Larch Valley, Banff National Park

We welcomed the bit of sun and blue sky when we went west of Calgary a few days ago, to hike up to Larch Valley from Moraine Lake. After climbing 360 meters (1181.088 ft) in elevation with ten uphill switchbacks to "endure" and hiking 2.6 kilometers, you enter Larch Valley near this spot, where it opens up into a huge meadow. There is a window of just two or three weeks in which to see these Larches at their best - they were past their prime when we were there, but still beautiful. You can see a lot of bare branches in my photo. The Bear ruling was in effect - you must hike in a tight group of four or more people. Those Grizzlies sure have a spectacular place to call home : ) We were very fortunate to be there on a relatively "quiet" day. Someone else, who went on a different day, said that people were having to park 2 km (or miles?) down the road, away from the start of the trail by Moraine Lake! We were able to park in the actual parking lot by Moraine Lake. We would never have made it if we had had that extra 4 km to walk, lol! It is one of the most popular places for people to visit, especially in the fall.