October is one of the most magical months in Southwest Manitoba. Crisp mornings, golden leaves and cool nights make it an ideal time to explore the region! Whether you love nature, culture, or cozy autumn experiences, there’s something for every traveler.
Here are the Top 5 October Activities you won’t want to miss:
1. Hike Through Peak Fall Colours
*Spruce Woods Provincial Park – Photo Credit: Travel Manitoba
Southwest Manitoba’s landscapes explode with golden yellows and burnt orange in October. Some of the best places to immerse yourself in autumn scenery include:
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Spruce Woods Provincial Park – Explore the Epinette Creek trail system or the Devil’s Punch Bowl for sweeping views of fall foliage
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Turtle Mountain Provincial Park – Aspen, oak, and birch trees make this region especially vibrant. The Adam Lake and Turtle’s Back trails are stunning this time of year
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Riding Mountain National Park – Explore the Bald Hill Lookout via Reeve’s Ravine for stunning Fall views
Whether you’re taking a shorter stroll or longer hike, October’s colors are unforgettable!
2. Enjoy Local Craft Fairs & Harvest Events
*Brandon’s Big One Arts & Crafts Sale – Photo Credit: Brandon’s Big One Arts & Crafts Sale
October brings communities together in celebrating the annual harvest with a wide range of events:
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Take in one of many local craft and artisan markets taking place throughout the region – like Brandon’s Big One Arts & Crafts Sale, held each October
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Visit the Pierson Pumpkin Patch; where you’ll find games, a zip line and corn maze (including a haunted corn maze in the evenings!)
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Sample the taste of a Small-town fall supper; a beloved Manitoba tradition featuring homemade meals and warm hospitality
These events are a perfect way to experience community culture and support local creators.
3. Visit Historic Sites Before Winter Sets In
*Souris Swinging Bridge – Photo Credit: The Hillcrest Museum
Cool temperatures make October the ideal month for touring Southwest Manitoba’s heritage attractions:
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Boissevain’s Outdoor Art Gallery & Tommy Turtle Statue
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Brandon’s Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
With fewer crowds and beautiful fall backdrops, it’s a great time for photography and immersive history.
4. Experience Bird Migration at Its Peak
*Yellow Throated Vireo
October is migration season, and Southwest Manitoba sits on a major flyway.
Top wildlife-watching locations include:
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Oak Lake / Plum Lakes Important Bird Area
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Whitewater Lake
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Douglas Marsh
Bring binoculars…and be sure to download the Manitoba Grasslands Birding Trail Guide
5. Cozy Up With Autumn Food & Drink
*Chez Angela Bakery & Cafe, Brandon – Photo Credit: Restaurant Guru
October is the perfect month for warm meals, local ingredients, and cozy cafés. Some ideas:
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Tour local breweries & Cideries in Brandon, Pilot Mound and Neepawa for seasonal releases: Section 6 Brewing Co, Wooden Gate Cider and Farmery Estate Brewery
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Visit bakeries and cafés for yummy baked goods and seasonal hot drinks: Farmhouse 50, Chez Angela and Boissevain Bakeshop are a good place to start!
It’s the season of comfort — and Southwest Manitoba’s food scene shines!