Moose Meadows Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.0 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
358 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead
Moose Meadows Trail

The Moose Meadows hiking trail is an alternate route to Johnston’s Canyon. It is roughly 1.0 km down the road and feels like an entirely different area. This is a popular trailhead for backpackers and day hikers trying to avoid the masses at Johnston Canyon. Take your time and enjoy the quiet trail through the woods.

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Route Description for Moose Meadows Trail

The Moose Meadows route is an alternate to join many trails. This trail can be used to join Johnston Canyon and avoid the crowds for part of the way. Hikers may choose to take this trail and join with the Ink Pots Trail or continue on a backpacking trip to Larry’s camp beyond the Inkpots.

Starting from the parking lot, follow the trail leading into the forest from the trail sign. You will continue along this very straightforward trail that leads through the forest while gaining roughly 350 m. The trail ends at a junction where you can choose to return the way you came or add on another hike from here. Some great options would be to create a horseshoe circuit and follow the trail to the right towards Johnston Canyon, ending at the pain parking lot 1.0 km from Moose Meadows Parking lot. Another option would be to continue to the left of the junction and hike onwards to the Ink Pots.

The busy Johnston Canyon is easily avoided by taking Moose Meadows trail. If you would like to see the falls and skip the main canyon, you can take the trail to the right of the junction to the upper falls and return the way you came. This is a great way to join the main trail for some stunning views of the upper canyon without feeling like you joined a parade.

Getting to the Moose Meadows Trail Trailhead

From Banff, follow the Trans-Canada Highway to Castle Junction and take the exit for Radium Hot Springs. Turn right off the ramp and cross the bridge over the river, coming to a junction at Castle Mountain Chalets. Turn right and take the Bow Valley Parkway eastbound 4.8 km until you reach Moose Meadows parking lot on your left. You will have passed the Moose Meadows lookout on the right, which is not the trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May-September

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Moose Meadows Trail Elevation Graph

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