September 10, 2024
The autumn season gives summer hiking a run for its money in terms of popularity. As the blanket of gold begins to cover the landscape, one sight stands out among the rest: alpine larches.
Unlike almost all other conifers, Larix lyallii or alpine larches have soft needles that turn yellow in the autumn and fall off before the winter, making them appear distinct alongside other evergreens. Popular larch hikes within Alberta Parks are primarily found in Kananaskis Country. However, you can still find alpine larches in other areas of Alberta, but they tend to be found in lesser-known areas or tucked away deep into forested areas. The prime window for witnessing the larch trees in their golden glory typically spans from mid-September to early October, although this timeline may fluctuate from year to year due to varying weather conditions.
We invite you to discover the beauty of Autumn in Alberta Parks, but before you lace up your boots, remember that planning ahead is key to your hiking success. Here are some tips to consider:
- Please avoid the Highwood Pass area in Kananaskis. Due to ongoing construction, there will be very limited parking and intermittent closures. Roadside parking will not be permitted. This area includes the Highwoods Meadow Interpretive Trail, Pocaterra Cirque and Ridge Routes, Arethusa Cirque and Ptarmigan Cirque.
- Where to see larches or other fall foliage in Kananaskis. We recommend checking out Chester Lake, Centennial Ridge, Yamnuska, Mt Lorette Ponds, Prairie View or Buller Pass.
- Expect our parks to be busy. Set your expectations ahead of time and make a backup plan if your initial destination’s parking lot is full.
- Parking lots fill up quickly. Parking on the roadway or shoulder of a primary highway is not only illegal, it also poses a safety risk to visitors, emergency vehicles and wildlife. Only park your vehicle in designated lots and obey all posted signs
- Go early in the morning or mid-week. By staying flexible and visiting outside of the busy times (Saturday and Sunday mid-day) can help guarantee a parking spot and a better experience on the trail.
- Bears are highly active in the fall. As they prepare for hibernation by eating and drinking as much as possible, which means they may be less observant and aware of their surroundings. It’s extremely important to be bear aware right now. Carry bear spray where you can easily reach it and know how to use it.
- Larch Season overlaps with Rutting Season. Many male animals, including moose and elk, enter their mating season, or rut, from mid-September until the end of October. Rutting changes animals' behaviours, making them more territorial, less aware of their surroundings and more aggressive. Give these animals plenty space and avoid provoking them by keeping any pets close and on leash.
- Weather in the fall can quickly change. Pack extra layers and rain gear. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are expected to return. Cell phone coverage may be non-existent so make sure to call and let them know when you are back in a service zone.
- Prepare for scrambles. Since alpine larches only grow at high elevations, scrambling might be necessary to get close and personal with these elusive golden trees. If you've never scrambled before, please keep in mind that scrambling can be dangerous. If you're new, do your research and start with scrambles rated "easy".
Want to discover more great fall hikes in Alberta Parks? You’re in luck! There are dozens of picturesque trails worth checking out this season. Below are some of our staff suggestions to help plan your trip to an Alberta Park near you!
David Thompson Corridor:
Amerada Trail, Crimson Lake Provincial Park
- This easy hike winds through multiple wetland areas throughout the park and features large stands of Larches.
- Parking available at the Crimson Lake day use parking lot.
Landslide Lake Interpretive Fire Trail, Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve
- Located off Hwy 11, west of the Kootenay Plains, this two km looped trail winds through larch and aspen poplar stands and an area impacted by a recent prescribed burn forest fire.
- Parking available at dedicated trailhead parking lot
Tuff Puff/Kinglet Lake trail, Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve
- Located off Hwy 11, west of Nordegg in the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve, this 10km moderate to difficult hike brings you to a wide-open ridge with views of the North Saskatchewan River valley. A true marvel to see in autumn colours!
- Parking available at dedicated trailhead parking lot.
Northern Rockies:
Athabasca Lookout Trail, William. A Switzer Provincial Park
- The Athabasca Lookout Trail offers a breathtaking skyline view of the foothills and front ranges of the Rockies in their fall splendour. Hike 1 km uphill to reach the ridge and enjoy the stunning panorama. The trail continues for another 3km along sandstone boulders and cliffs and eventually descends in Joachim valley to connect to Jarvis Campground.
- Access the trail from the last parking lot on the Hinton Nordic Centre Road.
George Kelley Trail, Rock Lake Provincial Park
- The George Kelley Trail meanders uphill to a spectacular viewpoint at 1.5 km. The views include rolling foothills with Rock Lake below and the snow-capped mountains of Willmore Wilderness in the distance. The trail continues another 3.5 km further uphill eventually opening into spacious alpine meadows.
Rock Lake Viewpoint, Willmore Wilderness Park
- Willmore Wilderness is a gigantic Rocky Mountain park of 4,600 square kilometres. For a taste of Willmore with minimal effort, Hike along the main mountain trail and turn left at the large Willmore Sign (total of 1km one way). The picturesque viewpoint opens on a large rocky ridge looking down into the valley of Rock Lake and Rock Creek surrounded by tall mountains. The fall colours are stunning!
- Parking available at the Willmore Staging Area in Rock Lake Provincial Park.
Sulphur Gates Lookout Trail, Sulphur Gates Provincial Recreation Area.
- Sulphur Gates provides a short and easy 0.5 km hike along a giant gorge to multiple viewpoints overseeing the Smoky River and Sulphur River. In the fall, the usual dark spruce forests light up with bright colours of deciduous trees, making for a spectacular backdrop against the turquoise rivers below and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
- Parking available at dedicated trailhead parking lot.
Central Region
Grouse Loop, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
- Grouse is considered the “outside loop” of a series of interconnected trails winding through knob and kettle terrain. The 3.7km trail passes several large wetlands in the aspen forest. It features a homestead and barn from early settlers (circa 1910-20s). We recommend taking only photos as the buildings are not safe for people to enter.
- Parking is available at the Park Centre and in Overflow Parking near the trail head.
Neon Lake Trail, Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area
- This hike or bike rounds out 3.8km when connected with the Lost Lake trail to get you back to the trailhead. Breathe in the fresh air while the trail curves and bends through mixed forest as you journey around Neon Lake.
- Parking available at the Waskehegan Staging Area
North Region
Jack Pine Trail, Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park
- This easy 1.8km trail makes its way through an old-growth jack pine forest. Look for witches’ brooms, squirrels, and the elusive pine marten while you travel.
- Parking available at dedicated trailhead parking lot.
South Region
Reesor Hills TCT Trail, Cypress Hills Provincial Park
- This 20km trail is an epic hike, bike or equestrian ride that takes you to some of the best lookouts in the Cypress Hills, making it perfect for fall-time.
Barnaby and Southfork, Castle Provincial Park
- This beautiful hike offers spectacular views as you ascend the steep slopes above the West Castle Valley. Taking you through a patch of sub-alpine forest, you are rewarded first by the blue-green of Barnaby Lake followed shortly after by Southfork Lakes.
Kyra Palylyk (Parks Staff)
