Larch season in Kananaskis is officially here as the green forests have started to transform into their magnificent hues of gold.
The larch, a species of deciduous coniferous tree, only makes up a portion of the tree cover in the Kananaskis region, but the colours help it stand out against its evergreen neighbours. This gives visitors looking for prime larch immersion countless vantage points to take in the sights.
The golden larch magic is a unique occurrence that happens when, unlike other coniferous trees, it sheds its pines every year. As light begins to decrease at the onset of autumn, the trees steal the nutrients from their pines, causing them to turn yellow and eventually drop off. The dropping of their pines is something that the larch tree has evolved to do, making it a more resilient species than the traditional evergreen. Shedding its pines in the winter prevents branches from falling off due to heavy snow buildup and protects them from insect and fire damage in the spring months.
But hurry, because the words of Robert Frost ring all too true for the larches: “nothing gold can stay”. Larch season is short but sweet, making it all the more special; from the first appearance in about the last week of September, they tend to show their golden hues until the middle of October, before a new cycle of growth begins.
To help you get the most out of this special time of year, we’ve put together a list of some of the best (popular and lesser known) trails so you can get your larch fix in while it lasts.
Lesser known hikes that won’t be as crowded!
The beauty of the larches is no secret, and as a result peak season tends to attract significant crowds. If that’s not your thing and you rather hike the road less traveled, we have the insider scoops on some trails that are likely to be less busy.
Arethusa Cirque
Length: 4.5 km Elevation Gain: 324 Route Type: loop
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Kananaskis has no shortage of well-kept, official trails, but there can be something exciting about exploring one that’s off the beaten path. Arethusa Cirque is just south of Ptarmigan Cirque with similar views but much less foot traffic. Although technically an “unofficial trail”, there are flagging tape markings that direct you on the trail and the Cirque is visible most of the way, giving a sense of direction. Hike through a stunning golden larch forest to reach the Cirque, with equally mesmerizing views on the way back down.
Insider tip: The trails can get a bit slippery due to light snow covering this time of year, be sure to wear proper hiking shoes.
Arnica Lake
Length: 9.3 km Elevation Gain: 738 m Route Type: out & back
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The views are well worth the difficulty of this hike. In our opinion, the best part is the lookout past the end of the trail where you have views of larches and both Arnica and Twin Lakes. To reach the lookout, head 1.5km towards Twin Lakes and turn right towards the well marked trail until you hit the plateau. You can thank us later.
O’Brien Lake
Length: 17.4 km Elevation Gain: 1,053 m Route Type: out & back
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This hike starts off at the same point as Taylor Lake but veers off into its own, more private trail as you pass the meadow. Once the pinnacle of the hike is reached, visitors approach O’Brien Lake where the spellbinding beauty of the larches reflecting on the mirror-like lake sets the scene worth the long trip.
Burstall Pass
Length: 16.3 km Elevation Gain: 654 m Route Type: out & back
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Highlights of this trail include: winding through larch forests and alpine meadows, panoramic views and the Robertson Glacier. On average, this hike takes about 5 hours to complete and is considered to be moderate – challenging.
Insider tip: Wear waterproof shoes as you’ll have to pass some through some streams along the way.
Popular Larch hikes you’ll have to fight the crowds for…
We can almost guarantee these trails will be buzzing with other hikers chasing their own pot of (larch) gold. Busy for good reason, these hikes are tried and true and though there may be crowds, you’re sure to be witness to intense natural beauty.
Pocaterra Cirque and Ridge
Length: 9.8km Elevation Gain: 708 m Route Type: point to point
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If you’re familiar with hiking in Kananaskis, you’ve likely heard about the Pocaterra Cirque and Ridge hikes. Great hikes in any season, we think the best time to tackle them is in the months of September and October, in the golden glow. A bit more of a challenging hike than some others on the list, we recommend this hike to those who feel comfortable on unsturdy footing at times.
Insider tip: There is a viewpoint only 1.5km from the trail head, for those unwilling to commit to the full-meal-deal.
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Arguably the most well known (and busy) larch hike in all of Kananaskis, Ptarmigan Cirque is a trail that will satisfy hikers of all abilities and ages. Relatively short and with little elevation gain in switchbacks in the first kilometer or so, this family-friendly hike is surrounded by larches nearly the entire way. The destination is a beautiful meadow, with a breathtaking 360 degree view.
Insider tip: This hike has amazing payoffs – chase glacier waterfalls here!
Tent Ridge
Length: 10.1 km Elevation Gain: 810 m Route Type: loop
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Though the vast majority of this hike is above the tree-line, there are few hikes that give such a panoramic view of the larches. Sitting on top of the world, you can really enjoy the jaw-dropping colors from a new point of view, a well deserved reward after the effort it takes to get to the top.
Insider tip: To get the tricky scrambling out of the way first, hike the ridge clockwise.
General Larch Season Tips:
- Arrive early, or late! Parking lots for most hikes begin to fill up by 8am. Setting off at the break of dawn can increase your likelihood of beating the morning crowds. If mornings aren’t your thing, try timing it so that people will be leaving the parking lot when you’re arriving (8am plus the length of time the hike tends to take, roundtrip).
- Be prepared for your hike to begin before the trailhead. Parking can be difficult and you may need to do some walking from your car to get to the trail.
- Get your pass ahead of time. One thing Kananaskis is not known for is exceptional wifi; to avoid any issues with your pass, buy it beforehand.
- Dress appropriately. Fall weather can mean freezing temperatures in the morning, and scorching sun in the afternoon. Layers are your best friend. Wear clothing that is light and easy to carry when you begin to shed layers as the day goes by.
- Wildlife is busy this time of year! Be aware of your surroundings and check local wildlife advisories to get the latest update on animal activity.
- Tag us in your Insta photos of the larches for a chance to be featured in our Larch Watch story updates!
Want to extend your larch adventure?
- Kananaskis Lodge is offering a Suite Escape promo to make your time in the mountains that much sweeter.
- After a long day of hiking, why not rest those tired legs with a Twilight soak at the Nordic Spa?
- A long day of hiking calls for a post-hike cocktail. Enjoy the scenery while sipping on your favorite drink at the Blacktail Bar.
- Check out the rest of the Kananaskis Village Restaurants for a bite to eat after (or before) your larch adventures, or something to take with you!
