Located in Alberta, Canada, is the 2,564-square-mile Banff National Park, Canada's first national park. Visitors can explore the dramatic landscape of mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes and forests. Hiking Banff is breathtaking visually and physically. From easy to difficult trails, hikers experience the solitude of the outdoors through day hikes, nature walks or long-distance backpacking. The park consists of 80 maintained hiking trails. Hikers should check weather and wilderness conditions with the visitor information center prior to hiking.
Hiking Precautions
Hiking the Canadian Rockies is a thrilling experience, but hikers should be aware of the precautions prior to trekking. Mountain weather in the Canadian Rockies changes frequently. Hikers should pack adequate layers of clothing, which is needed for the high elevation.
Trails may temporarily close in situations of wildlife or environmental concerns. Signs will be posted at the trailhead for closed trails or for specific warnings. Bring plenty of food and water on the trails to avoid exhaustion. Parks Canada recommends carrying two liters of water for day hikes.
Popular Hiking
The Johnston Canyon and Ink Pots trail leading to the waterfalls is considered to be the busiest trail in Banff. During the summer months, hundreds of hikers utilize the trail to hike toward the gorge's Lower and Upper Falls. Upper Falls is located past the Lower Falls consisting of an easy 1.7-mile hike. Continuing on the narrow trail for 1.5 miles leads to the Ink Pots. Located at the Ink Pots are seven bubbling mineral springs in an open meadow. To reach access to the trailhead, take the Trans-Canada Highway for 11 miles toward Johnston Canyon.
Family Hiking
Easy, interpretive trails contain flat terrain, which is popular for family hiking. Short but scenic, Banff Townsite's Tunnel Mountain Hoodoos Trail, is an asphalt path that passes many viewpoints allowing visitors to photograph the hoodoos pillars--giant rock spires that were once carved by wind, water and glaciers. In addition, walkers view the Bow Valley and Mount Rundle. This trail starts in the parking lot on the south side of Tunnel Mountain Road.
A longer but easy hike is located at Lake Louise. The four-mile Bow River Loop meanders along the banks of the Bow River and its ecosystem. This trail is accessible from the campgrounds, railway station or the village center.
Moderate Hiking
Take the Trans-Canada Highway to Bourgeau Lake, where the parking is located on the left side of the road. The moderate to difficult Bourgeau Lake trail is a 4.5-mile hike that gains an elevation of 2,330 feet. Pass mountain goats and bighorn sheep as the trail leads along the gorge of Wolverine Creek. Continue hiking past forests and boulders to reach the magnificent view of Bourgeau Lake. Maximum elevation reaches 7,070 feet. Hikers should take note that snow is likely to be on the trail during the summer months.
Backpacking
Long-distance and overnight hiking require preparation and skills. Hikers should backpack May through October. Reservations at campsites must be made three months in advance. The Wilderness Pass is required for backpackers to purchase prior to hiking. Passes and registration can be made at the Park Information Centre in person or by phone.
Parks Canada recommends hikers to familiarize the backpacking route with maps and reference guides. Hikers should bring extra clothing, food, water and supplies. Backpackers should refrain from littering food products to avoid wildlife encounters. Any food or unwashed cookware must be suspended 12 feet from the ground.
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