11 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

Banff is one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Maybe even the world. It has turquoise lakes, tall peaks, pine forests, and glaciers. Every trail takes you somewhere wild and peaceful. You don’t have to be a pro to enjoy it. Some hikes are short and simple. Others are long and challenging.

No matter your level, Banff has something for you. You can walk by a river. Climb up to a lookout. Or hike to a glacier. Every path feels like a postcard. And the air smells fresh, like pine and snow.

Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

This is the easiest way to enjoy Lake Louise. It’s a flat walk right next to the famous blue lake. The trail is wide and great for families.

It’s about 4 km round trip. You’ll see canoes floating and mountains reflecting in the water. It gets busy, so go early for quiet time. You can also keep walking toward the back of the lake for fewer people and better views.

Lake Agnes Tea House Trail

This trail starts at Lake Louise. It climbs through the forest. After about 3.5 km, you reach the Lake Agnes Tea House.

The tea house is cozy and old-fashioned. They serve tea, sandwiches, and cakes. The lake next to it is calm and cool. You can sit on a rock and watch the mountain reflections. Bring cash if you want to buy something.

Plain of Six Glaciers

This is one of the most scenic hikes in Banff. It also starts at Lake Louise. The trail goes deep into the mountains. It’s about 14 km round trip.

You’ll pass cliffs, streams, and ice fields. Near the end, there’s another tea house. It’s a good spot to rest and enjoy the view of hanging glaciers. The last part of the trail is a bit steep, but worth it.

Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots

This trail is full of variety. First, you walk along metal catwalks over a narrow canyon. You see waterfalls, rushing water, and deep blue pools.

After the canyon, the trail heads into open forest. It ends at the Ink Pots, which are bubbling mineral springs. The round trip is around 12 km. It’s popular, so mornings are best.

Sulphur Mountain Trail

This hike starts right near Banff town. It climbs a series of switchbacks up Sulphur Mountain. The full hike is about 10 km round trip.

At the top, there’s a boardwalk and 360-degree views of mountains and valleys. There’s also a gondola. Some people take it down after hiking up. Or ride it both ways if you want to skip the climb.

Tunnel Mountain

This is Banff’s smallest mountain. But the views are still amazing. It’s just behind the town, and the trail is about 4.5 km round trip.

You’ll walk through pine trees and switchbacks. From the top, you can see Banff, Bow River, and Mount Rundle. It’s great for beginners and quick hikes.

Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail

This trail is super short. Just about 1.5 km round trip. But it gives you one of the most famous views in Canada.

Climb up the rocky path to a viewpoint above Moraine Lake. The Ten Peaks rise behind the lake like giants. Go early in the morning for the best colors and fewer crowds.

Consolation Lakes Trail

This is a peaceful trail that starts near Moraine Lake. It’s about 6 km round trip. The trail goes through forest and ends at quiet lakes with huge boulders around them.

You can see reflections of mountains on calm days. It’s less crowded than other Moraine Lake hikes. Make noise or hike in a group because this is bear country.

Parker Ridge Trail

This one is a bit outside Banff, near the Icefields Parkway. But it’s worth the drive. The trail climbs steadily for about 5 km round trip.

At the top, you get a full view of the Saskatchewan Glacier. It looks like a frozen river coming down the valley. The wind can be strong, so bring a jacket.

Helen Lake Trail

This trail is around 12 km round trip. It starts near Bow Lake and climbs through meadows full of flowers. You’ll see marmots and maybe even mountain goats.

Helen Lake sits in a bowl surrounded by ridges. You can stop here or keep hiking up to Dolomite Pass for bigger views. It’s a good mix of forest, open space, and mountain scenery.

Sunshine Meadows

This area is known for its bright wildflowers in summer. You can hike here from the Sunshine Village ski area. Some people take a shuttle up and then start walking.

There are many trails here. All are beautiful and not too hard. You’ll see lakes, meadows, and far-off peaks. It feels like walking through a painting. The elevation is high, so it stays cool even on warm days.

Tips for hiking in Banff

Always check trail conditions

Snow can stick around late into summer. Some trails stay closed for safety. Check the Parks Canada website or talk to the visitor center before heading out.