By Shelly Patterson

Living on Anarchist Mountain, we are surrounded by a diverse forest that changes with each season. One tree stands out this time of year because it appears lifeless. Scattered generously across the mountain, larch trees now look bare and grey, often mistaken for dead trees. Interestingly, Anarchist Mountain was once called Larch Mountain, named long before settlers arrived. The name changed after a resident known for his anarchist beliefs lived here, but the larch trees remain one of the most prolific species on the mountain.

Larches are true masters of disguise. They are deciduous conifers, meaning they lose their needles each fall—unlike their fir and pine companions. This adaptation helps them withstand heavy snow and harsh winters. It took me a few years of living here to realize these trees weren’t dead at all, just resting. Now it’s fun to share that knowledge, even with experienced hikers who are unfamiliar with this unique tree.

In spring, larches return with soft, light-green needles. By fall, they transform entire hillsides into brilliant shades of gold before shedding their needles once again. They are one of the most beautiful trees on the mountain during autumn. Larch trees can grow 20 to 30 metres tall and produce strong, rot-resistant wood, historically used for fence posts, poles, and outdoor construction.

In our region we see Western Larch (Larix occidentalis), while other parts of Canada know it as Tamarack or Eastern Larch (Larix laricina).

This is part of the magic of mountain living—being surrounded by such a diverse forest and witnessing these quiet seasonal transformations.
Before long, spring will awaken these “dead-looking” trees once again, reminding us that nature is always at work.
 

If you have any questions, ideas or comments about this article, please send to wendys@amcsbc.ca.