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    Hikes/Canada/Alberta/Banff National Park/Around Banff

    Healy Pass

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    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.
    5.5-8h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    20.9 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.
    705 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Overall Rating
    This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
    9.8
    Physical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Intermediate (Square)
    Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
    Technical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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    Panoramic views from the Healy Pass hike in Banff National Park, Alberta

    The best hikes in Banff must include the hike up to Healy Pass. An exquisite hike, especially during Autumn with the larches in full colour. Get impressive views from the pass and take an optional descent via Simpson Pass to add variety.

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    Route Description for Healy Pass

    This Parks Canada Trail is well maintained, and allows for beautiful views of many gorgeous peaks and Egypt Lake. From the Sunshine Village parking lot take the main trail behind the main building.

    The start of the trail keeps you shaded from the summer sun as you gradually climb. The hike starts with a wide, rolling trail which narrows as you go. The lush forest and the bridge over Healy Creek are stunning, submerging you in the idyllic natural universe of the Canadian Rockies.

    After almost eight kilometers you escape the forest and find yourself in a beautiful alpine meadow. There is a very minor creek crossing at the beginning of this final section of the hike. You then will climb up through the stunning meadow, hoping to spot wildlife across the massive, wildflower studded expanse.

    Reaching the gentle apex of the pass you will see sprawled out in front of you peak upon peak and stellar mountain vistas. Find a rock to along either side of the trail to enjoy lunch; it’s hard to go wrong with such a view.

    The entire hike is well marked and the trail is well maintained.

    NOTE: The GPS map shows a descent via Simpson Pass - returning the way you ascended is quicker and a better trail.

    Insider Hints for Healy Pass

    • Descend via Simpson pass if you yearn for a change in scenery. Adds about 2.0 km to the trip.
    • For a very long day or a gentle one-night backpack descend the other side of the ridge down to Egypt Lake, an exquisite area.
    • Buy snacks for your hike, or simply use the restroom at the Sunshine Village building.

    Getting to the Healy Pass Trailhead

    Drive 7.7 km west of Banff on Trans-Canada Highway and take the Sunshine Village exit. Drive 8.2 km on this lovely road to Sunshine Village ski resort.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      June through October

    • Backcountry Campsites

      Yes - Egypt Lake

    • Toilets

      Trailhead

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Healy Pass Elevation Graph

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