Hikes in Alberta

This hike around Johnson Lake is a great choice for beginners or those with limited physical abilities and it is especially family-friendly. We also think it’s a great way to start or end the day and makes a great after-dinner walk in summer.

Want a great walk in Jasper? Try this hike from the top of the Jasper SkyTram to Whistlers Mountain and onwards to Indian Ridge. The first section is typically crowded, but for some solitude, continue over the peak, then down and back-up partway of Indian Ridge.

Hiking Hoodoo Creek is very straightforward, but be warned—it’s extremely steep. This trail heads straight up the face of Abraham Mountain along Hoodoo Creek to an excellent viewpoint. If you are up for the challenge, you will be rewarded with unforgettable views of Abraham Lake.

For extraordinary views and easy paved trails, the Bow River Downtown hike is unmatched. Take in the bustle of the city, where St. Patrick’s Island Park, inner-city energy, and great coffee await.

Pocaterra Cirque may often be passed up for other nearby, well-known hikes, but this little gem is the perfect way to enjoy mountain views with little effort. Passing by Pocaterra Tarn, the trail gives wonderful views of Mount Tyrwhitt, Grizzly Col, and Mount Rae. However, its popularity increases during larch season, so prepare for crowds and a full parking lot. The beauty of the larches makes up for the crowds, though.

The Upper Stoney Trail takes you to one of our favourite viewpoints near Banff. The first half is a fun family hike, though the 2nd half of the hike isn’t as great for little kids. This is a good hike when other parts of Banff are very busy in summer.

White Goat Falls is a beautiful hike that departs from the waste transfer station. The trail climbs up the creek above a canyon to the falls. This is an adventurous trail for something so short, which makes for an exciting outing. We recommend this for families with kids as it’s easy for all abilities yet thrilling at the same time.

Great views without a ton of work? Sign me up! This walk up Forget Me Not Mountain gives great views of the surrounding peaks, the elbow river valley, and gravel fields.

Hiking in Jasper is exquisite when combined with a soak in a natural hot spring pool afterwards. Luckily for us, we have the Sulphur Skyline trail – naturally followed by a dip in the Miette Hot Springs making for a phenomenal day-trip in Jasper National Park.

Onion Lake is a secluded subalpine lake that makes for a long day hike. The 28.0 km trail is easy to follow and passes many junctions. Some choose to camp along the way, but it’s also possible to complete in a day. Enjoy the spectacular views of the lake when you reach it.

Kick off the Cranston Ridge hike in the bottom of the valley with a tranquil walk along the Bow River. Then, climb to Cranston Ridge with great views of the Rocky Mountains.

The Tunnel Mountain hike gives you a short respite away from the crowded streets of Banff. The viewpoint from the top of the trail is beautiful, making you feel like you’re immersed in nature, despite the hordes shopping on Banff Ave just a kilometer away.

The hike to Ptarmigan Cirque is a family favourite and is especially great for little kids. Starting at Highwood Pass means you are in the alpine almost immediately. Ptarmigan Cirque is locally famous as a great hike to view autumn larches, it is also a fun location for a family photo shoot!

The trail up to Coral Creek begins along the Cline River. You can see the effects of the 2013 floods here as you make your way upstream, above the impressive canyon. You’ll hike to the confluence of the Cline River and Coral Creek, following Coral Creek to the mouth of the canyon. Here, a wide-open valley appears, marking an ideal turnaround point.

Embark on a hike at Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation to take in the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. With unique vantage points along the way, the trail is teeming with wildlife in their natural, protected habitat. Here, find quiet trails that provide a retreat in nature and a respite from busy city life.

Do you want to see the Athabasca Glacier for Free? While at the Columbia Icefields consider hiking the Toe of the Athabasca Glacier trail. This family-friendly hike is a great alternative to the expensive tour of the glacier. The Athabasca Glacier are sublime.

The hike to the Cascade Amphitheatre is a popular hike near Banff. While the views once you get to Cascade Amphitheatre are great, the journey through the forest to get there can feel a bit long.

Get some fresh mountain air right in the heart of the city with a hike on the Douglas Fir Trail. Strap on your hiking boots because this trail can be challenging, featuring changing elevation and large steps. Feel small along the giant Douglas Fir trees and be sure to stop at the lookout points to enjoy the panoramic views.

Raspberry Ridge is a great trail to hike if you are staying at Cataract Creek campground. It is located across the street and features a well-graded path through the forest that opens up to great views of the foothills and eventually the rockies. Enjoy this route with the family for a half-day adventure near your campsite.

Cavell Meadows is a stunning trail in Jasper National Park, and one of the easiest ways to hike in an alpine meadow. Get great views of the Angel Glacier and enjoy options to summit a nearby peak.