November in Kamloops carries a special kind of quiet magic. The city, nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Thompson Valley, is transitioning from autumn into the early whispers of winter. The days are shorter, the sun hangs lower over the hills, and the air carries a crisp chill that invigorates each step. For me, visiting Kamloops in November is about embracing the stillness, the earthy scent of fallen leaves, and the raw beauty of its natural landscapes.
Kamloops is often celebrated for its sunny climate and arid hills, but beyond the urban core, its natural wonders unfold in every direction. From vast lakes and winding rivers to rolling hills and hidden canyon trails, the region offers experiences that feel both expansive and intimate. Walking these landscapes allows me to connect deeply with nature, to hear the quiet whisper of the wind through the pine trees, and to watch the interplay of light and shadow across rugged terrain.
In this guide, I will take you through my favorite must-visit natural landscapes in Kamloops, complete with detailed locations, features, costs, ticketing platforms, and personal travel tips. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning to rediscover the city’s wild beauty, these spots offer a perfect blend of adventure, reflection, and photography opportunities. I’ll also share recommendations for Canadian travel booking platforms for flights, accommodations, restaurant reservations, and attraction tickets to make your trip seamless.
1. Kenna Cartwright Park
Location & Overview
Nestled on the western slopes of Kamloops, Kenna Cartwright Park is the city’s largest natural park, spanning over 1,976 hectares. With over 40 kilometers of trails, this park is a hiker’s paradise, offering both gentle walks and challenging climbs. November is a particularly magical time to visit: the last golden leaves cling to the trees, while frost begins to sparkle in shaded areas.
- Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate for most pathways; advanced trails available for experienced hikers.
- Accessibility: Multiple trailheads, including the Summit Trail for panoramic city views.
My Experience
I arrived mid-morning, wrapped in a warm jacket and sturdy boots, with a thermos of coffee in hand. The park was quiet—almost meditative. As I climbed the Summit Trail, each step revealed more of the sprawling city below, framed by rolling hills and autumnal colors. I paused often, inhaling the crisp air and photographing the sun glinting off frost-covered shrubs.
The highlight for me was reaching the summit lookout. From there, the Thompson River snakes through the valley, and the distant mountains shimmer in the low November sun. Standing on that ridge, I felt both exhilarated and grounded, a rare combination that only nature can provide.
Costs & Booking
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Free at designated trailheads
- Booking Platform: No reservation required for trails; for guided hikes or mountain biking experiences, platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide offer local tours.
Travel Tips
- Dress in layers; temperatures drop quickly in the shaded forest areas.
- Bring a flashlight if hiking late afternoon—sunset in November is early.
- Carry a small thermos of hot drinks to enjoy at lookout points.
- Use waterproof hiking boots; some trails can be muddy with early frost.
2. Riverside Park & Thompson River
Location & Overview
Riverside Park stretches along the south bank of the Thompson River, right in the heart of Kamloops. While it is a city park, the riverside trails offer a sense of escape, blending urban accessibility with natural serenity. In November, the park transforms: the trees are bare, and the water reflects the moody sky above.
- Trail Length: Approximately 5 km of walking paths along the river
- Activities: Walking, bird watching, photography, winter picnics
My Experience
I arrived during the late morning when fog still clung to the water surface, giving the river an ethereal glow. I followed the paved trail, stopping frequently to watch mallards and Canada geese skimming the surface. The November light softened everything, casting a muted golden glow over the riverbanks.
Riverside Park is particularly rewarding for photography. I captured reflections of leafless trees mirrored in the Thompson River and mist curling over rocks near the shoreline. I even met a local photographer who recommended a small bench near the old train bridge—a perfect spot to sip coffee and watch the subtle ebb and flow of the river.
Costs & Booking
- Admission & Parking: Free
- Booking Platform: No reservation required; guided kayaking tours in the summer can be booked via Viator.
Travel Tips
- Dress warmly and bring gloves; river breezes are strong in November.
- Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography.
- Stick to designated paths for safety; some riverbanks can be slippery.
3. Peterson Creek Park
Location & Overview
Located northeast of Kamloops, Peterson Creek Park is a hidden gem offering waterfalls, trails, and forested scenery. In November, the creek swells with rainwater runoff, creating a dramatic display of cascading water. The park is ideal for short hikes or even a leisurely walk if you prefer a gentler experience.
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Accessibility: Trailhead at 9th Ave NE; well-marked paths
My Experience
I arrived just after sunrise. The mist rising from Peterson Creek gave the waterfalls a mysterious, almost cinematic quality. I hiked along the creek, stopping at several lookout points where I could hear only the rush of water and my own footsteps crunching on frosty leaves.
One memorable moment was reaching a small wooden bridge that crosses the creek. Standing there, listening to the waterfall’s roar and feeling the crisp spray in the air, I felt completely immersed in the landscape—removed from the everyday bustle of the city.
Costs & Booking
- Admission & Parking: Free
- Booking Platform: Free access; guided nature walks can be booked via GetYourGuide.
Travel Tips
- Bring waterproof footwear; trails are often damp in November.
- Carry a tripod if you’re into photography—long exposure shots of waterfalls are spectacular.
- Be mindful of slippery rocks near the water.
4. Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area
Location & Overview
For a more expansive, semi-arid landscape, Lac du Bois Grasslands offers rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and open grasslands. The area is known for its unique ecosystem and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. November adds a dramatic layer: the brown and gold grasses contrast sharply with the pale sky, creating sweeping vistas perfect for hiking and reflection.
- Trail Length: Variable, from short loops to multi-kilometer treks
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, landscape photography
My Experience
Hiking the Knutsford Hill Loop, I felt a sense of solitude that is rare so close to a city. The November wind swept across the hills, carrying the scent of dry grass and distant pine forests. I spotted a herd of deer in the valley below, frozen in the soft morning light. For me, this hike is both a physical challenge and a meditative escape.
Costs & Booking
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Free at designated trailheads
- Booking Platform: For guided tours or wildlife-focused excursions, check Viator or local operators.
Travel Tips
- Dress in layers; open grasslands can be windy and cold.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife observation.
- Carry water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail.
5. Paul Lake Provincial Park
Location & Overview
Approximately 30 minutes east of Kamloops, Paul Lake Provincial Park offers a serene escape with hiking trails, lakefront beaches, and forested areas. November is quiet, and the lake often reflects the overcast sky, creating a moody and peaceful atmosphere.
- Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Activities: Hiking, fishing, photography, picnicking
My Experience
I arrived mid-afternoon, the lake surface calm and glassy. I walked along the shoreline, occasionally pausing to watch ducks glide across the water. The surrounding forest, stripped of most leaves, created an open, airy feel. One of my favorite spots was a small outcropping near the water’s edge where I could sit and watch the clouds shift over the lake.
Costs & Booking
- Admission: Provincial park entry \$10 CAD per vehicle per day
- Booking Platform: Parks Canada site for entry and camping reservations
- Tips: Arrive early for parking; weekends can get busy even in November.
Travel Tips
- Dress warmly; lakefront winds can be brisk.
- Carry a small thermos with hot drinks.
- If you enjoy photography, overcast skies in November create soft, diffused light perfect for reflections.
6. Mount Dufferin Lookout
Location & Overview
Overlooking Kamloops, Mount Dufferin provides a short but rewarding hike with panoramic city and valley views. In November, the lower city is muted by early frost, while the surrounding hills take on a golden-brown hue.
- Trail Length: 3 km round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
My Experience
Climbing the Mount Dufferin trail, I could see the entire Thompson Valley unfolding beneath me. The November sun, low in the sky, cast long shadows across the hills. I lingered at the lookout, savoring the quiet cityscape, interrupted only by the occasional bird call. For me, it was a reminder of Kamloops’ unique combination of urban life and natural beauty.
Costs & Booking
- Admission & Parking: Free
- Booking Platform: Free access; local guided hikes available via GetYourGuide
Travel Tips
- Bring a flashlight if hiking late afternoon.
- Wear layered clothing; temperatures drop at the lookout.
- Ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Recommended Canadian Travel Platforms
- Flights: Skyscanner Canada, Expedia.ca
- Hotels: Booking.com Canada,Hotels.com Canada
- Restaurants & Dining: OpenTable Canada
- Attractions & Tickets: Viator, GetYourGuide, Parks Canada
Visiting Kamloops in November is an invitation to slow down, embrace stillness, and experience nature in a reflective, almost meditative way. From the vast expanse of Lac du Bois Grasslands to the tranquil waters of Paul Lake, each location has its own personality, its own story. Walking through these landscapes, I feel both grounded and inspired, witnessing the subtle beauty of transition from autumn to winter.
Whether it’s hiking the Summit Trail at Kenna Cartwright Park, photographing mist over Riverside Park, or exploring hidden waterfalls at Peterson Creek, Kamloops offers experiences that nourish the body, mind, and soul. Planning your trip with Canadian booking platforms ensures a smooth experience, while leaving space for spontaneous exploration allows the heart of Kamloops to reveal itself. November in Kamloops is quiet, crisp, and breathtaking—a perfect canvas for any nature lover seeking both adventure and serenity.
