The 15 Absolute Best Hikes in Banff National Park

When I visited British Columbia for the first time three years ago, I fell in love with Canada. The gorgeous turquoise, blue lakes, and the dynamic, strong mountains in Canada are astounding. In my heart, I knew I was going to come back to Canada to explore it more. Soon enough, Alberta popped up on social media, and I was immediately sold on the idea of revisiting Canada to experience the national parks. I love hiking, so I knew I had to do the best hikes in Banff National Park. The best Banff hikes include views of striking mountains, aquamarine lakes, roaring waterfalls, and vast white/grey glaciers. As exhausted as we were at the end of this trip, I am so glad we spent the majority of the time on the Banff hiking trails. The trip left me wanting to come back and explore Banff even more. But for now, I will just show you my thoughts on the best hiking trails in Banff National Park.

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How to get to Banff National Park

The closest airport is Calgary International Airport which is about an hour and a half away from the City of Banff. The easiest way to travel once you arrive is to rent a car or an RV. >Rent an RV Here

Best Time To Visit for Hiking Banff National Park

If you want to see blue turquoise lakes and go hiking in Banff, then the best times to visit is from June to Mid September. Of course, warmer weather does tend to bring in more crowds and make hotel prices go up, so keep that in mind. Above, I have posted the average temperatures in Banff, so you can also grasp which month would be best for you to visit.

• Summer Time (June to Mid October)
  • You can go horseback riding, canoeing, rafting, fly fishing and golfing.
  • Best time to go hiking in Banff National Park
  • Beautiful colored lakes
  • Boat tours start
  • June is a rainy month
• Fall and Spring Months (Mid-April To Mid-June And Mid-October Through November)
  • Low season, so cheap accommodation and low crowds
  • A lot of roads and areas are not accessible
• Winter Time (December – Mid April)
  • Skiing season starts
  • There is snowshoeing, ice skating and sleigh rides

Where to Stay In Banff National Park

1. Fairmont Banff Springs I honestly LOVED photographing this hotel. It is stunning! It is located near the Bow River. The hotel is labeled as a National Historic Site which is even more impressive.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Moose Hotel and Suited This hotel is KNOWN to be one of the best hotels in Banff. It is located right in the center of Banff and has a fantastic hot tub area.   >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. Banff International Hostel If you are on a budget, this hostel is located right in the middle of the city of Banff.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. Two Jack Lakeside or Two Jack Main Campgrounds are located next to Two Jack Lake. >More Information Here

Read More: Where To Stay in Banff National Park – Best Hotels, Resorts & Campgrounds

Banff Canada Hiking Gear

The weather in the Canadian Rockies can be unpredictable. That is why it is best to come prepared. Here are some of the gear I had with me on all the hikes:

Day Hiking Banff

1. Sunscreen: Although our time in the Canadian Rockies was overcast, bring some just in case! >Buy some sunscreen, so you don’t accidentally burn!
2. Hiking Boots/Shoes: OMG this was honestly one of the muddiest, wet places I have ever hiked. If you don’t get actual hiking shoes or boots, you will have wet soggy feet. >Don’t have soggy wet feet. Buy my Hiking Shoes
3. Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. I also love how they now have pink socks too 🙂 >Buy Hiking Socks
4. Refillable water bottle: I always bring a Hydroflask on all my adventures. They are on the heavier side, but I know for a fact they will not break. I have had a few cheap water bottles break on me before. >Check Prices Now
5. Water: Hiking for sure requires water.
6. Sunglasses: Just in case you get lucky and the sun comes out. Also, I usually wear the most fashionable sunglasses when I hike. 🙂 >Check Out These Sunglasses
7. Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, energy bars. >Clif Bars are great for hiking so click HERE.
8. Trekking Poles: This is an optional product, but they help with the knees. The poles I have listed are known to be one of the best in the market. I am not going to lie I didn’t use trekking poles in Banff, but I don’t have problems with my knees. Not everyone’s bodies are the same, so if you feel like you need some extra help, then check out my trekking poles. >Buy My Trekking Poles Here
9. Camera: I have linked the camera I used to take pictures of The Canadian Rockies. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
10. Crampons: This will help you not slip and fall with the snow and ice. I went at the end of June and only ran into snow once (Six Glaciers Trail). If you are hiking before the end of June, I highly recommend getting crampons. It sucks walking in the snow without them. >Buy your Crampons Here
11. First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started backpacking and camping. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
12. Day Pack: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
13. Good hiking pants: These are probably the best hiking pants that I have found. They keep you dry in the crazy weather, and they are durable. I will say that I brought a lot of shorts with me but never wore them. It was a little too cold for me. Your best bet is leggings or hiking pants. >Buy my hiking pants here
14. Breathable sweat-wicking shirts >Check Out This Shirt
15. Sports Bra: For women.
16. Jacket: Yes it was chilly at times in the summer >Buy My Favorite Jacket
17. Base Layers: If you run cold like me I recommend bringing them on the trip (Yes even in the summer). >Buy the bottoms here, >Buy the top here
18. Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the perfect sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
19. Bear Spray: You can usually buy this in the city of Banff.
20. Hammock: Hammocks are a great way to lounge around. They are perfect for naps. >Buy A Packable Hammock
21. Poncho or Rain Jacket: We were rained on so many times, so it is best to take a poncho with you at all times. >Buy A Great Rainjacket Here
22. Headlamp: Just in case you get stuck hiking at night! >Buy A Headlamp Now

If Camping Around Banff

1. Everything in the Day Hike List Above and,
2. Tent: REI’s tents are one of my favorite tents. Love the good quality and how packable they are. >Buy The REI Half Dome Tent
3. Sleeping Pad: A sleeping pad is pretty much a small, packable inflatable mattress. I have tried many types of sleeping pads (cheap ones, light ones, comfortable ones), and the one I have linked is probably the best one in the market for comfort. It is my husbands sleeping pad, and it can be used all year long. >Check Out My All-Time Favorite Sleeping Pad
4. Spork: A spoon and fork in one. >Buy A Spork Now
5. Pillows: Pillows can take a lot of room, so I recommend buying an inflatable one. The one I have linked, I have had for five years now, and it is STILL going strong. >Buy The EXTREMELY Packable Inflatable Pillows
6. Sleeping Bag: One of the most critical aspects of getting a good nights sleep! Bringing a sleeping bag is a must. >Look At Prices
7. Sandals: I hate wearing my hiking shoes when I am hanging around the campsite, so bringing some sandals for leisure is a must for me. >Check Out These Sandals
8. Printed Camping reservations: Just in case anyone asks for it.
9. Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Medicine & Toiletries >Check Out This Toothbrush
10. Stove: Love this stove that we got for Christmas. Don’t forget to buy propane. (Note: Do not bring this on a plane with you, as it can get confiscated). >Buy Stove Here
11. Coffee Maker: Y’all this coffee maker is awesome! It comes with a press and cute little cups! >Buy This Awesome Coffee set here
12. Cookware Set: Love how packable my cookware set is. I can easily take it anywhere with me. We have used this countless times. >Buy My Cute Cookware Set

Different Areas In Banff and Banff Maps

Planning for a trip to Banff National Park was one of the most challenging things I have planned. Banff National Park is enormous, so below I have made it super easy for you, and I have divided Banff National Park into four different segments. I advise you to pick the hikes in the same area for the day, so you aren’t wasting time on driving. I have also linked the google maps for you to download. Also, check out places to eat here. 

1. The City of Banff Area: This area has the most hotels, restaurants, and shops. You will most likely stay at a hotel here. >Click for the Official Hiking Map Here
2. Bow Valley Parkway Area: Best known for the Johnston Canyon Hike. Not many hotels or shops here. It is the area that connects Lake Louise and the town of Banff. >Click For The Official Hiking Map Here
3. Lake Louise Area: Mainly known for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. It is the second best option for accommodation. It is my favorite area for hikes. >Click For The Official Hiking Map Here
4. Icefields Parkway Area: The most overlooked area in Banff. It probably has the best views (Seriously though DO NOT miss out on this area). It is perhaps my second favorite area for hikes. >Click For The Official Hiking Map Here

Banff Hikes: Tips

1. Before going on any Banff National park trails, check in at the visitor center to find out which trails are closed off.
2. For the official hiking in Banff National Park maps and guides Click Here.
3. I recommend good hiking shoes for all of these hikes, as most of the trails were muddy. Having good hiking shoes was very helpful and comfortable. Who likes a wet, muddy tennis shoe?
4. Always bring bear spray with you. While bear attacks are rare, you never know how things will turn out. You can buy bear spray in the city of Banff.
5. Bring ponchos or rain jackets in your day-pack. We were rained on numerous times during our hikes, and we were happy we brought our dry gear even though it looked like great weather. Weather can change quickly in the mountains. We spotted several people hiking in the rain without ponchos, and they weren’t too happy. To give you an idea of how often it rained, we were poured on every single day during our 10-day trip.
6. For the best Lake Louise Hikes, I recommend hiking from Fairmont Hotel to Lake Agnes. Take a breath and have lunch and some tea at the Agnes Tea House. From there, hike up to Little Beehive and back to Lake Agnes then to Big Beehive. From Big Beehive head to Six Glaciers Tea House. Once again, you can grab a meal and head back to the Fairmont Hotel. These hikes will most likely take you all day but are the best Lake Louise Hiking Trails.
7. If you are feeling sore from hiking check out these hot springs.
8. Some trails require at least four people to hike together. Check with the visitor center on which trails are required.
9. It can get cold. I brought a jacket with me everywhere. Conclusion: the weather at Banff is unpredictable.
10. Always bring mosquito spray. The mosquitoes are abundant and ruthless.
11. If you want the pretty blue lakes, come after May. The lakes might still be frozen before May.

Best Hikes In Banff

The City Of Banff Area

Sulphur Mountain Hike

• Distance: 5.5 km To Top of Gondola, Plus 0.5 km To Sanson Peak
• Elevation: 655 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 4 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

The trail mainly consists of switchbacks on the slopes of Sulphur Mountain. The gondola is a relaxing alternative and one of the best Banff attractions. Or, if you decide to hike up, you have the option to buy a ticket for a ride down. Jameson and I decided to take the gondola both up and down due to time limitations. If you want to save money, it is never a bad decision to hike.

The views from the top were beautiful. You can see the city of Banff and all the surrounding mountains that seem to go on forever. The building at the top of Sulphur Moutain is stellar! The structure includes a great observation deck, a nice restaurant, and even a theater. I was pretty impressed with the building on top of this mountain.

I recommend going the extra 0.5 km on the boardwalk trail to Sanson Peak and get a different perspective of the gorgeous landscape. The short hike is relatively easy. >Buy Gondola Tickets Here If You Want to Save Time

Two Jack Lake

• Distance: Varies
• Elevation: None
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: Varies
• Trail Guide: Link

This trail is perfect for an early morning stroll. The early morning fog is excellent for pictures especially if you get a reflection shot of the mountains. Two Jack Lake is located right next to the famous Lake Minnewanka. I would advise you to grab a nice cup of coffee and enjoy the stunning scenery surrounding you.

Bow Valley Parkway Area

Johnston Canyon Upper Falls and Lower Falls

• Distance: 2.4 km one way (from the parking area)
• Elevation: 120 m elevation gain
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 1.5 hour round trip
• Trail Guide: Link

Johnston Canyon includes three popular destinations including Johnston Canyon Lower Falls, Johnston Canyon Upper Falls, and the Ink Pots. You can turn around at any point, but I recommend trekking to the Ink Pots. It is worth every step. I have segmented it into two different hikes because the Ink Pots feel like an entirely different hike. The trail to the Ink Pots is a lot more difficult than to the waterfalls.

I recommend starting early in the morning for this hike (before 8 am). When we hiked the Johnston Canyon Trail, there were only a few people on the trail with us. But when we were walking back to the car, the path was flooded with people. I have never seen such a congested trail in my life. After seeing the hordes of tourists and selfie sticks, I was glad we got up early and experienced the trail in peace.

The hike to Johnston Canyon Lower Falls is relatively easy along the river on a boardwalk trail with handrails. At the Lower Falls, there is a small cave that you can walk through to get a closer view of the falls.  But, be advised that you might get soaked!

Johnston Canyon Upper Falls is an easy hike as well on a well-maintained trail. There are multiple areas to view the Falls from a different perspective.

Ink Pots

• Distance: 5.4 km one way (from the parking area)
• Banff Elevation Gain: 330 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 4 hour round trip
• Trail Guide: Link

The Ink Pots were probably my favorite part of the Johnston Canyon Trail. Not taking any credit for the beautiful falls but the valley in which the Ink Pots were located was stunning. After getting to the Upper Falls, you follow the signs that say “Ink Pots” and hike up a moderate trail through the forest.

Eventually, the forest opens up, and you are met with a gorgeous view of a meadow with surrounding mountains, a rushing river in the distance, and small clear, green/blue ponds. The views were breathtaking. Since we were there early in the morning, only a few people were taking in the beauty as well.

Lake Louise Area

Lake Agnes Tea House

• Distance: 3.4 km One Way
• Elevation: 385 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 2.5 to 3 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

When I first started researching hikes around Banff, I heard a lot about the Lake Agnes Teahouse. I am more of a coffee drinker than a tea drinker, but the thought of hiking up to visit a tea house in the mountains intrigued me. So, it was settled. We would have lunch at Lake Agnes Tea House.

The trail starts near The Fairmont Lake Louise Hotel. I would label this as a moderate trail with a lot of uphill hiking. While we were hiking up that trail, it started pouring on us. Luckily we had some ponchos and good hiking shoes.

When we finally got to the tea house, we were dying to get inside a warm and dry area. We had to wait a while for seats to open up, but the wait was worth it in the end.

The tea warmed our cold bodies, and the sandwiches filled our bellies. What I loved most about the tea house, was the variety of tea flavors they had.

Don’t forget to bring cash (Canadians or USD), because they don’t accept cards. Also, the staff at the tea houses have to hike in the food and tea and hike out all the trash so please be respectful and don’t leave any garbage you brought in.

While we were in the tea house enjoying our meal, the sun finally made a prolonged appearance out, so we decided to lay around Lake Agnes to dry off our clothes. Many people were lounging around the lake, basking in the sun, and enjoying the views. The sky didn’t even give any sign that there was a storm a few hours ago.

Little Beehive

• Distance: 1 km One Way
• Elevation: 105 m Elevation Gain From Lake Agnes
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

If you are up for it, there is a hike to Little Beehive which features a lookout of Lake Louise and Bow Valley. There is also side views of Big Beehive and Mirror Lake. The 1 km hike up is moderate, and it is all uphill.

At the viewpoint, you are met with the views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Hotel. The views are relatively similar to Big Beehive.

Big Beehive

• Distance: 1.6 km One Way
• Elevation: 135 m Elevation Gain From Lake Agnes
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

The striking views on the trail to Big Beehive are worth the hike. Even if you aren’t in the mood to climb up to Big Beehive, I recommend hiking around Lake Agnes for a different perspective of the lake. There are not many people on the trail, so you can get fantastic pictures beating the crowds.

Once you hike around the lake, the trail veers off up into the mountains on steep switchbacks. When I mean steep, I mean steep to the extreme! This stretch of the hike was challenging, but, once you get to the top, you are met with views of Lake Louise and The Fairmont Chateau.

There is also a shelter from the storms at the top with benches.

Plain of Six Glaciers

• Distance: 5.3 km One Way
• Elevation: 365 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 4 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a moderate hike that brings you to a tea house with a view of the glaciers. The trail starts near The Fairmont Hotel and takes you along Lake Louise shoreline. Eventually, the lake ends, and the trail takes you through a valley with mountains surrounding you.

As mentioned above in the tips section, there is another way to get to Six Glaciers Tea House by hiking from Big Beehive down to the teahouse. The downhill hike is relatively easy from Big Beehive.

Once we arrived at the tea house, we ordered some chili, tea, and chocolate cake. Compared to the Agnes Tea House, this tea house was less crowded, but I felt like the tea options at Agnes were noticeably better.

Larch Valley/Minnestimma Lakes

• Distance: 4.3 km One Way
• Elevation: 535 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3.5 to 4 Hour Round Trip

This is the best hike for the Fall time (September). The Larch Trees turn a bright yellow color. It is a stunning spectacle and is one of the best areas to take pictures in Banff.

Just be careful as this area has grizzly bear activity. It is highly recommended and sometimes enforced to go in a group of 4 people.

Moraine Lake Lakeshore

• Distance: 1.5 km One Way
• Elevation: No Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 45 Minutes Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

The Moraine Lake Lakeshore hike is one that everyone can do. The trail is well maintained, and it is straightforward. Plus you get different views of this photogenic lake.

I would recommend arriving at Morraine Lake early in the morning to get a parking spot and to experience this lake all on your own. Parking is minimal so it would be best to show up before 7:30, otherwise you will be combating other visitors for parking.

When Jameson and I did this hike, we only saw a few other people on the trail. It was a nice stroll, especially knowing how busy this place can get.

After the easy walk around the lake, check out the overlook point to get an Instagram worthy shot. When we were at the viewpoint, there were high winds, so it was impossible to get a good reflection picture of the lake. But, even with the crazy weather, the site was just gorgeous! I loved every minute of it.

I loved Moraine Lake and how wild it still seemed. We were there early in the morning without the crowds, so many of the great vibes I felt could quickly disappear with more people. Either way, experiencing this lake is a must!

Fairview Lookout

• Distance: 1 km One Way
• Elevation: 100 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 45 Minute Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

Fun trail with a different view of The Fairmont Hotel and Lake Louise. It is pretty quick with a steady incline, so it is perfect if you don’t have much time. Great trail for getting away from the crowds. Please note that it can get pretty snowy.

Icefields Parkway Area

Bow Summit Lookout

• Distance: 2.9 km One Way
• Elevation: 245m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time: 2.5 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

A hike uphill gets you to a stunning view of Peyto Lake and all the surrounding mountains. I enjoyed the views but not the crowds. The trail, parking lot and viewpoint were packed with people proving a little difficult to find a parking spot and good pictures. If you want to experience this with fewer people, I would suggest getting here early in the morning. Even though the hike was mainly uphill, the trail was in good condition, and it was a fairly easy hike.

You can keep on hiking to get to the Bow Summit lookout after Peyto Lake Lookout.

Chephren Lake

• Distance: 3.5 km One Way
• Elevation: 80 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3 Hour
• Trail Guide: Link

If you want to beat the crowds and still have jaw-dropping views with blue turquoise waters and stunning mountains than this hike is for you. The trailhead is located at the Waterfowl Lakes Campground. The beginning of the trail is probably the most challenging part with an upward climb. But, then it evens out and branches right at the 1.3 km junction.

The trail was very muddy, so I highly recommend good hiking shoes. The views of the lake, Howse Peak, and Mount Chepron were worth dealing with the muddy trail. The best part was that we had the lake all to ourselves, which was something that we didn’t get to experience anywhere else in Banff. Sadly, our camera surprisingly ran out of battery, so we weren’t able to take professional shots of this lake.

Parker Ridge

• Distance: 2.7 km One Way
• Elevation: 250 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Time: 2.5 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

Parker Ridge is one of the best Banff day hikes. It surprised me the most during our trip. I was under the impression we were going to experience the views just off the road from an elevated position relative to the surrounding area. Instead, the trail took us up and over on the other side of the mountain. With smashing views of the Saskatchewan Glacier that cannot be seen from the road. I would label this hike as a moderate hike, with a ton views throughout the walk. When you get to the ridge, there are numerous areas and rocks to perch upon to take pictures.

Wilcox Pass

• Distance: 4 km One Way
• Elevation: 335 m Elevation Gain
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Time: 3 to 3.5 Hour Round Trip
• Trail Guide: Link

Wilcox Pass is for sure one of the best trails in Banff. Located right on the border of Banff and Jasper, Wilcox Pass is one of those “don’t miss” hikes. Out of all the hikes we completed in Jasper, Banff, and Yoho, Wilcox Pass was probably my favorite. I felt like the Athabasca Glacier Views with the tall, strong, surrounding mountains, were one of the most powerful views I have seen in a while.

The beginning of the hike starts with trees surrounding you. All of a sudden, the trees disappear, and there are some wonderful red chairs to take in all the views.

If you want to experience some wildlife on a hike, then Wilcox Pass is the perfect place. There is a lot of Bighorn Sheep in this area, and we were lucky enough to see them on the hike.

The end views were impressive, but it was chilly and windy. So we made sure to take a quick snap and then we were off.

Banff National Park Hiking Guide Conclusion

Banff National Park has so many great hikes proving hard to choose which ones to do. But, hopefully, this guide listing the best Banff hikes was helpful. Also, don’t forget to check out my other posts on Canada:

• The Best Two Week Canadian Rockies Itinerary
• 21 Awesome Things To Do In Jasper National Park
• Things To Do In Quebec City Canada

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