After so long, the Larch season has finally arrived. I have lived in the Bow Valley for a few years, and honestly, the one thing I could never get tired of was the breathtaking beauty of Larch Valley. Visiting this heavenly place in person will become one of your favorite memories. That’s for sure!
Larch Valley Hike Key Facts
Length: 9.33 km round trip (5.8 miles)
Duration: 2-4 hours
Elevation: 544 meters (1786 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Moraine Lake Canoe Docks
When to Visit Larch Valley?
I recommend visiting the Larch Valley in the autumn/ fall season, not a minute late, or you’ll miss out on the real deal. When you see leaves turning from green to golden, you’ll realize why the Valley is called Larch. And why people are in love with this place. Not kidding, but the Larch Valley in the Fall is straight out of a fantasy book. And it’s not just me, but the opinion of many who have visited this magnificent valley. The best time to hike near the Valley or Sentinel Pass would be in September/October. If this is not on your vacation list, what is?!
What’s the best way to avoid Crowd when hiking Larch Valley?
To explore the Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass, the best time would be to start the hike early in the morning. The place to start would be near Moraine Lake. As of 2023, cars are not allowed near the place, but you can take a map and yourself. Moraine Lake at sunrise is one of the most stunning views you will ever see. I mean, how can a lake look this divine? The mountain peaks, the colors, the sky, how can all this blend in so smoothly? The Gods carved this place.
Where to start from?
The hike can begin just past Moraine Lake trailhead. The main task is getting to the trailhead. For this purpose, a few travel options are available, such as the Banff Transit (ROAM), Canada shuttle, or a walk.
How difficult is the Hike?
It is not difficult to hike this valley, and within a few hours (4-5 hours), you can cover most of the surrounding areas. Your energy and the breaks you take will add to the hours. Your eyes will be mesmerized when you see the valley covered in dazzling sunshine.
With the fall season, the yellow leaves become icing on the cake. And with the mountain peaks at the back, it all simply becomes magical. Banff is usually crowded. I mean, why not? Beautiful attractions surround it. Above all, the mountain peaks are covered in snow, yellow leaves, and wild trails. People come from far to get a glance at this place. Indeed, visiting this place is something one should be grateful for. The scenic views can make anyone’s day better.
Continue to the Sentinel Pass
Another beautiful place surrounding the Larch Valley is definitely the Sentinel Pass. People often visit the Larch Valley and Sentinel together. To get to Sentinel Pass, you can either go by Lake Louise or keep going on the Moraine Lake Road for around 10-12 km. As you continue down the road, you will notice mesmerizing yellow trees and the ten renowned peaks in the back. Sentinel Pass does appear to be quite steep and slippery and can be taken for a risky pathway. However, this is not the real case. It just looks steep from the appearance.
You can take a lovely walk along the trails and enjoy other spectacular views. If you continue on the road of Sentinel Pass, you may also come across Paradise Valley. Undoubtedly, every step you take will only add to the list of magical moments. If you still have some energy left, you can retrace your steps to the main point or sit and breathe in the beauty of nature.
Sentinel Pass Hike Key Facts
Length: 2.41 km round trip (1.5 miles)
Duration: 1 hour
Elevation: 169 meters (554 feet)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Minnestimma Lake
Conclusion
Don’t wait or overthink. Visiting this place is something you wish you would have done years ago. The one thing I can confidently say is that, throughout the journey, all you’ll do is take a deep breath and say WOW.
