Hikes in Banff National Park
Banff National Park Hikes
There are so many great Banff National Park hikes that we have broken the region up into three regions: around the town of Banff, around Lake Louise and around the Icefields Parkway. You can see the best hikes in each part of Banff National Park by clicking on the icons below.
By breaking the best Banff National Park hikes down into three smaller regions, we can share more great hiking in the Canadian Rockies. The best hikes in Banff National Park take you to stunning viewpoints, whether they are in a secluded valley, along an incredibly blue lake or to a peak, with the Canadian Rockies below. Hiking in Banff National Park is famous for the abundant wildlife, stunning nature, and beautiful views, making it an ideal destination to get outside and explore the outdoors.
Other Activities in Banff National Park
In addition to the incredible Banff National Park hikes on offer, there are plenty of other activities in Banff National Park that can be experienced. Whether you are looking to go mountain biking in the Rockies, cycling through mountain passes, backpacking to remote lodges, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, or scrambling through some rugged terrain, there is no shortage of exceptional outdoor adventures to be had.
Get the 10Adventures App
For those who want to explore Banff National Park and the rest of the Rocky Mountains without a guide, the 10Adventures trail app is the perfect resource. Easily navigate the trails offline and track the stats of your hike, bike, or snowshoeing adventure by using the 10Adventures app.
Hiking regions in Banff National Park
Best Hikes in Banff National Park
Louise Creek Trail
The Louise Creek Trail is the best way to get to Lake Louise without worrying about parking, traffic, and the busy road. You will be able to hike up to the lake through the forest next to the rushing waters of Louise Creek. This is a great option for those looking to hike right from the village of Lake Louise.
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Healy Creek Trail
Hiking along Healy Creek Trail is an enjoyable route wide enough for a stroller or chariot. This hike can be easily cut in half and completed as a point-to-point trail if you’re looking for a quick hike. Watch out for cyclists, as this is a multi-use trail!
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Heather Ridge
The Heather Ridge Hike in Lake Louise is a great way to get a taste of the stunning Skoki area. Many hikers take a backpacking trip into Skoki Valley to capture all the area has to offer. Hiking Heather Ridge will give you an excellent mixture of what lies on the other side of the Bow Valley from Lake Louise. This hike is excellent for wildflowers and great in larch season.
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Smith Lake Trail
Smith Lake is an often-forgotten lake that is nestled in the forest at Castle Junction. It is a stunning green-blue colour and a great place for fishing. Nearby Copper Lake is only a 0.6 km side trail that is a must-see on this route. If you are looking for a quick walk in the woods, this is a wonderful option.
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Tower Lake
The hike to Tower Lake is great for those who don’t have the time or energy to trek all the way to Rockbound Lake. It is also a wonderful turn around point for folks who change their minds. It is a beautiful alpine lake that sits below the impressive Eisenhower Tower—a popular climbing objective.
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Rundle Riverside Trail
The straightforward Rundle Riverside trail is an easy to follow trail that connects Banff to Canmore. It is a great option for those who find the Goat Creek trail to be overpopulated. This quiet trail is tailor-made for those seeking solitude on easy terrain. It is also a fantastic route for trail runners and families with children that can go the distance.
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Sarbach Lookout
Hiking to Sarbach Lookout is a great way to cleanse your palate after walking through the crowds at Mistaya Canyon. You will be able to see the famed canyon before continuing on and leaving the crowds behind. Take in unbeatable views of Glacier Lake and Howse Pass from the lookout.
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Riverside Loop
The Riverside Loop is easily accessible from town and the many accommodations in Lake Louise. It is a quiet trail that creates a serene loop along the Bow River. This is part of a wildlife corridor, so watch out for Grizzlies!
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Glacier Lake
The relatively flat Glacier Lake trail is commonly used by backpackers; however, it makes for an excellent day hike. Whether you are travelling the entirety of the Icefields Parkway or just looking to add a scenic drive to your hike, this is a great hike.
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Fairview Lookout
Hiking to Fairview Lookout is a great way to see Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau hotel from a new perspective. This is a wonderful trail if you are looking to explore Lake Louise without committing to a full or half day hike. Enjoy an easy path with rewarding views.