Grizzly-Larix Loop

Why hike it

This is Sunshine Meadows at its best: wide‑open alpine meadows, turquoise lakes, and mountain panoramas without a grueling climb. The Grizzly–Larix Loop is a mellow circuit through high country above Sunshine Village, famous for wildflowers in summer and glowing golden larches in early fall. If you want big‑alpine payoff with minimal effort, this loop delivers.

The experience

Expect a well‑signed, well‑maintained path with some boardwalk in wetter sections. The loop tours Grizzly Lake and Larix Lake, with frequent views across the meadows to surrounding peaks. You’re walking through true subalpine habitat, so keep an eye out for marmots and ground squirrels sunning on rocks, and know that mountain goats and bears are occasionally spotted. The loop is roughly 2.6 miles (4.2 km) total with about 460 ft (140 m) of gentle gain—easy to moderate for most hikers.

Route tips

The loop is straightforward from Sunshine Village. Wayfinding is easy; junctions are signed. Many hikers tack on short detours to Rock Isle Lake or up to the Standish viewing area for bigger vistas—both common add‑ons in this trail network if you want to extend the day.

Access & logistics

You’ll ride the Sunshine Village gondola from the base parking lot up to the village area to reach the meadows trail network. Summer operations typically run from late June to early October. Buy tickets at the base or online and budget time for queues on busy days.

Best time to hike

• Summer (late June–early September): lush meadows and peak wildflowers.
• Mid to late September: the “Larix” larches go gold—photographers’ prime time. It’s also the busiest; go early or on weekdays for thinner crowds. Weather at this elevation can flip fast any month—pack layers, sun, and rain protection.

Know before you go

This is bear country: carry bear spray and make noise. Stay on the signed path and boardwalks to protect fragile alpine vegetation. Expect crowds during larch season, and remember the gondola schedule dictates when you can start and must be back.