Where to Find Golden Larch Trees in the Canadian Rockies

The end of summer in Alberta signals the return of golden-hued scenery, all things cozy and, of course, larch tree season. The trees look similar to the ubiquitous pines that blanket the Canadian Rockies, with one key exception – they turn a brilliant shade of yellow in autumn alongside their evergreen cousins.

The best time to catch the larch trees in all their golden glory is between mid-September and early October, but this can vary season to season depending on the weather. Here are some of the best places to spot them in Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country.

Larch Valley

This is ground zero for larch viewing in Alberta. Head to Moraine Lake (another Alberta icon) and hike the Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass trail. Hike 4.3 km (2.67 mi) to see the splendour of Larch Valley – you’ll want to leave yourself lots of time to snap photos and take it all in – or continue another 2.5 km (1.55 mi) to Sentinel Pass, which is a more difficult hike. Larch Valley is one of the most popular hikes of its kind in Banff National Park, so go early in the day. Try the Parks Canada shuttle to Moraine Lake to avoid arriving to find a full parking lot, too. 

Taylor Lake

This is a longer larch hike option that's well worth the distance. The Taylor Lake hike comes in at 16 km (9.9 mi) round-trip, but it's not a particularly difficult route. Before starting out, keep in mind that you won't actually see any larch trees on the way to Taylor Lake. Just wait until the hike's end, which is a scene of golden larch trees reflected in the glassy lake – all surrounded by mountain peaks. Savour the view for a while or, if you've still got some energy to burn, try the short extension trail to Panorama Ridge for more larch trees.

Ptarmigan Cirque

Larches aren't exclusive to Banff National Park. Start this 3.5-km (2.2-mi) loop trail in Kananaskis Country from the Highwood Pass trailhead, which is the same starting point as Pocaterra Ridge. But this is the easier of the two hikes – and make your way through lush swaths of larch trees. There are other sights to watch for along the way, including the namesake cirque, Mount Rae and Mount Arethusa.

Pocaterra Ridge

You'll want to make a day of this one. Pocaterra Ridge can be done as an out-and-back trail (South Pocaterra Ridge), or as a point-to-point hike if you have two vehicles and can leave one at the end. The out-and-back option will put you at 9.3 km (5.7 mi), while the point-to-point comes in at 11.4 km (7.1 mi). This trail starts from the Highwood Pass trailhead, and it's worth bringing some hiking poles along for the journey. You'll gain more than 700 metres (2,296 ft) in elevation, and the views at the top are epic. 

Arethusa Cirque

It doesn't take long to start spotting larches on this hike, but don't stop there. Continue on and you'll find a picturesque meadow filled with larches, bordered by Storm Mountain, Mount Arethusa and Little Arethusa. Follow the trail another 3.2 km (1.9 mi) for a loop that takes you above the tree line for even better larch viewing. The loop can be done clockwise or counterclockwise. Bring hiking poles if you choose the counterclockwise option.

Chester Lake 

You'll find this 8 km (5 mi) hike along Spray Lakes Road (also known as Hwy 742). There's some elevation gain over the first few kilometres, but it's worth the effort when you reach the idyllic alpine meadows that await.

Mt. Lorette Ponds 

If you're in the mood for a leisurely afternoon in Kananaskis Country, head to Mt. Lorette Ponds. The day-use area is just off Hwy 40, where you'll find picnic areas and a great trail around the rainbow trout-stocked ponds. It's also just south of Barrier Lake, so you can double-up on activities.

Highwood Pass

Want to see beautiful autumn colours without the hike? There are options for that, too. You won't see quite as many larch trees along the Highwood Pass (Hwy 40), but you'll spot some alongside stunning scenery in every direction – all from the comfort of your vehicle.