Moraine Lake: Larch Valley Hike, Departure from Banff

Driving from Banff to Lake Louise on the TCH, the TransCanada Highway, you will see Vermillion lakes, innumerable mountain peaks, endless conifer forests, the Bow River, catch a glance of the Lake Louise Ski resort in the distance and last but not least, see our wildlife overpasses and underpasses, a marvel of technology that saves uncountable animal lives each day.

Please note we will not be going to the shoreline of Lake Louise, just the namesake village to pick-up guests at nearby hotels.

For the travelers joining us in Banff, see this beautiful and emblematic mountain that towers majestically over the crystal-clear waters of the Bow River, on our way to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

During a small window in September and October- before the road to Moraine is closed due to avalanche risk- hikers from all over flock to Larch Valley, cameras in hand, to witness this unmissable event.

With us, you can avoid the stress of pre-dawn driving and trying to find a parking space at crowded Lake Louise village, and instead let our experienced and knowledgeable guides take you on a 5-6 hour day hike through the unforgettable Larch Valley, all the way up to the lofty heights of Sentinel Pass – a 2600m elevation viewpoint at the foot of Mt Temple, offering sweeping vistas of the Valley of the Ten Peaks on one side, and Paradise Valley on the other.

This bucket-list hike will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip to the national park, and with our guides you can rest assured that you’ll get the best possible experience – safe, fun and informative, without any of the stress of planning the trip.

Overlooking the whole surrounding mountain range, at 3544m, over 11000ft, Mt Temple is the highest summit in the Lake Louise area.

Views include: Moraine lake, Fay glacier, the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Larch Valley, Minnestimma Lakes, Sentinel Pass and Paradise Valley

Possible wildlife sightings: marmots, pikas, ground squirrels, mountain goats, grizzly bears.

Hike details: 11.6km round trip, 817m elevation gain

Participants need to be at a moderate level of fitness for this hike.

Participants need to bring warm layers, sturdy hiking boots and a waterproof jacket. A toque/beanie and gloves are also recommended. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the valley, and it’s not uncommon for it to snow in September.

The guide has the right to refuse any guests that are not dressed appropriately for the conditions, without refund.

Spend a day hiking above this world-class glacial blue lake.
One of the most iconic destinations in Banff National Park- Moraine Lake- becomes even more enchanting in the Autumn, as the Alpine larch changes colour.

The alpine larch is unique amongst its conifer cousins, such as pine and spruce trees. Whilst other conifers stay green year-round, the larch begins a stunning transformation come the Fall, as its needles turn autumnal shades of orange and gold.

Frame an entire valley of these extraordinary trees against the rugged, glacial capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies and you have the world-renowned Larch Valley of Banff National Park.