Hikes in Alberta

The trail to Junction Falls via Junction Creek is a great intermediate hike that crosses some water and otherwise is straightforward and easy to follow. It passes through an old logging camp that is interesting to hike through. You will cross a small stream later on near an old log cabin. This trail is easy to follow and holds a lot of history in the area.

Big Elbow Trail is a scenic, easy hike that leads to a backcountry campground. The trail follows an access road with very gradual elevation change, making it a family-friendly outing that’s shoulder season-friendly. The views of Threepoint Mountain and Banded Peak are fantastic.

The Hoodoos Trail near Banff is an excellent choice for those with families and dogs. With minimal elevation and unrivalled views of the area, you won’t be disappointed with this easy hike. It is a great way to get some exercise and explore the area directly from town. Watch out for wildlife; you might get lucky!

Mistaya Canyon is a less frequented trail along the Icefields Parkway. Easily missed, this short yet unforgettable trail is a wonderful way to take a break when driving the scenic route between Banff and Jasper. It is an accessible and family-friendly loop that will make you feel like you are deep in the wilderness rather than steps from the car.

The Peyto Glacier Hike follows the trail to Cauldron Lake, which is an optional side trip from the glacier. Although it starts at one of the most populated viewpoints on the Icefields Parkway, it quickly leaves the crowds behind. You will cross glacial creeks, climb glacial moraine, and get up close and personal with the incredible Peyto Glacier as peaks loom above.

Bow Summit is a popular hike, but not as popular as its precursor, Peyto Lake viewpoint. You may feel discouraged when you see the crowds, but as you continue you will leave them behind. This is an excellent way to see glaciers, lakes, rivers and peaks from a height without a full-day excursion. This close-to-the-car trail is a great way for the entire family to stretch their legs along the Icefields Parkway.

Hiking along the shore of Two Jack Lake in Banff National Park is the perfect add-on to a day spent exploring the Minnewanka Scenic Drive. This trail is accessible to everyone and features an excellent picnic area equipped with Banff’s famous red chairs.

This heavily populated trail leads up from the Lake Louise Lakeshore to Mirror Lake. It is a small lake that boasts tranquility and other-worldly reflections of the Big Beehive that towers above. There are benches and flat areas to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Surprise Corner is a viewpoint that can be reached by foot easily from downtown Banff! The trail connects the Bow River trail system to one of the most popular viewpoints in town. Surprise Corner is a stunning scenic stop while visiting Banff National Park.

The Cascade Falls hike follows an easy trail from a roadside parking lot. Enjoy the short route winding to Cascade Falls, where you can admire the rushing waterfall from up close!

Hiking to Katherine Lake will take you beyond the famed Helen Lake through fields of wildflowers beneath gigantic peaks. It is a great way to extend your day through the incredible scenery the area has to offer. This is an excellent option for those looking for a longer day hike with lots of views.

The Twin Lakes hike at the edge of Banff and Kootenay parks is an incredible trail that passes by four different lakes and gains elevation over the Bow Valley. This is an excellent trail for wildflower blooms and shows off its fall colours during larch season. It has many options to connect with other trails in the area to create a lengthy backpacking route.

The hike up Sulphur Mountain is a local’s favourite that is surprisingly skipped by visitors. The Banff Gondola is a distracting tourist destination that draws people in with its newly renovated summit building equipped with dining, viewing decks, and interpretive centre. Put your wallet away and head up the Sulphur Mountain trail to earn your summit views and save some cash.

Rockbound Lake trail is a less frequented trail along the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park. It is the perfect route for hikers looking for something a little more demanding without any technical scrambling. Avoid the crowds from Johnston Canyon by heading to Rockbound Lake—you won’t be disappointed. Watch out for Marmots!

The Castle Lookout hike takes hikers up the frontside of the mountain, normally reserved for experienced climbers and scramblers. The clear trail winds through the forest, coming to an open viewpoint. You’ll be able to see into Kootenay National Park, B.C., from here, and all the way to Banff and Lake Louise. It is an excellent option for a half-day hike with minimal crowds.

Do yourself a favour and save this hike for wildflower season—as its name suggests—you won’t be disappointed. Pass by Vista Lake before ascending the steep climb towards Arnica Lake. As you gain elevation quickly, you’ll be gifted with views all around from castle junction. Babbling creeks and various trees make up this elevated trail to Arnica Lake, backed by a soaring, jacked rock wall.

When visiting the Cave and Basin area, consider taking the public access Marsh Loop trail for incredible views of the valley. Many photographers visit this trail for wildlife viewing. Popular for birdwatchers, the Marsh Loop is a quick and easy trail in Banff National Park that the whole family can enjoy. Connect with Sundance Trail to Sundance Canyon or Cave and Basin Historic Site for a full day adventure!

The hike to Hector Lake is usually taken on by those who have booked a campsite and are ready to spend a night or two at the stunning turquoise lake. A difficult river ford is required to access the lake, so staying the night makes it all worth it. Enjoy a quick descent from the Icefields Parkway to the valley floor before crossing the icy river to access Hector Lake.

Cascade Ponds is commonly known as a day-use area where visitors can claim tables and firepits with space for activities, games, and swimming. A less-frequented trail loops around the area, providing an excellent way for the whole family to explore the area. Cascade Ponds hike is a great addition to a day at the rest area.

Starting from Mosquito Creek Wilderness Hostel, this hike winds up the Mosquito Valley, providing occasional views of the grand Noseeum Mountain. It will lead hikers to the flowing Mosquito Creek, where a quaint backcountry campground is situated. This is a great rest stop for lunch as there are picnic tables and pit toilets.