And now for something completely different… How do you recognize different trees from quite a long way away? No. 1...The Larch. The Western larch (Larix occidentalis) are deciduous conifers that turn their needles from green to golden yellow in the fall. Larch needles change color as chlorophyll (the light-absorbing pigment that provides energy for photosynthesis) is absorbed back into the tree, leaving behind a yellow pigment, xanthophyll. Larch season is short, typically lasting only a few weeks in late September to early October. The needles will eventually drop, leaving the tree bare for the winter. In the spring, the larch tree sprouts new green needles. Images: Larch trees showcasing golden colored needles at glaciernps #FallColors #fall #autumn #leaves #larch #glaciernationalpark #trees #TreesOfInstagram #FallLeaves #NationalParks