Larch Hikes in the Canadian Rockies

“THE LARCHES!!” This is my most common exclamation throughout the month of September in Alberta. We have a very short fall season here in the Canadian Rockies, which perhaps makes our golden month that much more special. Larch trees, typically found at higher elevations, are coniferous that lose their needles every fall. Peak larch season begins around the second or third week of September which sees the larches turn from a soft green to brilliant yellow and finally to a glowing orange before they lose their needles for the winter. I am slowly making my way through the list of hikes offering the best larch views and find myself returning year after year to a few favourites.

Larch Valley, Banff National Park

The name says it all. This is a must see for glowing larch meadows with a backdrop of dramatic mountain peaks. Don’t let the volume of people at Moraine Lake discourage you, as a couple of switch backs later and the crowds will have thinned significantly. Most hikers stop at the meadows, but continuing up to Sentinel Pass provides a view back on Larch Valley and on the other side of the pass is Paradise Valley.

4.3km to the Larch Meadows + 535m elevation
5.8km to Sentinel Pass + 725m elevation

Healy Pass, Banff National Park

If you’re looking for a full day hike, then this is the hike for you! At just under 20km of hiking, Healy Pass provides stunning valley views with rolling hills of golden larches. The trailhead starts at Sunshine Ski Hill and meanders through the woods and along a creek before elevation gains begin through meadowy fields. The last 1.5km up to the pass are my favourite: the winding trail passes through larch forests as you gain elevation and epic views of the whole valley. The top of the pass provides a stunning backdrop for lunch. Keep in mind, with this hike being such a long day, the weather is apt to change, so be prepared for all conditions! On a side note, if you love wildflowers and mountains, consider this trail in July/early August!

9km to the top of Healy Pass + 655m elevation

Healy Pass: the perfect spot for a cup of tea!

Arnica Lake, Banff National Park

I would have said that this is a less common larch hike, but people seem to be catching on to this pretty little alpine lake! Be sure to arrive early as there is limited parking in the small gravel lot. A steep decent right out of the parking lot brings you down to Vista Lake, after a brief pause to appreciate the views, it’s time to start climbing. And you know what: it really never stops until you reach Arnica Lake. Generally a consistent grade with a few steeper sections, this hike is still atainable for most, just add a few breaks along the way. You will come across the first few larch trees scattered amongst the forest before arriving lakeside where the primary density of larches are. With plenty of rocks along the shore, find a spot and settle in for lunch while taking in the calm surround of this little alpine lake, with dramatic mountain views and golden larches.

5.1km to Arnica Lake + 580m elevation

Pocaterra Ridge, Kananaskis

With two cars, this can be hiked South (Highwood Pass parking lot) to North (Little Highwood Pass parking lot), providing over four kilometres of breathtaking 360 degree ridge views. This hike starts gently through the forest before crossing into the meadows. Then the real work begins: the first peak is by far the hardest and steepest climb but once at the top the views are endless in all directions. Following the ridge gains three more peaks and another larch meadow before descending steeply through the forest, climbing over some downed logs and across a stream to emerge to the Little Highwood Pass parking lot. Although this hike is quite popular during larch season, personally, I find the vast views from the ridges to be the primary draw rather than the small collection of larch forests. Note that the Highwood Pass parking lot is the starting point for multiple hikes including the very family friendly and popular Ptarmigan Cirque. Don’t let the volume of cars dissuade you: once on the ridge, you might just feel like you are the only ones out there!

10.3km + 727m elevation (through hike)