Quick Details
Embark On A Fully Guided Hike Into The Wonderful Larch Valley And Explore Vibrant Fall Colors
Embark on a fully guided hike into the stunning Larch Valley, where the vibrant fall colors come alive around you. Experience the beauty of golden larches as they blanket the valley, offering a breathtaking backdrop to your adventure.
Your knowledgeable guide will lead the way, sharing insights about the region’s unique ecology and history while ensuring a safe and unforgettable journey through this picturesque landscape. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or looking to connect with nature, this guided adventure promises to be a highlight of your autumn. Incredible panoramas are your ultimate reward for tackling the steep sections with your guide.
Duration:
7 Hours (from Banff pick-up to drop-off)
Tickets:
$2690 CAD + tax & processing fees.
This tour is restricted to those aged 16 and above. Families with younger children can reach out for alternate experiences, such as private tours and less steep trails.
Did you know? This experience is part of our Ultimate Rockies Explorer package.
Highlights:
Fall at Moraine Lake: Be captivated by the tapestry of autumn colours & snow-capped peaks reflecting on the neon blue waters of the legendary Moraine lake. Starting with a gentle lakeside stroll to moments of steeper trails to earn the reward of vistas in pristine surroundings.
Head towards Sentinal Pass Trails: Traverse the ascending trails of Larch Valley, where autumn leaves crunch beneath your feet. Your efforts and guided experience towards the pass rewarding you every step of the way, breathe in the crisp, mountain air.
Wildlife Wonders: Our journey through Banff National Park’s backroads offers unrivalled opportunities to spot its enchanting inhabitants amidst the fall colours.
Choose Your Own Radventure: We champion a close-knit touring experience, but if individual exploration calls, feel free to answer. Our guides are always on hand to share tips and secrets for your own unique adventure.
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- Intimate, small group guarantee (Max 8 guests)
- Upscale, modern & spacious transportation with large panoramic windows
- Hiking poles
- Local expertise: Our guides are equipped with photography skills to aid in immortalizing your memories
- Ice cold water at departure point (please BYO water bottle)
- Pick-up & drop-off at select Banff locations
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- Lunch (please BYO or select picnic lunch option at checkout)
- Backpack and appropriate clothing is required
- Alternate pick-up points in Banff
- Tips for our dedicated guides (entirely optional but always appreciated)
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Travel in comfort in our spacious new model high-roof passenger vans & minibuses with large panoramic windows, equipped with premium winter tires & set up for safe winter travel. We offer pick-up and drop-off from chosen Banff & Lake Louise locations, with options available at checkout.
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Weather: This adventure runs rain, snow or shine! Only under extreme weather conditions will there be cancellations, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
Dress for the unpredictable mountain weather. Mornings can be chilly – layered clothing is advised.
Pro local tips: Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Sometimes, the uncertain conditions, like light drizzle, gift us with the most mesmerizing landscapes and minimal crowd interference. Embrace it!
Bearspray: Our guides carry bearspray and are fully trained and experienced in its safe and preventative use. While under their guidance, your safety is prioritized. However, if you plan to break away from the group, we highly recommend carrying your own bearspray to ensure protection while exploring these beautiful wild areas.
Accessibility: Suited to Moderate fitness levels, this tour involves steep sections walking on good ground to fully appreciate the surroundings. Participants are expertly guided towards Larch Valley generally considered a challenging route via good trail and truly impressive views (approx. 10-15km, 600-700m elevation gain total return trip) with turnaround by 1pm to ensure safe and timely return to Moraine Lake to soak up the views.
Requirements
- Hiking shoes are recommended and your experienced guide can provide hiking poles on request.
- A day pack with water bottle and food. If ordering lunches guests will be required to carry their own lunches and water refills are only available at the vehicle.
- Additional warm layers including gloves, toque and rain jacket.
What does the tour’s schedule usually look like?
8:35am – 9:00am: Hotel pick ups in Banff
10:00am – 11:30am: Hike shore of Moraine Lake and ascend 3km of steep switchbacks in forest
11:30am – 11:45am A short rest stop to regroup, refuel and assess remaining timeline.
11:45am – 12:45pm: Stroll much easier ground through Larch Valley to Minniestimma Lake
12:45pm – 1:00pm Stunning lunch stop amongst the valley of the 10 peaks
1:00pm – 3:00pm: Turnaround time: descend back to Moraine lake with your Guide
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Return to Banff for hotel drop offsSentinel pass is not a planned destination on this hike
We like to travel down the roads less travelled, where surprises in the form of amazing viewpoints & wildlife encounters await, so your expert local guide may adjust timing here slightly to maximize your experience.
Can I rent a canoe at Moraine Lake during this trip?
This is dedicated, guided walking tour and canoe rentals are not available during this time of the year.
For more intricate details or specific queries, dive into our exhaustive FAQ section or connect with us directly!