PLAN YOUR FALL ADVENTURE


Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a weeklong adventure, we’ve crafted itineraries to help you make the most of your trip — from golden hikes and horseback rides to cozy cafés and cultural experiences.        

Fall in Hinton Northern Rockies is when the mountains trade their summer greens for shimmering golds, and every trail feels like a secret worth discovering.

With cool mornings, warm afternoons, and endless opportunities to connect with nature, this season is perfect for slowing down, exploring deeply, and soaking in Alberta’s most underrated autumn escape.

Day 2 - Journey the Trails at Your Own Pace

Spend the morning exploring Hinton’s incredible trail network at whatever speed feels right for you. Opt for a guided mountain bike session with Rocky Mountain Ride Guides to build confidence and flow on the Happy Creek Trail System, or take a leisurely stroll along the forested paths for a slower, more mindful experience. In the afternoon, wander the newly restored Beaver Boardwalk, where golden leaves, busy beavers, and mirrored wetlands create the perfect fall scene.

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a nostalgic stop at the Soda Shoppe at King Drug — hotdogs, milkshakes, and board games make for a cozy fall evening.

3-DAY FALL ADVENTURE

Day 1 - Golden Views from Above

Begin your fall getaway with a perspective that will take your breath away — a scenic helicopter flight with Jasper Hinton Air. Soar over Hinton Northern Rockies’ golden forests, shimmering lakes, and the rugged peaks of the Northern Canadian Rockies as autumn paints the landscape in shades of gold, amber, and red. Your pilot shares local knowledge, from hidden alpine lakes to the history and wildlife of the region, turning the flight into both an adventure and a story of place.

Where to Eat: Celebrate your first day at Folding Mountain Brewing with a seasonal brew and mountain-view dinner.

Day 3 - Discover Autumn from the Saddle

Trade hiking boots for stirrups and see fall from a whole new perspective. With Old Entrance Trail Rides, you’ll journey along quiet river valleys, open foothill ridges, and historic trails once used by explorers, trappers, and forest rangers. The rhythmic pace of the ride lets you slow down and take in the sights — golden aspen leaves drifting in the breeze, crisp mountain air filling your lungs, and sweeping views of the eastern slopes glowing in autumn’s light.

Where to Eat: End your adventure with a warm, comforting meal at Ricky’s All Day Grill at the Best Western Plus — the perfect way to toast your Fall adventure!

FALL ROAD TRIP – HIGHWAY 40 NORTH

Highway 40 North is where Hinton’s backyard adventure begins. This scenic stretch leads you through golden forests, shimmering lakes, and quiet valleys — the perfect place to slow down, breathe in the crisp fall air, and discover Alberta’s wild side.

  • Head north from Hinton on Highway 40, where the landscape quickly transforms into a tapestry of foothills, mirror-still lakes, and golden larch forests. Your first stop: William A. Switzer Provincial Park, a fall paradise perfect for paddling on Gregg Lake, hiking the Athabasca Lookout trail, or birdwatching as migrating flocks fill the skies.

  • Continue deeper into the wilderness toward Rock Lake Lodge, where cozy cabins and horseback riding adventures welcome you to the edge of Willmore Wilderness Park. This vast, roadless wilderness is Alberta’s best-kept backcountry secret, where golden meadows stretch to the horizon and wildlife sightings are part of the adventure. Spend your day horseback riding, fishing in pristine waters, or simply sipping coffee on the lodge deck while the mountains glow in autumn light.

    • Insider Tip: If you’re looking for a multi-day experience, Rock Lake Earth Lodge offers cabin stays where evenings are for stargazing and quiet connection — far from the crowds.

FALL ROAD TRIP – HIGHWAY 40 SOUTH

Head south on Highway 40 and watch the scenery grow wilder with every kilometre. This route is a hotspot for fall wildlife — keep an eye out for elk bugling, bighorn sheep on the slopes, and bears preparing for winter.

  • Make a stop in Cadomin, a former coal-mining town where historic buildings and quiet streets share a glimpse of Alberta’s past. Then stretch your legs on the short walk to Gregg River Falls, a hidden gem framed by autumn colours — perfect for photos or a picnic break.

  • The final stop along Highway 40 South is the Cardinal Divide Trail, where a 10.5 km hike rewards you with panoramic fall views and the rare experience of standing between two continental watersheds. It’s the ultimate way to take in the Rockies’ autumn beauty before heading back to Hinton.

    • Insider Tip: The road to Cardinal Divide is rugged gravel and best tackled with a high-clearance AWD vehicle — take it slow and enjoy the drive as much as the destination.

INDIGENOUS & CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

Fall is a season of reflection, making it the perfect time to connect with the deep cultural roots of the Hinton Northern Rockies. This land holds generations of Cree and Métis history, and exploring it with respect offers a deeper appreciation for the trails, rivers, and mountains you’ll encounter.

Warrior Women Cultural Experiences

Led by Matricia Bauer, Warrior Women invites visitors to engage with Indigenous traditions through storytelling, song, and hands-on learning. Their offerings include intimate fireside chats, artistic workshops, and Trapline Experience — featuring tipi raising, plant walks, hide tanning, and cabin building. These immersive activities allow guests to learn directly from Indigenous knowledge keepers and connect with the land in a meaningful way.

Availability varies by season, so check warriorwomen.ca for current experiences and booking details.

EMBRACE YOUR FALL ADVENTURE

Fall in Hinton Northern Rockies is more than a season — it’s an invitation to slow down, explore, and connect. From golden trails and tranquil lakes to immersive cultural experiences and unforgettable adventures, every day offers a new perspective on this vibrant landscape. Pack your boots, your camera, and your sense of wonder, and let Hinton’s crisp air, colorful forests, and welcoming community guide you through a fall getaway you’ll never forget.