Hiking in Banff

Banff National Park is a perfect place to hike. There are amazing views of the Rocky Mountains. There is a lot of wildlife. Many of the lakes are the most beautiful in the world. In the summer, the wild flowers are in bloom; in the winter, ice hiking is a completely different kind of experience.

Johnston Canyon and the Ink Pots is one of the most popular hiking trails in Alberta. The Ink Pots are worth the hike in to see. This trail is partially maintained, ie. it's not all paved. And, it could be a challenge for some hikers. It certainly isn't wheelchair accessible. There are other hikes in Banff to take, and others in Yoho, Jasper, and Kananaskis.

Closer to town, the hike up Tunnel Mountain is quite enjoyable. It can be fairly steep, for those who aren't used to hiking. Sundance Canyon is accessible for everyone. The trails begin at the parking lot of Cave and Basin. It's about 4 kilometers long and is paved. Just beware of the horses, since this is a popular horseback riding area.

Rockwall Highline Hike is a group hiking organization. If you want to get to the best spots in the park, but you're intimidated to try alone, this is a great way to do it. Canadian Rockies Rafting & Adventure Centre also is introducing guided hiking, soon.

Icewalks are a different kind of experience. The Grotto Canyon walk is very impressive (not in Banff National Park, but close) and just outside of Canmore. An evening ice walk near Banff is a fun way to spend a winter's evening.

Johnston Canyon and the Ink Pots

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Johnston Canyon Lodge

Unbeatable mountain scenery along an easy-to-hike trail...
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Classic Hikes from Banff

A selection of Alberta's most celebrated nature trails...
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Rockwall Highline Hike

Eight day hiking trip...
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Tunnel Mountain

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North side, St. Julien St.

Short, easy hike that is easily accessed from Banff...
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Sundance Canyon

Hike, bike, cross-country ski, snowshoe near Cave and Basin...
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Grotto Canyon Icewalk

See unique rock formations and Native Canadian rock art...
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Goat Creek

Spray Lakes Road

A bike trail connecting Banff and Canmore...
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Canadian Rockies Rafting and Adventure Centre

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701 Bow Valley Trail

The leader in Canadian Rockies adventures...
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Healy Creek

Sunshine Road

One of the few Mountain Biking trails in the National Park...
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Evening Ice Walk and Campfire

Walk to Stewart Canyon Bridge...
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