Golden Trails: Larch Season Hikes in Kananaskis
When the alpine larches burst into golden hues mid‑September through early October, Kananaskis transforms into a breathtaking canvas of fall colour. For those eager to lace up their boots and chase this fleeting spectacle, here are a few standout hikes worth the drive:
Mount Lorette Ponds
A gentle one-kilometre loop with minimal elevation gain—perfect for families or a quiet autumn stroll. The reflections of golden larches on the serene water make this an easy yet spectacular outing.
Ptarmigan Cirque
A moderate 4.5 km loop (approximately 210 m gain) that leads to alpine meadows dotted with glowing larches and sweeping mountain views. This popular hike fills up fast—arrive early to secure parking.
Arethusa Cirque
A 4.5 km loop with 324 m elevation—offering dramatic views of Mount Arethusa and vibrant foliage along a scenic stream ascent).
Chester Lake
A longer, rewarding 10.2 km return trail with 380 m of gain. The alpine meadow opening onto the tranquil lake reflects the larches beautifully; ideal for a mid‑week adventure when it’s quieter.
Rummel Lake and Burstall Pass
Slightly more challenging trails—both offering peaceful surroundings and stunning larch views. Rummel Lake is 10.4 km out‑and‑back (432 m gain), while Burstall Pass stretches over 15 km with 470 m of elevation for panoramic immersion in fall colour.
Pro Tip: Larch season is fleeting—typically peaking mid‑September to early October—so plan ahead and move fast!
Happy hiking — may your boots tread golden paths this fall!
Source:
https://www.explorecanmore.ca/blog/top-larch-hikes-in-canmore-kananaskis/
