BEST HIKES IN THE BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Banff National Park boasts over 1000 miles of trails, turquoise waters and alpine meadows. It is also home to lush forests. Canada’s first national parks are home to Banff, Alberta and Lake Louise, a hamlet. These towns provide beautiful mountain lodgings, from which you can easily access the park’s trails.
The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is located just outside Banff Town, and you may want to visit it before setting out on your hikes. This is a great place to start learning about Canada’s history before diving into one national park. You can also explore the cave and sulfurous hot springs. Afterwards, head up to Banff Hot Springs to take a relaxing dip in the warm baths.
The Best Hikes in Banff National Park
To get a bird’s-eye view of the park, go to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Then take the Banff Gondola to the top. Once you have taken all that in, it’s time to start exploring the marked trails. These trails are easily accessible from Banff Village or Lake Louise Village. No matter your choice, the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies, Alberta, surround you. It is a stunning scene that makes for breathtaking scenery. Next, we will tell you about the best 12 hikes in Banff National Park. You will need a parking pass to visit Banff National Park. It can be purchased here.
Tunnel Mountain Trail
Tunnel Mountain does not have a tunnel, but it offers stunning views from its summit of the Banff region. You can walk to the trailhead from Banff’s city centre. Whether walking or driving, St. Julien Road is the best way to get there. It’s located just off Grizzly Street, Banff’s downtown.
For those who use their vehicles, there is a parking area. You will find well-graded switchbacks. It can be a bit steep sometimes, so wearing hiking boots is a good idea. As you climb closer to the top, it becomes a steady climb. The views include Vermillion Lakes and Banff. You can also see the Banff Golf Course and Mount Rundle.
Despite the steep sections, the Tunnel Mountain Trail hike can be done for all ages. It is a 2.8-mile hike with an elevation gain of 875 feet.
Sawback Backpacking Trail
The Sawback Trail is a great place to backpack and sleep under the stars. The trail is 45 miles long and has elevation changes of 7150 feet. To reserve your campsite spots, you must make a booking on the Parks Canada Website.
You’ll be able to play in all types of nature, from traversing alpine meadows to climbing over boulders and navigating tight switchbacks. Be prepared to cross major wildlife corridors, so make sure your bear spray is on hand.
There are two ways to get to the trail. You can reach the TransCanada Highway exit at Lake Louise Village and drive towards Lake Louise Ski Resort to access the other trailhead. Turn right onto Fish Creek Road, heading towards Skoki Lodge. The trailhead can be found at the Fish Creek Parking Lot.
Lake Agnes Trail
It’s quite special to be in an old-fashioned teahouse surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, turquoise lakes, bears, and even deer. You can experience this feeling by hiking to Lake Agnes Teahouse, serving tea since 1905.
Lady Agnes MacDonald was the first prime minister of Canada. She visited the park and fell in love. Canadian Pacific Railway built the teahouse in 1901 to provide a resting place for hikers. It began serving tea in 1905 and hasn’t stopped since.
Your hike will begin on a paved path. Then, you’ll enter the lush forest and follow nature’s trail. You’ll find Mirror Lake, alpine meadows and falls, and the famous rock face, simply “The Big Beehive”. You will find the Lake Agnes Teahouse, where you can enjoy pie, sandwiches, and breathtaking views less than a mile away.
It is a 4.5-mile hike at an elevation of 1280 feet. This hike is moderate and can be reached from Chateau Lake Louise, one mile from Lake Louise village. The trailhead can be found right from the Chateau Lake Louise parking lot.
Helen Lake Trail
You can enjoy a beautiful hike on the Helen Lake Trail, crossing streams and passing through wildflower meadows or fir forests. This hike is full of adventure and fun. Make sure to wear the appropriate footwear and clothing to enjoy it comfortably.