Summer may be winding down, but that doesn’t mean your RV adventures have to.
In fact, fall is one of the best times to explore the Okanagan.
The temperatures are cooler, the summer crowds have thinned out, the vineyards and orchards are changing colour, and harvest season brings a whole new energy to the valley.
If your RV is still sitting in the driveway, it’s time to put it back on the road.
Here are 7 things to do in the Okanagan this fall.
1. Explore Okanagan Wine Country
Fall is harvest season, making it one of the most interesting times to explore the Okanagan’s wine country.
Take a scenic drive through Penticton, Naramata, Summerland, Oliver and Osoyoos and enjoy the changing colours of the vineyards.
Plan your stops ahead of time and remember to arrange a designated driver or transportation if you’re enjoying wine tastings.
2. Visit Local Orchards & Farm Markets
Fall means harvest throughout the Okanagan.
Apples, pears, pumpkins and other local produce begin filling farm stands and markets.
One of the best things about travelling by RV?
You have somewhere to put all the goodies you pick up along the way.
Bring a cooler, leave some room in the pantry and make a few stops along your route.
3. Head Up to Apex Mountain for a Fall Hike
If you’re looking for a fall adventure that’s a little different from the usual lakeside stroll, head up to Apex Mountain.
It’s one of those spots that’s easy to overlook when you’re thinking about fall activities in the Okanagan, but that’s exactly why I think it’s a missed opportunity.
The cooler mountain air makes fall hiking incredibly enjoyable, and the scenery around Apex gives you a completely different perspective from the valley floor.
In the fall, you can enjoy:
- Changing colours
- Cooler hiking conditions
- Mountain views
- Beautiful scenery for photos
- A great day trip from Penticton
And if you’re coming from Penticton in your RV, Apex makes a great addition to a South Okanagan fall adventure.
This is one of those places where I’d say: don’t just drive past the turnoff. Go see what’s up there.
Krista’s Take
I think Apex is a missed opportunity for fall.
We talk a lot about wineries, lakes and orchards when we talk about Okanagan adventures, but sometimes the best way to experience the season is to head up into the mountains.
Grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks and make a day of it.
Just be sure to check current trail conditions and weather before heading up, as mountain conditions can change quickly in the fall.
4. Explore the Kettle Valley Rail Trail
The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a great way to experience the Okanagan scenery.
Depending on the section you choose, you can walk or cycle through beautiful landscapes overlooking lakes, vineyards and mountains.
Fall can be particularly enjoyable because you’re not battling the heat of midsummer.
5. Find Some Fall Fun
Fall isn’t complete without a little pumpkin-season fun.
Look for local farms, pumpkin patches, harvest events and seasonal activities throughout the valley.
This is also a great option for families travelling in an RV because you can turn a simple weekend trip into a full fall getaway.
6. Go Looking for Fall Colors
You don’t always need a specific destination.
Sometimes the drive itself is the adventure.
Take a scenic route through the valley and watch the landscape change from summer green to brilliant gold, orange and red.
Stop for photos.
Find a viewpoint.
Make a picnic.
Take the long way home.
That’s one of the best things about RV travel. You don’t have to rush.
7. End the Day Around the Campfire
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like returning to your RV, putting on a sweater and settling around the campfire.
Bring the blankets.
Make something warm to drink.
Enjoy the sunset.
Then look up.
Fall nights can offer incredible stargazing once the evening gets darker.
Just make sure you check local fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
Make Fall Your Next RV Adventure
You don’t need a complicated itinerary to enjoy the Okanagan in the fall.
Pick a destination.
Find a campground.
Choose a few things you’d like to see.
And leave yourself enough time to simply enjoy the journey.
From Penticton and Naramata to Oliver, Osoyoos and the Similkameen Valley, there is plenty to explore before winter arrives.
Don’t put the RV away just yet.
Fall is waiting.
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Midtown RV in Penticton is here to help keep your RV adventure going, with RV sales, service, parts and accessories.
Midtown RV
310 Industrial Ave W.
Penticton, BC
250-492-5705
