Introduction
Banff National Park is a hiker’s dream. With over 1,600 km of trails, it offers everything from gentle lakeside walks to full-day alpine adventures. The challenge? Deciding which trails to tackle on your visit.
This guide breaks down the best Banff hikes for all skill levels in 2026. Whether you’re a beginner looking for short scenic trails, a moderate hiker craving mountain views, or an experienced adventurer ready for a challenge, Banff has a trail for you.
Tips for Hiking in Banff
Before diving into the trail list, here are some important tips:
- Season: Most trails are snow-free from June–September. Winter hikes require gear.
- Gear: Always bring water, snacks, and layers. Hiking boots recommended.
- Wildlife: Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on trails.
- Trail Conditions: Check Parks Canada updates for closures or restrictions.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring in.
Easy Hikes in Banff
Perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a short stroll with big rewards.
1. Tunnel Mountain Trail
- Distance: 4.5 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 260 m
- Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Known as “the local’s hike,” Tunnel Mountain is right next to Banff town. The trail winds up through pine forests to a summit with panoramic views of the Bow Valley and Banff townsite.
2. Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls
- Distance: 5.4 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 120 m
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
This family-friendly trail takes you along catwalks bolted into canyon walls, past waterfalls and pools. The Lower Falls are just 1.1 km in, while the Upper Falls offer a more rewarding hike.
đź’ˇ Tip: In winter, guided ice walks let you see frozen waterfalls and magical ice formations.
3. Fenland Trail
- Distance: 2.1 km loop
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Time: 30–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
A short forest walk near Banff town, this peaceful trail winds through white spruce trees along Forty Mile Creek. Great for a morning or evening stroll.
Moderate Hikes in Banff
These hikes require a bit more effort, but the views are worth it.
4. Lake Agnes Tea House Trail
- Distance: 7 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 385 m
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from Lake Louise, this trail climbs steadily to Lake Agnes, where a historic tea house offers drinks and snacks. Sitting at 2,135 m, the views of the surrounding peaks are breathtaking.
5. Plain of Six Glaciers Trail
- Distance: 13.8 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 365 m
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Also starting at Lake Louise, this trail leads you past moraine fields and glaciers. A second tea house awaits near the end—perfect for refueling with tea and chocolate cake.
6. Consolation Lakes Trail
- Distance: 6 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 60 m
- Time: 2–3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Beginning near Moraine Lake, this relatively easy hike passes through rock fields to reach the serene Consolation Lakes, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
đź’ˇ Note: Due to bear activity, groups of 4+ are sometimes required by law to hike together.
Challenging Hikes in Banff
These are for experienced hikers looking for a serious workout and epic views.
7. Sulphur Mountain (Hiking Route)
- Distance: 10.1 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 655 m
- Time: 3–5 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
Instead of taking the gondola, hike up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. The trail climbs steadily through forest before reaching the gondola station at the top. You can either hike back down or buy a gondola ticket for a one-way ride down.
8. Cascade Amphitheatre
- Distance: 15.5 km round trip
- Elevation Gain: 640 m
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
Starting from the Mount Norquay ski area, this long trail winds through forest and opens into a stunning natural amphitheatre surrounded by towering cliffs. Wildflowers fill the meadows in late July.
9. Cory Pass Loop
- Distance: 13 km loop
- Elevation Gain: 900 m
- Time: 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
One of the toughest day hikes in Banff, this trail offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Louis and surrounding peaks. Best attempted by fit, experienced hikers.
Multi-Day & Backcountry Hikes
For the adventurous, Banff also offers world-class backcountry hiking. Permits are required.
- Sunshine Meadows to Mount Assiniboine – A multi-day trek to one of Canada’s most beautiful peaks.
- Egypt Lake – Stunning alpine scenery with designated backcountry campsites.
Best Time for Hiking in Banff
- June–September: Best season for most trails. Wildflowers bloom in July, and larch trees turn golden in September.
- October–May: Many high-elevation trails are snow-covered. Winter gear (snowshoes, spikes) required.
đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid crowds at popular trails like Lake Agnes or Johnston Canyon.
Safety Tips for Hiking in Banff
- Bring Bear Spray – Available at outdoor stores in Banff.
- Stay on Marked Trails – To protect fragile ecosystems.
- Check Weather – Mountain weather changes rapidly.
- Hike in Groups – Safer for wildlife encounters and navigation.
- Carry the Ten Essentials – Map, compass, food, water, first aid, flashlight, fire starter, extra clothing, knife, sun protection, shelter.
Suggested Hiking Itineraries
1-Day Hiking Plan (Beginner Friendly)
- Morning: Johnston Canyon (Upper Falls)
- Afternoon: Tunnel Mountain
- Evening: Vermilion Lakes for sunset
3-Day Hiking Plan (Moderate Hikers)
- Day 1: Lake Agnes Tea House + Plain of Six Glaciers
- Day 2: Consolation Lakes + Moraine Lake viewpoints
- Day 3: Sulphur Mountain hike, relax in Banff Upper Hot Springs
5-Day Hiking Plan (Advanced Hikers)
- Day 1: Cory Pass Loop
- Day 2: Cascade Amphitheatre
- Day 3: Rest day in Banff town
- Day 4–5: Overnight at Egypt Lake backcountry area
Conclusion
Banff’s trails are as diverse as its landscapes. From short, family-friendly walks to challenging alpine ascents, there’s a hike for everyone.
If you’re just starting out, try Tunnel Mountain or Johnston Canyon. Looking for a moderate adventure? Head to Lake Agnes Tea House or Plain of Six Glaciers. Ready for a challenge? Conquer Cory Pass or Cascade Amphitheatre.
No matter which trail you choose, the combination of crisp mountain air, turquoise lakes, and stunning scenery will make your Banff hiking experience unforgettable.
✨ Final Tip: Remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Take your time, soak in the views, and let Banff’s trails leave a lasting imprint on your soul.