Larch Season in the Banff Sunshine Meadows

Once summer comes to an end, it’s fall’s turn to shine. Rocky Mountain hikers and adventurers are graced by the locals’ best kept secret, known as larch season. During larch season, the Canadian Rocky Mountains turn orange tones, as the trees mature in preparation of winter’s arrival. Larch needles mellow into warm, golden hues as they prepare for winter hibernation. This spectacular show of autumn colors happens only once a year and often disappears as quickly as it comes.

Larch trees in Banff National Park are deciduous conifers, meaning they lose their needles before the cooler weather settles. The needling transition begins once summer nears its end, holding onto their needles until fluffy blankets of snow take over the Rockies for the winter.

Larch season is a local favorite, hikers flock to the Sunshine Meadows for the short-lived larch season. It’s a race for hikers to get to the trail head between the end of summer and before the cooler weather settles.

Explore our 6 maintained and monitored trails at Banff Sunshine Meadows this larch season. Our stunning alpine scenery, towering peaks and three all-natural lakes call for the perfect larch season hike. Enjoy a scenic 22-minute gondola ride in between the peaks, followed by an enchanting hike through the Rockies larch season, open until September 22nd, 2024.

In Banff National Park, we are lucky to share our love for nature and all things outdoors with incredible wildlife. When hiking this larch season, please continue to be safe in bear country, carry your bear spray and leave no trace behind, so we can continue to enjoy the beautiful Rockies together. Before you head out on the trails, you can purchase or rent bear spray at Sunshine Sports in the Village. 

All vehicles parking in Banff National Park must have a visible Park Pass. Overnight parking is not permitted in the Banff Sunshine parking lot.

Purchase your 2024/25 winter season pass now and enjoy unlimited access to Sunshine Meadows until September 22nd, 2024. 

Happy larch season hiking!