- The hike to Larch Valley and Minnestimma Lakes is one of the most scenic trails in Banff National Park.
- Distance: 8.9km (5.5 miles) round-trip
- Elevation Gain: 564m (1850 ft)
- Time Required: 3 – 4.5 hours for a round-trip hike
If you’re after a little bit more adventure on your visit to Moraine Lake, a hike to Larch Valley and Minnestimma Lakes provides an exciting and accessible excursion into the mountains, beginning just moments after you step off the bus.
This 8.9 km (5.5 miles) out-and-back trail gains 564m (1850 ft) in elevation to Minnestimma Lakes, which are in an alpine basin cradled under the massive Mount Temple (the highest peak in the Lake Louise area). On the way, you’ll pass through a beautiful larch forest which, against the backdrop of the Ten Peaks, makes for one of the most remarkable landscapes you’ll find in Banff National Park.
Beginning from the Moraine Lakeshore Trail, this is a moderate hike that will be different depending on the season. The hike is particularly popular in late summer and fall when the larch trees turn a striking golden hue. A round-trip hike will take 3 – 4.5 hours depending on your pace, or how many photos you stop to take (spoiler warning: the answer is a lot.)
How Do I Get to the Larch Valley Trailhead?
The Larch Valley Trail begins at Moraine Lake, which is closed to private vehicles. Since 2023, the lake is only accessible via shuttles like ours.
We might be biased, but Moraine Lake Bus Company offers the easiest way to reach Moraine Lake. With convenient pick-up locations, lots of departure times, and friendly, helpful drivers, getting to the trailhead is a stress-free experience. Book your shuttle today!
Can I Walk or Bike to Moraine Lake?
Why not walk or bike? Well, it’s a 28 km (17 miles) round trip to the lake, which most people don’t want to do before their hike.
When’s the Best Time to See the Golden Larches?
One of the best things about this trail is how dramatically the scenery changes depending when you hike it.
Late June: Hit the trail in late-June and you’ll likely encounter the last remaining snow of winter. While this can be tricky to navigate, it also turns the trail into a wintery alpine landscape that is well worth the effort.
Mid-July: July sees wildflowers bloom along the trail and warm days that are the peak of summertime hiking.
Mid-September to mid-October: In the fall, the larch trees turn that awe-inspiring golden hue that belongs on a postcard.
Early birds: Setting out early is almost always a good idea. Not only will you be hiking in cooler temperatures, but the trail will generally be less crowded the earlier you begin. Lucky for you, Moraine Lake Bus Company offers some of the earliest departures available.
What Are the Rules for Hiking Larch Valley? (Group Access & Bear Safety)
Respect the locals: During your hike, you may share the Larch Valley Trail with everyone from tiny ground squirrels to large grizzly bears. You’re visiting these creatures’ homes and it’s important to respect this privilege. Leave no trace while trekking, only observe wildlife from a distance (and never feed them) and make sure you’re up-to-date with Bear Safety.
Wildlife disclaimers: Before you depart, make note of the wildlife disclaimer on the signage at the start of the trail. Group access for the Sentinel Pass Trail may be required by law to protect hikers due to an increased wildlife presence in the area.
Traditional custodians: As you reach Larch Valley, you’ll be hiking beside the Valley of the Ten Peaks, which was part of the home of the Stoney Nakoda people. The 10th peak is named ‘Wenkchemna Peak’, ‘Wenkchemna’ is the Stoney word for the number ten.
Trail Overview
Distance: 8.9km (5.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 564m (1850 ft)
Duration: 3 – 4.5 hour round-trip
On the Trail (Larch Valley Trail Guide)
1) Beginning the Larch Valley Hike
The Larch Valley Trailhead is clearly marked and can be accessed from the Moraine Lakeshore Trail, which begins at Moraine Lake Lodge.
The first kilometre (0.6 mile) of the trail features a gradual incline, before you reach a series of steep switchbacks — 10 in total — and ascend into Larch Valley.
2) Switchback City
These switchbacks can be challenging but just know that this will likely be the most difficult part of the journey for most hikers.
If needed, take a moment to gather your breath at a switchback and enjoy the breathtaking blue hues of Moraine Lake below you.
3) Beautiful Larch Valley
Once you reach the last switchback, the trail becomes more gradual, and you’ll reach a junction. Take a right to continue on the Larch Valley Trail, where it will open up and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with one of the most stunning portions of trail in all of Banff National Park.
Surrounded by sweeping larch forest with panoramic views of the Ten Peaks to your left, this might be the spot to stop for photos.
4) On to Minnestimma
After passing through beautiful Larch Valley, follow the clearly marked trail and you’ll reach a basin nestled under Mount Temple. Here lies Minnestimma Lakes, your final stop. The still waters of Minnestimma Lakes create stunning reflections of the Ten Peaks behind it, which is another great photo opportunity.
5) Sentinel Pass
While you’ve arrived at your destination, the Larch Valley Trail branches off onto the Sentinel Pass Trail. Sentinel Pass is a lookout area cradled in a saddle between Eiffel Peak and Mount Temple. The pass is named for its view of the Grand Sentinel, a massive quartzite spire that is visible from the lookout. You can spot the switchback-heavy trail from Minnestimma Lakes and if you still have the energy left, it’s well worth the climb.
Ready to go?
If you’re ready to embark on an adventure through the Larch Valley, let us get you to the trailhead. Book your Moraine Lake Bus Company Shuttle now.
