foliage. In Stanley Park, find maple trees that have turned a deep red in fall. The seawall near the Rowing Club and the promenade leading up to the Japanese Canadian War Memorial are both favorites.

Detailed Post: Fall in Vancouver: Must-Do Autumn Adventures

In mid-afternoon, board VIA Rail's Canadian Train to Jasper, and begin your journey east to the mountains. We recommend arriving early to board and choosing the first of three onboard dinner seatings. In fall, this means you'll dine while the sun sets over the Fraser River.

After dinner, retire to the domed-glass Skyline Car to watch the last of the sunset and the bright lights of towns passing in the night, and then sleep comfortably in your cozy onboard bed.

Credit: iStock

Days 3-5: Exploring Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff

You'll wake after a cozy night onboard to find yourself entering the Canadian Rockies. Find coffee in the lower-level Skyline lounge, and take it to the upper-level viewing dome to watch the sun rise over the Canadian Rockies — much easier in the shorter fall days than the 4am rise necessary in summer.

Early mornings in the dome car are peaceful and a wonderful way to start your time in the Rockies. By the time brunch is served in the dining car at 9am, the sun will be high in the sky.

Arrive in Jasper in the early afternoon. We recommend spending your first day here relaxing and exploring the town, and your second day touring the national park. In fall, the wildlife is at some of its most active, with bears preparing for hibernation and elk in their rut. While we recommend the evening wildlife tour for this reason, we will shape the day around you.

On day four, you will take a full-day tour along the stunning Icefields Parkway, now decorated with smatterings of yellow larch and with snow dusting the peaks. Your tour includes the opportunity to step foot on Athabasca Glacier — you'll be one of the last of the year.

In the evening, you will arrive in Lake Louise and can enjoy the lake out of peak season and peak visiting hours. If you're staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, we recommend dinner at the Fairview Bar and Restaurant to eat with views of the water.

Related Post: The Travel Expert's Guide to Banff and Lake Louise

The next morning, relax by the lake as the world wakes up. Whether you're early to rise or prefer a slower start, we'll arrange a private transfer to Banff to align with your schedule.

Spend the rest of the day here exploring the town, seeing the fall colors. We recommend the Banff Gondola for sweeping views of the Bow Valley. From the summit, spot larches that were once indistinguishable from Douglas firs, now easily visible in gold.

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Days 6-7: Banff, Alberta to Vancouver, British Columbia

The Rocky Mountaineer journey back to Vancouver marks the end of your time in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy two days onboard split by a comfortable night's rest in Kamloops. As your journey begins at 8am and ends between 8pm and 9pm, you will see both sunrise and sunset onboard, illuminating the landscapes in gold.

We recommend adding a night in Vancouver here so that you do not travel on the same day your train arrives. But, unfortunately, this is the end of your time in Canada, and we will bid you farewell.

Credit: Canada By Design

Book Your Fall Vacation with Canada By Design

However you choose to see Canada in fall, its colors and landscapes will mesmerize you. We design our trips with this in mind, finding the experiences that mean the most to you, and weaving them into a journey you'll remember for life.

Reach out to a Travel Designer to begin planning your fall trip with Canada By Design. We will work with you to design your trip, tailoring it for fall and the activities that speak to you. If you're looking for more inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter to see where else in Canada we can take you.

FAQs

Which month is fall in Canada?

The best month for fall in the Canadian Rockies is September, specifically in the last two weeks of the month. This is when the weather is mild, fall colors are brightest, and excursions still run.

What is the best place to see fall in Canada?

Banff National Park is one of the best places to see fall in Canada due to the golden larch trees, fall colors, and active wildlife.

What is Canada like in the fall?

Canada is beautiful in the fall. Maples, larches, and other deciduous trees turn beautiful reds, golds, and oranges, and the weather is mild. Beyond its beauty, destinations are quieter in fall than the peak summer season, and prices are often cheaper. This makes fall an ideal time to travel to Canada for visitors looking for an intimate or cost-effective trip.

Can my kids go trick-or-treating in Banff/Jasper?

While residential neighborhoods might have informal trick-or-treating, neither Banff nor Jasper hosts official trick-or-treating events. Instead, we recommend staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs, where Halloween activities are held throughout October.