16 Finest Banff Hikes To Uncover in 2023

With near 1000 miles of well-maintained trails, turquoise waters, alpine meadows, and luxurious forests, Banff Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the most stunning locations to hike in Canada.

Now we have been to Banff Nationwide Park quite a lot of instances in each completely different season and think about it one in all our favourite locations in Canada it doesn’t matter what time of yr. However to actually absorb all that this park has to supply you must get out and hike. From the simpler trails like Sulpher Mountain to extra strenuous hikes in Banff like Corey Go this information will show you how to select that are the perfect mountaineering trails in Banff so as to add to your subsequent go to.

Our Finest Banff Hikes

When placing this Banff mountaineering information collectively we needed to verify so as to add hikes for all ranges of bodily health. Many of the ones listed below are doable with a mean stage of health however some require extra stamina and expertise. We needed to supply all the small print crucial so that you can select the hike that’s finest for you. The fantastic thing about mountaineering in Banff Nationwide Park is that lots of them are accessible inside a brief drive from the city of Banff or Lake Louise Village. 

Whichever method you resolve to go, the towering mountains of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta encompass you, making for picture-perfect surroundings at each flip.

Up subsequent we’re going to let you know concerning the 16 Finest Banff hikes you received’t wish to miss. To go to Banff Nationwide Park you want a Parks Go and you should buy it right here.

Touring to Alberta? Learn extra: The 52 Finest Issues to do in Alberta, Canada – The Final Information

1. Tunnel Mountain Path

Though Tunnel Mountain has no tunnel, it does have hanging views of the Banff space from its summit. The trailhead is positioned near Banff metropolis middle and you may simply stroll to it. Whether or not you’re strolling to it or taking a car, you’ll wish to get to St. Julien Street, which is simply off Grizzly Road in Banff downtown. There’s a parking zone out there for these utilizing autos.

The path begins with properly graded switchbacks and it will probably get just a little steep in locations so mountaineering boots are a good suggestion. When you get nearer to the highest, you get a gentle climb. You’ll see views of Vermillion Lakes, the city of Banff, the Banff Golf Course, and the imposing Mount Rundle.

Regardless of the steep sections, the Tunnel Mountain path hike is taken into account straightforward and is feasible to do with the entire household. It is usually an ideal hike for dawn or sundown because it doesn’t take too lengthy and the views are unbelievable.

2. Lake Agnes Path and Beehive Circuit (Little and Massive Beehive)

This hike is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Banff and probably the greatest Banff hikes as effectively. The hike itself is just not too strenuous and is definitely accessible from the small city of Lake Louise. The Lake Agnes Path begins out on a paved path that takes you alongside the north shore of Lake Lousise with gorgeous views of the Victoria Glacier. You’ll then climb up into the spruce forest alongside some switchbacks earlier than you attain the glistening Mirror Lake, alpine meadows, the falls, and the favored rock face referred to as the Massive Beehive.

As you allow Mirror Lake keep to the correct for the perfect views. I’m not going to lie, there’s one thing fairly particular about discovering your self in an old style teahouse whereas surrounded by the long-lasting Rocky Mountains, turquoise blue lakes and bears, and deer as well. Lake Agnes Tea Home has been serving tea since 1905 and is the proper place to seize a snack earlier than persevering with on to Little Beehive and Massive Beehive the place the views are much more spectacular.

The Lake Agnes Tea Home itself was constructed by Canadian Pacific Railway in 1901 as a spot the place hikers might cease and relaxation. In 1905 it began serving tea and hasn’t stopped since. 

This hike is extraordinarily in style and could be actually busy within the excessive season. It is because it is without doubt one of the best Banff hikes that may be accomplished in beneath 2 hours. We suggest doing it in October, earlier than the snow to keep away from all of the crowds. Regardless, of if you go to although, it’s undoubtedly value it.

3. Sulpher Mountain

Sulphur Mountain is without doubt one of the hottest hikes in Banff Nationwide Park. Not solely as a result of it has spectacular views and is near the city Heart of Banff but in addition as a result of you’ll be able to take a Gondola up or down in the event you like. Should you resolve to hike up (or down) you may be handled to panoramic views of the encompassing mountains and valleys.

The hike up is taken into account strenuous because the elevation achieve comes rapidly by means of a collection of switchbacks which ends on the prime of the gondola for Sulphur Mountain. The trailhead is positioned on the Higher Scorching Springs parking zone, and when you attain the summit, you’ll be capable of see spectacular views of Banff, the Bow River Valley, and the encompassing peaks of the Canadian Rockies.

As a result of that is so near the city of Banff it is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do. Meaning in the summertime it is going to be extremely busy. However we predict the views are value it particularly in the event you staying in Banff.

4. Helen Lake Path

The Helen Lake Path makes for an idyllic hike the place you’ll be crossing rivers and streams and going by means of wildflower meadows and fir forests. There’s a variety of journey and enjoyable available on this hike, however ensure you’re sporting the correct footwear and clothes to have the ability to expertise it in consolation. 

You must undoubtedly climb as much as the ridge above Helen Lake by way of Dolomite Go in the event you can, from there you get beautiful views of the less-known and subsequently undisturbed and purely blue Lake Katherine cupped within the mountain peaks.

The Helen Lake Path hike is positioned off the Icefields Parkway on the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint and is a good various to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise if these hikes are too busy.

5. Bourgeau Lake Path

It’s thought of a reasonable path that may take you thru forests of lodgepole pine and spruce all the best way to Bourgeau Lake.

The lake itself sits in a glacially carved amphitheater and it’s a good suggestion to pack alongside a picnic so you’ll be able to take pleasure in it if you get there. You may also be joined by chipmunks, squirrels, and pikas in the event you’re fortunate.

The start of the path is fairly regular till you hit Wolverine Creek. The creek is quaint, however the waterfall that pours down from it’s completely gorgeous. Take pleasure in these views as a result of after that you just’re going to be entering into steep switchbacks, some poles might be extremely useful. 

After all of the huffing and puffing you’re going to achieve the blue-green brilliance of Bourgeau Lake and have views of Sunshine Meadows and Rock Isle Lake. It’s the proper place to cease, have a snack, and nod to your self that the huffing and puffing have been value it. In case you are feeling adventurous you may also mix this with a summit bid to Mount Bourgeau which is a 2,931-metre (9,616 ft) tall peak. This might make it a full-day hike so be certain that to arrange accordingly.

You may get to the path by taking the exit for Sunshine Village Ski Resort off of the Trans Canada Freeway. You’ll be able to park within the parking zone and there are restroom amenities. 

6. Lake Louise Plain of the Six Glaciers Path

This is without doubt one of the most good step by step elevated trails within the nationwide park that permits for a leisurely hike. You get beautiful views of Lake Louise alongside the best way in addition to Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier. You must word this path can get a bit muddy as you’re alongside the water a variety of the time so put on acceptable sneakers.

You may as well convey your canine alongside this path so that you and your four-legged good friend can benefit from the greenery and mountain flowers alongside your stroll. The Plain of the Six Glaciers Teahouse is a beautiful place to cease and take within the nature that surrounds you whereas having fun with some tea and treats.

Be aware: you may also get to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea Home by mountaineering from Massive Beehive all the way down to the teahouse. The downhill hike is fairly straightforward from Massive Beehive.

This can be a 13.8 KM round-trip hike that begins across the Lake Louise shoreline. To get to the path you have to to go to the Chateau Lake Louise parking zone. Do word that this explicit parking space fills up quick because it leads guests to many trails in addition to the Chateau. 

7. Cascade Amphitheatre Path

Cascade Mountain is known as as such as a result of waterfall that cascades down one facet of it. Cascade Mountain from afar paints an intimidating image and the considered climbing it appears inconceivable.

It’s undoubtedly a tough and tough climb, and that’s why mountaineering to the Cascade Amphitheatre is an efficient various to get near the mountain with out having to summit it.

You’ll be mountaineering by means of the dense forest in the beginning which isn’t all that attention-grabbing, however when you get nearer to the amphitheater the timber begin opening up and the sky seems. And also you really do really feel such as you’re in an amphitheater due to the looming mountain peaks surrounding you.

Earlier than you get to the attractive meadow of the amphitheater be ready for all kinds of wildlife sightings. There have been reviews of bears and elk and even cougars within the space. 

This can be a 13 KM hike with an elevation change of 3000 toes and is taken into account a reasonable hike. You may get to the Cascade Amphitheatre Snowshoe Path from the Mt. Norquay ski space. From the parking zone, you’re going to go in direction of the Spirit chairlift which is able to get you onto the path.

8. Johnston Canyon Hike off Bow Valley Parkway

Some of the in style Banff Hikes, the Johnston Canyon Path will take you right into a dramatic journey film sort of panorama. Let’s simply begin off with the truth that if you get on the path you’re going to be getting on some sturdy iron walkways that hold over the canyon (not for the faint of coronary heart).

Now we have carried out this hike in each the winter and the summer season and truly beloved it extra within the winter. The explanations for this are that there are far fewer folks, the waterfalls are frozen, which makes for a distinct viewing expertise, and we received to see ice climbers on quite a lot of the falls. Should you do the hike within the winter be certain that to seize some Ice Cleats from city as the paths have been fairly icy.

In case you are there in the summertime it’s nonetheless very spectacular. Be certain to climb as much as the higher falls for nice views of the falls pouring down right into a pool surrounded by canyon partitions. Then, if you wish to make extra of a day of it head out to the Ink Pots. You’ll be able to entry them from the highest of the higher falls the place it’s one other 2 KM out to the Ink Pots.

From the Bow Valley Parkway, you’ll be driving to the Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows. You’ll be able to park there and entry the trailhead close to the lodge.  Alternatively, you’ll be able to take the Johnston Valley shuttle to get there from the city of Banff. 

9. Cory Go and Edith Go Path

If you wish to problem your self however restrict that problem to a day hike, the Cory Go and Edith Go Path is without doubt one of the finest trails in Banff Nationwide Park for you. Proper off the highest, you’re going to expertise some main inclines and also you’re going to need to undergo a river, nonetheless, when you hit the summit the grading turns into extra even and the hike turns into simpler. 

There have been bear sightings within the space so convey alongside your bear spray. The truth is, you have to be bringing your bear spray alongside no matter what a part of the Canadian Rockies you’re mountaineering.

Total it’s a tough hike, however actually provides you a beautiful style of the true rugged nature of the park. The Cory Go trailhead is on the Fireplace Picnic Space which is positioned off 1A Bow Valley Parkway. It’s a 13 KM hike and one of many highest elevation trails within the park with a achieve of 1168 meters.  

10. Saddleback Go Path

For a enjoyable hike that’s not going to go away you breathless and scrambling over rocks, you’ll wish to take a look at the Saddleback Go Path.

Not like a variety of different experiences in Banff Nationwide Park, this hike goes to cover a variety of the views as you hike by means of dense forests. However that’s okay, you’ll breathe within the scrumptious recent air and get an opportunity to see cute wildlife like ptarmigans and marmots alongside the best way. 

The climax of all of it is if you get to the precise saddle and end up flanked by Saddle Mountain and Mount Fairview. You’ve got the choice of taking the simple method up or a steeper method up after which coming again down the alternative approach to make for a little bit of a loop. There are indicators alongside the best way so you’ll be able to resolve which method you’re going to go.

You must word that it may be snowy alongside the path effectively into April and Could so getting over the rocks could be slippery, particularly if you’re attempting to get to the highest.

This can be a 7.4 KM hike and can have you making an elevation achieve of 603 meters. It’s thought of a simple hike. You’ll get views of Mount Temple in addition to Lake Louise.

To get to the Saddleback Go Hike you’ll wish to get off the TransCanada Freeway on the exit for Lake Louise village after which drive on to Chateau Lake Louise and park of their extraordinarily busy parking zone. You’ll be able to entry the path from right here, simply be certain that to be careful for the indicators to get on the correct path as there are a lot of hikes you’ll be able to entry from right here. 

11. Larch Valley Path / Sentinel Go

Though all of Banff Nationwide Park looks as if a distant and rugged a part of Alberta, in the event you actually wish to get a style of a backcountry path then the Larch Valley Path is it.

This path is without doubt one of the finest Banff hikes for magnificent views of the Canadian Rockies from Banff Nationwide Park. At first, you may be going by means of dense larch forest however as you get larger up you’ll get views of Moraine Lake after which additional up a view of these Rocky Mountains.

The path brings you to Sentinel Go the place you get views of Paradise Valley. Mountaineering into Paradise Valley is a visit by itself; the path ascends 3750 toes. So proceed in your method with the Larch Valley Path and save that for an additional day.

Some of the gorgeous views you’ll see is in the event you go on this path within the fall as larch timber do look lots like pine timber, however they really change shade within the fall. So that you’ll see Christmas timber which are doused in yellow in September, October, and November.

Though it may be tempting to go off-trail in some components, persist with the designated trails as it’s harmful for you and for the wildlife in the event you don’t. That is an 11 KM hike with an elevation achieve of 792 meters. It’s thought of a tough hike so that you’ll want your mountaineering sneakers and poles.

You may get to the path from the Moraine Lake parking zone however as of Summer time 2023, you’ll be able to solely entry Moraine Lake by way of the shuttle service from the Lake Louise Space, Roam Transit, or different business transportation. This may value $8, seniors $4, and children aged six and beneath are free. Parking on the Lake Louise Lodge is beneficial or there are additionally shuttles out there from the Lake Louise space. 

No non-public autos are allowed on the street to Moraine Lake or the Parking Lot except you’ve got a disabled tag.

12. Moraine Lake Shoreline Hike

You’ll really be mountaineering on the Rockpile and Lakeshore Path if you do the Moraine Lake Shoreline Hike. This hike is for everybody within the household and could be carried out in beneath two hours.

You’ll be doing a 3 KM trek that’s flat across the lake. There’s the famed Rock Pile in fact you could select to hike over, however for a flatter family-friendly hike, you’ll be able to simply go round it. 

Alongside the best way, you’ll see views of Fay Glacier and the Ten Peaks. The Ten Peaks Valley provides you a shot of ten towering mountain peaks side-by-side, together with Mount Tuzo, Mount Bowlen, and Wenkchemna Peak. That is the well-known “Twenty Greenback View” as this viewpoint was featured on the previous Canadian twenty-dollar invoice. Top-of-the-line views on the planet in our opinion 🙂 You’ll find yourself near a flowing and peaceable stream that’s the good place for a storybook picnic.

You’ll be able to even hire a canoe ($130 CAD/canoe/hour) and benefit from the surroundings from the center of the lake. In winter (word that the street to Moraine lake is closed to visitors in the course of the winter)and even in the course of the spring and fall the water ranges do get excessive so the pathway can get overfilled with water so make sure you’re sporting water resistant sneakers.

There’s nothing like paddling whereas having fun with the great thing about the encompassing mountain peaks.

Please be aware of the entry limitations and guidelines above as they’ve modified as of Summer time 2023.

13. Bow Glacier Falls

This can be a comparatively straightforward hike for all ages. The Bow Glacier falls hike begins at Num-Ti-Jah lodge and runs alongside the attractive Bow Lake, by means of a gorge, and eventually onto a scenic waterfall cascading down a rugged cliff.

Many of the path alongside the gorgeous Bow lake is flat with just a little uphill climb in direction of the tip. The hike is effectively value it only for the spectacular views of the attractive blue waters. The waterfall on the finish of the hike can also be fairly spectacular and an awesome reward for considerably little effort.

The hike solely takes a few hours which makes it an awesome cease alongside the Icefields Parkway. We be certain that to cease right here each time we go to.

14. Sunshine Meadows

Sunshine Meadows is without doubt one of the hottest Banff mountaineering trails with picturesque views of the Canadian Rockies, pristine views of the alpine lakes, blooming wildflowers, and alpine meadows.

It’s simply one of the stunning mountaineering trails on the planet and seems like you’re strolling in a storybook or film.

The trailhead begins at Sunshine village resort on a rugged street that takes you thru an instantaneous elevation achieve that provides an awesome view of the encompassing areas. You’ll comply with the shoreline of Grizzly and Larix lakes, cross a larch forest, and cease at Simpson Viewpoint for an unbelievable view over Kootenay Nationwide Park. To get to the trailhead you’ll be able to take a 20-minute gondola trip from Sunshine Village that provides scenic mountain views earlier than you begin your hike or take a shuttle bus.

15. Healy Go

Healy Go is one other hike that begins from Sunshine Village and autumn is the perfect time to go to the Healy cross as you get to expertise the larch timber in full bloom with stunning golden-yellow colours.

The cross is just not thought of a simple hike because it’s lengthy and difficult with a gentle manageable incline. Nevertheless, you’re rewarded with spectacular views of the close by mountains, lush larch forests, and, blooming wildflowers. The principle downfall of this hike is that you’re within the forest for mainly the primary 8 km so there’s not an excessive amount of to see. However when you emerge you’re handled to breathtaking views of Egypt Lake and the encompassing peaks.

As we mentioned above, the hike begins on a dust street after which onto a dense forest filled with fir, spruce, and larch timber with occasional views of the mountain. That is additionally one of many solely Banff hikes on this listing that offer you an excellent view of Mount Assiniboine, the best peak within the park.

16. Sawback Backpacking Path

If you wish to backpack and spend a number of nights beneath the celebs, the Sawback Path is ideal. It’s a 71.3 KM path and comes with an elevation achieve of 2122 meters. You will want to e book your journey on the Parks Canada web site to order your tenting spots.

This path can have you taking part in in every kind of nature from cruising by means of alpine meadows to scrambling over boulders and negotiating tight switchbacks. You’ll even be crossing main wildlife corridors so be ready for that and preserve your bear spray helpful.

You may get to the path by way of one in all two trailheads. One of many trailheads you’ll be able to entry by getting off the TransCanada Freeway on the Lake Louise Village exit and driving in direction of Lake Louise Ski Resort. You’ll want to show proper onto Fish Creek Street going in direction of Skoki Lodge and the trailhead is positioned on the Fish Creek Parking Lot.

The opposite trailhead is positioned on the Mt. Norquay Parking Lot on Mt. Norquay Street which is a brief drive from the city of Banff.  Since it is a point-to-point path, you’ll must park at one finish and take a shuttle to get to the opposite finish.

Our Suggestions

What’s the finest hike in Banff?

That may be a very tough query to reply as Canada’s oldest nationwide park has wonderful hikes throughout. Top-of-the-line might be the Tunnel Mountain hike because it provides you an expansive view of the entire park. For one thing that’s historic, rugged, and heart-warming, you must head out on the Lake Agnes Path and go to the Lake Agnes Tea Home.

What number of mountaineering trails are in Banff Nationwide Park?

There are a whole bunch of trails within the park however the established ones whole 160.

Is it secure to hike alone in Banff?

It’s at all times higher to hike in teams, particularly in case of animal encounters. You must also at all times let somebody know the place you’re going earlier than you head out on the paths. Should you occur to reach in Banff alone, you’ll be able to at all times rent a information to take you on the paths. 

How lengthy are the hikes in Banff?

The hikes in Banff can vary anyplace from 2 KM to virtually 100 KM. The shortest of hikes will take you lower than an hour however the lengthy hikes just like the 72 KM Sawback Backpacking Path can take you 3-5 days relying in your tempo. In fact, there are pleased mediums between the shortest and longest trails as there are many day hikes out there that vary from 10 to fifteen KM.

Suggestions for Banff Nationwide Park Mountaineering

• Be ready for the climate: Banff can have sudden modifications in climate, so it’s essential to return ready with acceptable clothes and equipment.
• Plan forward: Earlier than you go, analysis the path you intend to hike and ensure you have a map or GPS system, in addition to sufficient water and meals.
• Keep on the designated path: To guard the pure setting and keep away from getting misplaced, it’s essential to remain on the designated path and keep away from shortcuts.
• Be bear conscious: Maintain a secure distance from bears and different wildlife, and carry bear spray if it’s out there.
• Respect the park’s guidelines and laws: Observe all posted guidelines and laws, together with these concerning tenting and fires.
• Depart no hint: Pack out all trash and depart the park as you discovered it, so future generations can take pleasure in it as effectively.
• Get the correct info: At all times verify the park web site or customer middle for essentially the most up-to-date info on path situations and closures, in addition to info on permits, campsite reservations, and bear exercise.

Conclusion

There is no such thing as a doubt that Banff Nationwide Park has among the finest mountaineering on the planet. In case you are searching for pure magnificence, backcountry, or only a place to flee all of it then we all know that no less than one in all these Banff Hikes will attraction to you.

After numerous journeys to this a part of Canada, we are able to simply say that it doesn’t matter what your mountaineering expertise you will discover a house you’ll keep in mind in Banff Nationwide Park.