If you’re a fan of autumn foliage and have yet to enjoy the beauty of larches in the fall, it’s time to plan an RV road trip to see them. The larch trees look like evergreens in spring and summer, but turn golden yellow and then lose their needles in the fall. In their golden stage, standing out against surrounding evergreens, they are a spectacular sight to see. Read on for our recommendations of a few great places to RV with the larches!
Kootenay National Park, BC
For fall larch viewing, Floe Lake in Kootenay National Park is a popular destination. The challenging hike takes about 7 hours, but you’re rewarded with a gorgeous view and plenty of larches just beyond the shores of the alpine lake. Choose from one of the park’s campgrounds, open until mid-October, while you explore the area.
Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park, BC
Reservations are required to see the stunning alpine larches in the Lake O’Hara region of Yoho National Park, so this trip needs to be planned well in advance. Be sure to find a spot at one of the park’s campgrounds, and spend time enjoying the beautiful valleys, jewel-blue lakes and breathtaking views. Camping is available until mid-October.
Banff National Park, Alberta
The aptly named Larch Valley hike is famous for its stunning fall foliage, with the yellow larches contrasting with the evergreens and turquoise waters. The trail takes you to a unique larch forest high above Moraine Lake. This is not a hidden gem, so if you choose this hike, be prepared for crowds! There are several other hikes that avoid the crowds but still deliver on larch views, like Banff’s Twin Lakes or Arnica Lake trails. Banff National Park offers several campgrounds, including the Tunnel Mountain Village II campground, which is open year-round.
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Larch trees grow in abundance on Cape Breton Island, with their golden fall colours adding to the spectacular autumn scenery along the famous Cabot Trail. The Cabot Trail winds through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, making it the perfect place to camp as you explore the area. It offers several campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails to choose from, including the Skyline Trail which is a sight to see in the fall, as well as many stunning view points, waterfalls, wildlife, and sandy beaches. Campgrounds are open until October 28 this year.
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