Sentinel Pass

Hiking area · I.D. No. 9 (Banff)

Sentinel Pass

Hiking area · I.D. No. 9 (Banff)

Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0, Canada

Highlights

Embark on a challenging hike from Moraine Lake to Sentinel Pass, where stunning views of Larch Valley and golden larches await the adventurous.

Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L 1E0, Canada Get directions

pc.gc.ca

@afar

"The three-and-a-half-mile journey from Sentinel Pass to Larch Valley is the kind of hike you'll dream about years after returning home. Intrepid visitors leave from the Moraine Lake Lodge area, at an altitude of 6,190 feet, then climb a series of well-maintained switchbacks through a forest of Englemann spruce and alpine fir trees before hitting the spectacular views of the Valley of the 10 Peaks. The trail continues up through an alpine meadow, ultimately reaching the rocky heights of Sentinel Pass, the low point between Mount Temple and Pinnacle Mountain, at about 8,560 feet. One caveat: The last mile of the climb ascends through a talus slope and boulders, so only those comfortable with heights should do the pass."

Top Attractions in Banff and Jasper National Parks

View Postcard for Sentinel Pass

Linda Gonzalez

Google

Very slippery in October but the larches were beautiful! Bring proper biking boots as there is quite a deep incline.

Rachel Wang

Google

It's absolutely stunning. This is the best trail I've hiked in the area. Unlike other trails that go straight up for the view, this one is unique with the Larch Valley section and the zigzag path near Moraine Lake. It reminded me of Patagonia. It took us 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete, including 30 minutes at the top and a 10-minute rest on the way up. We're not fast hikers.

Tiffany Knight

Google

One of the best 8-mile hikes in Banff National Park with stunning views is the Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass. Generally it seems it takes about 5-6 hours to complete, it took us just over 4 hours. Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass Hike **Distance:** About 8 miles (round trip) **Elevation Gain:** Approximately 2,625 feet **Trailhead:** Moraine Lake Highlights: 1. **Larch Trees:** In the fall, the larch trees turn a brilliant golden color, offering some of the most picturesque fall scenery in the Rockies. 2. **Moraine Lake Views:** The hike starts at Moraine Lake, which itself is one of the most photographed spots in Banff. 3. **Alpine Meadows:** As you ascend, you'll pass through beautiful alpine meadows with wildflowers (in summer) and expansive views. 4. **Sentinel Pass:** The final ascent to Sentinel Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Tips: - **Timing:** This hike is very popular, so start early to avoid crowds, especially if you're hiking during peak season (late June to early September) or fall larch season. - **Gear:** Bring layers, as weather can change quickly in the mountains. Also, consider bringing trekking poles for the steep sections. - **Wildlife:** Be aware of wildlife, including bears, and carry bear spray.

Robert Miller

Google

Tough hike that is an extension of the Moraine Lake trail. The two hikes together were about 7 miles with an elevation gain of about 2500 feet. Well worth the trek to the top! Awesome views and Moraine Lake is spectacular!

Greg Arason

Google

Stunning views! The hike from giant steps up to here was very hard. The last section was a boulder field. Still snow to walk through. The final climb I lost the trail and ended up in a lose rock scramble. Thankfully I was able to get back to the trail because of cairns. It is a MUCH better trail coming from Moraine Lake as it is just well defined switchbacks.

Pearson Harper

Google

Really hard but really cool trail. If you've got the time you should definitely do this trail. Note: a quarter of my time going up was spent past the two lakes just going up the final part, which is tough.

Jo Dejonckheere

Google

A very beautifil hike with lots of variation: Moraine lake of course, the climbing up with from time to time view on the lake, then arriving on a plateau through larch trees, slowly climbing up to Minnestimma Lake, and then up more steeply to Sentinel Pass, with an incredible sight on 2 valleys. 12 km in total, an elevation gain of 725 meters and about 5 hours in splendid nature.

Dan B.

Google

This was one of the nicest hikes I've done in the Rockies. I did it in the beginning of October. Larches were fully golden. Getting there is challenging with the limited parking spots. Highly recommend to be there as early as 4am. Relatively easy hike for intermediate hikers.