Each autumn the Canadian Rockies are transformed into a sea of gold. It’s a spectacle that needs to be seen in person to be truly appreciated. Once you’ve experienced it for yourself, you’ll understand why Larch season, as it has come to be known in these parts, draws throngs of people. Much like the leaf peepers out east, folks from near and far venture to the mountains to wallow in the grandeur of the season.
Larix lyallii, or Alpine Larch, are slow-growing deciduous coniferous trees named after Scottish naturalist David Lyall. I know what you’re thinking. Describing a single tree as both ‘deciduous’ and ‘coniferous’ would appear to be a contradiction, but Alpine Larch features characteristics of both. Trees in the deciduous family are typically leaf bearing whose leaves change colour in autumn and eventually fall to the ground. Conifer trees, on the other hand, are needle bearing and usually don’t change colour, hence the common name ‘evergreen’. Alpine Larch are covered in needles and, for much of the year, are unassuming as they look similar to pine trees. Prior to the start of winter, Alpine Larch will shed their needles, but not before turning a vibrant golden colour. It is this drastic change in colour that lures thousands of visitors to the mountain parks every autumn.
By now I am sure you’ve heard about the most popular spots to view the Alpine Larch in all their golden glory. Places like the aptly named Larch Valley, Healy Pass, Taylor Lake, Chester Lake, and the Highwood Pass area (many of which are closed this season due to construction. Please check trail reports before heading out), just to name a few. However, one place that is often overlooked is the Lake Louise Resort. Growing on the resort’s upper slopes are plenty of Larches just waiting to be discovered and with a fraction of the crowds of many of the aforementioned locales, it will feel like you have the place all to yourself.
Alpine Larch has a knack for growing high in the subalpine zone of the Canadian Rockies, meaning they require more than a little effort to see them up close. By utilizing the Lake Louise Summer Gondola you eliminate the need to hike up into Larch territory, saving your lungs and legs for the most spectacular sections of the trail. Choose a self-guided trail, such as the Kicking Horse Pass Viewpoint trail, or opt for a guided tour where your guide will share insights on the local flora and fauna and will point out the best spots to view the colourful Larches. The best part is the trails are family friendly. On a recent visit, my family and I thoroughly enjoyed the guided trek along the Trail of the Great Bear and my kids were excited to learn about Banff National Park’s two species of bears.
Grab a coffee from the Lodge of the Ten Peaks before boarding the gondola or enjoy lunch at the Whitehorn Bistro, whose patio has an unbeatable view. Guests to the resort also receive complimentary parking. No visit is complete without wandering through the Wildlife Interpretive Centre, located in the basement of the Whitehorn Bistro. Here you will learn about the wildlife that call the mountains home and you’re able to get up close and personal with some of the area’s most awesome predators.
While enjoying the trails please be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and the presence of wildlife. The Lake Louise Resort is located in the Whitehorn Wildlife Corridor so encountering wild animals is always a possibility. It is strongly recommended to travel in groups of four or more and carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bear spray can be rented or purchased from the Wildlife Interpretive Centre if you don’t already have your own.
The Larches were in the earliest stages of their colour transformation when we were there in mid-September. They should reach their peak within the next week or two. The Summer Gondola is spinning until October 14th, so you have plenty of time to experience autumn in the Rockies and the Larches in all their glory.
Start planning your Larch adventure right here. Learn more about hiking at the Lake Louise Resort by following this link. To view a trail map, please click here.
