Banff Hiking Trails: Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass,Moraine Lake, Banff NP, Canada
One of the most
beautiful hikes in the Lake Louise area is Larch Valley and Sentinel
Pass. The trailhead for Larch Valley begins in Moraine Lake just a
short distance from Moraine Lake Lodge. It is well
indicated. Be aware, this area is prime black and grizzly bear country
and Parks Canada puts up bear warning signs at the trailheads when there
is evidence that a bear is in the viscinity.
The trail
steeply ascends through a dense forest with occasional glimpses of
Moraine Lake. After climbing for several kms, the trail finally
emerges into an open meadow with a stream. This is called the Larch Valley. It is a very popular
area in the fall when the larches turn a magnificent golden
colour. I took a well deserved
rest here and ate my lunch.
Photo Description: Larch Valley
Photo Description: On the way to Sentinel Pass
The trail continues to make it's way through the
valley until it finally passes the last trees. At this point,
Sentinel Pass is clearly visible. As you continue on, you'll pass
some lakes and begin to climb a series of streneous and very steep switchbacks to Sentinel Pass. The views from either side of the pass are
simply incredible.On one side, from the direction that you came, a magnificient view
of the Valley of the Ten Peaks and on the other side, a view of Paradise Valley.
Photo Description: A
series of very steep switchbacks leads to Sentinel Pass situated at 2611m elevation
Photo Description: Group of hikers ascending to Sentinel Pass
Photo Description: View of Valley of the Ten Peaks from Sentinel Pass
Photo Description: View of Paradise Valley from Sentinel Pass
Click here for a hiking trail map of the Lake Louise area and for important hiking information from Parks Canada.