Top 10 Larch Hikes in Kananaskis Country

Visitors from near and far flock to Kananaskis Country each fall hoping to witness the incredible transformation of the iconic larch trees. As the only needled trees, or conifers, that change colour and shed their needles in autumn, larch trees cast a golden glow across the landscape that’s nothing short of magical. The window to see this phenomenon is brief, with the needles falling by mid to late October, so grab your hiking boots and explore one of these top-rated larch hikes in Kananaskis this fall.

Distances and elevation gain are approximate and difficulties are subjective. Please do your own research when selecting a hike and learn how to prepare for your adventure.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1 km (0.6 mi) loop

Elevation Gain: 26 m (85 ft)

Mount Lorette Ponds is an easily accessible day-use area complete with picnic tables, fishing spots, and a paved walking loop. As you wander along the pathway, you will be greeted by the sight of golden larch trees reflecting in the calm waters of the ponds. It’s a great place to soak in the fall colours while enjoying the serene natural space.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Distance: 4.5 km (2.8 mi) loop

Elevation Gain: 210 m (700 ft)

Ptarmigan Cirque is exceedingly popular – and for good reason. This relatively short hike leads you to a delicate alpine meadow peppered with larch trees and has a spectacular view of the glowing mountain ranges. Plan to get here early – the parking lot fills up fast, and it is illegal to park on the side of the highway.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4.5 km (2.8 mi) loop

Elevation Gain: 324 m (1063 ft)

Arethusa Cirque is a moderately challenging hike amongst gorgeous fall foliage located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park within Kananaskis Country. On this trail, you can look forward to vibrant larch needles as you follow a stream up to a picturesque alpine meadow. At the top, you can take in the dramatic views of Arethusa Mountain. The contrast of the golden larches against the rugged mountains creates a stunning visual feast that will leave you in awe.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 10.2 km (6.2 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 380 m (1247 ft)

Chester Lake is the quintessential fall hike in Kananaskis. Most of the elevation gain is achieved within the first few kilometres before the trail opens into beautiful alpine meadows. The reflection of the larches in the tranquil lake is a sight to behold, making this hike a must-do during larch season. Try to plan to go during weekdays or arrive early to get a parking spot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 432 m (1417 ft)

Rummel Lake is a hidden gem among the best larch hikes in Kananaskis. For those looking for a more secluded hiking experience, this moderately challenging trail will take you to a glassy alpine lake. The reflection of the larches in the lake is a sight to behold, making this hike a must-do during larch season.

Once you’ve finished your hike, venture across the highway to Mount Engadine Lodge for afternoon tea and charcuterie, offered daily from 2 to 5 p.m.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 470 m (1550 ft)

Burstall Pass is a hiker’s dream. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, all aglow with fall colours. While this hike offers a bit more of a challenge, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of larch-filled valleys and distant, towering peaks.

Difficulty: Difficult

Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) loop

Elevation Gain: 810 m (2658 ft)

Tent Ridge Horseshoe is for the adventurous at heart. This rugged trail offers exhilarating scrambles and steep sections, but the payoff is worth the grind. The views of rugged peaks and valleys are unmatched, but the cherry on top is the picture-perfect scene of the Spray Lake shoreline dotted with fall foliage.

Difficulty: Difficult

Distance: 9.8 km point-to-point

Elevation Gain: 708 m (2559 ft)

Pocaterra is a one-way ridge hike that offers incredible views – and you don’t have to retrace your steps on the way back. Leave with two vehicles (and some friends) and park one at the trailhead and one at the exit. This trail is considered a full-day hike and likely will take several hours. The views and the journey are worth the time, with endless incredible opportunities to marvel at the larch-covered slopes.

This trailhead shares a parking lot with the Ptarmigan Cirque trailhead. Take note of the parking suggestions above.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Distance: 22.7 km (14.1 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 1166 m (3826 ft)

Three Isle Lake is a hike that offers everything – lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and a picturesque lake surrounded by larches. It’s a longer hike, suited for those seeking an overnight adventure or a challenging day out. The combination of natural beauty and solitude makes this hike a top contender for those looking to fully immerse themselves in our unfiltered wilderness.

Difficulty: Very Difficult

Distance: 17.9 km (11.1 mi) out-and-back

Elevation Gain: 929 m (3048 ft)

For seasoned hikers seeking a challenge, Smutwood Peak delivers. This demanding trail leads you to breathtaking viewpoints that offer unparalleled vistas of the larch-filled valleys and towering peaks. The climb is steep and requires scrambling and comfort in exposed conditions, but the panoramic views from the top are nothing short of spectacular. This hike is for those looking to push their limits and be rewarded with some of the most stunning fall scenery in Kananaskis.

In Canmore and Kananaskis, our natural ecosystems and stunning landscapes are the heart and soul of our local mountain culture. Before your visit, we encourage you to sign the Pledge to the Peaks, committing to mindful exploration to ensure the safety of all inhabitants of the region and preserve the beauty of our unfiltered wilderness for generations to come.