Fall in Whistler brings the mountains alive with color, crisp frosty mornings and a stunning snowline starting to sprinkle across the peaks. Summer is behind us, but the ski and snowboard season is still waiting to make its debut. The fall is one of Whistler’s quiet “shoulder” seasons, making it one of the best seasons to come hike the trails and explore. Keep reading to discover 5 beautiful trails in Whistler to hike during the fall!
PC: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane
So How Can I Enjoy Fall in Whistler?
Fall weather in Whistler typically stretches from Late September to Mid-November. It is one of the best seasons to enjoy exploring the alpine lakes, peaks, and lush forests before the snow falls. One of the best ways to explore and take in the views is to get outside and hike the incredible trails around the Sea to Sky corridor. During fall, the temperature is comfortable and the vibrant colors surrounding you are unbeatable. We have compiled a list of our top 5 beautiful trails in Whistler to hike during the fall that showcase the vibrant colors and unique alpine views. Not a fan of long hikes? Don’t worry, we have added a variety of difficulty into this list to make sure there is something that almost everyone will love!
Trails for the Whole Family in Whistler During Fall
Fitzsimmons Creek Trail
A mellow trail for those looking for a slower pace to really take in the fall foliage. Located right off the Whistler Village Stroll, the Fitzsimmons Creek Trail offers a gorgeous display of fall colors, set with a backdrop of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains so you can observe the changing seasons and the snow-line creeping onto the peaks. The full loop totals about 9km which passes by Lost Lake and the Nicklaus North Golf Course. The trail has minimal elevation gain and lots of picnic areas to take a break, making this a great day activity for the whole family to enjoy together.
Train Wreck Trail
The Train Wreck Trail is popular with both locals and tourists alike. This trail leads you through through dense, lush forest and features a suspension bridge crossing over the Cheakamus River. The main event is the train wreck site which features 7 abandoned box cars from 1956, which have been vibrantly painted throughout the years, making this an exciting family attraction. At only about 2km round trip, this trail is perfect if you are looking for a short activity to bring the whole crew along on. The dense forest surrounding you turns vibrant with fall colors during the fall months and the crisp autumn air is truly refreshing.
PC: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane
Trails for the Adventure Seeker in Whistler During Fall
Cheakamus River
The Cheakamus River Loop, otherwise known as the Riverside-Farside Loop, is a moderate family-friendly trail that boasts a variety of stunning views including the Cheakamus River, a lush forest and a suspension bridge that loops you back to where you started. You can start at the Riverside Trail or Farside Trail entrances in Cheakamus, either one will take you about 3km up the river to the suspension bridge that you can cross and loop back down to where you started. At about 6.8km total, this trail is a perfect afternoon activity to get outside and take in fall scenery.
Joffre Lakes
Joffre Lakes is a stunning trail through the alpine forest that leads you to an icy blue glacier fed lake with stunning views and mountain backdrops. You’ll have to drive about one hour past Whistler Village to the trailhead, located just north of Pemberton. If you are willing to make the drive- this trail is worth it. The trail is approximately 10km round-trip with 350m elevation gain, making it a great day-trip and moderate hike that is comparably easier than other alpine lake trails. Please be aware that you currently need a BC Parks Day Pass to hike Joffre Lakes Trail. Be sure to plan ahead and reserve your day pass to make sure you can enjoy this fantastic trail! By mid-October, you can expect a light dusting have snow to have reached the lake area- be sure to dress accordingly!
Trails for the the Avid Hiker in Whistler During Fall
Garibaldi Lake
This one is for those looking for a full day, difficult hike. Garibaldi Lake Trail is a 18km round-trip hike that takes you to one of the most beautiful alpine destinations in British Columbia…after over 800m of elevation gain that is! In the fall, a light dusting of snow may have already reached the peaks surrounding you- so be sure dress accordingly. Garibaldi Lake also requires a day pass, so make sure to plan ahead and reserve your pass before heading out there! Take advantage of this trail before the end of October to enjoy the fall colors and turquoise blue lake views before it is snow-capped.
PC: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane
And there you have it, 5 beautiful trails in Whistler to hike during the fall! Make sure to always plan before you hike by brushing up on your hiking safety, checking weather updates and packing all the essentials before heading out there.
PC: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova
The fun doesn’t stop with hiking in Whistler- biking during the fall is another excellent way to get some fresh air and exercise which enjoying the fall scenery! Stay tuned for our next blog on 5 great biking trails to enjoy during the fall!
Not a fan of hiking OR biking? No sweat! Check out or latest blog “20 activities to do year-round in Whistler” for a wide variety of all season activities from shopping to dining to viewing local art.
Let us know your favorite Whistler trail to hike during fall, or if we missed one you think needs some recognition in the comments below!