Its almost Larch Season! It’s that fleeting time of year when the larches turn golden and it’s the perfect time for your fall hike. So, where can you find larches this year? Here are some of our favourite places.

Larch Hikes in Banff

Bourgeau Lake/Harvey Pass

Not too far from the town of Banff, this trail goes through the forest before opening up to an impressive ring of mountain faces cradling the lake. You can sit and enjoy the views here, or continue on to Harvey Pass (another 2.3 km) to enjoy even more views of the autumn gold. This is one of the longer hikes on this list, but it's oh so worth it!

Distance: 15 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 725 m

Sentinel Pass via Larch Valley

Ok so this is typically a busy one, but it’s so worth it! Take the ROAM bus or book a shuttle to access Moraine Lake. The hike has larches early on, and it’s not long before you are in Larch Valley. You can turn back here, or continue to the pass for that iconic view of this stunning golden forest.

Distance: 11.6 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 725 m

Photo by Travel Alberta | Paul Zizka

Taylor Lake

Hike through the forest on an old road to reach the lake and enjoy the stunning views of golden larch trees reflected in the still waters on a calm day. This hike has a steady, gradual climb – making it the perfect combination of gaining elevation while not feeling too strenuous about it.

Distance: 12.6 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 585 m

Photo by Travel Alberta | Paul Zizka.

Larch Hikes in Kananaskis

Chester Lake

This classic hike is a relatively easy out-and-back that has spectacular larches around the lake. If you venture a little bit further to the Elephant Rocks, you’ll be treated to even more golden yellow around these unique rock formations. This trail follows an old logging road, so it’s not too technical, but still far enough that you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished a good hike.
Pro tip: Stay at Mount Engadine Lodge and be one of the first ones on the trail!

Distance: 9.2 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 300 m

Mt Lorette Ponds

If you want to see larches but aren’t up for a hike, or you’re looking for some stellar larch views with people in your group who have accessibility issues, then a visit to Mt Lorette Ponds should be in your schedule. This technically isn’t a hike, but there is a gentle, paved path around the pond with benches and great views. This stroll is wheelchair and stroller friendly, so everyone can enjoy the beautiful golden larches.

Distance: 1 km loop
Elevation gain: minimal

Tryst Lake

This out-and-back is typically not too busy, but don’t let this short hike pass you by. Enjoy a lake with a wall of larch trees that run along the ridge and reflect off the still waters on a calm day. Walk to the end of the lake to find some really dense areas of larch trees, which makes the perfect spot to enjoy lunch. You can continue on to the ridge for even more views, or call it a day and head back from here.

Distance: 7 km out-and-back
Elevation gain: 350 m

Kate Barker