Best hikes in Banff National Park, Alberta Canada

Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the world. With over 1,600 kilometers of trails and stunning vistas, Banff National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best hikes in Banff National Park, Alberta Canada:

Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Banff National Park. The trail starts at the Lake Louise Tea House and climbs steadily through alpine meadows and along the edge of a glacier-fed stream. The trail is 11.6 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of four to six hours to complete.

The first section of the trail is relatively easy, as it follows the shore of Lake Louise. However, the trail becomes steeper as it leaves the lake and enters a dense forest. After a few switchbacks, the trail emerges from the trees and offers stunning views of the Victoria Glacier and the surrounding peaks.

As hikers continue up the trail, they will pass through a series of alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in the summer. The trail eventually reaches a tea house, where hikers can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea or a light snack.

Beyond the tea house, the trail becomes more challenging as it climbs higher into the mountains. The final section of the trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. Hikers will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the Plain of Six Glaciers and the surrounding peaks.

Johnston Canyon Trail

The Johnston Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Banff National Park. The trail follows a series of catwalks and bridges over a rushing creek to two sets of waterfalls. The hike is only 6.4 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of two to three hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Johnston Canyon Lodge and follows a well-maintained path along the creek. The first set of waterfalls, the Lower Falls, is only a short distance from the trailhead. The second set of waterfalls, the Upper Falls, is located about 2.7 kilometers from the trailhead.

The trail to the Upper Falls is more challenging than the trail to the Lower Falls, as it climbs steadily uphill through a series of switchbacks. However, the views from the top are well worth the effort. Hikers will be rewarded with a stunning view of the Upper Falls cascading over a sheer rock face.

Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass Trail

The Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass Trail is a strenuous hike that offers some of the best views in Banff National Park. The trail is 11.6 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of five to seven hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Moraine Lake parking lot and climbs steadily through a larch forest to a high alpine meadow. In the fall, the larch trees turn a brilliant shade of gold, making this hike particularly popular during the autumn months.

Beyond the larch meadow, the trail continues up to Sentinel Pass, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The final section of the trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. Hikers will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the Larch Valley and the surrounding peaks.

Parker Ridge Trail

The Parker Ridge Trail is a short but steep hike that offers spectacular views of the Saskatchewan Glacier and the Columbia Icefield. The trail is only 5.4 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of two to three hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Parker Ridge parking lot and climbs 250 meters in just over a kilometer of switchbacks to a high alpine ridge. Along the way, hikers will pass through a series of alpine meadows filled with wildflowers in the summer.

As hikers approach the top of the ridge, the trail becomes steeper and rockier. However, the views from the top are well worth the effort. Hikers will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the Saskatchewan Glacier and the surrounding peaks.

Lake Agnes Tea House Trail

The Lake Agnes Tea House Trail is a classic Banff National Park hike that offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks. The trail is 7.2 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of three to five hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Lake Louise boathouse and climbs steadily through a dense forest to Mirror Lake. From Mirror Lake, the trail continues up to Lake Agnes, where hikers can take a break and enjoy a cup of tea or a light snack at the historic tea house.

Beyond Lake Agnes, the trail continues up to the Big Beehive, offering stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks. The final section of the trail is steep and rocky, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Sulphur Mountain Trail

The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a popular hike that offers stunning views of Banff and the surrounding mountains. The trail is 11.6 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of four to six hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Banff Upper Hot Springs and climbs steadily up Sulphur Mountain. Along the way, hikers will pass through a series of switchbacks and a few steep sections.

At the top of the mountain, hikers can visit the Banff Gondola station, where they can take a gondola ride back down to the base of the mountain. Alternatively, hikers can choose to hike back down the trail.

Lake Minnewanka Trail

The Lake Minnewanka Trail is a relatively easy hike that offers stunning views of Lake Minnewanka and the surrounding mountains. The trail is 13.6 kilometers round-trip and takes an average of three to four hours to complete.

The trail starts at the Lake Minnewanka parking lot and follows a well-maintained path along the shore of the lake. Along the way, hikers will pass through a series of meadows and forests, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

At the end of the trail, hikers can take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch or a swim in the lake before returning to the parking lot.

Tips for Hiking in Banff National Park

• Check the weather before you go: The weather in the Canadian Rockies can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before you set out on your hike. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the conditions.
• Pack plenty of water and snacks: It’s important to stay hydrated and fueled during your hike. Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep you going.
• Leave no trace: Banff National Park is a protected wilderness area, so it’s important to leave no trace of your visit. Pack out all your trash and follow the Leave No Trace principles.
• Be bear aware: Banff National Park is home to both black bears and grizzly bears, so it’s important to be bear aware during your hike. Carry bear spray and make noise to alert bears to your presence.
• Respect wildlife: Banff National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, and mountain goats. It’s important to keep a safe distance and not disturb the animals.

Conclusion

Banff National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with some of the most stunning trails and scenery in the world. From challenging alpine hikes to leisurely strolls along the shores of glacial lakes, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful park.

When planning your hike, be sure to check the trail conditions and weather forecast, and always come prepared with plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing and gear. Remember to respect the wildlife and Leave No Trace to help preserve the park for generations to come.

So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the beauty of Banff National Park on foot. Happy hiking!