Fall in Richmond is something out of a painting—vibrant red and golden leaves, misty mornings, and a crispness in the air that makes a hot drink taste ten times better. While Richmond itself offers some great autumn spots, the real magic starts when you hit the road. If you’re up for a scenic drive filled with photo-worthy vistas, charming cafés, and small-town surprises, there’s no better journey than the route from Richmond to Revelstoke.

And if you’re traveling with a car rental in Richmond, you’ve got all the flexibility you need to turn a simple road trip into a cozy fall adventure.

Why Take the Drive from Richmond to Revelstoke?

Time to travel this route. There’s less tourist traffic, the air is crisp, and the trees are showing off their best colors.This isn’t just a route—it’s a full experience. The roughly 6.5-hour journey (without stops) winds through mountain valleys, shimmering lakes, and charming small towns that practically beg you to pull over and explore. Every stretch of highway feels like its own story, whether it’s a scenic rest stop, a cozy café, or a spontaneous photo op by the roadside.

Driving gives you:

• Freedom to stop at any lookout, farm stand, or hidden trail that catches your eye
• Space for all your essentials—hiking boots, warm layers, and maybe even that extra pie you couldn’t resist
• Control of your playlist, pace, and mood—no timetables, just your own adventure

Fall is the perfect time to make the drive. The weather is cool but comfortable, the scenery is at its most colorful, and the roads are quieter than in summer. Whether you’re chasing autumn colors, planning weekend getaways, or just craving open-road serenity, this BC road trip delivers it all.

With a Mr. Rent a Car vehicle, you can go wherever curiosity leads—confidently, comfortably, and completely on your own terms. Because sometimes, the best destinations aren’t planned—they’re found along the way.

Starting Point: Richmond

Before hitting the road, make sure to fuel up—both your car and yourself. Richmond is brimming with cozy cafés and local eateries that make the perfect first stop of the day. If you’re in the mood for a relaxed seaside start, head over to Steveston Village, where you can sip your morning coffee while watching fishing boats bob in the harbor. The charming streets here are lined with bakeries, brunch spots, and oceanfront patios that capture the laid-back coastal spirit of BC.

For something a little different, try Leisure Tea & Coffee, a local favorite known for its Taiwanese-style breakfast sandwiches, crispy toasts, and perfectly brewed bubble tea. It’s a great way to grab a quick yet satisfying bite before your drive. Richmond’s café scene is diverse—whether you crave artisanal espresso, hearty breakfast plates, or light pastries to go, you’ll find plenty of options to start your road trip on a delicious note.

If you’ve picked up your rental from Mr. Rent a Car, they’ll make sure your ride is clean, gassed up, and road-trip-ready.

Scenic Stops Along the Way

1. Hope: Gateway to the Mountains

About two hours from Richmond, Hope marks the point where your road trip truly begins to feel adventurous. Nestled at the meeting point of several river valleys and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, this small town is often called the “Gateway to the Interior.” What makes Hope special is its blend of rugged beauty and small-town charm—you’ll find yourself slowing down just to take in the views.

Hope is famous for its intricate wood carvings, which are scattered throughout the town. These hand-carved sculptures—depicting wildlife, historical figures, and mythical creatures—turn an ordinary walk through the streets into an open-air art gallery. The town is also a haven for outdoor lovers, with plenty of hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic lookouts.

Just a short drive away lies Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, home to the iconic Othello Tunnels—a series of historic train tunnels carved through solid rock in the early 1900s. Walking through them feels like stepping into a movie set, surrounded by steep cliffs and rushing water below. Whether you’re there for a photo stop, a light hike, or a full day of exploring, Hope is a must-see stop on any BC road trip.

Want to stretch your legs? Grab a coffee from Blue Moose Coffee House, then walk the Kawkawa Lake trail.

🔗 Learn more about Hope, British Columbia and its historic role in the Gold Rush and film industry.

2. Merritt: Country Music Capital of Canada

About an hour from Hope, Merritt is a small detour that’s absolutely worth taking—especially in the fall. As you drive into town, the rolling ranchlands stretch out in shades of gold and amber, glowing under the crisp autumn sunlight. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you slow down, roll down the windows, and take a deep breath of that fresh interior air.

Merritt has a laid-back, country charm that makes it a great place to recharge mid-road trip. Stop by Brambles Bakery & Café, a cozy local favorite known for its fresh sandwiches, hearty soups, and homemade desserts. It’s the perfect spot to warm up and enjoy a comforting meal before getting back on the road.

And here’s a fun bonus for music lovers—Merritt is Canada’s Country Music Capital. The town pays tribute to its musical roots through colorful murals, hand-painted guitars, and memorabilia celebrating famous country artists. A quick stroll downtown feels like stepping into a living gallery dedicated to music and local pride. Whether you’re passing through or staying for a bit, Merritt offers a peaceful, picturesque break along your BC adventure.

3. Kamloops: Nature Meets Urban Charm

Kamloops makes for the perfect halfway stop on your BC road trip—an inviting city where small-town friendliness meets outdoor adventure. Set where the North and South Thompson Rivers meet, it’s a place that naturally encourages you to stretch your legs and explore. Take a walk along the Thompson River trails, where you can enjoy peaceful water views, spot local wildlife, and catch the golden hues of the surrounding hills during fall.

When it’s time to refuel, Kamloops has plenty of cozy cafés, family diners, and local restaurants serving everything from comforting soups to international flavors. Autumn also brings a burst of local charm—harvest markets, art walks, and seasonal festivals fill the calendar, giving visitors a taste of the city’s creative and community spirit.

If you’re traveling with kids—or just a kid at heart—make a quick stop at McArthur Island Park, a family-friendly space with walking paths, sports areas, and open lawns perfect for picnics or a quick game of catch. Or, take a short drive to the BC Wildlife Park, where you can see bears, cougars, and other native animals up close. Whether you’re here for an hour or an afternoon, Kamloops offers the perfect blend of rest, recreation, and road-trip inspiration.

4. Sicamous: Pie, Please!

Before rolling into Revelstoke, make time for a break in Sicamous—fondly known as the “Houseboat Capital of Canada.” While it’s best known for its lively summer scene, fall transforms this lakeside town into something quieter and more peaceful. The crowds fade, the air turns crisp, and the calm waters of Shuswap Lake mirror the changing leaves, creating postcard-perfect views in every direction.

Even if you’re not out on the water, Sicamous offers plenty of ways to unwind. Grab a seat on the heated patio at The Moose Mulligan’s Public Eatery, where you can sip something warm while watching the last few boats drift by. The cozy lakeside setting makes it an ideal spot to pause, stretch, and soak in that small-town BC charm.

And here’s a must-do for every traveler passing through—stop at The Apple Tree for a slice of homemade pie. Whether it’s apple, berry, or something seasonal, it’s comfort food at its finest and practically a rite of passage for anyone road-tripping through the Shuswap. Sicamous may be small, but it’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve hit the highway again.

Destination: Revelstoke

Revelstoke, nestled deep in the Selkirk Mountains, is one of those towns that feels like a hidden gem no matter the season—but fall brings a special kind of magic. The summer crowds have thinned, the air turns crisp and clean, and the mountains glow with streaks of amber, gold, and deep evergreen. It’s the perfect time to slow down, breathe deeply, and let nature set the pace.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Mount Revelstoke National Park is a must-visit. The drive up the Meadows in the Sky Parkway offers breathtaking views, with trailheads leading to alpine lakes and lookout points that seem to float above the clouds. If you’re up for a hike, the park’s fall scenery makes every step worth it.

But Revelstoke isn’t just for adventurers—it’s also a haven for those looking to unwind. The town has a warm, mountain-town charm, filled with cabin-style cafés, local bakeries, and boutique shops that invite you to linger. Sip a latte by a window overlooking the peaks, or cozy up with a good book as the mist rolls in from the valley. Whether you’re there for exploration or relaxation, Revelstoke captures the spirit of a true BC mountain escape.

Highlights include:

• The Meadows in the Sky Parkway for high-altitude leaf peeping
• Dose Coffee for artisan brews and pastries
• Quartermaster Eatery for local, seasonal dinner fare

If you’re staying the night, cozy up in a lodge like the Explorers Society Hotel—it’s all warm wood and mountain luxury.

Why a Car Rental Makes the Trip Better

Traveling by car gives you the power to choose your own pace and your own playlist. Whether you’re snapping foliage photos every 20 minutes or just enjoying a silent, soul-soothing drive, it’s your journey.

A car rental in Richmond from a reliable provider like Mr. Rent a Car makes things easy. Choose an SUV for extra comfort and storage, or go compact for better mileage on the highways.

Don’t forget to:

• Check your route for any construction delays (BC highways can be sneaky!)
• Bring layers—Revelstoke can be chilly even in early fall
• Keep your camera ready. Seriously, it’s that beautiful.

Final Thoughts: A Road Trip Worth Taking

Richmond to Revelstoke isn’t just a road trip—it’s a postcard-worthy fall adventure. Every bend in the highway opens up a new landscape, from misty coastlines to golden ranchlands and alpine peaks dusted with early snow. Each stop along the way—whether it’s a small-town café, a quiet lakeside park, or a scenic lookout—adds its own charm to the journey.

With the right car, good company (or a peaceful solo playlist), and a thermos full of something warm, you’ll turn a simple drive into something unforgettable. This is the kind of trip that reminds you why the open road feels so freeing—the rhythm of the tires, the changing skies, and that sense of adventure just beyond the next turn.

So don’t wait for next year. This fall, pick your weekend, book a car rental in Richmond, and let the road lead you to Revelstoke’s cozy corners and breathtaking colors. Whether it’s a quick getaway or a full-on road trip, Mr. Rent a Car is here to help you explore BC your way—comfortably, confidently, and completely at your own pace.