Larch culture is serious business here in Alberta. In fact, heading to the mountains to catch these evergreen trees turning a lush gold is an annual rite of passage for many Calgarians.
But for those of us without a car, it can seem near impossible to take part in this favoured autumn pastime.
Moraine Lake Bus Company is on a mission to change that. It’s making larch season even more accessible by offering a bus shuttle service to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise — both popular spots to see the sunny-coloured foliage of the larch trees in action.
With roundtrip routes as low as $50 per person and multiple shuttles departing daily from two Lake Louise destinations, you can enjoy a sunrise hike and the last breath of larch season without worrying about bringing your own vehicle or paying for gas.
You’ll have to find a way to get to either Samson Mall or Lodge of the Ten Peaks in Lake Louise to catch the shuttle. However, there are additional transport options that will take you from the heart of downtown Calgary to the mountains of Lake Louise for a low fee.
What to expect
The Moraine Lake Bus Company is operational from June 3 until Oct. 13 each year, reflecting peak seasonal times for summer and fall hikes in the world-renowned Banff National Park.
That means you only have about a week left to catch the larches as they burst into golden bloom across the Rockies this year.
Between eight and 12 departures are made daily to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake by shuttle. You can opt for a there-and-back trip to one destination, or a roundtrip to both scenic locations to drink in the stunning beauty of this natural area.
Banff by sunrise
The popular sunrise hike to Moraine Lake begins at 4 a.m. daily, allowing you to greet the morning sun as it rises over the Canadian Rockies.
The view of the lake at sunrise is an incredible play of light and shadow, creating an unrivalled sense of solitude and peace.
To catch a glimpse of these remarkable golden larch trees before they disappear for the season, book your shuttle before Moraine Lake Bus Company shuts down for the season.
We can’t wait to bask in the early-morning forest glow. See you out there!
When: June 3 to Oct. 13 annually
Where: Lake Louise, Alta.
Cost: $50+
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