Sep 3

18 Fun Fall Experiences in the Fraser Valley

Estimated Read Time: 4 min 51 sec

Autumn in the Fraser Valley brings so many seasonal wonders! Whether you’re looking to wander the pumpkin patches with a PSL (pumpkin spice latte) in hand or you’re sampling apple cider between the fantastic farm experiences, there’s no limit to the fun fall experiences you can have in the area. These are just a handful of the fall festivals and family-friendly activities you can expect when exploring the Valley this season!

Langley

There’s nothing quite like pulling up your waders and venturing out into a floating cranberry field! 

Independent and family-run, the bog has a wonderfully homey feel, with friendly farm tours and a charming farm market. Unsurprisingly, it has become a bit of a seasonal tradition, with countless visitors taking the ‘cranberry plunge.’

If you have any horse enthusiasts in your household, be sure to make this world-class equestrian venue part of your next family outing! Watch from the stands as these majestic horses vault over fences and show off their immaculate form.

The Fraser Canyon is rich in farming history, and there’s no better place to learn all about it! Throughout this immersive experience, you’ll see antique equipment and hear the stories of the people who dedicated their lives to feeding the surrounding communities.

Abbotsford

4. Taste of Abby

The Taste of Abby Fall Food Festival gives local foodies a chance to savour the rich flavours of autumn at the peak of their harvest. Participating restaurants will be serving up their finest seasonal recipes, all made with fresh local ingredients. There will also be a night market, farm tours, and even drop-in pickleball!

One of the local fall attractions with the most variety, the Taves Family Farm has a little something for everyone. Visit the orchard for apple picking, follow the pumpkin-lined path to their corn maze and pumpkin patch,  or pose for a photo with a Cinderella Carriage—you could easily spend the whole day here!

If you’ve been waiting to try out some new fall recipes, Willow View Farms has you covered for fresh fruit. Bring a bucket and wander through the orchards collecting apples, plums, and pears for your next pastry or pie. In the later weeks of the season, a pumpkin patch will sprout up!

Fresh air and bold colours epitomize Valley parks in autumn—you’ll know it one step into Fraser River Heritage Park. Mission’s largest park is wide open for play and full of trails to explore its vibrant setting. Bring your kids and activity ideas and make a day of it! And when you get hungry, stop in at the Blackberry Kitchen right in the park, a homestyle eatery specializing in your morning latte, a spot of brunch or a post-walk glass of wine from a local vineyard.

More than just a coffee shop, The Penny in downtown Mission was built on the idea that good things happen when good people gather. This family-friendly cafe is committed not only to fine coffee and food but also to the community around it through its charity programs. Put a little shot of sweetness in your day with The Penny’s own homemade seasonal syrups!

An 18-hole course with a mountain view and beautiful tree-lined fairways—if you’re looking to get some air and work on your swing, this is one of the premier spots for golfing in the valley! The par three course is excellent for all levels, whether you’re seasoned on the links or it’s your first time picking up a club. By foot or by cart, you’ll see plenty of natural beauty along the way.

When we suggest you come get lost in the Fraser Valley, this is one of the more literal interpretations! Greendale Acres is known for its beautiful maze designs, and this year’s theme is no different. In partnership with 93.7 JR Country, the 2024 maze is a 10-acre tribute to country artist Luke Bryan that has to be seen to be believed!

The 18 km of trail along this riverside route offers some of the most gorgeous vistas in the Fraser Valley. A photographer’s dream, you’ll encounter all kinds of birds native to the area and scenic views of farmland and mountains. If this sounds up your alley, you can learn more about local nature outings with the Experience the Fraser Project!

If you’re looking for artistic inspiration, you won’t find a better muse than a walk around downtown Chilliwack. Stroll through the crisp autumn air, passing by murals, public sculptures, and Indigenous carvings. There’s even a handy map you can follow to maximize your route!

Harrison

13. Cedar Cider

The crisp taste of freshly foraged apples, pears and quinces always pairs well with fall vibes. Focusing on small, barrel-aged batches, Cedar is known for its perfectly dry ciders, best kept at a chilly temp. Stop by for a tour through the orchard and the tasting room, or grab a few bottles for later.

Crafting a good cheese plate is an art, and at The Farm House, you’ll find all the delicious ways you can paint a picture with your palate. And it’s not just cheese, either! You can also stock up on cultured butter, traditional Greek-style yogurt, and freshly bottled cow and goat milk.

If you’re feeling nostalgic for the summer, a sunny fall day at Homestead will take you right back. Grab a table at the dog-friendly grounds, order a flight of their mouth-watering ciders, and enjoy the view of the mountains. Homestead has all the ingredients for a relaxing afternoon in the sun, no matter what the calendar tells you!

Hope, Cascades, and Canyons

16. Hope Bike Park

The cooler temperatures of fall offer pinnacle riding conditions! This public bike park allows riders of all levels to have fun, learn, or find a challenge. Exploring the park will take you from easy-going forest paths to more rugged mountain routes.

17. Manning Park Resort

Cozy cabins, horseback riding, daily nature outings—Manning Park Resort has everything you need to unwind in the fresh mountain air. Whether staying for the night, the weekend or until you’re fully recharged, this nature escape will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated. There are also water sports, camping, and lots of family-friendly activities!

18. Bridal Veil Falls

A scenic nature spot that’s gorgeous in the fall—be sure to add this 33-hectare park to your day trip list! There are fantastic hiking and picnicking areas throughout the park, but the centre-piece is, of course, the spectacular waterfall. Watch in awe as the mountain water cascades down the rockface some 60 metres, creating a veil-like effect as it tumbles down.