Western Larch is the largest of the larches, reaching 200 feet, and one of the most dramatic trees of the northwestern Rocky Mountains. Like tamarack, it is deciduous, turning brilliant gold in October before needle-fall. It is highly fire-adapted with thick bark protecting old trees, and its open crowns allow forest renewal after fire.
Best time to see a Western Larch
The best time to see a Western Larch is May–August, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,790 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Western Larch? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Western Larch sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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