Tips for Larch Hiking in Lake Louise
There is a special time of year in the heart of the Canadian Rockies when the needles of the forest-green larches turn to a beautiful bright gold. In mid to late September, hikers flock to the mountains to experience the spectacular display of golden larches across Banff National Park’s trails. Lake Louise is one of the premier locations for larch spotting in the Rockies, so we’re breaking down some of the best tips for hiking in the golden season.
What are the best trails for larch spotting?
Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass
It should come as no surprise that the most popular hiking trail during larch season is Larch Valley at Moraine Lake. The Moraine Lake road is closed to personal vehicles, to access this breathtaking area, guests of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise can book onto our Moraine Lake Shuttle and hike up to the famed golden trail. The trail is rated as difficult, but the reward is worth the work!
Travel tip!
Get the inside track on the famous Larch Valley trail when you join one of our Mountain Adventure Guides on a tour and make the most of this short but spectacular season.
Consolation Lakes
If you want to hike around Moraine Lake but are looking for a hike that is a little more low-key, Consolation Lakes is perfect. This 5.8 km out and back trail is a great family-friendly hike that offers amazing larch and lake views with minimal elevation gain. Hop on our Moraine Lake Shuttle to experience a day full of adventure and jaw-dropping scenery.
Lake Agnes
The Lake Agnes trailhead is to the right of the hotel, only minutes from your room! It is rated as moderate difficulty and is about 2.5 – 3 hours round trip. The views from this trail will leave you in awe, and the larches make the already-spectacular Lake Agnes even more jaw-dropping. Don’t forget to take a snack break at the Teahouse, located at the lake, a historic log cabin serving fine loose-leaf teas and mountain-top treats.
Saddleback
If you’re looking for a slightly more challenging hike up to see the larches, Saddleback is for you. The trailhead is next to our Boathouse (to the left of the hotel, again right at our doorstep!) and brings you up into Paradise Valley where you’ll find yourself surrounded by golden larches and views for days.
Lake Louise Gondola
If you’re into larch views but would rather not hike, the Lake Louise Gondola is right up your alley! Just a short 10-minute drive across the valley you can catch a chair or gondola up the mountain for some epic golden views. Minimal work, maximum reward!
What time of year can I see the larches?
Larches will turn in mid to late September in Lake Louise and will typically keep their bright golden hue for about a week before they lose their needles for the season. The window to see them is short but the reward is oh so sweet!
How can I beat the larch crowds?
The best way to beat the crowds is to be up and at ’em to hit the trails as early as possible. We recommend hitting the trails before 8:00 AM. As a guest of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, many of the most incredible larch hikes are right at our doorstep! This means that you can grab a coffee from the Guide’s Pantry and be on the trail within 15 minutes of getting out of bed. How great is that?
Exploring the trails at Moraine Lake?
Moraine Lake is an iconic destination for its majestic and awe-inspiring backdrop that towers above this breathtaking turquoise blue lake. It’s a world-renowned gem waiting to be explored. Before you plan a larch hike around this area, we have some tips and tricks for you!
Head over to our latest blog, Your Moraine Lake Summer Guide so you can plan ahead and learn how to access this area and make the most of your time in Banff National Park during larch season.
What’s the best deal at the hotel during larch season?
If you’re a resident of Alberta, British Columbia or Saskatchewan, our Resident’s Rate will save you up to 30% on accommodation at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. If you don’t live in Western Canada, then our Endless Summer Memories Offer is our best available rate.
