08/14/2026
🍂 Larch season in Alberta is one of the most magical times of the year. Golden trees, turquoise alpine lakes, and some of the most incredible mountain views in the Rockies make fall hiking here hard to beat. If you’re planning to chase the larches this year, save this for your fall hiking bucket list 🥾⛰️🍁
Mount Lorette Ponds is one of the easiest places to see fall colours in Kananaskis, making it a great option if you want something short and low-effort. The trail loops around two small ponds with views of the surrounding mountains and colourful larches. It’s more of a scenic walk than a strenuous hike, so it’s perfect for a relaxed fall afternoon or a quick stop while exploring Kananaskis.
Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass is one of the most iconic larch hikes in the Canadian Rockies. Starting at Moraine Lake, the trail climbs steadily through dense larch forests into Larch Valley, with spectacular views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Continuing past Minnestimma Lakes takes you up to Sentinel Pass, where you get sweeping views over both the Valley of the Ten Peaks and Paradise Valley. The full route is 11.2 km round trip with 750 m of elevation gain and is considered challenging.
Chester Lake is one of the more accessible alpine larch hikes in Kananaskis. The trail follows an old logging road through the forest before reaching Chester Lake, where golden larches surround the shoreline and Mount Chester rises dramatically in the background. At 9.8 km round trip and 315 m of elevation gain, it’s a great moderate option if you want beautiful larch scenery without a huge climb.
Ptarmigan Cirque is a short but rewarding alpine hike along Highway 40 in Kananaskis. The trail climbs through subalpine forest before opening into a dramatic alpine cirque surrounded by rugged peaks. In fall, the larches and other vegetation turn brilliant shades of yellow, creating a beautiful contrast against the mountains. At roughly 4.2 km round trip with 250 m of elevation gain, it’s a great choice for a shorter hike with big mountain scenery.
Arethusa Cirque is a beautiful alpine hike near Highwood Pass
