From the vibrant leaves of late-September to the first snowfall not far behind, it’s about time to bundle up and feel the leaves crunch under your boots with a warm drink in hand and mountains on every horizon. While we’d be content with just those few simple pleasures, fall in the Rockies has so much more to offer, and we’ve picked out our top 5 must-dos to help you get inspired and make the most of it!
Hit the trail for the best fall views in the Fraser Valley! Starting on Saturday, September 30th, head out for a 120-minute guided hike on Saturdays and Sundays (and by request on weekdays), complete with snacks, water and a journey through some of the most spectacular aspen groves in the area. You’ll want to bring your camera and finest flannel for this scenic and absolutely photo-worthy excursion. Looking to explore on your own? Head to activities for directions to the Friends trail aspen grove—it will be a wander you won’t forget!
Finally get the perfect family photos. What’s better than a family photo with everyone’s eyes actually open? That, PLUS scenic mountain views. Pumpkins, hay bales, wagons and more set the stage for the perfect fall photo opportunities for you and your loved ones. If you don’t have that perfect holiday photo just yet, now’s your chance! Take a spin around the grounds to find curated vignettes (and just plain scenic views throughout) for the perfect photo op.
BONUS: Head out to our pumpkin patch (located just beyond the Heck’s lawn) for the perfect photo op and to select a pumpkin to carve! Head to Rob’s Room inside Heck’s Tavern to make your own jack-o-lantern! This activity is available until Halloween, while supplies last.
No Ranch stay is truly complete without witnessing a horse jingle. This fall, the harvest jingle will be happening daily from October to mid-November. This essential ranch activity is when horses move from one pasture to another—a spectacular sight to behold! Stay tuned for details on when and where the daily jingle will take place.
Go on an Elk Bugling Tour. This incredible and unique offering is something you won’t find just anywhere. Our 6,500 acres of private, non-hunted land provides a haven for elk herds year after year. There are only a few weeks a year that we offer this tour because we time it around the elk rut—which is when a male elk sends out the call to attract female elk before the winter. To catch this incredible wildlife encounter in-person, plan ahead for Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 7 or Oct. 14. Space is limited, so check it out and get planning here.
Feed the Horses on a Wagon Ride. Pull on your favorite flannel and find your seat for a fun ride through the pasture to feed the horses! Our favorite part of this experience is getting to meet so many of our friendly, quirky horses up close. Plus, what better way to make a new friend than by offering up a tasty snack!
Still need more convincing? Check out our seasonal daily activities through Oct. 1 here, and after Oct. 1 here, including fly fishing, biking, Nordic Walking (to get a head start on the ski season!), and more! Plus, we’ll be serving up hot spiked apple cider that will warm you inside and out all autumn long. For help with planning, give our reservations team a call at 970-726-7000 or check out lodging availability and specials here.