Larch trees are a special kind of conifer. The needles on larch trees turn a beautiful golden color in the fall before eventually falling to the ground.
From mid-September to early October, golden larches of can be found in all of Alberta’s mountain parks, including Banff, Kananaskis and Waterton.
Subalpine larch trees grow at elevations of 1,800 to 2,400m above sea level. The Highwood Pass is a great starting place to see larch trees.
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The Larch Valley hike that leaves from Moraine Lake is by far the most well-known larch hike around. If you don't mind the crowds, it's well worth it!
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Saddleback Pass may not be the most famous Lake Louise larch hike, but it is an exceptionally good alternative to Larch Valley.
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The mirror image of larch trees in the water are incredible, but a short hike past the lakes takes you to a huge forest of golden larches. Don’t miss it!
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The Ptarmigan Cirque hike in Kananaskis is a great option for people who want an easy hike to see larch trees.
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The aerial views of the large larch forest are incredible. A perfect alternative to the popular Ptarmigan Cirque, though more challenging at times.
- Alice Walker