Canadian Rockies
Trail Ideas
Curated hiking and trail running routes from Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise.
The following trails are just a taste to give adventurers some options ranging in difficulty. With a lifetime of places to explore, this interconnected series of National and Provincial parks is over 27,000km² (10,400m²) and has near limitless potential.
Depending on how much time you have and effort you want to invest, finding an adventure of a lifetime is only a conversation away. Whether the day you have in mind is shorter or more difficult, we have something for everyone.
Summer Trail Ideas
Mt. Cory Loop
This steep lolly-pop trail has rewarding views to our south as we ascend Cory Pass, looping around to the Northeast we get big views of Mt. Louis, returning through a dense forest beside a creek to our vehicles. This is the most convenient to get to big hike from Banff and a local's favourite, as you'll have the rest of our day to unwind on your own time.
C-Level Cirque
This in the shade, consistent uphill trail rewards us with fantastic views on Lake Minnewanka and of the eastern section of the Bow Valley.
Healy Pass
This out and back trail starting at the Sunshine Ski Resort parking lot is forested until nearly the pass, where we get rewarded with remarkable wildflowers (when in season) or the changing Larch trees in mid-September. On clear days we have spectacular views of the Monarch Ramparts all the way to Mt. Assiniboine. A second option is to have a big day in the Alpine starting at Mt. Bourgeau Parking and linking to Healy Pass and down to the Sunshine Ski resort parking — 28km (17m) with 1600m (5200') of elevation through some of the most beautiful scenery in Banff National Park.
Tea House Loop
The classic Tea House Loop, starting from Lake Louise, up to Lake Agnes, then the Big Beehive and over to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House and back along Lake Louise itself.
Moraine Lake to Lake Louise
This linking of the two most beautiful Lakes in the Park is an ultra classic that is rarely done. Starting at Moraine Lake we travel up to Sentinel Pass and down into Paradise Valley. From here we have a choice of wrapping around Saddle Mountain via the Paradise Connector or going up and over Saddleback Pass with both options leading us to Lake Louise. Transportation must be arranged.
Mt. St. Piran
This gem of the Lake Louise group starts with the popular Lake Agnes trail but leaves the crowds behind and rewards with of the best, easily obtainable summit views of the area. We can descend "Goats Pass" with some off trail travel to the back side of Lake Agnes, where too many options to list present themselves. Head down to the car, go up Big Beehive or Devils thumb, link up to the far end of Lake Louise or go over the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House. If you have one full day hike in Banff National Park, this is at the top of the list!
Mt. Farview
The classic summit hike in Banff National Park starting from the shores of Lake Louise, although steep, the views are unforgettable.
Skoki Loop Run
My absolute favourite Trail Run! Starting with bikes for 4km, we leave them behind on this loppy-pop trail network for views and a very runnable circuit and no crowds! Why hike when you can run?! If you can run a half marathon, this is perfect intro to trail running for you. In addition, we have so many trail running options, it's impossible to write them all up!
Iceline Trail
Truly one of the top trails in the Rocky Mountain Park system. Steep to start, but with views for a lifetime of big peaks and the second highest waterfall in Canada (Takakkaw Falls) while strolling beside glaciers. With an option for a quicker return, or even to add on too, this committing hike never disappoints.
Cirque Peak and Helen Lake (93 North)
This off the beaten path classic is an out and back all locals rave about. Forested to start and finish we have views of some spectacular Grizzly Bear habitat, passing Helen Lake and onto the Cirque Peak for some adventure (where you can see 11 lakes from its summit!). Helen Lake in and of itself is a spectacular destination for an easier day!
Winter Trail Ideas
Tunnel Mountain
This popular half day moderate hiking option is perfect any time of year for those looking to get some air, views and have the rest of your day to explore the town of Banff!
Snowshoeing along the Great Divide
If you can walk, you can snowshoe! Various time frames from two to 8 hours, distances and effort levels, where we choose our own adventure. A world of powder awaits anyone that wants to explore away from the crowds. We can use a large trail network to gain our elevation and then disappear into the forest of untouched snow, through meadows with magnificent sights while the silence of winter surrounds us. Snowshoeing is perfect for any hikers looking to explore winter, whether it be moderate of higher intensity, it's quiet, peaceful and you'll feel like you have the Park to yourself.
Cross Country Ski Lesson and Tour
A 1-hour detailed lesson to get you moving efficiently and safely through different terrain, followed by a guided ski putting the newly learned skills to practice on the trail. Skiing is my favourite activity, although there is some necessary skill building. It's perfect for those downhillers looking to add a new activity to their back pocket. No crowds, moderate to intense work out, as much adrenalin as you want with a lifelong skill!