July 6, 2007
One of the most beautiful hikes in the Lake Louise area is Larch Valley and
Sentinel Pass. The trail head 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 trail heads when there is evidence that a bear is in the area.
The trail steeply ascends through a dense forest with
occasional glimpses of Moraine Lake. After climbing for several kilometers, 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.
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| Larch Valley, Banff National Park |
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| 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.
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| A series of very steep switchbacks leads to Sentinel Pass situated at 2611m elevation |
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| View of Valley of the Ten Peaks from Sentinel Pass |
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| View of Paradise Valley from Sentinel Pass |
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