Top 10 Fall Larch Tree Hikes in Banff National Park
Fall in Banff National Park is magical, especially when the larch trees turn a vibrant golden yellow. These majestic trees, unique for their needles that change color and fall off like leaves, offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Canadian Rockies. Here are the top 10 fall larch tree hikes in Banff National Park that you won’t want to miss:
1. Larch Valley
Distance: 8.6 km (5.3 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 535 meters (1,755 feet)
Trailhead: Moraine Lake
Why Go: Larch Valley is one of the most popular Larch hikes in Banff National Park, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of the Ten Peaks and a spectacular display of golden larches, especially in late September.
Our Tip: Be sure to book your shuttle or transportation well in advance. The Morraine Lake Bus Co. has convenient pick-up locations and many departure times. Book Here.
2. Sentinel Pass
Distance: 11.6 km (7.2 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 725 meters (2,379 feet)
Trailhead: Moraine Lake
Why Go: This hike takes you through Larch Valley and up to Sentinel Pass, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The larches here are some of the most picturesque in the park.
Our Tip: Book the Morraine Lake Bus Co. Shuttle to secure your transportation to Moraine Lake. Book Here.
3. Healy Pass
Distance: 18.3 km (11.4 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 655 meters (2,149 feet)
Trailhead: Sunshine Village
Why Go: Healy Pass offers a longer, more challenging hike with expansive meadows filled with larch trees. The views from the pass are incredible, with glimpses of Egypt Lake and the rugged peaks beyond.
Our Tip: Start the hike at a higher elevation for a less strenuous day by taking the Banff Sunshine Gondola to Sunshine Meadows and beginning the hike there.
4. Pocaterra Ridge
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles) one way
Elevation Gain: 700 meters (2,297 feet)
Trailhead: Highwood Pass (Kananaskis)
Why Go: Although technically outside Banff in Kananaskis Country, Pocaterra Ridge is a must-do for larch lovers. The ridge walk offers stunning views and vibrant larches throughout the hike. It’s a bit more challenging but worth every step.
Our Tip: This hike is enjoyable as a point-to-point hike, with one car dropped off at the North trailhead and one at the South trailhead. Be sure to check for trail conditions and closures. You will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to hike here.
5. Taylor Lake
Distance: 13.5 km (8.4 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 585 meters (1,919 feet)
Trailhead: Taylor Lake parking lot (on the Trans-Canada Highway)
Why Go: Taylor Lake is a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and golden larch trees.
Our Tip: The hike is moderate and less crowded during larch viewing season, however, the parking lot can get busy, so plan to get there early.
6. Bourgeau Lake and Harvey Pass
Distance: 19.8 km (12.3 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,025 meters (3,363 feet)
Trailhead: Bourgeau Lake parking lot (on the Trans-Canada Highway)
Why Go: This challenging hike rewards you with stunning views of Bourgeau Lake, surrounded by larches, and the option to continue to Harvey Pass for even more breathtaking scenery.
Our Tip: Start your day early. This is a longer day hike with many opportunities to rest and take in the views.
7. Chester Lake
Distance: 9.0 km (5.6 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 300 meters (984 feet)
Trailhead: Chester Lake parking lot (Kananaskis)
Why Go: Another Kananaskis gem, Chester Lake is an easier hike with stunning larch displays. The lake itself is surrounded by larches and towering peaks, making it a perfect spot for a fall picnic.
Our Trip: This is a great family-friendly and dog-friendly hike so bring the whole crew!
8. Twin Lakes
Distance: 16.4 km (10.2 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 880 meters (2,887 feet)
Trailhead: Vista Lake viewpoint (on the Icefields Parkway)
Why Go: Twin Lakes is a quieter alternative to some popular larch hikes, offering beautiful views of larch-filled valleys and alpine lakes. The trail is more challenging, but the solitude and scenery are worth it.
Our Tip: Most sections are well-marked and not very technical, but the trail is more backcountry than other regional hikes, so be prepared for lots of roots and rocks.
9. Skoki Lakes
Distance: 34 km (21.1 miles) round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,150 meters (3,773 feet)
Trailhead: Lake Louise Ski Resort/Fishcreek Trailhead
Why Go: This multi-day hike takes you deep into the Skoki Valley, where you’ll find some of the most remote and stunning larch displays in the park. The hike is challenging but offers unparalleled beauty and solitude.
Our Tip: For a day hike, hike to the Baker Lake Campground and back. It’s a long day, so bring lots of water and food.
Tips for Fall Larch Hikes:
Timing is Key: The larch trees typically turn golden in mid-to-late September, and the color lasts for about two weeks. Plan your hike accordingly!
Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular larch hikes like Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass can get very crowded during peak season. Start your hike early to avoid the rush.
Dress in Layers: Fall weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for everything from warm sunshine to chilly winds and even snow.
Leave No Trace: Preserve the natural beauty of these trails by packing out all trash and respecting the environment.
